What it's like to visit the 'Aspen of Japan,' where billionaires and actors dine on sushi in ski lodges and relax in natural hot springs on the side of an active volcano
Niseko is consistently ranked as one of the top skiing locations in Japan.
The resort has been compared to major luxury destinations like Aspen, Colorado ...
Source: Wall Street Journal
Though it is technically a town title, for most visitors, "Niseko" refers to the entire region near Mount Yōtei.
Source: Google Maps
The area is also beautiful in the summertime ...
... and visitors can golf at one of three main courses with the volcano as a stunning backdrop.
Source: Niseko Tourism
However, the mountain is mostly famous for its winter activities. The mountainside is covered in the highly coveted "champagne powder" — high-quality snow that's perfect for skiing.
Source: Travel + Leisure
To begin their trip, guests fly into New Chitose Airport, followed by a two and half hour car ride to the mountain.
Source: Holiday Niseko
Four major ski resorts make up Niseko United, a group of ski slopes and accommodations.
Source: Niseko United
First, Annupuri is located on the southeastern side of the mountain, and offers a family- friendly atmosphere.
Source: SkiJapan, The Luxury Signature, Japan Guide, Niseko United
The ski area features 13 courses, from beginner to advanced levels, and also offers night skiing on some courses.
Grand Hirafu is the largest ski resort, and perhaps the most well-known.
Source: SkiJapan, The Luxury Signature, Japan Guide, Niseko United
The resort includes a bustling village at its base with lively nightlife and shopping. Along with expensive ski shops that sell name brands like North Face and Patagonia, the village features a custom hat shop.
Niseko Village is nestled between Annupuri and Grand Hirafu.
Source: SkiJapan, The Luxury Signature, Japan Guide, Niseko United
It also features a village with shops and hotels, though significantly smaller and quieter than Grand Hirafu. Items sold here include luxury Japanese purses and custom glasswork by local artists in the nearby city of Otaru.
Finally, Hanazono is the second base of Grand Hirafu on the northeastern side of the mountain. Though smaller than the other ski areas, Hanazono still offers a ski school for both kids and adults.
Source: SkiJapan, The Luxury Signature, Japan Guide, Niseko United
... the most impressive of which might be the private ski chalets. While an all mountain day pass is inexpensive (approximately $66), adding a chalet will quickly propel you up into the thousands.
Source: Powder Life
Others private rentals are more secluded, such as the Keyaki Villas ...
Source: The Pavilions Ginto Residences
... which offer beautiful views of the surrounding forests, rooms for adults ...
Source: The Pavilions Ginto Residences
If wealthy skiers do not want to rent an entire property, luxury hotels such as the Green Leaf Hotel are available.
Source: The Green Leaf Niseko Village
For those looking to relax, the onsens — or natural hot springs — are a draw. The soothing baths are recognized for their purifying health benefits.
Source: Afar
The Green Leaf Hotel is also home to some of the area's natural onsens.
High-end hotels such as the Ritz-Carlton are on their way, but for now, the most prominent chain is a beautiful ski-in, ski-out Hilton.
Many international power players, millionaires, and celebrities choose to vacation in Niseko, including actors like Hugh Jackman ...
Source: Powderlife
... and Sam Neil, who, according to Powder Life magazine, was spotted singing at Angel karaoke bar with Australian rugby union captain George Gregan.
Source: Powderlife
And then, of course, there's the food. Among other great dining options, countless restaurants offer excellent seafood, thanks to Niseko's proximity to the ocean ...
Source: Vogue
... while others feature soba noodles, a Japanese staple made from buckwheat.
Source: Vacation Niseko
Regardless which resort or chalet you choose to stay at ...
... the incredible views alone make the trip memorable as you ski some of the best slopes in Asia.
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