Niseko

Niseko United

The combined resorts offer something for every ability, however beginners may need to take a shuttle across to other resorts as the top areas of the resorts are often too steep. At the base of Hirafu there is the Family Run which is wide and mellow however can become very busy as this is the closest area to the main village so an access point for most people coming and going. Hanazono is the best area for complete beginners with wide runs, a magic carpet and less crowds than you will find elsewhere. English ski schools can be found at either of these locations, however for novices Hanazono offers the best learning facilities.

For intermediate skiers and snowboarders Niseko is ideal with long runs and plenty of terrain across all 4 resorts. Niseko Village offers well groomed trails, the Namara run is ideal with long wide runs and a mellow pitch. There is also great tree skiing, sidecountry access and terrain park for more advanced skiers and boarders. The Hirafu area is also popular with intermediates with a mix of groomed and ungroomed trails however it has known to get a little crowded at times.

For the more advanced skiers and boarders you will find hidden gems across the resorts, however a popular option is Strawberry Fields in Hanazono offering inbound trees. Niseko Village offers numerous runs with a high degree of difficulty and potentially some less crowded trees to explore. The Hanazono Park is a great option for those wanting to practice their skills as the soft landings give you a little more courage. The King Area Freeride Park in Hirafu is also worth checking out.

Night skiing in Hirafu is one of the best in the world with terrain for beginners through to advanced. The Miharashi Trees are lit up and can offer fresh powder runs well into the night.

Niseko Moiwa

Known as Niseko’s little cousin, Moiwa is the hidden gem for powder hounds looking to skip the crowds to catch some fresh, fresh lines. While not included on the Niseko United lift pass, Moiwa is just 15 minutes from Hirafu Village.

Sitting very high on the pow-ometre, Moiwa has some of the best side country and backcountry riding in Niseko without too much hiking - make sure you’ve got your avalanche gear!

In bounds off-piste riding through the widely spaced trees is unreal here and is great for advanced riders, while beginner riders can also get a taste of the trees on the forest run.

The majority of the mountain is intermediate friendly, barring a few steeper runs at the top. A great one to lap is the Main Burn course - Wide and usually full of deep pow.

There are free shuttles to and from the resort which makes travelling here easy.