Niseko United

Introduction

Niseko United consists of 4 base areas and is considered a large sized resort. The 4 base areas from left to right are Annupuri, Niseko Village, Grand Hirafu, and Hanazono. When combined it creates one of the largest ski areas in Japan with a total of 79 courses to offer. The 4 areas are connected at the top of the resort and by bus at the bottom of the resort.

Accommodations

There are numerous accommodations ranging from small budget types to upscale luxurious hotels. During my first visit I stayed at the Niseko Green Leaf Hotel located at the base of Niseko Village. I found this hotel to be considered luxurious with excellent amenities. When considering your visit to Niseko, recommend getting a true ski in / ski out hotel in order to be the first up the lift. Niseko in general is crowded and some of the buses and lifts to get to the base don’t open up early enough to allow you to be first on the lift. On a powder day, fresh tracks are gone by 10 am. Other than that, if you want a night life, best to stay in the Hirafu area.

My second visit to Niseko I stayed at the Hilton Niseko. Compared to the Green Leaf, Hilton hands down is much better in terms of location and amenities. The Hilton exits a step away from the gondola providing true ski in / ski out access. The Hilton also provides a board and boot valet. What more could you ask for.