Niseko is a delightful part of Hokkaido, nestled at the base of a now dormant volcano called Mount Yotei. The volcano provides some of the most spectacular vistas in Hokkaido, and Niseko also sits next to the stunning Shiribestsu River, said to be one of the most picturesque waterways in all of Japan. With that in mind, it is fair to say that Niseko has been blessed with a lot of natural beauty, and in recent years it has become a top destination particularly among domestic travelers. Niseko is most well known as a ski resort, and while it is indeed beautiful during the winter months, it is also not to be missed if you are in the region in the summer. Wherever you come, you will find a huge range of outdoor activities on offer, so don’t let the seasons put you off a visit here.
Winter Activities:
In the winter months Niseko operates as a ski resort and is covered in blankets of pristine snow that make this the perfect place to hit the slopes.
Skiing:
If you like skiing, then you will be spoilt for choice in Niseko as there are a number of different trails and runs to choose from that will suit all levels of ability. The powder here is of very high quality and conditions excellent throughout the winter month which is one of the reasons that Niseko is starting to get noticed as one of the top skiing locations in the world.
Snowboarding:
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As well as skiing, any adrenalin junkies to Niseko can also hire snowboards and travel down the runs that way. Some of the steeper slopes in Niseko are perfect for snowboarding, so there is plenty of choice if you prefer this to skiing.
Snowmobiling:
For anyone looking for something a little more mellow, or if you just want to take in the amazing winter vistas here from another perspective, you can also hire snowmobiles in Niseko. These will allow you to whizz all over the mountains and take in as much of the area as you desire without having to break a sweat.
Horseback riding:
If you are in the mood for something a little different, then you can even go horseback riding here during the winter. Many people think of this as a summer activity, and while you can also rent a horse in the summer months, there is also something magical about taking to the snow covered paths of Niseko on horseback in the winter time. This is also a perfect activity for couples looking for a romantic ride across snow covered plains.
Snow tubing, rafting, and shoeing
For those travelling with a family, or if you just want to unleash the kid in you and do something fun, you can also try a whole host of other winter activities in Niseko such as snow tubing, snow shoeing, and snow rafting. All of these can be rented in the local area and offer a new way of enjoying the snow.
Summer Activities:
Niseko is often thought of as a winter destination, but you should definitely not let this limit you if you want to come here. Although the snow melts in the summer, you can still enjoy a number of fabulous outdoor activities at this time that let you take in the gorgeous scenery.
Rafting and boating:
As Niseko is located on the mighty Shiribetsu River, rafting and boating are popular pastimes here in the summer months. You can hire a raft or rubber dinghy and take to the water here to enjoy one of the cleanest waterways in Japan. This also gives you the perfect opportunity to observe Niseko from a different vantage point from the water.
Biking:
If you prefer to stay on dry land, then biking is also popular in Niseko. Depending on how strenuous you want the trip to be, you have the choice of several different ways of biking. The first of these is to stick to the designated bike paths that are paved and offer a mellow ride for cyclists of all levels of fitness and ability. If you are feeling active however, then you can also go off piste and mountain bike through some of the more rugged terrain in Niseko, where you will get the chance to observe the glorious local flora and fauna up close.
Hiking:
If rafting and biking sound too adventurous and you just want to take it easy, then you can also go hiking and rambling all over Niseko. There are well established hiking trails all over the region that will suit all abilities and preferences, whether you just want a relaxing walk in the country or a more challenging hike. To that end, you can either stay on the paved trails, or you can walk along the Niseko Range. If you are really feeling adventurous then you can even have a go at climbing Mount Yotei if the conditions are favorable.
Golfing:
Many visitors to Niseko don’t realize that this is actually a well established golf destination, and if you are in town from April to October, when the season runs, then this is not to be missed. In the summer months a game or two of golf is fun for all the family, and there are a huge number of scenic courses to choose from here, so whether you are an experienced golfer or a novice, you will find something to suit all tastes.
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