WHAT TO DO IN NISEKO?

Know as the Meccah of Japan Powder Snow, called "JAPOW"

If you enjoy riding and love snow, you will never forget about this place: NISEKO.

This first time we went there, we could not believe that it was possible to have so much snow in once place. Our first ride on the slope was an unforgettable moment. It is now by far our favorite place to ride our snowboards.

NISEKO is Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido. This place is a contender for one of the snowiest places on Earth. In our opinion, every riders should make the pilgrim to NISEKO at least once in their life. NISEKO is known as the meccah of Japan powder snow. With wide open courses, tree runs, backcountry, off-piste, first tracks and night-skiing, Niseko caters for all levels from beginner to expert. Here are the top 10 things to do in NISEKO:

1. Shred the slopes and enjoy the true JAPOW

An extensive lift system covers the 64 courses and includes gondolas and covered chairlifts. With the lifts meeting at the summit, skiers have access to Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Annupuri resorts which combine to make Niseko United, one of the largest ski areas in Hokkaido.

2. Start your Japan off-piste experience

Freeriding is the main draw here. Fourteen+ metres of snow annually and Japans most progressive off-piste policy guarantee that powder hounds will go home happy. Within the resort boundary there is plenty of shredding to be done between the nicely spaced birch trees, and natural pillow lines are in abundance. Very few areas are roped off, but instead marked by a ‘Gate’ system and it’s essential to abide by the rules if you want to keep your lift pass. If you cut the ropes, consequences can be pretty severe.

3. Explore the best kept secret Backcountry with a tour guide

The backcountry in Niseko is some of the best on the planet. If you want to make the most out of your Hokkaido/Japan powder vacation, join a guided backcountry tour where seasoned guides will take you to the deepest snow and most remote locations on the island. No matter how much time you have or how many people you want to tour with, there are many options available.

4. Please your palate with Hokkaido most amazing food

You won’t be disappointing any foodies with a ski trip to Niseko which has wide range of food options to satisfy every type of tastebud after a long day on the slopes. My personal favorites are: Abucha and Bang-Bang for dinner / Shokusai HIRAFU located inside Alpen hotel for lunch (a must try!).

5. Relax to one of Japan's famous onsen

Immersing yourself in one a Niseko onsen (Japanese hot spring) is an experience not to be missed while travelling in Japan. Naturally occurring volcanic hot springs are a source of welcome relief from tired muscles and joints after a long day on the mountain. Yukoro is a basic but traditional onsen located in the lower Hirafu Village. It has two baths - an indoor one and an outdoor one surrounded by boulders. I like to go there after a good day of snow and before heading to dinner.

6. Go explore other nearby powdery resorts

A great alternative not too far from Niseko is Rusutsu. Usually less crowded even though it’s only a 45-minute drive from Niseko, the weather patterns can be completely different – it can be snowing heavy in Niseko but clear skies and no fresh snow in Rusutsu (or vice-versa).

A little bit further but worth the trip (trust me!), is KIRORO. Great powder, great offpiste, you won't be disappointed !

7. Enjoy the nightlife

Unlike other parts of Hokkaido, Niseko has a swinging nightlife scene for anyone who wants to indulge in a little après ski.

Throughout the week you will find a huge number of events held here at the various bars and pubs that line the main strip and many of these play live music in the evenings. Our ultimate top place is Bar Gyu aka The Fridge door bar (you'l know why it has this nickname once you see it) - it's located in HIRAFU

8. Go Snowshoeing in Niseko

Snowshoeing in Niseko is a very peaceful activity, thanks to the great escape. You will revel at the Niseko surroundings. Having a day off at the mountain and using a fancy a snowshoe, just walk amongst the serene place. Try snowshoeing and cross-country athletics within the Niseko-Hirafu space. Revel in the wonder of the Niseko area! Snowshoeing through Niseko’s deep powder is one among the foremost standard off-hill activities you will enjoy.

9. Climb the legendary Mount Yotei

You can’t miss it. Mount Yotei is a striking, 1,898-meter-tall volcano that dominates the landscape here in Niseko. Mount Yotei is beautiful from every angle, serene by nature but still commanding of respect. Its summit is obtainable, but only by those who possess enough stamina and courage – along with the right backcountry gear and a knowledgeable guide of course! We've personally not done it yet but it's definitely on our bucket list!

10. Have some fun snow rafting and tubing

Fancy being dragged around by a snowmobile while sitting in a rubber ring? Niseko has you covered! You can even enjoy this hilarious activity with friends when you take a raft instead. Big, yellow, looks like the type of thing you'd go white water rafting in, but instead you're sliding and bouncing dangerously over the snow, with close to zero control! Check out Niseko Tourism for a list of companies organizing this activity.

Check out the map below to find out more about our recommended top 10 places to visit in Niseko:

You liked our recommendations, or you want to add a suggestions or other top things to do in Niseko, feel free to leave a comment below: