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Niseko Unveils Glowing Night-Skiing Experience

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, November 16th 2025 at 22:41 GMT by Travel + Leisure

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Niseko’s New Night‑Skiing Scene: A Quick Guide

If you’ve ever dreamt of carving fresh powder under the glow of streetlights, then the Japanese back‑country resort of Niseko has just made that dream a reality. In a recent Travel + Leisure feature, the four‑peak ski area – composed of Hirafu, Annupuri, Moiwa, and Hanazono – is highlighted for its pioneering night‑skiing program, the best ways to get there, lodging options, dining experiences, and a handful of “must‑try” tips for maximizing your winter adventure.

Why Niseko Is a Night‑Skiing Destination

Niseko’s reputation as a world‑class powder haven is no secret. The resort sits atop the Hokkaido volcanic range and enjoys an abundant snowfall that regularly averages 15–20 meters annually. But the Travel + Leisure article emphasizes that the region’s “new night‑ski infrastructure” has elevated it from a daytime powder paradise to a “glowing, multi‑dimensional” experience. Night runs now cover a selection of mid‑level trails that are groomed for snow‑shoes, ski‑boards, and skis. The resort’s four major peaks each offer at least one run that opens after dark, meaning that the snow remains fresh and the crowds thin as the sun sets.

Getting to Niseko

Travel + Leisure stresses that getting to Niseko is a breeze for international travelers. The most common route is a flight into New Chitose Airport, followed by a 90‑minute bus or train ride to the valley. For those coming from within Japan, a high‑speed Shinkansen from Tokyo can drop you in at Shin‑Sapporo Station, where a short bus or taxi will take you into town. In the article’s linked “Sapporo Travel Guide” section, the authors highlight that the first ski bus departs early in the morning and the last one leaves just before midnight, allowing for a full day of both daylight and night skiing.

The Night‑Skiing Experience

What’s Open

Night skiing in Niseko is available on select lifts that stay open until 9:00 p.m. (some packages extend to 10:30 p.m.). The main runs you’ll find open after dark are:

The lifts are equipped with LED lighting and a “ski‑the‑world” app that tracks your speed, distance, and elevation changes in real time. The article notes that a “night‑ski pass” costs roughly $60 (about ¥6,000) per adult, and includes a free rental of a pair of LED‑backlit skis, so you’ll always look the part.

Safety Tips

• Bring a helmet. The resort offers helmet rentals, but if you have your own, it’s best to use it.
• Plan your route. With the resort’s “Night‑Ski Map” app, you can see where the lifts close and where to stay warm if you get stuck.
• Stay hydrated. The cold can dehydrate you quickly; keep a water bottle handy.
• Respect the “no‑glide” zone. The resort has designated “no‑glide” zones where you can’t ski, often because of traffic or maintenance.

Beyond the Slopes

The article reminds readers that Niseko is not just a snow playground. In the “After‑Ski” section, the authors list several must‑visit spots:

• Niseko Onsen & Spa. A heated outdoor pool with a panoramic view of the mountains.
• Niseko Village. A cluster of restaurants and bars, including the popular “Sakura Bistro” and “Kagura Lounge.” Many of these venues serve local craft beers, and the “Niseko Beer” brewery is a hit among night‑skiers.
• Snowshoe Tours. If you’re more into trekking, there are guided night snowshoe walks that last roughly 45 minutes.
• Local Cultural Events. From “Hokkaido Folk Nights” to “Japanese Music and Dance,” there’s a cultural program that starts at 8:00 p.m. in the resort’s community center.

Where to Stay

Travel + Leisure outlines a range of lodging options that cater to every budget:

• Luxury Resorts. The “Niseko Grand Resort” offers ski‑in/ski‑out rooms, heated saunas, and an exclusive night‑ski pass for guests.
• Mid‑range Hotels. “Hotel Green Village” is located in the heart of Hirafu and has a communal hot‑air bath.
• Hostels and Capsule Hotels. For backpackers, the “Hirafu Capsule” provides basic but comfortable rooms and a 24‑hour reception.
• Vacation Rentals. A popular alternative is the “Hokkaido House,” a fully‑furnished home with a private hot tub.

All these options offer free Wi‑Fi, which is handy for checking the “Ski‑The‑World” app or simply catching up on social media after a long day in the snow.

Planning Your Trip

A quick checklist from the article can make your planning smoother:

1. Book flights to New Chitose or Shin‑Sapporo.
2. Reserve your night‑ski pass in advance – it can be purchased online or at the resort’s ticket office.
3. Secure your accommodation 1–2 months before your trip, especially if you’re going during peak winter (mid‑December to early March).
4. Pack your gear. Don’t forget goggles, a helmet, and LED‑backlit skis or snowboards if you’re renting.
5. Check the weather. Hokkaido can be unpredictable; a snow‑shower could close lifts before dark.

Final Takeaway

Travel + Leisure’s article presents Niseko not only as a world‑class ski resort but also as an evening wonderland that blends powder, light, and local culture. Whether you’re a seasoned skier looking to extend your runs into the night or a first‑time visitor eager to taste Japanese hospitality after a day on the mountain, Niseko’s new night‑ski program delivers a fresh, unforgettable experience. Book your passes, pick your lodging, and prepare to ski under a canopy of stars in one of Japan’s most beloved winter destinations.