The Ultimate Guide to Niseko United 2026

Niseko United remains the crown jewel of Japanese skiing. Comprising four interlinked resorts—Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village, and Annupuri—it offers some of the most consistent and accessible powder snow on the planet.

As we head into the peak of the 2026 season, here are the essential tips to maximize your trip.

The Gate System: Accessing the Sidecountry

Niseko’s unique “Gate System” allows skiers and snowboarders to access off-piste terrain safely.

• Gate 3 (Hirafu Peak): The gateway to the peak. From here, you can drop into the famous back bowls. Warning: Hiking required.
• Gate 11 (Mizuno no Sawa): Stunning avalanche-controlled terrain in Niseko Village. It opens later in the day, so keep an eye on the patrol lights.
• Safety First: Never duck ropes. If a gate is closed, it’s for avalanche risk. Violating this rule will result in your lift pass being confiscated.

Where to Stay?

• Hirafu: The heartbeat of Niseko. If you want nightlife, izakayas, and easy access to the main lifts, stay here.
• Annupuri: Quieter, more traditional, and often offering better access to wide-open groomers and sidecountry gates without the crowds.
• Hanazono: The luxury hub. Home to the Park Hyatt and arguably the best tree skiing via “Strawberry Fields”.

2026 Dining Trends

The food scene in Niseko has exploded. While Rakuichi Soba remains legendary (and hard to book), new spots are emerging. Look out for “Ezo Seafoods” for the freshest Hokkaido crab, and don’t miss the food trucks in lower Hirafu for a quick, budget-friendly bite between laps.

Final Advice

Book your lift passes online in advance to save money. And remember, in Niseko, wide skis (100mm+ waist) are not a luxury—they are a necessity.

See you in the white room!