Niseko, with its renowned ski resorts including Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village, Annupuri, and Hanazono, attracts thousands of visitors each winter due to its exceptional powder snow and modern facilities. However, this popularity also means that these areas can become quite crowded, especially during peak season. To ease the crowds at the main ski resorts and offer new experiences for skiing enthusiasts, this article introduces four lesser-known ski resorts near Niseko. While not as famous, these areas still ensure excellent powder quality and promise memorable skiing moments. Explore these ski resorts in Niseko and nearby to enjoy a fantastic vacation without worrying about crowds!
1. Rusutsu Resort: Hokkaido’s largest ski resort
Located about 90 minutes by car from Sapporo and New Chitose Airport, Rusutsu Resort is Hokkaido’s largest year-round resort, offering a wide range of snowy activities. With 4 gondolas and 14 lifts serving 3 mountains, the ski area features 37 runs that range from gentle, expansive slopes for beginners to challenging terrains for seasoned skiers. Rusutsu Resort combines dynamic winter sports with exceptional hospitality.
(Photo: Rhythm Japan)
What makes Rusutsu so captivating are its three distinct mountain peaks—West Mountain, East Mountain, and Isola Mountain – each offering unique terrains to explore and enjoy the snow.
Nestled on the southeastern side of Mount Yotei, Rusutsu Resort is shielded from the harsh winter winds coming from the northwest, resulting in abundant powder snow on its slopes. Located near the Pacific Ocean, the resort enjoys many sunny days during the winter season. Visit to experience exceptional days with beautiful powder snow and clear, sunlit skies.
(Photo: Resutsu Resort)
Rusutsu Resort was honored with the title of “Best Ski Resort in Japan 2021” at the World Ski Awards 2021 ceremony held online on January 17, 2022. This marks the fourth time Rusutsu Resort has received this award, following wins in 2017, 2018, and 2019. Previously, the awards ceremony was held in Austria, but in 2021, it took place virtually.
Founded in 2013 and headquartered in London, the World Ski Awards are regarded as the ‘Oscars’ of the ski tourism industry. In 2021, 15 top Japanese ski resorts were nominated for the “Best Ski Resort in Japan” category, with Rusutsu Resort emerging as the winner.
Address: 13 Izumikawa, Rusutsu-mura, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 048-1711
2. Kiroro Resort: A Haven for Adventurers
(Photo: Kiroro resort)
Kiroro resort is a destination for those who crave a different path. Uncompromising, pristine, and unexplored, Kiroro offers a five-star experience amidst the snow. In winter, its deep snow valleys provide the perfect playground for powder skiing enthusiasts.
In summer, Kiroro’s lush forests come alive with a variety of family-friendly adventures, allowing you to discover remarkable moments and find your own sense of perfection. Kiroro focuses not only on quantity but also on quality, with warm hospitality, meticulous attention to detail, and excellence in every corner. Explore beyond the obvious and let Kiroro provide you with unforgettable experiences.
Top 5 Reasons to Choose Kiroro Resort
Abundant Powder Snow: With an average snowfall of 21 meters, Kiroro consistently offers deep powder snow perfect for skiing and snowboarding.
No Lift Lines: Enjoy fresh tracks and avoid waiting in lift lines, allowing you to experience pure, uninterrupted skiing without wasting time in queues.
Family-Friendly Activities: Kiroro caters to families with a wide range of activities, ensuring that every family member has diverse and engaging experiences.
English-Speaking Staff: Communication is easy, as most of the staff are proficient in English, making your stay more comfortable and convenient.
Charming and Quiet Atmosphere: Experience the tranquility of Kiroro, with its picturesque sake distilleries, charming music boxes, and the enchanting Otaru Canal.
Kiroro Snow World Trail Map
With its two pristine powder-covered peaks, Kiroro Snow World offers trails for everyone—ranging from beginners to experienced skiers and snowboarders.
Address: 128-1 Aza-Tokiwa, Akaigawa-mura, Yoichi-gun, Hokkaido, Japan
3. Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort
Many people think that Niseko only has four ski resorts, but in reality, there are five, with Niseko Moiwa often being overlooked. Although tucked away from the bustling Niseko United area, Moiwa remains a fantastic destination to satisfy your powder snow cravings. Situated away from the crowds of Niseko United, Niseko Moiwa (formerly La Ponte) offers excellent snow conditions without the usual congestion.
Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort: Pros and Cons
Pros:
• Adventure Appeal: Moiwa features a gondola that traverses a remote area, making it ideal for adventurous skiers, despite the long trek back to the gondola.
• Access to Niseko United: You can ski from Moiwa to Niseko United via trails (if the gates are open) and return the same way.
Cons:
• Limited Terrain: Moiwa is a smaller ski resort with a limited number of runs and terrain.
• Limited Dining Options: Evening dining choices in the Moiwa village are quite limited.
• Infrequent Shuttle Service: Shuttle services from Moiwa to other areas of Niseko are not frequent.
• Sparse Fresh Snow: A lack of fresh snow can make it less exciting for experienced skiers.
Subjective:
• Less Crowded: Ski runs are less crowded compared to Niseko United, and the off-piste and sidecountry areas are quieter, though fresh snow can deplete quickly. Moiwa remains a hidden gem compared to many ski resorts worldwide.
• Pass Exclusion: Moiwa is not included in the Niseko United lift pass or Ikon Pass, resulting in fewer visitors.
• No Direct Shuttle: There are no shuttles from Hirafu to Moiwa, reducing the number of powder hounds making the trip.
Ski and Snowboard Terrain at Moiwa
Moiwa has a compact layout with just 8 trails and a vertical drop of 470 meters (330m – 800m). The resort features 4 lifts: a high-speed, covered quad chairlift, 2 double lifts, and a covered “magic carpet” for beginners. Most of the trails are well-maintained and not too steep, with several off-piste routes winding through beautiful forested and remote areas just a short walk away.
Powder Snow
Moiwa receives about 10 to 14 meters of snow each season, earning high marks on powder snow measurements. While the climate here is sunnier compared to nearby resorts, the consistently cold winter temperatures ensure that Moiwa’s snow quality and reliability are comparable to Niseko United. Moiwa is truly an ideal spot for enjoying powder snow.
Location
Moiwa is far enough from the hustle and bustle of Niseko Hirafu to provide a peaceful experience, yet close enough to Niseko United for easy access to various activities. Situated on the same mountain as the Niseko United resorts, it’s just about 1.8 km by road from Niseko Annupuri Ski Resort. Intermediate skiers can ski from Annupuri to Moiwa via trails (though not back) and, under suitable conditions, experienced skiers can access Niseko through backcountry gate 6.
Note that Niseko Moiwa is not to be confused with Moiwayama Ski Resort near Sapporo.
4. Iwanai Ski Resort: Hidden Gem of Hokkaido
Nestled on the majestic Iwanai Mountain, standing 1,086 meters above the bay, Iwaina resort is a secluded coastal haven just 40 minutes by car from Niseko. This resort remains blissfully free from crowds, offering a superb experience as a hidden gem of Hokkaido. Beyond its magical winter landscape, Iwanai attracts visitors in summer with a plethora of outdoor activities, lively festivals, and delicious Hokkaido specialties.
Experience unparalleled luxury at Iwanai, where pristine powder snow awaits at every turn. Discover the enchanting depths of Iwanai on a CAT tour, gliding through the untouched powder. Feel the thrill as you navigate intermediate trails or join a snowshoeing expedition to immerse yourself in a winter wonderland. Savor gourmet dishes at renowned restaurants and enjoy breathtaking views of Iwanai Bay from the lounge, where you can indulge in some of Japan’s finest sushi.
At Iwanai Resort, every effort is made to cater to all guests’ needs. However, the CAT tours are not suitable for beginners or those new to powder skiing. Intermediate skiing or snowboarding skills with some experience in powder are required. Safety is the top priority. If your skill level differs from your group members, you may be accommodated on easier terrain.
Iwanai Mountain
Standing at an impressive 1,086 meters, Iwanai Mountain offers breathtaking views in every direction. To the west, you’ll find the vast blue ocean stretching endlessly, while to the east lies the charming countryside, serving as the gateway to the Niseko mountain range and Mount Yotei. These stunning vistas perfectly complement the dynamic nature of the mountain.
Amidst the remnants of summer’s snow-covered lifts, the mountain presents a unique atmosphere. As you embark on your descent, you’ll encounter diverse terrain with a variety of runs. On average, you’ll enjoy around 4,700 meters of powder snow daily. The highest drop, located approximately 890 meters above the bay, features a vertical run of 690 meters. Guides are always on hand to tailor the terrain to your skill level and preferences.
Seasonal Ski Conditions
Start your adventure in Hokkaido, Japan’s premier destination for powder skiing. Hokkaido’s reputation is well-earned, thanks to the combination of Siberian weather systems and the Niseko mountain range, delivering powder snow from the Sea of Japan that blankets the slopes. The snow in Hokkaido is not only abundant but also incredibly light and dry, featuring some of the finest powder on Earth. From late December to March, immerse yourself in the magic of powder skiing in Hokkaido and discover why this place is a dream destination for skiers worldwide.
Early Season (December 20 – January 10): Experience consistent heavy snowfall, though terrain is limited to runs and some open areas.
Mid-January to Late February: Enjoy continuous snowfall with upper snow levels and secondary CAT access routes opening. Each new storm enriches and diversifies the terrain.
March: Spring begins to emerge, bringing longer days and fully open terrain. This is an ideal time with excellent visibility and beautiful clear days, while the snow remains superb.
Read more: Cat Skiing at Iwanai Resort: A Transformational Journey of Snow, Sushi, and Adventure
Enjoy the tranquility and quality of lesser-known ski areas around Niseko. These spots offer fantastic skiing experiences with smooth powder snow while allowing you to escape the crowds of the more famous resorts. Whether you’re an experienced skier or just starting out, discover these areas for a unique and unforgettable ski holiday. Prepare for new adventures and seek perfection on these mountains.
Source: Powderhounds
