Hirafu Ski Resort is Japan’s most famous powder snow destination, featuring diverse terrain and dry, fluffy snow. The low moisture content and cold temperatures create “powder snow” that looks and feels like icing sugar—a snow quality unique to the western region of Hokkaido. The top of Hirafu connects with three other Niseko resorts, offering a combined skiable area of 325 hectares and a snow season that lasts up to five months. This attracts ski enthusiasts from around the world for the ultimate skiing experience. The slopes are suitable for everyone from beginners to advanced skiers, and you’ll find some of Japan’s best hotels and dining options here. Among the four major resorts in Niseko, Hirafu offers the most convenient amenities and serves as the main transportation and travel hub for this ski paradise.

Hirafu Ski Resort has 10 lifts (including 2 gondolas) and 26 runs. Its diverse terrain is truly iconic: from gentle slopes perfect for beginners and competition-grade red and black runs, to tree skiing areas, natural halfpipes, moguls, jumps, park facilities, and off-piste exploration routes (Gates). All of these features let you fully experience Hirafu’s unique charm.

Annupuri Ski Resort is the best choice for beginners because it’s less crowded and the slopes are wide—perfect for practicing and taking lessons. The beginner slopes at the base are especially gentle and spacious, making them ideal for those just starting out. For families with kids, the open design of the slopes means parents and children can easily spot each other on the runs, even if taking lessons separately, giving parents extra peace of mind.

For advanced skiers, Annupuri is also an excellent option. Take the gondola to the top, and you can ride the red course over 2.4 km all the way down to the base, passing through small wooded sections—great for both carving and powder runs. It’s truly a must-visit for expert skiers. Annupuri features 6 lifts and 13 runs, along with Niseko’s easiest gate for off-piste exploration (Gate 7) and some of the area’s most famous powder snow. It’s a highly recommended lesson location by Chase for Snow, offering a fantastic experience!

Hanazono Ski Resort is considered the most challenging ski area in Niseko. For beginners, the lower slopes are very easy, but as soon as you go up the mountain, the difficulty level increases sharply, and there are very few intermediate runs. The forested slopes between the trails are also quite steep, making this resort more suitable for experienced skiers. In recent years, Hanazono has added many new facilities, including high-quality lifts, restaurants, and the arrival of the Hyatt group. If you’re looking for the most professional Chinese-language lessons, come join a Chase for Snow class!