2021-22 Locals Card
2021-22 Locals Card Offers Announced!
2021/22 Locals Card is HERE!!
This year’s Locals Card is here with tons of benefits for Niseko Tourism Members and their staff.
To support Niseko Tourism’s actions of achieving Sustainability Development Goals, the card itself is made from a more environmentally friendly material, so you can reap the benefits guilt-free!
Check out all the benefits and offers on the Explore Niseko website, or download the Official Niseko App to get all the info.
To get a 2021/22 Locals Card, please apply HERE and bring your identification and proof of the company you work for to the Niseko Tourism office: map here.
Office: Mon – Fri 9:00-18:00
Offers for the 2021-22 Locals Card program will run from 1 Nov, 2021 through 31 Oct, 2022.
“Who can get a Locals Card?” – Locals working for Niseko Tourism member organizations can get a Locals Card.
If your company is not a Niseko Tourism member, contact us today and find out how to join!
Rhythm Japan Launches Online Store
From the Slopes of Japan to Cyberspace! Rhythm Launches its Online Store.
Niseko, Furano, Hakuba, Japan — Monday, Nov 1st, 2021 — Get ready to click ‘add to cart’ because Rhythm Japan has made its extensive range of snowsports and outdoors equipment available for purchase via its new-look website.
- The online shopping site will be available in Japanese and English on 1st November 2021.
The new website also includes an improved ‘gear checklist’ system. - For added convenience, a ‘click and collect’ service will be available.
- To celebrate, customers can go to the website and receive 10% discounts on the latest gear.
With store locations in Niseko, Hakuba and Furano, Rhythm’s mission has always been to provide its customers with access to the best possible equipment for Japan’s epic conditions. Now visitors to theirwebsite will be able to purchase outerwear, skis, snowboards, accessories, footwear, luggage,souvenirs and plenty more from top brands like Burton, Armada, Oyuki, K2, Nitro, Oakley, Smith (justto name a few). Then they can select to have the items shipped to their homes or ‘click and collect’ from one of Rhythm’s shop fronts.
According to Rhythm’s Head of Merchandise, Emily Gattinger:
“Our team thrives on sharing their knowledge and helping customers find products suited to their needs. By expanding into e-commerce, we have created an opportunity to share this passion outside of the confines of our shop walls which, big picture, will result in broader product offerings, specialized support, and growth within our marketplace. We are excited, to say the least.”
The online service will be available in Japanese and English and provide competitive shipping rates to allow for a smooth and convenient shopping experience. Rhythm has also introduced a new and improved “Gear Checklist” system that links viewers to appropriate buying or renting options. The click and collect service is perfect for those customers who would prefer to have their new products ready and waiting for them to hit the slopes. All of these new features mean gearing up for a Japanese winter has never been easier!
To celebrate the launch of the new website and online store, customers can jump online to learn more about special deals on this season’s hard and soft goods, huge discounts on gear from previous seasons and book lessons and rental equipment.
Check out Rhythm at www.rhythmjapan.com, Like them on Facebook, and follow them on Instagram.
Press Contact
Sherry Yen
[email protected]
+81 0136 12 0164
General Inquiries
[email protected]
+81 136 23 0164 (JP)
+61 0 8002 0164 (AU)
COVID-19 Travel Information
Travel Information
Information for Travelers
COVID-19
Latest Update: 1 December 2022
Travel Advice
Before traveling to Niseko, it is important to check the latest updates and information regarding COVID-19 restrictions. We have put together the following information to help travelers stay up to date. For all official information, please refer to the Japanese Government websites.
FAQ's
Can I Enter Japan for a holiday?
Yes! Tourists are able to enter the country without the need for a visa for travellers from most countries, individual travel will be permitted, and there will be no daily cap on arrivals to Japan. Travellers must be able to provide a vaccination certificate showing three doses of an approved vaccine, or a a pre-departure COVID-19 test certificate showing a negative result taken within 72 hours prior to departing the point of origin. An easy to follow chart of requirements can be found on the “Current Border Measures” page.
See official information on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Japan website for further details.
How about quarantine?
Travellers will not need to quarantine and may use public transport once arriving in Japan.
What measures are being taken in Niseko?
Businesses in Niseko have implemented a number of safety measures. Staff may be wearing masks, hand sanitizer is often available, clear dividers are occasionally used as well as a number of other measures.
What do I need to do when visiting Niseko?
It is not mandatory to wear a mask while on holiday in Niseko, however it is recommended to do so in closed public spaces. Many businesses and public places have hand sanitizer available for those who wish to use it.
Latest News
Check out the latest news and information being published about COVID-19 in Japan.
Published: 23 September 2022
Japan PM says to ease COVID border control requirements next month
Published: 24 August 2022
Japan to waive pre-departure COVID tests for vaccinated travellers
Published: 21 June 2022
International flights at New Chitose Airport reopen after 2 years and 4 months, from Seoul, 17 Jul.
Published: 27 May 2022
Japan to reopen to visitors from 98 nations and regions
Published: 6 May 2022
Government considering phased resumption of acceptance of foreign tourists starting next month
Published: 6 May 2022
Japan to Allow Tourist Groups as Soon as This Month, Report Says
Published: 2 April 2022
Japan lowers travel warnings for U.S., Thailand, 100 other nations
Published: 29 January 2022
Japan cuts quarantine for those entering country from 10 days to seven
Published: 1 December 2021
MOFA: Foreigners and Foreign Residents coming from 10 different countries to be denied entry
Published: 29 November 2021
Nikkei News: Amid Omicron, Japan Government will suspend plans to allow new foreigners travelling into Japan
Published: 16 November 2021
TBS News: Quarrantine Process Partially Simplified from 17th November
Published: 5 November 2021
NIKKEI: Quarantine Rules Relaxed – 3 days if Vaccinated
Published: 19 October 2021
Hokkaido Shimbun: New Chitose to Helsinki route to resume next spring – Finnair
Rhythm Japan Launches Rhythm Rides
Rhythm Japan Launches Rhythm Rides to Provide Customers with a Seamless Experience from Shop to Snow.
Launching October 15, 2021 Rhythm Rides is Niseko’s newest learning and guiding program for skiers and snowboarders, promising expert instructors, guides and coaches who are dedicated to elevating their customer’s experiences.
Rhythm Japan has operated as Niseko’s premier snow sports retailer since 2005. The company’s mission has always been to help customers by providing the perfect equipment for Niseko’s incredible conditions. Now, thanks to Rhythm Rides, this promise will extend seamlessly from the shop floor to Niseko’s powder playground.
According to CEO Matt Hampton…
“Our passionate shop staff, instructors, coaches and guides will all work together to ensure our customers have the perfect equipment, get the best instruction and are shown the best zones to ride in the Niseko area.”
Products on offer for this season include a line of customisable private lessons catering to skiers and snowboarders of all levels who want to explore the Niseko United area and beyond. More advanced riders can journey past the resort boundaries into Niseko’s fabled backcountry under the wing of an expert guide. Local children and adults will be able to take advantage of season-long programs designed specifically to help them learn, progress, and have fun. For more details on Rhythm Rides’ programs click here.
Rhythm Rides’ instructors and guides are passionate experts who are excited to share epic moments with their customers. They have all been handpicked based on their expert skill level and knowledge of the Niseko region. Rhythm Rides Director, Tareesa Straatmans has over 21 years’ experience in the snowsports industry. She has worked as an instructor, coach, examiner / trainer and ski school director in Japan, North America and Australia.
According to Tareesa…
“I am excited to lead the Rhythm Rides program because the Rhythm team really care about the community, our mountains and our sport. They are also passionate about sharing what they do with others. I believe working with a company that has such a strong purpose will result in an authentic and life changing experience for our guests.”
To celebrate the launch, Rhythm will offer a 10% discount on all pre-booked rental and Ride’s products (excluding Rhythm Futures). To receive this offer, please make a booking prior 15 November 2021.
For more information please contact:
0136 22 0164
Hanazono’s big step forward
Stylish, Luxurious and Elegant
- Hanazono’s big step forward
Niseko Hanazono Resort
New Lifts & Course Information
The long-awaited new Hanazono Lift 1 6-seat hooded detachable chairlift and the all-new 10-person Hanazono Symphony Gondola, both showcasing the very latest in style, luxury, and technology from POMA (France), will finally beunveiled in December 2021.
These new ski lifts represent a huge leap forward in terms of comfort, speed, and convenience for Hanazono guests,
who already flock to Hanazono because of its quality powder snow, interesting terrain, and superior quality facilities.
The new ski lifts have been specifically designed to complement the glamorous look of the new “Hanazono EDGE” restaurant, with its soaring glass walls and cutting-edge roof design. The lifts have been positioned to maximize the breath-taking Hanazono mountain views and provide guests with an unrivaled view of the slopes. The POMA direct drive system, the first of its kind in Japan, will bring a new era of environmental responsibility to snow resort operations, with reduced levels of noise and improved energy efficiency.
New Hanazono Lift 1
The new Hanazono Lift 1 can only be described as the smoothest, most luxurious chairlift in Japan. Dubbed the “Ferrari of Chairlifts” by Powderlife magazine, the new 6-seat detachable hooded chairlift boasts individually embroidered, leather-trimmed, and heated seats, and an individual suspension system for each chair. Moving an industry-leading 3085 persons per hour, the journey of 1589 meters will provide a welcome and cozy respite between runs. Guests will arrive refreshed at the top station and ready to plunge into Hanazono’s renowned powder stashes and variety of courses.
Hanazono Symphony Gondola
Designed by Italy’s Pininfarina, the brand new 10-person Hanazono Symphony Gondola represents the pinnacle of modern gondola design and comfort, and will be the first POMA 10-person Gondola installed in Japan. Each cabin boasts individually embroidered, leather trimmed seats, and an individual suspension system for each cabin. Expansive windows will provide guests with magnificent mountain views as they travel at an industry-leading 5 meters per second. The 1362 meter long Gondola will service Hanazono’s class-leading beginner terrain “Juicy Fruit” via a new intermediate “mid-station”, with intermediate and advanced skiers able to enjoy the new “Colly’s Folly” run commencing from
the top station.
As its name suggests, the Hanazono “Symphony” Gondola is indeed a masterpiece of design, innovation, and excellence. Located adjacent to the elegant Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, the Hanazono Symphony Gondola is set to provide guests with unrivaled comfort, convenience, and luxury. Powered by direct drive technology, riding the Hanazono Symphony Gondola will provide a sonata of sensory experiences for Hanazono’s esteemed customers.
New Experiences
The new Hanazono ski lifts open new ski terrain and ski courses on the eastern side of the mountain. The arrival of
the Hanazono Symphony Gondola also heralds the commencement of night-skiing at Hanazono, with each gondola cabin boasting its own unique coloured, LED lighting system to light the night sky.
Intermediate Ski course – “Colly’s Folly”
Located on the east side of the famous “Legend of Shinya” ski course and commencing at the top of the new Hanazono Symphony Gondola, you will find the new red (intermediate) course, “Colly’s Folly”. The 550-meter course, just about 1 / 3 right at 20’ish degrees, will suit intermediate and advanced skiers alike. Wide and groomed from side-to-side, “Colly’s Folly” is set to become an all-time favourite for skiers of all standards.
Beginner Ski Course – “Juicy Fruit”
The mid-station of the new Hanazono Symphony Gondola is the entrance to “Juicy Fruit”, a newly fashioned 800-meter green (beginner) ski course with an average slope of just 7 degrees, making it the perfect slope for first-timers and beginners, as well as ski and snowboard students enrolled with Hanazono’s famed in-resort snowsports school “Niseko International Snowsports School” (NISS). “Colly’s Folly” from the east, “Legend of Shinya” from the center, and “Stairway to Heaven” from the west all converge to meet at “Juicy Fruit”.
The new ski lifts at Hanazono will serve not only winter guests but also those who visit Hanazono in the green season. Summer gondola operations will service Hanazono’s new zipline network (set for completion June 2022), as well as Hanazono’s forthcoming light exhibition designed by world renowned artist Bruce Munro (details coming soon). Next time you visit Hanazono, be prepared for a five-star ride as luxurious as the entire Hanazono resort experience is becoming.
Please see the official press release on the Hanazono website.
Insta Sayaka X NISADE
Win A Luxury Stay in Niseko
Win an incredible stay at the luxurious Maples Niseko with NISADE valued at ¥94,000.
Major Prize
Luxury Stay at Maples Niseko
- One Night Stay at Maples Niseko
- Valued at ¥94,000
- Central Hirafu Location
- Luxury Studio Condominium
- For up to Two Guests
- Stay Can be Used Until 30 September 2022
- Conditions Apply (See Bottom of Page)
Maples Niseko
Maples is one of Niseko’s best and most centrally located accommodations, featuring large open-plan condominiums.
Entries are now closed.
Incredible Luxury and the Worlds Best Powder Snow
Runner Up Prizes
There are also two runner-up prizes to be won from two of Niseko’s most popular locations.
Truffle Butter from Michelin star restaurant KAMIMURA and a special prize pack from Takahashi Dairy Farm (Milk Kobo) including their famous chocolate products.
Entries are now closed
Thanks to our incredible sponsors for offering these great prizes
KAMIMURA
Terms & Conditions
General Terms & Conditions
- Entries close on 31 October 2021
- Winners are chosen at random
- Prizes cannot be exchanged for cash or any other item
- Prizes are subject to availability
- All supplier terms and conditions apply
- Entrants agree to receive marketing material from Niseko Tourism
- Winners will be chosen during the month of November
- Winners names may be published on Niseko Tourism and sponsor SNS channels
- If selected winners cannot be contacted, or do not claim their prize in a timely manner, new winners will be chosen
- Only one winner for each prize will be selected
- Only one entry per person is permitted
- Entrants must be over the age of 18
- By entering this prize draw, entrants agree to all conditions laid out
Accommodation Terms & Conditions
- 1-night accommodation in 1 x Studio Room in the Maples Niseko
- Max 2 pax
- Not including breakfast
- Stay dates valid from Winter 2021-22 or Summer 2022 until 30 SEP 2022.
- Blackout dates: 18 December 2021 - 3 January 2022 and 24 January - 6 February 2022
- Subject to availability
- The prize is non-exchangeable, non-transferable and is not redeemable for cash or other prizes
2021 Niseko Summer Shootout Winners
2021 Niseko Summer Shootout Winner Announcement
The 2021 Niseko Summer Shootout has wrapped up, with winners announced online this year.
There were more than 350 entries showcasing the natural beauty of Niseko. Congratulations to the winners and a big thanks to all the participants who joined the competition.
A special thanks to all the sponsors who helped support this great contest: presented by Niseko Tourism with support from NISADE, Rhythm Japan , Gentemstick Niseko ,Summerlife Magazine.
Now drum roll please: here are the winners!
Winning third place: ¥10,000 worth of prizes from Gentemstick and ¥3,000 cash prize is Chad Clark – @seaandsummitmedia.
Chad’s image is a classic look across the layered mountains that can be seen throughout Niseko. Chad found the best place at the right time to get this stunning shot. The smooth colors and layered tones surely impressed the judges.
Winning second place: ¥55,000 worth of prizes from Rhythm Japan and ¥5,000 cash prize is Chris Smith – @chrissmith_really.
Chris shot this incredible photo of sunset rock climbing on the coastline in the area surrounding Niseko. The suspended climber presents a feeling of excitement and anticipation with the imposing rockface on one side and a calm ocean below. The colours are smooth through the sky with a hint of gold on the horizon. An instant classic and a stunning image. Congratulations Chris!
Winning first place: ¥270,000 worth of FREE STAY from NISADE and ¥10,000 cash prize is Takayuki Nagasawa – @takaloao.
This amazing view of Niseko’s famous mountains was skillfully captured by Takayuki Nagasawa. The sunlight illuminates the clouds while silhouetting the imposing mountains. Congratulations on a great image Takayuki Nagasawa!
Congratulations again to all the winners and we’re looking forward to next Summer!
Niseko Tourism - Most Important DMO - 2021
Niseko Tourism Selected
Niseko Tourism has once again been selected by the Japan Tourism Agency as one of the most important Destination Marketing Organizations (DMO) in Japan.
Niseko Tourism has been recognized as an essential promotion body that is vital to the success of the Niseko area. This official recognition will grant Niseko Tourism priority access to government subsidy programs and projects.
Details of the selection, as well as other recognized DMO’s in Japan, can be seen on the official government website.
This program has been running for two years, and Niseko Tourism has been selected on both occasions. Selections are made after a thorough review from industry experts.
For inquiries:
Niseko Tourism
Phone: 0136-21-2551
Email: [email protected]
New Niseko Travel Journey
For A Safer Journey
COVID-19 has taken every one us by shock. Borders shut, confinement was imposed/has been imposed in many parts of the world and Japan has taken its own measures to tackle this global health issue.
Respecting the pandemic, New Niseko Travel Journey was introduced. Same as any other as they have been always, these guidelines help you to remind you to protect yourself and protect the community.
A brighter tourism future shall be ahead of us, but for a while, we must to learn to live with the given conditions in order to still enjoy traveling.
For the JPEG version of the photo, click HERE.
Check out the COVID guidelines from Niseko United HERE.
Pre Trip
- Cancel your trip if you feel sick
- Don’t forget your mask
- Download the COCOA app & the Official Niseko App
During The Trip
- Wash & sanitize your hands regularly
- Wear a mask
- Temperature check on arrival & every morning
- Practice social distancing
- Avoid crowded spots
- Keep distance at restaurants
- Don’t touch souvenirs while shopping
- Use cashless payment
After The Trip
- Make sure to check your temperature during the two weeks after your trip
- If you tested positive after your PCR test, register your result on the COCOA app and inform all contacts and businesses you visited. Please also contact Kutchan Health Centre Tel: 0136-23-1957 (Office Hours: Weekdays 8:45-17:00)
2021-22 Niseko United Opening Dates
Mark These Dates on Your Calendars!
Niseko United will be open in...
000 days 00 hours 00 minutes 00 seconds
This season most lifts will be running. Here’s all the info!
Annupuri
- Opening Date: 4 December 2021
- Closing Date: 5 May 2022
- Night Ski: 18 December 2021 – 20 March 2022 (till 7.30pm)
Niseko Village
- Opening Date: 3 December 2021
- Closing Date: 3 April 2022
- Night Ski: 18 December 2021 – 20 March 2022 (till 7pm)
Grand Hirafu
- Opening Date: 4 December 2021
- Closing Date: 5 May 2022
- Night Ski: 18 December 2021 – 20 March 2022 (till 7pm)
Hanazono
- Opening Date: 4 December 2021
- Closing Date: 3 April 2022
- NEW – Night Ski: 18 December 2021 – 20 March 2022 (till 7pm)
- Full operational updates for Hanazono
Check out the Niseko United website for full Niseko Lift Pass pricing information.
Dates subject to change due to weather conditions.
The latest Niseko United Trail Map for 2021/22 is now available.