As Autumn season slowly graces Niseko, it won’t be long until we welcome Winter — Niseko’s most anticipated travel season. If your Niseko accommodation is set, ironing out your travel plans ahead is a good idea to avoid any inconveniences. Whether you’re taking the train or flying in, we’re here to guide you on the best ways to journey to Niseko, Japan. 

Nestled conveniently in Hokkaido’s southwest corner, Niseko finds itself just 100 kilometres southwest of Sapporo, Japan’s fifth-largest city, and 130 kilometres west of Hokkaido’s New Chitose Airport. Multiple transportation options like buses, trains, and roads connect to the region. Ferries also operate from Honshu to Otaru, Tomakomai, Muroran, and Hakodate, with Hakodate just a 3 hours 40-minute ferry ride from Aomori.

Arriving and Travelling Around Niseko

The most practical route to Niseko involves flying to New Chitose Airport and hopping on a bus/coach straight to the “Hirafu Welcome Center.” Buses run regularly throughout winter however, it is important to note that buses from New Chitose Airport to Niseko are only available during the Winter season, and there are no convenient direct buses during the rest of the year (April to November). Buses to Niseko are also available from Sapporo Station, and reservations are not required. For those visiting Niseko between April and November and not using a car, the easiest and quickest way to get to Niseko is to take a train to Kutchan Station from the airport.

Travelling to Niseko by car offers a swift and hassle-free experience, particularly as having a vehicle makes exploring Niseko much easier. Two primary routes connect Sapporo to Niseko: the highway route and the Nakayamatoge route which traverses through the mountains. For those coming from Sapporo City, the Nakayamatoge route is a recommended choice. On the other hand, the Lake Shikotsu route is optimal for travellers arriving from New Chitose Airport due to its shorter distance. It’s worth noting that the area around Lake Shikotsu is home to numerous Ezo (Hokkaido) deer, increasing the likelihood of encountering them while driving. Therefore, exercising caution to avoid any collisions with these creatures is advised.

Airport Shuttle

Our airport shuttle is a convenient option that provides great value for transportation between New Chitose Airport and Niseko-Hirafu Welcome Center. For more detailed information about this service, kindly visit our website

Train

Numerous daily services operate from New Chitose Airport and Sapporo. Most of these services conclude their routes at Kutchan station, which is the most accessible point to hail a taxi or hop onto a local bus bound for the resorts. Additionally, certain services extend to Niseko station, albeit with fewer transportation options available.

The train is the most convenient and affordable option for those without personal vehicles. Guests arriving by train can benefit from Miru Niseko’s complimentary pick-up service at Kutchan Station or Niseko Station. Check out our website.

Miru Niseko and Miru Nozomi Transportation Services

Our hotel, Miru Niseko, provides transportation services for our guests’ convenience. The services included are airport transfers, local shuttle service, and car rentals.

Local Shuttle

Every year from December 1 to March 31, we provide a complimentary shuttle service between the hotel and Hirafu, a 5-minute drive apart. The pick-up points are as follows:

• Hirafu Police Box
• Hirafu Welcome Centre
• Grand Hirafu Gondola Station

We also offer complimentary arrival pick-up from the Hirafu Welcome Centre, Kutchan Station & Niseko Station. For more information, kindly contact our front desk.

Car Rentals

If you wish to explore Niseko on your own time, renting a car would be the best option. Our hotel can assist you in renting your preferred vehicle, and if you make arrangements beforehand, we can have the car ready for you at the hotel upon your arrival. For more information on available car rentals and pricing, kindly inquiry from our website.

It’s best to make arrangements months in advance when planning a trip to Niseko during Winter. Feel free to contact us ahead of time, and we will be happy to help with your travel preparations for a hassle-free trip this Winter season.