During the past decade, Niseko has blossomed into the ski capital of Asia. Boasting the finest and most reliable snow on the planet, it’s no wonder that the global glitterati has set their sights on this Hokkaido hotspot.
Awe inspiring nature has always been Niseko’s main draw, its allure reaching far beyond that sublime snow. Thanks to the island’s cool climate and fertile soil, Hokkaido produces an abundance of dairy and agricultural products and fresh seafood. Just like the island’s unspoilt nature, Hokkaido’s produce is considered to be pure, clean and of the highest quality. Inspired by this local bounty, Niseko has sprouted several Michelin level restaurants. This has not gone unnoticed by the culinary world, with the likes of Vogue praising Niseko as the “ultimate ski destination for foodies.”
This unique cocktail of sensational skiing, natural wonders, haute cuisine and a Japanese je ne sais quoi has attracted the cosmopolitan elite to Niseko. In recent years, the area has seen the rise of luxury resorts from global heavy hitters like Park Hyatt and the Ritz Carlton, with a new Aman property set to open in 2027.
As luxury travel continues to distance itself from could-be-anywhere tourism, travellers are increasingly seeking experiences and accommodation that are bespoke and private. Niseko is now home to amazing chalets boasting ambitious architecture that more than matches the region’s majestic beauty. In these chalets, you can soak in a private onsen, kick back in a lavish media room and enjoy exclusive views of Mount Yotei from your plush living room sofa.
True to the region’s luxe evolution, Niseko is now offering experiences that are just as jaw-dropping and thrilling as its stunning chalets and epic slopes. Here are the most extravagant things to do in Niseko.
Backcountry Skiing
Backcountry skiing is the ultimate way to experience Niseko’s famous pow. Moving beyond the resorts allows you to experience the finest and purest snow possible – the absolute best of the best. Experienced guides will lead you to the best pow and guide you through Hokkaido’s most remote and stunning locations. You can explore the backcountry of Mount Yotei, head out to Shiribetsu-Dake, venture out to the Tokachi Range and beyond. Hokkaido truly is a powder lover’s playground! Backcountry tours are always tailored to suit guests’ experience level, with a choice between lift assisted tours and traditional tours where you rely on skins or snowshoes.
Heli-Skiing
There is nothing quite like carving those first tracks… except reaching the summit in a helicopter. Heli-skiing at Shiribetsu-Dake allows skiers to access Niseko’s steepest runs and freshest powder, as well as getting an amazing bird’s eye view on the way up. Shiribetsu-Dake is located about 35 kilometres from central Niseko where it sits right next to the Rusutsu ski resort. Towering at 1,107 metres tall, the mighty mountain offers runs averaging at 650 metres long. From the helipad to the summit and back, it’s an adrenaline rush like no other.
Helicopter Tours
Hokkaido’s natural landscape is truly mesmerising. The best way to truly appreciate the island’s unique curves and contours is from way up high. Helicopter tours will give you a brand-new perspective on Hokkaido’s natural wonders. Flying over the island, you can enjoy a bird’s eye view over Lake Toya and the Pacific Ocean, or view Mount Iwanai and the Shakotan Peninsula from way up high. You can even land on top of mighty Mount Shiribetsu! Whichever adventure you choose, it’s sure to be the thrill of a lifetime.
Cat Skiing
Cat skiing allows you to access that famous white stuff, minus the crowds and competition. After riding the snowcat up the mountain, you can shred through pristine pow without having to share with other resort goers. It really is like backcountry skiing on steroids. You can venture out for the day or stretch your adventure to a multiday trip. In either case, you’re guaranteed smooth and exclusive access to Niseko’s best pow. There are a few epic locations for cat skiing in Hokkaido. Niseko Weiss Mountain is located right next to the Hanazono resort, while Iwanai and Chisenupuri are less than an hour’s drive from Niseko. The more remote Shimamaki, which is about two hours away, makes for a fantastic playground for advanced skiers.
Snowmobiling
Yes, you can get an adrenaline rush in Niseko without hitting the slopes. Snowmobiling is a great way to get up and personal with Hokkaido’s stunning nature. Those wide-open snow fields, the rev of the engine and the thrill of the speed… There’s nothing quite like it. Experienced guides can take single or pairs on an adventure through Hokkaido’s forests and plateaus, with jaw-dropping views of Niseko framing your way through the snow.
Snow Biking
Snow biking is an epic way to experience the backcountry. If you’re an experienced biker, this exhilarating sport should be right up your alley. Tours take place in the Yamanashi range which boasts an elevation of up to 1,300 metres and offers more than 100km2 to explore. Carving your way through fresh powder on a 450cc snow bike is an electrifying experience. The relatively low altitude and high spec equipment ensure a thrilling adventure without compromising on safety.
Snow Drifting
Driving in icy, snowy conditions is a thrilling art form onto itself. While navigating Hokkaido’s snow-covered streets is definitely not for everyone, there is a way to experience this exhilarating adventure without the risks. Snow drifting allows you to navigate a car in a controlled environment, offering the perfect balance between thrills and safety. If you’re not ready to take the wheel, you can also enjoy this adrenaline inducing activity as a passenger. Snow drifting is available at the Rusutsu ski resort.
Ice Climbing
One of the most unique experiences you can have on this stunning island is climbing its frozen waterfalls during winter. Ice climbing is a thrilling sport where you scale frozen bodies of water (waterfalls, glaciers) using axes, crampons and a whole lot of upper body strength. Located at the Daisetsuzan National Park, the Sounkyo Gorge is the most famous ice climbing location in Hokkaido. The gorge features stunning waterfalls that’ll challenged even a more experienced climber. Professional guides will be able to guide you through Sounkyo or any other location you choose, either on a day trip or a multi-day adventure.
Psst…! If you’d like to try your hand at climbing without braving the elements, Niseko Adventure Centre has an 11-metre-tall indoor climbing wall.
Whether you’re craving slopeside thrills or aerial adventures, our concierge team is here to make all your Niseko dreams come true. Contact us to start planning your Niseko adventure.
