This one is in the books!
Exceeding expectations and breaking records, this December was one for the books. Setting the perfect tone for an amazing season ahead. What a way to start!
Early snowfall came in waves—Kutchan Town tallied an astonishing 1.5 meters by mid-month, a feat unseen since the 1950s. Storm after storm swept in, blanketing the slopes in pristine powder and delivering jackpot conditions for early-season adventurers.
The cherry on top? Those savvy enough to seize the reduced early-season rates truly hit the jackpot, scoring dream runs without breaking the bank. They didn’t just have their cake—they devoured it, carving first tracks on slopes many can only dream of.
It looks like our December Delights special was a bang on metaphor and a winning prospect all the guests who took advantage!
A snow clearing vehicle stands buried in the snow. The resort peeks through the trees in the background.
Trees line this snowy back street. Their branches are blanketed with snow conjuring up images of marshmallow fluff.
It is dumping in front of Hinzan Niseko. What could be better than to step out the front door into your complimentary ski shuttle?
Next up? – January’s Powder-Fueled Promise
The record-breaking highs of December are now behind us, filed away as a season opener for the ages. Renewed expectations for a remarkably deep January has everyone here feeling positive!
And so far, January has wasted no time in setting the tone. New Year’s Day delivered 23 cm of snow, followed by another 20 cm today. Everything a skier or boarder could hope for.
The outlook is promising. Let’s hope that early January is already laying the groundwork for something extraordinary in 2025!
The peak is open!
It is official. Niseko’s famous single rider, no lap bar pizza box seat lift is finally ferrying people to the gate at the top of the Grand Hirafu Resort. For those eager to shed their skis and boards, strap them to their back and start the steep incline hike to the peak, it is the best day of the year. And by all accounts, conditions were fantastic.
Even if you don’t want to make the climb out of the gate or don’t have a beacon and shovel, the pizza box is worth the ride. It is still the highest in-resort lift and offers an experience you won’t soon forget.
Trees, trees and more trees!
The peak has it’s pull of course, but the side country is filled with powder pockets and tree runs to thrill anyone that likes to earn their turns. Places like Strawberry Fields, Gates 4 and 5 offer unparalleled access to both steep and challenging tree runs or rolling glades full of fun for the whole family of intermediate riders or skiers.
Tree riding offers a chance to hone your technique…
line up those big powder slashes…
and provide a key to your own personal white room!
Wrap up
The 2024-25 season is in full swing. Everything is as should be. Cold, snowy, deep and fun.
Vacation Niseko has some accommodation options available for this year. Be sure to check our Accommodations page to see we have available for your preferred dates. Late February has some prime dates and properties on tap!
