Niseko United, Japan resort intro page

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Introduction

Niseko United is the most well-known of all Japanese resorts and its size compares well with resorts in North America and Europe. Although Niseko is essentially one mountain the lifts are spread over 3 linked areas: Annupuri, Higashiyama, and Hirafu. You can purchase lift tickets specific to each area or splash out on the full-mountain pass. Predominantly a freeriders resort, Niseko's main attraction has to be its big mountain terrain, however it also has a good selection of terrain parks, super-nice night riding and a modern lift system; definitely a great place to ride.

The highest lifts are all within a few hundred metres hike of the top of the mountain (1308m). From here you can ride down backcountry to Goshiki Onsen (hot springs) on the opposite side of the mountain. To get back you'll need a taxi or the rather infrequent bus. Be careful though, this mountain does have avalanches so be sure to check with the ski patrols to get the latest info.

Resort Statistics

Resort Type: Alpine
Winter: November - May
Summer: None

Lifts

Total Lifts: 35
Gondolas: 3
Chair lifts: 32
Board Leashes required: No

Mountain

Total pistes/trails: 57
Longest run: 5.6km

Top lift: 1200m
Vertical drop: 900m
First lift: 300m

Piste suitability

Green runs: 30%
Red runs: 40%
Black runs: 30%

Lift Passes

Lift Passes: 1 day pass: ¥5,200
2 day pass: ¥9,200
5 day pass: ¥22,100
Lift times:8.30am - 9.00pm

Snowfall

Average annual snowfall: 11m
Artificial snowmaking coverage: 0%

Facilities

Night Riding: : Available till 9pm, night riding here is regarded as a must do, it includes tree runs and terrain parks
Snowboard Schools: Lessons available at all 3 base areas with group lessons starting at ¥3,200 for 2 hours. Burton LTR programme is available from Niseko Hirafu.
Snowboard Hire: Snowboard hire is available from plenty of places on the mountain, at all three base areas.

Heliboarding: : Not available
Snowmobiles: Snowmobile tours are available from ¥7,800