Hiking

Hokkaido is often referred to as “the last wilderness of Japan” and is home to some of Japan’s most pristine landscapes. Its mild summers attract nature-lovers from across the country looking for relief from the humidity of the main island.

Hiking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors of Niseko and thanks to the varied landscape there is plenty to explore.

For those looking to get off the beaten track, Niseko offers casual day hikes suitable for children and families, medium difficulty hikes suitable for a person with some athletic ability, and long, strenuous hikes that shouldn’t be undertaken without proper preparation and equipment.

There are a number of ways to hike to the top of Mt. Annupuri. The Hirafu course which starts from the Grand Hirafu summer gondola, the Goshiki Onsen course, and the Annupuri course; which stats from the Niseko Annupuri gondola.

Mt. Yotei is one of Japan’s top 100 famed mountains. There are three trailheads to the top in these surrounding towns, Kutchan, Makkari, and Kimobetsu.

From the Makkari trailhead, it takes five hours to reach the summit and another four for the descent. If you’d like to walk around the volcanic crater, you’ll need another two hours. Always take a map, and first aid equipment as well as plenty of water.