# Explore Niseko > Explore Niseko is your one-stop, independent booking centre for Niseko activities, ski and snowboarding lessons, and airport transfers. ## Blog - [Discover the Tranquillity of Niseko](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/backcountrysnowshoe.md): Backcountry snowshoe tours take you into quiet, untracked corners of Niseko on foot. What the tours involve, who they suit and why no ski experience is needed. - [Discover the Serenity of Niseko](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/discover-the-serenity-of-niseko-with-private-snowshoeing-tours.md): A private snowshoe tour is a gentle, low-impact way to see Niseko's winter forests away from the ski slopes. What to expect, and who the tours suit. - [Discover Hokkaido’s Powder Paradise](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/explore-rusutsu-day-tour-2.md): Rusutsu's three mountains are known for deep powder and tree runs. A private day tour from Niseko takes care of the travel so you can focus on the skiing. - [Unlock Hidden Untouched Terrain](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/unlock-hidden-terrain-the-best-cat-skiing-experiences-in-niseko.md): What cat skiing is, how it works and which operators around Niseko offer it, for skiers and snowboarders looking for untracked powder beyond the lifts. - [Why You Should Book a Snowmobile Tour Today](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/unleash-the-thrill-why-you-should-book-a-snowmobile-tour-today.md): Backcountry snowmobiling for thrill-seekers or a gentler introduction for first-timers: what each Niseko snowmobile tour includes, from timings to pricing. - [Tailored Private Lessons for All Ages and Abilities!](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/elevate-your-skiing-experience-with-hokkaido-cores-tailored-lessons-for-all-ages-and-abilities.md): Whether you're a seasoned skier or a beginner eager to learn, Hokkaido Core is your gateway to an unforgettable powder skiing experience in Niseko, Japan. - [Rusutsu: A Must-Visit Resort](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/rusutsu-a-must-visit-resort-while-exploring-nisekos-winter-wonderland.md): Varied terrain for every level, reliable powder and far fewer crowds than Niseko: why Rusutsu is worth a day away from Hirafu this winter. - [Snowshoeing in the Spring](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/snowshoeing-in-the-spring.md): While snowshoe tours are often associated with winter, they can be a great activity to enjoy during the spring in Hirafu. - [The snow is melting and Spring is coming…](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/the-snow-is-melting-and-spring-is-coming.md): While it may be best known for its winter activities, there are still plenty of things to do in Hirafu during the spring. - [Backcountry Snowmobile adventure](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/backcountry-snowmobile-adventure.md): A bluebird day in Kyogoku with Niseko Snowmobile Tours, from the scenic drive past Mt Yotei to a backcountry ride across open, snow-covered hills. - [Exploring Niseko](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/exploring-niseko.md): Exploring Niseko is a short film from the Niseko Shootout festival, showing the area's beauty and the hidden backcountry beyond the ski resort. - [The Sapporo Snow Festival?](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/whats-so-special-about-sapporo-snow-festival.md): We visited the Sapporo Snow Festival to find out what is so special about the annual event, now celebrating 72 years - [Top 5 Off-Mountain Activities](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/top-5-off-mountain-activities.md): We round up our favourite activities in and around Niseko, from snow shoe tours to ice fishing - [Why Not Try... Skiing in Kiroro](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/why-not-try-skiing-in-kiroro.md): We visited Kiroro Resort, the perfect day-trip from Niseko for immaculate groomers and amazing backcountry powder - [Get to know... Niseko Village resort](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/get-to-know-niseko-village-resort.md): Gentle beginner runs, some of the steepest terrain on the mountain, long gondola laps and views of Mt Yotei: a guide to skiing at Niseko Village. - [Get to know... Annupuri Resort](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/get-to-know-annupuri-resort.md): Quieter than Grand Hirafu, Annupuri has some of Niseko's best sidecountry, night skiing and a dedicated children's area. Our guide to the resort. - [Get to know... Hanazono resort](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/get-to-know-hanazono-resort.md): Wide powder bowls, tree runs, jib parks and tubing make Hanazono the most playful of the four Niseko United resorts. What to know before you ride there. - [Get to know... Grand Hirafu resort](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/get-to-know-grand-hirafu-resort.md): Grand Hirafu, Niseko's largest village and resort, opens our series on the four Niseko United resorts, with a look at why the snow here is so reliable. - [Otaru – Hokkaido's City of Culture](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/otaru-hokkaidos-city-of-culture.md): From whiskey distilleries, music box museums and glassware shops to the annual Snow Light Path Festival, there’s plenty of attractions in Otaru - [Tips on Driving in Snow and on Ice](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/tips-on-driving-in-snow-and-ice.md): From clearing snow off lights and mirrors to dealing with ice, practical advice for anyone driving on Niseko's snowy winter roads for the first time. - [10 Things to Expect From Your Visit to Niseko](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/10-things-to-expect-from-your-visit-to-niseko.md): Champagne powder, convenience-store onigiri and other Niseko quirks: ten things first-time visitors to Niseko can look forward to during their stay. - [Top 5 reasons to join a snowmobile tour in Niseko](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/top-5-reasons-to-join-a-snowmobile-tour-this-winter.md): We share our top five reasons to book a snowmobile tour this winter in Niseko - [Building confidence with private ski lessons](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/building-confidence-with-private-ski-lessons.md): I took a private lesson and gained confidence as a skier in just three hours - [A day to remember!](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/a-day-to-remember.md): A day of cat skiing at Iwanai Resort near the Hokkaido coast: an early start from Niseko, a guided safety briefing and six hours of fresh powder lines. - [Escape the crowds in Rusutsu resort](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/escape-the-crowds-in-rusutsu-resort.md): Rusutsu, 45 minutes from Hirafu, spreads across three mountains and draws far smaller crowds than Niseko. We spent a quiet day exploring its pistes. - [Getting your ski legs back in Hanazono](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/getting-your-ski-legs-back-in-hanazono.md): Feeling rusty after the summer? A group snowboard lesson at Hanazono proved a good way to rebuild confidence and get to know the Niseko slopes. - [Rhythm Japan - Mountain Bike Tour](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/bike-tour.md): We joined our friends at Rhythm Japan on a mountain bike tour in Niseko - [Yuki Chi Chi Bu Traditional Onsen Tour](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/yuki-chi-chi-bu-traditional-onsen-tour.md): Yukichichibu, a traditional outdoor onsen near Niseko, is one of our writer's favourite hot springs in Japan. What a visit there is like. - [Getting your snowshoe on at Half Moon Lake](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/getting-your-snowshoe-on-at-half-moon-lake.md): A guided group snowshoe tour around Half Moon Lake, a volcanic crater lake at the foot of Mt Yotei, through quiet forest and changing winter weather. - [Snowmobile Tour with Big Wave](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/snowmobile-tour-with-big-wave.md): Snowmobiling with Big Wave at the base of Mt Yotei, 15 minutes from Hirafu: open snowfields for speed and forest trails full of twists, turns and jumps. - [Rafting with Hanazono](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/rafting-with-hanazono.md): An afternoon rafting down the Shiribetsu River, one of Japan's cleanest rivers, with Hanazono's guides as the snow melts and summer arrives in Niseko. - [CAT Skiing at Iwanai](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/cat-skiing-at-iwanai.md): ​Imagine you had your own private resort, with only 13 other people and 2 professional guides. Fresh tracks and deep powder all day... This is Iwanai. - [Photography Tour with Aaron Jamieson](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/photography-tour-with-aaron-jamieson.md): Photographer Aaron Jamieson's half-day workshop in Niseko pairs fresh snow and blue skies with practical tips for taking better photos. - [The House of Powder (THoP) / Hokkaido Backcountry Club (HBC)](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/the-house-of-powder-thop-hokkaido-backcountry-club-hbc.md): Cat skiing on Chisenupuri, 20 minutes from Niseko, with The House of Powder: avalanche beacon training, guided backcountry runs and deep Hokkaido powder. - [Hokkaido's Latest CAT Adventure : IWANAI](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/hokkaidos-latest-cat-adventure-iwanai.md): The Explore Niseko team tried Iwanai's brand-new cat skiing operation, where open powder runs look down over a small fishing town and the Sea of Japan. - [Snowmobiling Skill Course: ‘From Zero to Hero’](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/snowmobiling-skill-course-from-zero-to-hero.md): A snowmobile skill course in Niseko that takes complete beginners step by step from the basics towards riding powerful machines in the backcountry. - [Hokkaido's wine movement](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/wine-and-whiskey.md): Hokkaido is better known for sake and whisky, but a new generation of winemakers is building a quality wine industry here. A look at the movement. - [Exploring Niseko on a scooter](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/exploring-niseko-on-a-scooter.md): Scooter hire comes to Niseko: no bike experience is needed to cruise the countryside on a 50cc scooter and take in the local sights at your own pace. - [​Night Snowshoe Tour](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/night-snowshoe-tour.md): A guided night snowshoe down to the frozen Shiribetsu River in Niseko, with headlamps, clear constellations and a stop for mulled wine under the stars. - [Geisha Experience in Otaru](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/geisha-experience-in-otaru.md): An evening trip from Niseko to Otaru: the canals and Snow Light Path Festival, followed by a kaiseki dinner and a traditional Geisha performance. - [The year of the CAT](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/the-year-of-the-cat.md): Cat skiing in Niseko isn't just for hardcore skiers. An overview of this season's options, from intermediate groups to steep, deep backcountry lines. - [Niseko Green Farm Experience](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/niseko-green-farm-experience.md): A pizza-making tour at Niseko Green Farm, a certified organic farm in Kutchan, where tomatoes grown in the greenhouse end up in the pizza sauce. - [Rafting (tipping, swimming, and diving) along the Shiribetsu River](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/rafting-tipping-swimming-and-diving-along-the-shiribetsu-river.md): A brief glimpse into summer rafting with Hanazono along Niseko's Shiribetsu River. - [Cycling Hokkaido Style](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/cycling-hokkaido-style.md): Why road cyclists are coming to Niseko and Hokkaido in summer: great conditions, big scenery and rides for every level, from steep climbs to local races. - [Whatsup - stand up paddle boarding](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/what-sup-stand-up-paddle-boarding.md): Stand-up paddle boarding on Niseko's rivers, nearby lakes and the Sea of Japan, including a day out on Lake Toya and why the sport is so easy to love. - [Timbersled Snowbikes](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/timbersled-snowbikes.md): Timbersled snowbikes are dirt bikes with a ski up front and a track behind. We took one into the Niseko backcountry to see what the new activity is like. - [A fabulous fix of fun and adrenaline](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/fabulous-fix-of-fun-and-adrenaline.md): A fast, high-adrenaline hour of snowmobiling with Hirafu Snow Adventures on a purpose-built powder track just ten minutes from Hirafu. - [A day with Niseko Photography](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/a-day-with-niseko-photography.md): A powder day at Hanazono with Niseko Photography and Guiding, chasing fresh lines in Strawberry Fields with a guide who photographs the group's runs. - [Weiss Powder Cats](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/weiss-powder-cats.md): A large CAT, fresh tracks, and many excited people - A day with Weiss Powder Cat. - [Night Snowshoe and Dinner](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog/night-snowshoe-and-dinner.md): A guided night snowshoe to Lake Hangetsu at the foot of Mt Yotei, with a ridge-top view, a long snow slide down to the lake and dinner afterwards. ## Jobs - [Operations - Snowmobile Guide](https://www.explore-niseko.com/jobs/snowmoguide.md): Join the Explore team and create the holiday of a lifetime for our guests with our huge range of exciting activities in and around Niseko - [Bartender](https://www.explore-niseko.com/jobs/wine-bar-staff-2.md): Join our Hospitality team based in Niseko - Winter 2026/2027 ## Legacy Activities - [Niseko Ski Trip 2026/27](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/niseko-ski-trip-2026-27.md): Join our Niseko Ski Trip 2026/27 for 7 nights of skiing, guiding and adventure across Niseko and Rusutsu, with accommodation, transfers and rentals included. - [Night Snowmobile Tours](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/night-snowmobile-tours.md): Experience a private night snowmobile tour in Niseko. Ride through snowy forests with up to 4 snowmobiles, perfect for families and small groups. - [Niseko Winter Experience](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/niseko-winter-experience.md): Experience the winter wonderland with our guides! Spend 4 hours enjoying nature while doing a variety of activities including snowshoeing and sledding. - [Chopstick Making Experience](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/chopstick-making-experience.md): Create your own handcrafted Japanese chopsticks at Takumi Woodwork in Kutchan, just minutes from Niseko. - [Nomad Wellness](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/nomad-wellness.md): From Physio and Sport Massages to Personalized Training and Gym Plans, they have you covered! - [Snowblox - Snow building](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/snowblox-snow-building.md): Step into our fun-filled winter activity where kids get creative building unique snow structures - [Hokkaido Summer Camps](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/hokkaido-summer-camps.md): The ultimate way for kids to spend summer holidays in Hokkaido! Five days of action-packed adventures around Niseko. - [Otaru Foodie Experience](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/otarufoodie-experience.md): Embark on a private Foodie Experience in Otaru! - [Intermediate Snowmobile Tour](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/intermediate-snowmobile-tour.md): 90 minutes of exciting riding in 600cc machines! - [Moonlit Hangetsu Adventure](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/moonlit-hangetsu-adventure.md): Step into the serenity of the night as you venture into the crater of the Half Moon Lake. - [Backcountry Snowshoe Adventure](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/backcountry-snowshoe-adventure.md): Embark on a full backcountry snowshoe experience and Cap off your adventure with a visit to the tranquil Yuichichibu Natural Onsen. - [Snow Drifting Experience](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/snow-drifting-experience.md): Rev up your adrenaline and experience the thrill of snow drifting from the driver's seat! Join us for an exhilarating journey into winter's embrace. - [Sidecountry Guiding](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/sidecountry-guiding.md): Guided ski and snowboard tour in the Niseko area with an experienced guide. - [Hangetsu Hiking Tour](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/hangetsu-hike.md): Hike the base of one of the most iconic volcanoes in Hokkaido. Experience nature at its best and enjoy the breathtaking views. - [Backcountry Hiking Tour](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/backcountry-hike.md): Hike the beautiful Hokkaido backcountry. Experience nature at its best and enjoy the breathtaking views and relax in an onsen at the end of the day. - [Mt Yotei Hiking Tour](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/yotei-hike.md): Hike the one of the most iconic volcanoes in Hokkaido. Experience nature at its best and enjoy the breathtaking views. - [Flyfishing Tours](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/niseko-tenkara-and-flyfishing.md): From Beginner to Expert, escape the crowd and find yourself wading through the rivers. Winter and Summer, in selected locations, searching for wild fishes! - [Private Airport Transfer](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/explore-private-transfers.md): Door to Door Airport Transfers offers a hassle free, private transfer service from Sapporo New Chitose international to all major tourist locations in Hokkaido. - [Winter Equipment Rental](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/rhythm-japan-winter-equipment-rental.md): Pre-arrange your ski/snowboard equipment and have it prepared for when you arrive in the resort. - [Ice Fishing](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/big-fight-matsumoto-fly-fishing-ice-fishing.md): This family run business has been operating for over 20 years. Currently Arata Matsumoto, he has extensive local fishing knowledge which he is eager to share. - [Explore Day Experiences](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/explore-day-tours.md): Explore what Hokkaido has to offer with our selected drivers and guides. Select from our itineraries or create your own journey ! - [Guided Day Tours](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/iwanai-united-guided-day-tour.md): Iwanai is only one hour away from Niseko, and is home to unique, authentic Japanese experiences. Discover one of Hokkaido's hidden towns on a scenic day tour. - [Private Ski / Snowboard Lessons](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/private-ski-snowboard-lessons.md): We deliver the very highest levels of customer service, with hand-picked instructors to help create your perfect holiday experience. - [Snowshoe Hire](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/snowshoe-hire.md): Hire a set of snowshoes and set off on an adventure! Get lost in nature, enjoying the beautiful views and the nature of Hokkaido. - [Backcountry Snowmobile Tours](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/backcountry-snowmobile.md): Niseko snowmobile tours provide backcountry Snowmobile Tours for all levels. Go deep powder or deep into the backcountry on a trail ride. - [Beginner Snowmobile Tours](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/beginner-snowmobile.md): Explore Niseko snowmobile tours provides Snowmobile Tours great for beginners! - [Professional Photography](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/niseko-photography.md): Off Mountain Family shoots, on mountain ski and snowboarding or special occasions. - [Niseko Backcountry Touring](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/niseko-backcountry-touring.md): Go Lift access or tour the backcountry with some of the best and most experienced guides in Niseko and surroundings. Tailor your tour to your needs! - [Shimamaki Multi-Day CAT Tour](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/shimamaki-cat.md): Get into the wilderness for a few days and ride some of the best powder Hokkaido has to offer in a big mountain style environment. - [Chisenupuri CAT Tour](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/chisenupuri-cat.md): An average of 280m descent per run finishing at a steaming hot onsen in the backcountry. The terrain is a mix of extinct ski runs, well spaced trees and glades. - [Heli Skiing](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/heli-skiing.md): Some of the best powder and steepest runs in Hokkaido. Explore different aspects of Shiribetsudake, a conical volcano with easy access by helicopter! - [Helicopter Tours & Transfers](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/helicopter-tours.md): Jump aboard a Helicopter and view the area from above, plan a romantic helicopter ride and explore the area with our selected itineraries. - [Guided Scooter Tours](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/scooter-tours.md): Enjoy a guided ride on scooters around the Niseko Area (International Driving Permit is required) - [Scooter Hire](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/scooter-hire-2.md): Enjoy the fresh air of Hokkaido whilst zipping around the area on a nippy little scooter! (International Driving Permit is required) - [Fat Wheel Bike Hire](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/fat-bike-hire.md): Go for a leisurely ride through the forest and experience nature. Soak up magnificent views of Mount Yotei on a fat wheel bike. - [Snowshoe Tour](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/snowshoe-tour.md): Explore Niseko snowshoe tours take you to the best location for an amazing snowshoe experience. Secret: Try our signature Onsen Backcountry tours ! - [Onsen Tour](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/onsen-tour.md): A must do excursion when visisting Japan is a natural Hotspring (Onsen). Our team will take you to some of the most amazing locations in Niseko ! - [Rusutsu Day Tours](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities/rusutsu-tour.md): With one of the largest available lift access ski areas, Rusutsu is a favourite of the locals. Discover why with a day spent in this powder paradise. ## Offers - [Niseko Ski Trip](https://www.explore-niseko.com/offers/niseko-ski-trip.md): Transportation from the airport, hotel with breakfast and ski guides included. - [Hokkaido Motorcycle Tours](https://www.explore-niseko.com/offers/hokkaido-moto-tour.md): Explore Hokkaido on two wheels with guided motorcycle tours built around the island’s best riding. - [Book direct and Save](https://www.explore-niseko.com/offers/niseko-portfolio-transfers.md): Get a 5% discount on all Private airport transfers when you book before October 31st. - [Free Pick-Up & Drop-Off](https://www.explore-niseko.com/offers/activity-centre.md): Get picked up and dropped off at our Activity Center on select activities. ## Pages - [Jobs Index](https://www.explore-niseko.com/jobs.md): Find your ideal job at one of the world's greatest ski resorts. View our available positions in Niseko. - [Blog Index](https://www.explore-niseko.com/blog.md): Local guides, seasonal tips and stories from the Explore Niseko team. Plan your winter or summer adventure in Niseko, Hokkaido. - [Locals Card](https://www.explore-niseko.com/locals.md): Fantastic deals available exclusively to “Explore Niseko x NPB Locals Card” holders! - [Gift Vouchers](https://www.explore-niseko.com/gift-vouchers.md): Explore Niseko Activity Gift Vouchers are a great gift idea for family & friends planning to visit Niseko. - [About Us](https://www.explore-niseko.com/about.md): The Explore Group is made up of passionate, likeminded adventures from around the globe who have made Niseko their home. - [Contact](https://www.explore-niseko.com/contact.md): Use the form below to contact Explore Niseko - the area's only independent one-stop shop offering the widest range of activities, tours and accommodation. - [Terms & Conditions](https://www.explore-niseko.com/terms-and-conditions.md): Explore Niseko KK’s terms and conditions, including important information about using our website, services, bookings, payments and cancellations. - [Privacy Policy](https://www.explore-niseko.com/privacy-policy.md): This page outlines the privacy policy of Explore Niseko KK. ​We are dedicated to keeping your details private. ## Services - [Airport Transfers](https://www.explore-niseko.com/airport-transfers.md): Comfortable, reliable transfers between New Chitose Airport and your Niseko accommodation. - [Ski School](https://www.explore-niseko.com/ski-school.md): Lessons for every age and ability, with experienced instructors on Niseko’s best terrain. - [Activities](https://www.explore-niseko.com/activities.md): From deep powder and mountain thrills to summer trails and rafting, Explore Niseko brings you the best of Hokkaido, all in one place.