So you’ve never been to Niseko, maybe not even Hokkaido, but you’re curious. You’ve heard the stories. Epic skiing, incredible food and the thrill of experiencing it all firsthand.
Whatever your motivation, there’s no wrong reason to visit Niseko and the surrounding region. If skiing feels intimidating, start with a lesson. If three full days on the slopes feels like a stretch, take a break and soak in a nearby onsen. And if you’re not interested in skiing at all and simply want to experience snow for the first time you’re not alone. For many visitors, that alone is reason enough.
Check out our Red and Green Route guides below!
The good news? Niseko and Hokkaido are incredibly well set up for all of this. Quality accommodation, reliable transport, and a wide range of experiences are already in place and ready for you.
No time to plan? Our suggested itineraries make it easy to design a trip that fits your pace and passions.
And yes, it’s not too late to visit this February. Modern, beautiful accommodations are still available. Dive into our insider guide and discover Niseko your way, whether you’re chasing powder, food, adventure or just the magic of winter.
Red Route: Gourmet, Culture & Snow
A Taste of Hokkaido: Beyond Niseko
Snow, seafood, festivals, and winter romance
Perfect for: Couples • Food lovers • First-time visitors
Getting around: Train, private transfer, or rental car
Route: CTS → Sapporo → Otaru / Yoichi → Niseko → CTS
Image credit: Sapporo Snow Festival © Condé Nast Traveler, Sapporo Odori Park © City of Sapporo
Sapporo | Winter Festivals & Food Capital
Stay: 1–2 nights
Why go
- Sapporo Snow Festival (early February) ❄️
- Life-size snow sculptures and glowing winter streets
- One of Japan’s best food cities
Eat & explore
- Soup curry, miso ramen & jingisukan
- Early-morning seafood breakfasts at Nijo Market
- Shopping at Tanukikoji, Daimaru & Stellar Place
Insider tip
Head upstairs in department stores — some of the city’s best dining is hidden there
Stay warm using the underground walkway linking Sapporo, Odori & Susukino
Otaru & Yoichi | Romance, Seafood & Whisky
Stay: 1 night
Why go
- Otaru Snow Light Path Festival ✨
- Candle-lit canal walks and historic streets
- Exceptional seafood and sushi
Don’t miss
- Sushi Street in Otaru
- Nikka Whisky Distillery tour in Yoichi 🥃
Insider tip
Easy and scenic JR train trip from Sapporo or Niseko
Niseko | Snow Scenery & Slow Winter Living
Stay: 3–4 nights
Why go
- Beautiful snow-covered landscapes
- Skiing, snowshoeing & gentle winter adventures
- Cafés, international dining & outdoor onsen
Experiences
- Scenic gondola rides for panoramic winter views
- Relaxed village atmosphere, especially in February
Insider tip
Book dining early using the Niseko Wine & Dine Guide
For something special, consider Hinzan and the Chef’s Omakase at Sushi Kato
Green Route: Onsen, Illumination & Snow
Slow Winter & Onsen Escapes
Snowy scenery, hot springs, and natural wonders
Perfect for: Couples • Onsen lovers • Nature-focused travellers
Getting around: Rental car or private transfer
Route: CTS → Niseko → Noboribetsu → Lake Shikotsu → CTS
Image credit: Noboribetsu onsen © Japan Journeys, Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival © Chitose Tourist Association
Niseko | Snowy Villages & Gentle Winter Adventures
Stay: 3–4 nights
Why go
- Beautiful snow-covered landscapes
- A relaxed winter resort atmosphere
- Easy access to nature and dining
Do & see
- Skiing, snowshoeing & snowmobile experiences
- Scenic gondola rides with panoramic winter views
- Cozy cafés, international dining & outdoor onsen
Insider tip
Stay at Loft Niseko and enjoy the newly renovated Yukoro Onsen just steps away
Noboribetsu | Japan’s Most Famous Onsen Town
Stay: 1–2 nights
Why go
- One of Japan’s most renowned hot spring destinations
- Deeply restorative, mineral-rich waters
- Classic ryokan stays and seasonal kaiseki dining
Don’t miss
- Jigokudani (Hell Valley) and its dramatic geothermal scenery
- Evening soaks in steaming outdoor baths under winter skies
Insider tip
The Resort Liner bus offers easy transfers between Niseko/Rusutsu and Noboribetsu/Lake Toya until late February
Lake Shikotsu | Winter Light & Tranquillity
Stay: 1 night
Why go
- A serene alpine lake surrounded by nature
- A quieter, slower finish to your winter journey
Highlights
- Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival ❄️
- Illuminated ice sculptures glowing after dark
- Peaceful lakeside onsen stays
Insider tip
Visit the Ice Festival around sunset for the most magical light — and the best photos
The good news? Niseko and Hokkaido are incredibly well set up for all of this. Quality accommodation, reliable transport, and a wide range of experiences are already in place and ready for you.
No time to plan? Our suggested itineraries make it easy to design a trip that fits your pace and passions.
And yes, it’s not too late to visit this February. Modern, beautiful accommodations are still available. Dive into our insider guide and discover Niseko your way, whether you’re chasing powder, food, adventure or just the magic of winter.
Interested? Contact us today to start planning your perfect February escape.
