Niseko Annupuri Resort Overview
Situated on the southwestern flank of Mount Niseko Annupuri, Niseko Annupuri is the quietest and most refined of the Niseko United resorts. Renowned for its relaxed atmosphere, open terrain and extraordinary powder snow, Annupuri offers a more tranquil alternative to the livelier neighbouring bases, while still granting full access to the wider mountain. It is an ideal destination for travellers seeking serenity, authentic Japanese charm and uncrowded slopes.
Accommodation in Niseko Annupuri ranges from traditional Japanese inns to modern boutique hotels, self catered apartments and luxurious chalets tucked into peaceful wooded areas. Popular choices include the upscale Kamui Niseko, the intimate Annupuri Onsen Chalet and family friendly pensions offering warm hospitality and direct access to the lifts. Many properties integrate natural hot spring baths, creating a deeply restorative atmosphere after a full day on the snow.
With its soft snowfalls, spectacular views of the surrounding national park and a calm, village like atmosphere, Niseko Annupuri appeals especially to couples, families and powder skiers searching for a quieter, more immersive mountain holiday.
Skiing in Niseko Annupuri
Niseko Annupuri forms part of the Niseko United network, which offers around 100km of pisted terrain in total. Annupuri’s own slopes are known for their wide open runs, gentle gradients and mellow atmosphere, making it one of the most enjoyable and approachable areas of the mountain.
Beginners and early intermediates can enjoy long, scenic green and blue runs such as Silver and Paradise, where wide pistes allow ample space to develop confidence. The lower mountain is particularly welcoming, with slow slopes, soft snow and easy navigation. Intermediates will appreciate the top to bottom Annupuri Gondola run, which offers a rewarding descent over consistently excellent terrain.
More advanced skiers gravitate toward Annupuri’s renowned off piste and sidecountry zones. From the summit gates (open when conditions permit), skiers can access some of Hokkaido’s finest backcountry bowls, with deep powder, natural gullies and long flowing descents stretching towards the national park boundary. The Osawa Bowl is a particular highlight, offering playful terrain and magnificent views towards Mount Yotei.
Annupuri’s orientation also makes it one of the most snow sure and sheltered sectors of Niseko United. Even during storm cycles, visibility often remains better than at other mountain bases, allowing skiers to enjoy powder laps long after higher lifts have closed. It is a paradise for those who want a quieter, more soulful skiing experience without sacrificing terrain quality or snow volume.
Is Niseko Annupuri Family Friendly?
Niseko Annupuri is exceptionally well suited for families thanks to its quiet slopes, gentle terrain and laid back village atmosphere. Compared with the busier areas of Niseko, Annupuri feels slower paced and more intimate, which many families find reassuring and enjoyable.
The resort’s accommodation often includes family sized rooms, connecting suites and spacious apartments ideal for groups travelling with children. Many pensions and boutique lodges offer home cooked meals, play corners, friendly hosts and a warm environment that feels more like a Japanese homestay than a major resort.
On the mountain, the gentle blue and green pistes at the base area ensure a comfortable and confidence building skiing experience for younger children. Off the slopes, families can enjoy snowshoeing, tubing, forest walks and warm evenings in natural hot spring baths, which are a highlight for many visiting children. The relaxed pace and low key setting allow families to bond, unwind and enjoy Japan’s snowy landscapes without the busyness of larger resort hubs.
Après Ski Scene in Niseko Annupuri
Après ski in Annupuri is understated, elegant and deeply connected to Japanese culture. Instead of loud parties, visitors wind down with quiet drinks, peaceful onsen sessions and refined dining experiences. The mood is calm and contemplative, mirroring the resort’s snow covered forests and serene environment.
The Annupuri Onsen is central to local après culture, offering indoor and outdoor hot spring baths fed by natural volcanic waters. Sitting in steaming mineral pools while snow falls gently around you is an iconic Hokkaido experience.
Bars in Annupuri are intimate and atmospheric. Rakuichi Sake Bar is a favourite for sampling craft sake, whisky and local spirits, while the lounge area at Kamui Niseko is perfect for a pre dinner drink beside the fireside. Visitors looking for a livelier evening can easily take a short shuttle to Niseko Village or Hirafu, but most guests staying in Annupuri prefer the tranquillity found close to home.
Dining in Niseko Annupuri
Dining in Niseko Annupuri is one of the resort’s great pleasures, with a mix of traditional Japanese cuisine and high quality international options.
Rakuichi Soba is the most celebrated restaurant in the area and has achieved near legendary status. Its handmade soba noodles and intimate counter style dining create an authentic and unforgettable experience. Reservations are essential.
For casual Japanese comfort food, Pizza Del Sole offers hearty wood fired pizzas ideal for families, while Luckyfingers serves warm, flavourful curries and donburi bowls in a relaxed setting. Those seeking fine dining should consider Kanro no Mori, where chefs blend Japanese and Western influences using premium Hokkaido ingredients.
Several boutique lodges also serve exquisite home style dinners, including hot pots, grilled seafood and seasonal dishes prepared with local produce. Dining in Annupuri is not just about the food; it’s about the atmosphere, hospitality and connection to Hokkaido’s culinary heritage.
How to Get to Niseko Annupuri
Niseko Annupuri is well connected and easy to reach from several nearby airports. The three closest are:
- New Chitose Airport (approximately 2.5 hours away)
- Sapporo Okadama Airport (approximately 2 hours away)
- Asahikawa Airport (approximately 3.5 hours away)
Most international visitors arrive through New Chitose Airport, which offers frequent domestic connections and regional international flights. From the airport, travellers can choose between private transfers, scheduled shuttle buses or car hire.
Train travel is another scenic and comfortable option. From New Chitose or Sapporo, take the JR train to Niseko Station or nearby Kutchan Station, followed by a short taxi or bus ride to Annupuri. The journey showcases Hokkaido’s rural landscapes, especially beautiful during winter.
Thanks to its reliable transport links and calm, welcoming village environment, arriving in Niseko Annupuri is as straightforward as it is scenic.
Niseko Annupuri Insider Tips
- Visit during February for peak powder or late March for quieter slopes and mild weather.
- Try a traditional Japanese onsen after skiing; it is essential to the Annupuri experience.
- Explore the summit gates when conditions allow for access to some of the region’s best sidecountry terrain.
- Book restaurants in advance, especially small venues like Rakuichi Soba.
