When your plane lands at New Chitose Airport, your journey to the enchanting wonderland of Niseko begins—a trip filled with anticipation and breathtaking scenery. From its world-renowned powder snow to its majestic landscapes, Niseko is a destination like no other. But what about transportation in Niseko? For first-time visitors, getting around can seem daunting. Dive into this article to uncover everything you need to know.
Just bustling 110 km from New Chitose Airport lies the serene retreat of Niseko, a haven for winter enthusiasts and seekers of tranquility alike. For those embarking on this journey, we introduce four popular transportation methods to reach Niseko and navigate your days there. Let these transport options pave the way for a seamless and unforgettable experience as you venture into Japan.
Car Rental
Renting a car offers you the freedom to move at your own pace, allowing easy access to the stunning roads and various attractions in the area. If you’re comfortable driving in snowy conditions, you can rent a car at New Chitose Airport and make your way to Niseko. The roads are well-maintained and safe, and your car will be equipped with a reliable 4WD system and snow tires for added traction.
However, if you’ve never driven in snowy conditions before, it’s best to avoid it, especially at night as it can be hazardous. Additionally, you’ll need an international driver’s license to rent and drive a car in Japan. Therefore, make sure to arrange this before your trip.
Car Rental Locations
Peak Niseko Car Rental
Peak Niseko Car Rental, a family-owned business in Niseko, Hokkaido, has been operating for 8 years (since 2020). As passionate snow enthusiasts themselves, they understand the need for reliable truck and 4WD rentals, making them a trusted choice with reasonable prices. Tailored for easy exploration of Hokkaido, all vehicles from Peak Niseko Car Rental are well-maintained, licensed, and fully insured.
With services available in both English and Japanese, they provide convenient shuttle services to locations where guests stay in Hirafu. In addition to new vehicles, they also offer affordable options for used cars. Each vehicle comes with a Garmin navigation system in English, featuring landmarks to ski resorts, spacious ski gear racks, and high-quality audio systems. In the summer, Peak’s vehicles are equipped with camping gear for you to explore the picturesque landscapes of Hokkaido.
Address: 37-97 Aza-Yamada Kutchan-chō, Abuta-gun, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0081, Japan
Phone: +81 80-3503-6230
Hokkaido Travel Car Rental
If you’re considering renting a car near New Chitose Airport, consider Hokkaido Travel Car Rental to enhance your Hokkaido experience. They offer affordable rates, and all packages include Electronic Toll Collection (ETC), GPS navigation, and complimentary airport shuttle service.
They provide flexible rental options, whether it’s for a day, a week, or even a month. With a variety of rental car options available, including compact cars and minivans, they can accommodate your preferences. Book in advance for a smooth journey in Hokkaido. Conveniently, you can pay with a credit card.
In addition to the two companies mentioned above, you can also consider Toyota Rent-A-Car, HIPs Rental Car, and Ezo Rental Car to hire the car.
| From | Distance | Journey Time | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Chitose Airport → Niseko | 110km | 2hrs 15mins | Route 276 via the Bifue Pass |
Train Services
There are two main train stations in Niseko: Kutchan Station and Niseko Station. Kutchan Station is the most popular station with the most frequent services and connections to bus and taxi services. From New Chitose Airport via Otaru to Kutchan, it takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes and costs around 3,400 yen.
Remember to disembark at Kutchan Station, where most accommodations will pick you up. Additionally, you can take a taxi from the station to your accommodation. Kutchan Station also offers public bus services.
Taxi Services
In Niseko, taxis are one of the convenient transportation options for travelers to explore. However, it’s important to note that they can be scarce during peak hours. If you prefer not to rent a car or use shuttle buses, taxis are a reliable alternative to take you to your desired destinations in Niseko.
How to Hire a Taxi
To hire a taxi in Niseko, you can choose from the following methods:
• Identify Taxi Stands: Look for designated taxi stands where taxis often queue up, such as train stations, bus terminals, major hotels, or tourist attractions. Taxis typically line up at these locations.
• Use Taxi Calling Apps: Some taxi companies in Niseko provide smartphone apps where you can directly book a taxi from your phone. These apps often display nearby available taxis, estimated arrival times, and fare estimates for your trip. You can consider apps like GO/Taxi app for Japan, which is quite popular here.
• Seek Assistance from Hotel Staff: If you’re staying at a hotel or guesthouse in Niseko, the staff can assist you in calling a taxi. They usually have partnerships with local taxi companies and can arrange for a taxi to pick you up from your accommodation.
• Pre-book a Taxi: If you have specific travel plans, you can pre-book a local taxi to pick you up at a certain time. This ensures that the taxi will be at the location and time you desire.
Remember to carry Japanese Yen in cash, as many taxis in Niseko may not accept credit cards or other electronic payment methods. Additionally, writing down the destination address in Japanese can make it easier for you to communicate with the taxi driver, especially when traveling to less touristy areas.
Transportation in Niseko: Bus services
Bus transportation is another option for getting around Niseko.
• The Niseko United Shuttle connects all four resorts and operates throughout the winter season. Shuttle services are free for those with an “All Mountain Pass” and chargeable for those without.
• The Hanazono Shuttle connects Hanazono and Hirafu and operates throughout the winter season. The shuttle runs from 8 am to evening and covers both upper and lower parts of Hirafu Village.
• Local buses: Buses operate throughout the Niseko area connecting Kutchan town, Hirafu, Niseko town, and beyond. The two main public bus companies are Niseko Bus and Donan Bus. During winter, there are also frequent evening bus services.
• Hirafu Village Shuttle Bus: Free shuttle buses run through Hirafu Village to transport passengers around the village and to the Hirafu ski area. They have three continuous routes, each taking about 20 – 30 minutes.
• The Niseko Area Circuit Bus operates from JR Niseko Station to Niseko Village and Annupuri.
As you embark on your journey, we hope the stunning beauty of Niseko’s landscapes and endless adventures fill your days with joy and excitement. For a truly unforgettable experience, let Kyubi Spirit Lodge be your home away from home, where comfort and adventure come together to create memories that last a lifetime.
