Tucked away on Japan’s northern island, Hokkaido, and easily accessible from Sapporo Airport, Niseko Ski Resort offers the choosy guest the perfect union of convenience and exclusivity. With everything on offer from Michelin star cuisine, traditional Japanese onsen baths, and luxury private transfer services, Niseko has a lot to offer even the most discerning guest. With this in mind, we offer 5 tips to make your stay one remember!
1. Stay with an in-house onsen!
Skiing and snowboarding is hard work, and after a long day, you deserve to relax. Soaking in one of Japan’s natural hot spring baths is a must-do activity for any visitor, and nothing elevates the experience quite like being able to do it in your own room. Several hotels in the area, and even some private residences, have been equipped with access to mineral-rich groundwater, which is temperature-regulated and then pumped straight to your room. Watch the snowfall around you while you enjoy all the benefits of an onsen, without having to leave your room. It is also worth remembering, drinking alcohol in your private bath is not frowned upon, so bring a bottle of champagne with you!
2. Bring Fine Dining to You
It is no secret that Niseko is a melting pot of different cuisines, and there is no shortage of culinary delights in the Niseko area. From Michelin-starred French restaurants to exquisite Japanese Kaiseki dinners and everything in between, there is something to satisfy everyone, even those with even the most sophisticated palette. Sometimes though, the thought of heading back out into the snow can be all too much, but fear not; in-house dining providers can bring world-class Japanese food to you! There are companies like Niseko Gourmet who can provide you with your own at-home chef for your Niseko stay. Choose between a wide variety of styles to suit your tastes and concentrate on winding down. They even take care of the washing up!
Photo by Giovanna Gomes
3. Get a Guide
While it is often not hard to locate powder snow in Japanese ski resorts, being able to find that one line at the perfect pitch, with no tracks, is a skill that takes years to master. Take away the stress of planning your day by enlisting the services of one of Niseko’s experienced guides. For the more advanced skiers and snowboarders, private guides can be booked to explore the incredible backcountry and sidecountry, or, for those with more moderate abilities, guides can be booked for on-mountain orientations and one-on-one lessons.
For the adventure seekers out there, take it to the next level and book to go heli-skiing! Ride the absolutely best and deepest terrain in the area and bring home stories to make all your friends jealous! Hokkaido Backcountry Club operates heli-skiing tours on Shiribetsu-Dake, just a short drive from the Niseko resort, with all transport included.
4. Use a local Concierge Service
Many hotels and serviced apartment complexes have front desk staff on-site to assist you with your needs. That being said, things can get busy, especially during peak periods, and limits to the services they are able to provide do exist. With a private concierge service, your group is the one and only priority, and no request is too much trouble. Staff is able to organise restaurants, excursions, ski lessons as well as many other products and services. Transportation is usually included throughout the day as well, which removes the need to check shuttle bus timetables or call for taxis. This is another excellent way to alleviate stress levels and focus your attention on enjoying your stay.
5. Use a Premium Rental Service
It is certainly nice to have your own gear. We just wish it wasn’t so heavy! Traveling with skis and snowboarding equipment can be a pain, especially with so much other clothing required when heading to the snow. In recent years, the quality of rental equipment has increased dramatically, and Niseko is no exception. These days it is not uncommon to find the latest skis and snowboards available for customers. Twinned with the ability through premium packages to change gear whenever desired, be it to try something new or match the latest snow conditions, rentals have become the default choice for many. To take things further, many operators are now offering a premium in-house rental experience. Gone are the days queuing in a busy rental shop on your first day or after a long journey. Now, get fitted out from the comfort of your accommodation without even having to get up!
With 5-star accommodation options, award-winning restaurants, private transfer services, and everything in between, Niseko ski resort is the perfect choice for those who want the best in luxury travel. Armed with the tips above, you are sure to turn your Hokkaido holiday into a memorable experience for everyone; one that will keep you wanting to come back year after year.
