Niseko and Rusutsu have become world-class ski and resort destinations and both are listed among the 20 Best Snowboarding Resorts globally.
Niseko, with its four connected resorts—Niseko Grand Hirafu, Annupuri, Niseko Village and Hanazono—provides a unified "All Mountain Pass." The resort prioritizes safety and comfort with a great network of interconnecting chairlifts, ski runs, and a gate access system for those who want to enjoy that famous Japanese powder snow knowing that conditions have been checked by the professional ski patrol teams.
According to Josh Niernberg, a well-recognised snowboarder, Niseko sets a remarkable standard as it is “affordable and accessible” and it’s celebrated for its famous 'Japow' snowfall, offering a unique powder snow experience. Nestled by Mt. Yotei's scenic beauty, Niseko boasts diverse dining options and numerous onsen, solidifying its status as a world-class ski destination.
On the other hand, Rusutsu, Hokkaido's largest year-round resort, extends beyond winter with ski lifts, an amusement park and golf courses. Among other Japanese resorts, Rusutsu has a unique chairlift network that splits into two sides, with the East being larger and more varied, and the West offering ski-in ski-out convenience to hotels.
Niernberg stated the unique characteristic of Rusutsu is its peak that remains untouched throughout the season, creating a magical blend of accessible powder turns amidst rocks and cliffs.
