Want to experience Niseko after winter? There are many different ways you can get here!

Considering to explore Niseko during different seasons other than winter? Niseko’s natural landscapes, fresh produce and wide variety of outdoor activities are perfect for your and your family! Now is the time to plan your trip ahead.

AIRPORTS: There are two international airports near Niseko: New Chitose Airport or Hakodate Airport. You can choose whichever suits your travel plan better.

From the airports to Niseko, you can choose between renting a car, hiring a private van/car, taking JR train or taking a shuttle:

  • RENTING A CAR: this is the most recommended way to travel in Hokkaido during non-winter season! You will get to explore the whole Niseko area a lot easier and enjoy the flexibility during your trip. Most importantly, without the snow, you can finally take pleasure in driving in the nice, wide roads in Hokkaido. Here are some recommended rental companies:

From New Chitose Airport

  1. Car Rental Hokkaido
  2. Niseko Auto
  3. Peak Car Rental
  4. Toyota Rent A Car Sapporo
  5. Nippon Rent A Car

From Hakodate Airport

  1. Toyota Rent A Car
  2. Nippon Rent A Car

* Please don’t forget to apply for international driver license valid for Japan in time! You won’t be able to pick up a car unless you have a proper international license.

*Most of the accommodation providers can help you arrange car rental as well. You can contact their reservation or concierge team for more details.

  • HIRING A PRIVATE VAN/CAR: If budget allowss, you can hire a private van/car as well.

From New Chitose Airport or Hakodate Airport

  1. Sky Express
  2. Cool Star
  • TAKING JR TRAIN: taking train is a great way to travel in Hokkaido. You get to relax, watch the scenery and it’s not too expensive!

From New Chitose Airport, the fastest route will be: Airport –> Otaru Station–> Kutchan or Niseko Station. The ride will take about 2.5 hr.

From Hakodate Airport, the fastest route will be: Airport –> Oshamanbe station–> Kutchan or Niseko Station. The ride will take aout 3.5 hrs.

*When getting to Niseko, please DO NOT get off at Hirafu station.

If you would like to take Shinkansen (bullet train) to Niseko, you can get off at Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto and take the Hakodate <–> Niseko shuttle! It will take 2hr 50min.

Photo by: Nikahara Kohei