For Niseko, it is helpful to distinguish travel to the region from getting to the ski areas: train connections serve several towns, while buses and taxis run from certain stations to Niseko United. The ski area itself also spans two municipalities.
Getting there and connections
In the wider region, express and local trains run between New Chitose Airport, Sapporo, Otaru, Kutchan and Niseko. A train connection from New Chitose Airport Station to Niseko Station goes via Otaru Station and Kutchan Station. Before travelling, check the current route and service so that your travel plans match the connection available on your travel date.
Buses or taxis run from Kutchan Station or Niseko Station to the respective ski areas of Niseko United. For this part of the journey, it is therefore important to know which station you are heading to and which area is your destination. Also check the latest connection details before basing your day’s plans on them.
Four ski areas and views of Mount Yōtei
Niseko United Ski Area spans Niseko Town and Kutchan Town. It comprises four ski areas: Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area, Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village Ski Resort and Niseko HANAZONO Resort. If skiing is the main focus of your trip, choosing a specific area is a useful starting point for planning. The shared name covers several ski areas in two municipalities.
In clear weather, Mount Yōtei, known as “Ezo Fuji,” can be seen from Niseko United Ski Area. The area also offers expansive views of the snow-covered landscape. The mountain views and winter scenery add a scenic dimension to getting your bearings among the individual ski areas.
Cycling around town
Green Bikes can be rented at Niseko Station. The electric bikes make it easier to ride through Niseko’s hilly town area. Alongside the bus and taxi connections to the ski areas, cycling is another option for getting around town. If you plan to rent a bike, check its current availability at the station.
Niseko Bridge is listed as a photo stop on a cycling route by the tourism association. Flowers in different colours are planted there depending on the season. This seasonal detail gives the stop a distinct connection to the time of year.
Local history and notable features
One connection to the municipality’s history dates back to 1898: Takeshi Arishima, the father of writer Takeo Arishima, applied to lease the Makkaribetsu undeveloped land in what is now Niseko Town. This episode is a specific chapter in the history of the municipality and adds historical context to the practical and scenic aspects of a trip.
In 2019, the former turntable at Shintoku Rail Depot and the steam locomotive “9643” were officially opened to the public. This date refers to the opening at that time. If you plan to visit, check the current access schedule in advance.
綺羅の湯 is a hot spring bathhouse at a train station in Niseko Town. The facility has a small shop selling original merchandise, local alcoholic drinks and vegetables. The shop’s selection adds information about specific products available at the facility.
Discover more destinations: Noboribetsu, Rusutsu, Kyogoku, Kutchan.
Go to the main travel overview: Abuta District.
