Winter is Coming to Niseko and More Reasons to Grab a Spot in Snow Dog Village

Buying up a place in Snow Dog Village just got even more exciting as the countdown clock begins ticking before wintertime descends upon Niseko, Japan’s emerging ski haven. It’s less than 20 days and the fun will soon break out for Winter 2017-18 season in Niseko.

Niseko’s new lifts opening soon

Weather permits, the first lifts at Niseko Grand Hirafu will officially open on November 23 or barely three weeks to go. According to Experience Niseko, the lifts are in full swing for a grand unveiling. Slated to commence operations soon are the Ace Family Quad lift, which will serve as replacement for the Ace Family pair in Niseko-Hirafu, and the Dream Quad lift that will serve visitors in Niseko-Annupuri.

The latter will provide “lift access to the final, gentle-gradient stretch of the Junior Family run,” the report said, adding that good weather conditions will see the facility start operating on November 23.

A few days after or on December 1, it will be the turn of Ace Family Quad to open up. The lift will be available for night skiing access beginning on December 9 and the same activities will last until March 18 next year.

Night skiing in Niseko

“Night skiing not only allows you even more time to get out and on the slopes for some extra runs, but you’ll also get to enjoy some additional benefits too. The visibility can surprisingly be better at night than during the day as the floodlights cut through any fog and cast shadows on the bumps that you mightn’t see in daylight,” Experience Niseko said in a related report.

And with night skiing actions a ready option for vacationers, they will be able to make use of their daytime “to do other activities in Niseko like snowmobiling, snowshoeing or backcountry tours,” the report suggested.

A bevy of unlimited fun and possibilities

Also, holiday makers planning a stop at Niseko can explore the world-class restaurants that the place has to offer. “Popular restaurants like A Bu Cha 2, Kamimura, Sessa and An Dining are just some of the hot spots,” to be included on a short list, Experience Niseko said in a separate report.

Or vacationers can gear up for some skiing fun by first signing for private ski lessons. “Nothing beats getting one-on-one attention when you’re learning something new,” the report said, taking note that first timers on the winter sport will do well to take advantage of the tutorials before taking the plunge.

For both the restaurant hopping and private ski lessons waiting to be experienced in Niseko, it’s best to pre-book before flying in so as to avoid the rush normally seen in the winter season.

Now for a taste of what lies ahead on the slopes of Niseko, the video below offers heart-thumping sneak peek: