Soon, the Niseko ski resort will undergo two significant changes to its lift system. First, the Ace No. 2 Center Four Lift, one of the main gondolas, will be upgraded to enhance the guest transportation experience. Second, the King Quad Lift #3 is set to be replaced by a high-speed 6-seater gondola, promising greater convenience and comfort for skiers, especially children and beginners. These lift upgrades will not only increase transportation capacity but also reduce congestion, thereby improving overall guest satisfaction.
1. Ace Gondola
Ace No. 2 Center Four Lift, which was decommissioned in March 2024, will soon be reborn as a modern gondola named “Ace Gondola”. This new gondola will not only be upgraded from 8 seats to 10 seats but will also feature a significantly increased speed, approximately 1.5 times faster than the previous version. These enhancements promise to provide an improved experience for skiers in Niseko.
The Latest Gondola Features
Here are some of the special features that will be included in these state-of-the-art gondola cabins:
• Free Wi-Fi in all cabins to ensure continuous connectivity.
• Luxurious heated synthetic leather seats for maximum comfort.
• Snowboard racks inside the cabin, accommodating up to 10 snowboards, providing convenience and safety.
• Bike racks inside the cabin, with space for up to 3 mountain bikes, catering to adventure sports enthusiasts.
Additionally, two of the 54 cabins will feature a unique design with transparent glass floors, offering a thrilling experience and spectacular 360° views.
Ace Gondola Information
• Opening Dates: November 30, 2024 – March 31, 2025 (dates may vary depending on snow conditions).
• Operating Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (with night skiing hours extending to 7:00 PM).
Read more: Farewell to Quad Lift Center 4: Embracing a New Experience with the New Gondola
King Quad Lift #3
Expected in December 2025, King Quad Lift #3 will be reborn as a new high-speed 6-seater lift. This upgrade not only promises a faster and more comfortable ride but also enhances transportation capacity and reduces congestion in the ski areas. With its modern design and superior features, the new lift is set to significantly improve customer satisfaction and provide an even better skiing experience.
Three Benefits for Guests
• Increased Capacity: The upgrade from a 4-seater to a 6-seater lift will boost transportation capacity by up to 600 passengers per hour, offering greater convenience and efficiency.
• First Heated Seats: Introducing the first heated seats on the Niseko Tokyu Grand HIRAFU lift system, ensuring maximum warmth and comfort for every passenger throughout the journey.
• Enhanced Safety: Featuring a smart design with loading carpets at lift stations, providing absolute safety for children and beginners, making getting on and off the lift easier and safer than ever.
Please note that the lift system will continue to operate until March 31, 2025, for the 2024-2025 winter season. Construction for King Quad Lift #3 is scheduled to begin next spring.
With these significant upcoming upgrades to the lift system in Niseko, the area is preparing to enter a new era of skiing experiences. The transformation of Ace No. 2 Center Four Lift into the modern Ace Gondola, along with the rebirth of King Quad Lift #3 into a high-speed 6-seater lift, will not only enhance transportation capacity but also provide optimal convenience and safety for visitors. These improvements promise superior comfort and elevated service quality, helping Niseko maintain its status as the ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Let’s look forward to experiencing these exciting changes soon!
Source: Niseko Tokyu Grand HIRAFU
