Niseko is world-renowned for its breathtaking winter season, characterised by light powder snow that blankets the region from November through March.
While skiing and snowboarding at one of the four resorts on Mount Niseko Annupuri is at the heart of the Niseko experience, this powder paradise offers countless other ways to embrace the magic of winter in Japan. From adrenaline-filled mountain adventures to family-friendly fun, Niseko offers something for everyone. Let’s dive in to the best winter activities Niseko has to offer.
Hanazono Snow Rafting
Hop into a raft and zip across the snowy landscape towed by snowmobile for an exhilarating ride that’s fun for the whole family. With Hanazono Resorts’ experienced snowmobile drivers ensuring your safety, snow rafting is perfect for all ages and offers an unforgettable way to enjoy Niseko’s winter wonderland.
| Options | Start Time | Duration | Price | Max Pax |
| Snow Rafting Tour | 9:15AM, 10:15AM, 11:15AM, 12:15PM, 1:15PM, 2:15PM, 3:15PM | 30 minutes | ¥32,000 per boat | 1 Adult + 4 Children 2 Adults + 3 Children 3 Adults + 2 Children 4 Adults + 0 Children |
- Age: 3 + (Child: 3 – 12, Adult: 13 +)
- Groups of 12 and under only must be accompanied by a parent/guardian over 18.
- Please wear warm clothing such as ski wear (pants may get wet).
- Ski boots not allowed – please wear winter shoes or boots/rubber boots.
- Gloves and neck warmers recommended.
- Tours may be cancelled due to snow and weather conditions.
For more information and booking inquiries, please visit our front desk at the Ski Japan office in Hirafu or contact your reservations agent via phone or e-mail.
Hanazono Snowmobile Tour
If you’re looking for a break from skiing or snowboarding but still crave that same adrenaline rush, try a snowmobile adventure through snowy forests and trails for an exciting way to experience the natural beauty of Niseko. Led by professional guides, you’ll race across the Japanese countryside with incredible views of the Niseko ranges and beyond.
| Options | Start Time | Duration | Price | Max Pax |
| Snowmobile Group Tour | 9:00AM, 10:30AM, 12:30PM, 2:00PM, 3:30PM (available after January 20) | 60 minutes (actual driving time is about 45 mins.) | ¥23,000 single, ¥34,000 tandem | 9 |
| Snowmobile Private Tour | 9:00AM | 60 minutes (actual driving time is about 45 mins.) | ¥210,000 | 10 |
- Age requirement: Single snowmobile – 13+, Tandem snowmobile – 7+ / 120cm in height
- Children under 13 must ride tandem with a parent or guardian over 18.
- Please wear warm ski/snowboarding gear. Ski boots not allowed.
- Goggles available to rent.
- Gloves and a neck warmer recommended.
- Helmets are required and will be provided.
For more information and booking inquiries, please visit our front desk at the Ski Japan office in Hirafu or contact your reservations agent via phone or e-mail.
Hanazono Zipflight
Launched in 2022, Hanazono Zipflight is Asia’s longest zipline, covering an impressive 2,591 metres. During the summer, the course is divided into three sections, while from mid-March, the longest section spanning 1,700 meters will be open for those wishing to experience flying over the ski slopes. With dual ziplines running side by side, you can soar down the mountain at speeds of up to 110 km/h, sharing the experience with a friend.
| Options | Start Time | Duration | Price | Max Pax |
| Hanazono Zipflight (winter) | 10:00AM, 11:00AM, 1:00PM, 2:00PM | Around 1 hour | ¥12,000 | 2+ |
- Age 6 and above. Weight 30 – 105kg.
- Helmet and goggles must be worn. Free rental available.
- Harness provided by Hanazono.
- Please wear warm clothing such as ski gear. Ski boots not allowed, snowboard boots allowed.
For more information and booking inquiries, please visit our front desk at the Ski Japan office in Hirafu or contact your reservations agent via phone or e-mail.
NAC Snowshoe Tour and Cross Country Skiing
Step into a winter wonderland and take a journey through Niseko’s pristine countryside where you’ll trek through peaceful woodland to discover frozen lakes, rivers and snowy landscapes that seem straight out of a fairy tale. Join a fun guided tour with the sound of snow crunching under your feet to uncover hidden gems like Half-Moon Lake where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful scenery. Alternatively, discover the charm of cross-country skiing Kutchan’s trails on lightweight skis designed for trekking across the snow. Perfect for beginners and families, these tours combine fun, exploration, and quality time with the family to appreciate nature.
| Options | Start Time | Duration | Price | Max Pax |
| Snowshoe Group Tour | 9:00AM | 3 hours | ¥9,500 | 2+ |
| Snowshoe Private Tour | 9:00AM, 1:30PM | 3 hours | ¥45,000 | 6 |
| Cross Country Ski Tour | 9:00AM, 1:30PM | 3 hours | ¥45,000 | 6 |
- Age 6 and above
- Meet at NAC Center in Hirafu or your accommodation
- Free transportation service
For more information and booking inquiries, please visit our front desk at the Ski Japan office in Hirafu or contact your reservations agent via phone or e-mail.
Mountain Guiding
If you are looking to explore Niseko’s renowned backcountry then this is for you. NBS is the leading provider of guiding and backcountry adventures in the Niseko area and surrounding resorts. With a team of seasoned guides and instructors, we offer backcountry tours for skiers and snowboarders. Our range of services includes guided exploration of Niseko’s terrain via the gate system, day trips to nearby resorts for exceptional skiing, and backcountry guiding within the vicinity.
For more information on lessons and tours please visit the NBS website.
For more information and booking inquiries, please visit the NBS shop in Hirafu, contact your reservations agent via phone or e-mail, or visit the NBS website.
Hanazono Winter Horse Riding Tour
Feel closer to nature and explore the beauty of Niseko on horseback! Start with an introduction to riding at the ranch then venture out for a guided trek set against the stunning backdrop of Mt. Yotei. Riding these majestic animals with the family in winter is a memorable way to connect with nature and perfect for animal lovers.
Heliskiing
Heli skiing is the ultimate adventure for thrill-seekers, combining the excitement of flight with the rush of riding untouched powder snow on Hokkaido’s biggest and best mountains. Niseko is home to an award-winning heli-ski tour, providing exclusive access to the region’s most vertical and pristine terrain.
Onsen
Unwind after a day on the slopes in one of Niseko’s hot springs, the perfect cure for tired muscles and aching joints. Rooted in over 1,000 years of tradition, onsen are a cornerstone of Japanese culture. Long celebrated for their mineral-rich water heated by the geothermic power of our planet, the practice of relaxing in an onsen is believed to promote healing and rejuvenation. Designated as a National Onsen Health Resort in 1958, Niseko is home to over 20 unique onsen, offering a therapeutic way to relax and embrace the benefits of this ancient Japanese tradition.
