Niseko Accommodations Awarded Michelin Keys
Niseko Accommodations Awarded Michelin Keys
Several accommodations in Niseko have received the prestigious Michelin Key rating; a new system introduced in April 2024 that mirrors the renowned Michelin Stars system, exclusively designed for hotels. This significant recognition underscores Niseko’s commitment to providing exceptional hospitality and world-class lodging experiences.
Among the honoured accommodations, Zaborin stands out with an impressive two Michelin Key rating, one of only 17 hotels in Japan to achieve this distinction. This accolade highlights Zaborin’s dedication to excellence and its unique blend of luxury, comfort, and local charm.
In addition to Zaborin, five other hotels in the Niseko region have received Michelin Key ratings, further solidifying Niseko’s reputation as a premier destination for discerning travellers. The recognized accommodations are:
- Sansui Niseko
- Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
- MUWA NISEKO
- Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono
- Setsu Niseko
The Michelin Key system evaluates hotels based on five universal criteria: excellence in architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the neighbourhood or setting. These criteria ensure that only the finest accommodations, offering unparalleled experiences, are recognized.
This is the first time that Michelin Keys have been introduced to Japan. The recognition of Niseko’s hotels through this system is expected to further enhance the region’s appeal to both domestic and international visitors.
About Niseko Tourism:
Niseko Tourism is the official destination marketing organisation for the Niseko area. It is a non-profit, member-based marketing organisation that was established in 2007 and now represents over 400 members in the region.
Accommodation can be booked online through the Niseko Tourism booking portal which offers a wide array of options in the Niseko area.
Summer Transport Guide Released
Summer Transport Guide Released - 2024
Niseko Tourism has released the latest transport guide for the 2024 summer season with useful information about public buses and transport.
The guide includes bus and train timetables for how to get to Niseko from Sapporo, New Chitose Airport and Otaru.
Also featured are local bus transport timetables including the Niseko Sky Bus. There are also bus options for getting to popular onsen including Goshiki Onsen as well as the famous walking trail at Shinsen Numa.
If you are looking to get around Niseko, then download the Niseko Summer Transport Guide 2024 via the button below.
The Transport Guide can also be accessed via the Niseko App – the only official App for the whole Niseko area. Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play store.
UCI Gran Fondo World Championships to be Held in Niseko, Hokkaido in 2026!
Mark Your Calendar and See You in Niseko for UCI Gran Fondo World Championships in 2026!
The UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale), the world governing body for the sport of cycling, has announced in a press release that Niseko, Hokkaido has been selected as the host for the 2026 Gran Fondo World Championships! This prestigious event represents the pinnacle of amateur cycling, attracting top competitors from qualifying UCI Gran Fondo World Series events around the world.
Since 2013, Niskeo has been home to the Niseko Classic, Japan’s premier UCI Gran Fondo World Series event. The race draws competitors from throughout Japan, Asia, and beyond to the stunning natural landscape of Niseko. Each competitor vies for the glory of representing their country in the World Championships.
The 2026 World Championships build upon the legacy of the Niseko Classic, and will firmly place Niseko at the peak of the world cycling stage. The event is expected to be held in August, 2026 and further details will be announced in due course.
Visit nisekoclassic.com and follow the Niseko Classic on social media for updates.
Niseko Tourism App Refreshed
Niseko Tourism App Refreshed
Niseko Tourism has launched the redesigned and refreshed Niseko mobile app, ready for the summer season. This update enhances the user experience and provides comprehensive resources for tourists and locals alike, aiming to further elevate Niseko as a premier summer destination.
The new design includes a streamlined new interface, intuitive navigation, and a range of updated features to meet the needs of all visitors. Key enhancements include detailed information on events, transportation, hiking trails, live webcams, onsens, hotels, restaurants, and shopping. Additionally, the app supports multiple languages, ensuring accessibility for international tourists.
The redesigned app is part of Niseko Tourism’s ongoing strategy to leverage technology in promoting the region’s unique offerings. By streamlining the way that tourists can get the latest information about the resort, Niseko Tourism aims to enhance the overall experience for visitors while supporting local businesses and initiatives.
The updated app is now available for download on both iOS and Android platforms.
Two New Art Installations Are Added to Mountain Lights in 2024
Two New Art installations by internationally renowned artist Bruce Munro are added to Mountain Lights in July 2024 in Niseko, Hokkaido.
The expanding world of Mountain Lights – with vibrant color and sound…
From July 1, 2024, the Mountain Lights exhibition at Niseko Hanazono Resort (Hanazono), is back bigger and better than ever with two new spectacular works, ‘Moon Blooms’ and ‘Prismatic Spring’. Mountain Lights is the creation of the internationally acclaimed artist Bruce Munro. This season marks the third year of the exhibition, the only place in Japan where Bruce Munro’s work has been on view.
Mountain Lights is an immersive outdoor artwork that covers the ski slopes of Hanazono. Thousands of gently glowing firefly sculptures will blend in and illuminate the summer landscape with a total of 180,000 individual points of light. The 180,000 points of light transform into a 1.3 km long ribbon of light, illuminating the foot of Mount Niseko Annupuri. Draped in gentle gleam just like real fireflies, Hanazono’s fireflies embrace the surroundings, gently captured by the summer breezes of Niseko.
Moon Blooms
The first iteration Mountain Lights was inspired by topography, geology, mythology and a pinch of artistic licence. ‘Moon Blooms’ is a new colourful addition to the beginning of the installation. The 1,000 colour changing Moon Blooms evoke reminiscences of the snow that covers the Hanazono landscape for much of the year. Just as plants that wait patiently under the snow, and sprout with the arrival of spring, the addition of color to a previously monochromatic work makes the beginning of a new chapter even more spectacular and vibrant.
‘Moon Blooms’ is an iteration of the Field of Light, a work that embodies Bruce’s experiences during his visit to the Australian World Heritage Site of Uluru. Field of Light has been successfully held in Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Denmark, Korea, and other countries around the world.
Finally, an ethereal choral soundtrack, inspired by the changing light of a day, complements the illuminations of the installation.
Prismatic Spring
The second addition to Mountain Lights consists of sixty nine tree-like colour changing clusters of suspended orchid fireflies. Like a mountain stream, the elements are constant but in this instance the fireflies are suspended and colourful to draw visitors focus from the ground to the heavens.
The art to feel, from above and below
Mountain Lights – a majestic light walkway stretching under the sky of Niseko, Hokkaido, where countless stars twinkle in the sky. Discover a world of unparalleled immersive experiences interwoven with the richness of nature and light that can only be encountered in Niseko. Mountain Lights is proudly presented by Nihon Harmony Resorts KK in collaboration with Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono. The art installation will be open during the summer and autumn months of 2024.
Mountain Lights Information
Period: July 1 to October 6, 2024
Price: Adult ¥3,500(Age 13 and up), Child ¥1,600(Age 6-12), Pet ¥500
Website https://mountain-lights.com/
Collaboration Event ‘Mountain Lights and Fire Goddess Performance’
A fire performance ‘Mountain Lights and Fire Goddess Performance’ will be held in conjunction with the Mountain Lights exhibition. Come and enjoy the unique and miraculous synchronized session of the sound of Mukkuri, a traditional instrument of the Ainu people, echoing through the Hanazono forest, the collaboration of fire dances and fireworks performed to the mu-sic, and the dance of the Ainu sword covered with flames.
Event Information
Period: July 13, August 17, September 15 and 21
Price: Admission is free, Mountain Lights admission tickets are required to view the performance up close.
Website https://hanazononiseko.com/en/events/fire-ainu-performance-2024
Endless Powder In Niseko
Niseko: Endless Powder
Niseko, located in northern Japan, is home to some of the best powder snow on earth. Light, dry powder snow blankets the slopes each season, creating a legendary winter wonderland. Check out the short film from famous free-skier and artist Eric Pollard to catch a glimpse of what it’s like to visit the awe-inspiring destination.
When you’re ready, click the button below to learn more.
World's Best Snow
45+Feet
Avg. Total Snowfall
Niseko snow is incredibly light, dry and – best of all – consistent. Around 45 feet of snow falls every winter fuelled by Siberian winds and a consistent temperature of around 18°F. It’s not uncommon to wake up to 5 feet of fresh snow mid-Winter.
4 Resorts - 1 Mountain
30Lifts
70Trails
Niseko United is made up of four interconnected resorts which can all be accessed by a single lift pass. 30 lifts provide access to more than 70 trails and 9 backcountry gates.
If you’re a holder of the Ikon Pass or the Mountain Collective, you can access special offers including free lift passes and more.
Unique Culture
Temples, Snow Festivals & Local Culture
Japan is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, and Hokkaido offers a unique blend of traditional and modern influences. Niseko, in particular, showcases Hokkaido’s distinctive culture through its festivals, local crafts, and traditional cuisine. Visitors to Niseko can enjoy these cultural experiences, exploring everything from local celebrations to serene hot springs, making it a perfect destination to discover the essence of both Japanese and Hokkaido culture.
Incredible Food
Sushi, Ramen, Soup-Curry, and More
Hokkaido is well known for having some of the best seafood in Japan, and Niseko is no exception. The area features a variety of top-tier restaurants that showcase unique Japanese dishes such as ramen, yakitori, and soup curry – a Hokkaido specialty. Beyond seafood, visitors can enjoy these diverse and exquisite dishes, making Niseko a true destination for lovers of Japanese cuisine.
Latest News & Deals
Sign up to the Niseko Tourism newsletter to get the latest news and deals from Niseko.
Offers & Early Bird Deals
If you’re ready to book, check out current deals and offers currently available throughout Niseko.
Niseko Tourism DMO Renewal Approved
Niseko Tourism DMO Renewal Approved
Niseko Tourism has successfully renewed its official DMO registration with the Japanese Tourism Agency (JTA) for the next three years. in recognition of sustained and successful tourism promotion.
This achievement signifies continued excellence in tourism promotion and collaboration within the Niseko community. The DMO (Destination Marketing/Management Organisation) registration process is rigorous, evaluating an organisation’s ability to meet key performance indicators (KPIs) that demonstrate successful tourism development strategies. Renewal requires not only strong promotional efforts but also active engagement with local stakeholders, ensuring the tourism industry benefits the entire community.
Niseko Tourism’s successful renewal is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the board and our team. We are proud to have partnered with businesses within and outside of niseko local residents, and government organisations to support a thriving tourism industry in Niseko. This renewed DMO status strengthens our ability to attract visitors while fostering a sustainable and responsible tourism environment.
The DMO registration also unlocks valuable benefits for Niseko Tourism gaining priority access to grants and programs offered by the JTA, which will further support our mission of promoting Niseko and developing innovative tourism initiatives. These resources will allow us to invest in projects that enhance the visitor experience, strengthen the local economy, and solidify Niseko’s position as a leading tourist destination.
About Niseko Tourism:
Niseko Tourism is the official destination marketing organisation for the Niseko area. It is a non-profit, member-based marketing organisation that was established in 2007 and now represents over 400 members in the region.
Contact:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (+81)136-21-2551
Niseko Heliport Celebrates Grand Reopening
Niseko Heliport Celebrates Grand Reopening Providing a New Gateway to the Niseko Region.
Niseko Heliport has recently celebrated its Grand Reopening marking the return of a prized tourism, transit and public safety asset.
Niseko Heliport reopened in April 2024 following a 6 year suspension of operations, and is now managed by local aviation operator Niseko Aviation. Niseko Aviation aims to utilize the heliport to further enhance local tourism through providing a venue for sightseeing tours, transit flights, and other operators. The heliport will also be utilized for public good, serving as a training ground for police and self-defense forces, and providing a safe area for emergency landings.
The heliport was first opened in 1991 by Niseko Town, serving as a public heliport for sightseeing flights and rescue operations, peaking at approximately 100 flights per year. In 2018 it suspended regular operations, only serving as an emergency landing pad.
Niseko Aviation brings their 7 years of management experience within Hokkaido to Niseko Heliport. The heliport operates as an official landing area and prior application to the Civil Aviation Bureau is required for use.
For more information, please visit the Niseko Heliport website or contact Niseko Aviation.
Niseko Aviation KK
2-6, Niseko Hirafu 1-jo 3-chome, Kutchan-cho, Hokkaido 044-0080
+81 136 21 7007
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://nisekoheliport.jp/en/
Ginto Hirafu Searching Restaurant Operator
Attention Restaurant Operators! Incredible Opportunity in Hirafu Location!
Ginto Hirafu KK is currently taking expressions of interest from potential restaurant/lounge operators for the upcoming 2024/2025 winter season (and beyond).
We have painstakingly reconstructed a traditional Japanese “Kominka” building to serve as our restaurant lounge facility in our prestigious Hirafu location.
This wonderful 392m2 building, which was once a large family home in Gifu prefecture, has magnificent original timber beams and flooring. The facility has been elegantly redesigned with modern features and touches to combine the best of old and new Japan.
The 238 m2 lower level is already set up for restaurant operation, while the 155m2 upper floor is designed to house an upscale cocktail lounge/bar.
We can offer a very attractive long-term arrangement for the right operator and would love to hear your ideas.
For more information, please visit www.gintohirafu.com or contact us today to arrange a tour: [email protected]
Enter To Win - 2024 Summer Survey
Enter To Win - 2024 Summer Survey
Have your say and be in the running for a chance to win great prizes from Niseko!
Your feedback on our survey helps to shape the future of Niseko, and incredibly useful for making Niseko the worlds best resort destination! Help us to make a better Niseko by filling out our survey. The best part? YOU will be in the running for the incredible prizes!
Prizes:
- 1 Night stay for up to 4 people in a 2 bedroom Deluxe unit at Niseko Landmark View – Thanks to Vacation Niseko
- 1 Night stay for up to 2 people in a Studio Suite at SnowDog Village – Thanks to Vacation Niseko
- 2 Tickets to the Mountain Lights art installation at Niseko Hanazono
- 2 Day bicycle rental from Rhythm Japan
Accommodation Prize Conditions:
Stay period: 7 May 2025 – 30 November 2025
Black out dates: 19-21 July 2025, 5-17 August 2025 and 13-15 September 2025
By submitting an entry to this NPB Lucky Prize Draw, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of Niseko Tourism, and that you satisfy all eligibility requirements. Terms and conditions will apply to prizes.
If the survey does not appear for you above this line of text, please click here to complete the survey.
By entering into the draw you agree to sign up to the Niseko Tourism newsletter, and receive marketing communications from Niseko Tourism.
