Japan ski Hotel Archives • Aspect Niseko

Escape the Perth heat and experience a cool alpine summer in Niseko, where verdant mountains, crisp air, and outdoor excitement await. Whether you’re travelling solo, with mates or family, Niseko is your summer playground.

1. Bike the Slopes — Mountain & E‑Biking

• Gondola-assisted downhill trails at Grand Hirafu and Hanazono are now part of Niseko’s emerging MTB park.
• Rent e-bikes from Niseko Sports or Village and cruise scenic trails or road loops framed by Mt Yotei.

2. Tree Trekking & Zipline Challenges

• Treetop courses at Hanazono, Village and Grand Hirafu run April–October, offering zipline, rope bridges and canopy walks.
• FUN for families and thrill‑seekers alike, with safety gear and varied difficulty.

3. Hot Air Balloon Rides

• Take a tethered 30 m balloon ride, twice daily, for panoramic views of Mt Yotei and Niseko’s green slopes.
• Ideal for snap-worthy sunrise and sunset scenes.

4. Shiribetsu River Rafting & Canyoning

• White-water rafting with NAC offers thrilling river trips and canyon walks.
• Family-friendly canyons also available—kids welcome! Booking recommended.

5. Golf with a View 

• Play at top-tier courses: Niseko Village (Arnold Palmer design) and Niseko Tokyu, both overlooking Mt Yotei.
• Low summer humidity and spacious fairways = premium Aussie golfing experience.

6. Scenic Hiking Trails

• Trails include Mt Annupuri, Hangetsu Lake, and Shinsen-numa Marsh — lush alpine walks, wildflowers, and lake reflections galore.
• Suitable for all fitness levels; guided eco-hikes available locally.

7. Horseback Riding & Nature Walks

• Explore rural landscapes and forest tracks on horseback from Hanazono Village
• A relaxed way to absorb summer colours and serenity.

8. Fishing — Trout & Salmon Streams

• Shiribetsu and closer freshwater streams offer fly-fishing with rainbow trout and cherry salmon.
• Guides and permits easily arranged via Niseko Outdoor services.

9. Kids & Family Fun at “PURE” Park

• Located at Niseko Village, PURE offers giant inflatables, slides, rail‑slider, disc golf, volleyball, and mini‑golf.
• Super‑passport gives all‑day access to over 10 attractions.

10. Farm‑to‑Table Foodie Trails

• Visit local farms selling fresh Hokkaido produce—sweet corn, berries, dairy and artisan soba.
• Seasonal events include berry‑picking, BBQs and peach‑blossom festivals.
• Cap off days with gelato, ramen and local craft beer.

Bonus: Events & Festivals

• Join the Niseko Classic Cycling Race — includes public ride, music, kids’ Strider Cup, food stalls.
• Summer markets and mini‑concerts add local flair through July–August.

Why Aussie Travellers Love Niseko

• Escape the heat — summer here is warm (20‑25 °C), crisp, and humid‑light.
• Great value — lower prices than ski season, excellent accommodations like Aspect Niseko.
• All‑round relaxation — onsen, fine dining, scenic drives and cultural immersion.

Stay at Aspect Niseko

Settle into luxury: spacious designer apartments, ski/bike concierge, fully equipped kitchens, and easy access to all activities. Perfect for couples, families and groups wanting summer adventure with home‑style comfort.

Plan & Book Now

With flights direct from Australia to Sapporo, and 3‑hour access to Niseko, peak summer is May–September. Book your flights, Aspect Niseko stay, and activity passes early — summer popularity keeps growing fast!

So, Aussies — ready to trade the t-shirt for a thermal?
From mountain biking to ballooning, Niseko in summer offers a rich slice of Japanese culture, outdoor adventure, and alpine cool. Get planning — the green season awaits!

Niseko’s Green Season Revolution

Niseko, a name synonymous with legendary powder snow, has long captivated winter sports enthusiasts from across the globe. However, as the pristine white blankets recede and the vibrant Hokkaido landscape bursts into life, this iconic Japanese destination is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Niseko is rapidly emerging as a premier “green season” adventure hub, offering a compelling new dimension to its appeal for those seeking exhilarating outdoor experiences beyond the slopes. This evolution is not merely an expansion of activities but a strategic shift, positioning Niseko as a dynamic, year-round resort.

The rise of mountain biking in Niseko is at the forefront of this seasonal revolution. The sport has surged in popularity, turning the region into an exciting hub for riders of all levels. This growth is underpinned by significant infrastructure development and a collective vision to establish Niseko as Asia’s leading mountain biking destination. The region’s natural terrain, characterized by varied slopes and breathtaking scenery, provides an ideal canvas for diverse trail experiences. Current projections indicate that Niseko is well on its way to becoming Japan’s largest mountain bike park, with over 20 kilometers of trails already established and an ambitious target of 30 kilometers by phase three. This ambitious trajectory is further highlighted by plans to transform Niseko into Asia’s premier mountain biking destination.

For Australian riders, Niseko presents a particularly compelling proposition. Many Australians are already familiar with Niseko’s world-class winter offerings, making a summer mountain biking trip a natural and exciting progression. The relatively mild summer temperatures in Hokkaido offer a refreshing alternative to Australia’s often intense summer heat, creating optimal riding conditions. The expanding and diverse trail network caters to every skill level, from families seeking leisurely rides to seasoned downhillers craving adrenaline-pumping descents. This inclusive approach ensures that Niseko can provide a memorable experience for every type of rider.

The significant, ongoing investment and development in Niseko’s summer mountain biking infrastructure underscore a deliberate and successful strategy to diversify the region’s tourism economy. This move mitigates the traditional reliance on a single season, which can be vulnerable to weather fluctuations or global events. By successfully transforming into a year-round destination, Niseko aims to increase overall tourism revenue, stabilize employment for local businesses, and ensure more consistent utilization of its existing infrastructure, solidifying its position as a robust and attractive destination.

A key driver of this transformation is the Niseko Area Mountain Bike Association (NAMBA). This non-profit organization, formed by local community stakeholders and funded by donors, plays a pivotal role in the region’s mountain biking scene. NAMBA was founded in 2021 by local riders in response to Grand Hirafu’s initial decision not to reopen its mountain biking course. This grassroots initiative, coupled with the engagement of expert Swiss trail builders like Allegra Tourism, has directly catalyzed and continues to propel the revitalization and expansion of Niseko’s mountain biking offerings. This community-driven development fosters an authentic, sustainable, and rider-focused environment, which is a significant draw for discerning mountain bikers who value genuine trail culture and a long-term commitment to quality over purely commercial interests. The trails are being built by riders, for riders, which often translates to superior design and maintenance, ultimately enhancing the overall experience.

Niseko’s Ascent: Unpacking Japan’s Premier MTB Destination

Niseko’s journey to becoming a mountain biking powerhouse is guided by a clear and ambitious vision. The Niseko Area Mountain Bike Association (NAMBA), a non-profit entity, is spearheading this transformation, aiming to establish Niseko as a world-renowned mountain biking community. Their conceptual master plan, developed in collaboration with Swiss trail builder Allegra Tourism, envisions an expansive network of trails that will eventually connect Niseko’s five resorts, neighboring towns, and even feature a loop course around the iconic Mt. Yotei. This long-term project, anticipated to take 20 years to complete, seeks to broaden the appeal of mountain biking beyond extreme sports, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Currently, Niseko boasts over 20 kilometers of trails, with plans to expand to 30 kilometers by phase three, firmly setting its course to host Japan’s largest mountain bike park.

Twin Peaks Bike Park: The Free-Access Frontier

At the very core of Niseko’s burgeoning mountain biking landscape is the Twin Peaks Bike Park, proudly managed by NAMBA. This world-class facility distinguishes itself as Japan’s largest free-to-use, pedal-access trail center. Since its initial opening in Summer 2021, the park has seen continuous expansion, now featuring 14 trails spanning approximately 13 kilometers. Riders can explore a diverse array of experiences, including flowing trails, classic enduro descents, challenging technical sections, dedicated skill loops for practice, and uphill trails. The park provides detailed trail statistics, including specific names like Jinja Ninja (Easy), Easy Ryder (More Difficult), Shogun Syndicate (Very Difficult), and Taki Tech (Extremely Difficult), along with their respective lengths, climbs, and descents. Looking ahead, as of February 2025, future development plans for Twin Peaks include the addition of a new jump line, a green uphill and downhill trail, and several new trail connections, further enhancing its appeal for riders across all skill levels.

Grand Hirafu & Koropokkur: Lift-Accessed Thrills & Family Fun

Complementing the pedal-powered Twin Peaks, Niseko’s major resorts offer convenient lift-accessed mountain biking, enriching the overall riding experience.

Grand Hirafu has revitalized its MTB Bike Park, which is now accessible via gondola lifts during the green season. It features a “Flowtrail” designed with gentle and steep slopes, banks, and turns that mimic the fluid sensation of skiing or snowboarding, providing an unexpected layer of enjoyment for winter sports enthusiasts. The upper section of this Flowtrail operates from July 19th to August 31st, 2025, while the lower section runs from May 31st to September 29th, 2025. Grand Hirafu also provides a free “Skill-up area” tailored for beginner and intermediate riders, with mountain bike rentals readily available. Various gondola and lift passes are offered, including daily and season passes, to facilitate access. The Hirafu Summer Gondola operates from July 13th to September 23rd, providing access to thrilling courses and connections to the Twin Peaks trail, further integrating the region’s network.

Koropokkur Bike Park focuses on providing beginner-friendly experiences and family enjoyment. For 2025, Koropokkur is undergoing Phase 2 construction, which involves expanding the park with an intermediate flow trail, a new freeride trail, and enhanced dirt jump sections. Additionally, new features such as boardwalks, seesaws, and rock sections are being added. Koropokkur also offers local discounts and improved bike wash facilities for visitor convenience. The park operates from May 31st to October 13th, 2025, with specific weekday and weekend schedules. Further details indicate that Koropokkur (also known as Niseko Bike Park) features 9 trails (6 single tracks, 3 double tracks), with a total course length of 2.4 kilometers, alongside various skills areas including a pump track and dirt jumps.

The combination of both free pedal-accessed trails at Twin Peaks and paid lift-accessed resort trails at Grand Hirafu and Koropokkur provides a compelling advantage for Niseko. This dual-access model offers riders the flexibility to choose based on their preference, skill level, and budget – from the self-powered exploration and challenge of Twin Peaks to the convenience and gravity-fed thrills of resort downhill. This versatility caters to a broader spectrum of mountain biking enthusiasts, allowing Niseko to capture a larger market share within the global mountain biking community. It also establishes a more sustainable tourism model by diversifying revenue streams, making the overall mountain biking offering more resilient and appealing.

Niseko’s Claim to Fame: A Comparative Edge

While other regions in Japan offer mountain biking experiences, Niseko’s rapid development and comprehensive master plan uniquely position it to become the country’s largest and most diverse mountain biking destination. Twin Peaks is already recognized as Japan’s largest free-access trail center. While Minami-Alps Tatenuma MTB Park is also cited as Japan’s largest

free MTB park with a total length of approximately 3 kilometers, NAMBA’s Twin Peaks boasts 13 kilometers of trails, making Niseko’s claim to the “largest free” highly credible for a single park entity.

For comparison, Fujimi Panorama in Nagano offers three downhill courses (A, B, and C) with lengths of 4.2 km, 5.2 km, and 7.2 km respectively, totaling around 16.6 km of downhill trails. However, some reports indicate issues with trail condition and occasional closures. Hakuba Iwatake MTB Park features 10 trails with a total distance of 13 miles (approximately 20.9 km). Nozawa Onsen offers a 10-kilometer mountain bike tour down Mt. Kenashi.

Niseko’s unique blend of extensive free-access pedal trails at Twin Peaks, combined with lift-accessed resort trails at Grand Hirafu and Koropokkur, and an overarching vision to connect the entire region, sets it apart. The sheer scale of NAMBA’s 20-year master plan, aiming for trails connecting five resorts and a Mt. Yotei loop suggests a future network that will significantly exceed current Japanese offerings in terms of interconnectedness and overall length. This ambitious future vision, coupled with the rapid rate of expansion (e.g., 30 kilometers by Phase 3), clearly indicates Niseko’s trajectory and commitment to becoming the preeminent mountain biking destination in Japan. For Australian tourists, this means Niseko is not just a current world-class destination but one with immense, ongoing future growth. This promises new trails, expanded experiences, and a continually evolving scene for return visits, positioning Niseko as a forward-thinking, dynamic destination that appeals to riders who wish to be part of an emerging and ambitious mountain biking hub.

Planning Your Epic Niseko MTB Adventure from Australia

Embarking on a mountain biking adventure in Niseko from Australia requires thoughtful planning, from flights to accommodation and gear.

Getting There: Flights to Sapporo (CTS)

For Australian mountain bikers, the most convenient entry point to Niseko is New Chitose Airport (CTS) near Sapporo. While direct flights from major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane to Sapporo are not available, numerous connecting flights are offered, typically involving one or more stops.

• From Sydney (SYD) to Sapporo (CTS): Airlines such as ANA, JAL, Cathay Pacific, China Eastern, THAI, and Korean Air provide connecting flights. Round-trip fares can start from approximately $625 with ANA, with typical prices ranging from $910 to $2,050. The fastest connecting flights can take around 12 hours and 55 minutes. November is generally the most affordable month to fly from Sydney to Sapporo.
• From Melbourne (MEL) to Sapporo (CTS): Singapore Airlines and China Airlines offer connecting flights, with prices typically starting from AUD 1,358 to AUD 1,485.
• From Brisbane (BNE) to Sapporo (CTS): Cathay Pacific, Korean Air, China Airlines, EVA Air, and China Eastern offer connecting flights. The cheapest round-trip flights can be found from around $658 with Jetstar, with typical prices ranging from $610 to $810. The fastest connecting flights take approximately 14 hours and 40 minutes. October is typically the cheapest month to fly from Brisbane to Sapporo.
• From Perth (PER) to Sapporo (CTS): Scoot and AirAsia offer one-way flights starting from $293-$351, with round-trip options from $542. There are no direct flights available from Perth to Sapporo.24

Bringing Your Bike: Australian Airline Policies & Packing Tips

Bringing a personal mountain bike is a viable option for Australian travelers, though it necessitates careful packing and adherence to airline policies. Both Qantas and Jetstar, common choices for Australians flying to Japan, permit bicycles as checked baggage. However, these are subject to oversized item handling fees and weight restrictions, typically a maximum of 32 kg per item.

General Packing Requirements for Bicycles (consistent across Jetstar and Qantas):

• Tyres must be deflated.
• Pedals need to be detached.
• Handlebars should be fixed parallel to the frame.
• The front wheel must be detached and secured inside the bike bag or box alongside the rear wheel if the bike’s length exceeds 180 cm (Jetstar) or 140 cm (Qantas).

Bikes must be packed in a suitable bike bag or box, as airlines typically do not provide these. For e-bikes, batteries exceeding 160Wh may require dangerous goods freight forwarding. It is highly recommended to pre-purchase baggage allowance online to avoid higher airport fees.

Gear Up in Niseko: Rentals & Support

For those preferring to travel light or wishing to try out different bike models, Niseko offers several reputable rental shops and guiding services.

Niseko Bike Rental & Tour Options

These establishments also provide protective gear rentals, including helmets, gloves, and protectors, and offer lessons and guided tours catering to all skill levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for both novices and seasoned riders.

The consistent emphasis on “family-friendly” features and catering to “all skill levels”—from beginner to expert—is a deliberate and successful strategy to broaden the appeal of Niseko’s mountain biking scene beyond just hardcore enthusiasts. This is evident in the inclusion of skill-up areas, specific kids’ bikes, and lessons tailored for children and families across multiple bike parks and rental shops. This inclusive approach differentiates Niseko from bike parks that might cater exclusively to advanced riders, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for families. This can significantly increase the length of stay and overall tourism spend, as more family members can participate and enjoy the activities together.

Safety & Responsible Riding in Niseko

Ensuring a safe and enjoyable mountain biking experience in Niseko requires adherence to local rules and responsible riding practices. While general Niseko safety guidelines often focus on winter backcountry safety, general principles of outdoor recreation apply, and specific bike park rules are in place.

Emergency Contacts & Procedures

In the event of an injury or medical emergency, immediately call 119 for the Fire brigade and Ambulance.35 When contacting emergency services, be prepared to provide precise location information using GPS applications (such as Trailforks) and specific Twin Peaks trail names or location markers. If trained and safe to do so, administer first aid to the affected person. It is important to alert other trail users and remain with the injured person until professional help arrives.

For general inquiries related to Niseko Town, contact the Niseko Town Hall at

0136-44-2121.

For emergencies specifically within the Twin Peaks Bike Park or in case of withdrawal, call the event headquarters at +81-136-55-6081. Prior to riding, it is advisable to familiarize oneself with park exits and any available emergency facilities.

Key Niseko Emergency Contacts & Safety Guidelines

This consolidated table of critical emergency contacts and essential safety guidelines makes vital information immediately accessible and actionable in a crisis situation. For Australian tourists, knowing that clear safety protocols and readily available emergency services are in place provides significant reassurance and builds confidence in the destination, encouraging them to visit. By explicitly outlining these procedures, the report promotes responsible riding practices, aligning with the destination’s interest in sustainable tourism and ensuring positive visitor experiences while minimizing risks.

Mountain Bike Basecamp at Aspect Niseko

Positioned ideally in Hirafu Village, Aspect Niseko is your perfect base for the summer MTB outing from Australia. Our spacious, fully‑equipped apartments offer easy access to lift systems and trailheads, plus:

• Secure bike storage & wash-down bays
• Concierge services for bike shuttles, guides & rentals
• Close connections to local MTB operators

Easy to Plan from Australia

1. Book a summer stay at Aspect Niseko 
2. Fly into Sapporo (CTS), shuttle to Hirafu
3. Rent or bring your bike; peak rides run July–October
4. Hit the trails—whether flowing singletrack or technical downhill

Final Take – Ride Japan’s Next Big MTB Park

Niseko is no longer just a ski paradise—it’s fast becoming Japan’s biggest MTB park, ideal for adventurous Aussies seeking new horizons. With extensive trail development, lift access, family-friendly zones, and Aspect Niseko as your basecamp, your next summer ride just found its perfect destination.

Book your summer stay now and be part of Niseko’s MTB revolution!

Nestled beneath the iconic landscape of Mount Yotei, Niseko stands to be an unrivaled Japan’s Premier ski destination for discerning travellers. It is a place where world-class powdery snow meets convenience and luxury. With an average of more than 14 m of snow during winter, the resort provides an indulgent playground for the travellers.

Imagine impeccable service, pristine slopes, and sumptuous comfort in this amazing place. If you wish to stay in the best accommodation in Niseko, Aspect Niseko can be the right gateway. At the heart of the experience lies Aspect Niseko, which provides the perfect luxury ski holiday in Niseko. Located dramatically above the lower Hirafu Village, this award-winning Alpine sanctuary offers ski-in, ski-out convenience, panoramic views, and customised premium hospitality to make every moment exquisitely curated for adventure.

Day-by-Day Itinerary: A 7-Day Luxury Ski Experience

Day 1: Arrival in Hokkaido – Welcome to Aspect Niseko

You can begin your luxury ski holiday in Niseko with a private transfer from New Chitose Airport. Upon arrival at Aspect Chitose, you will be welcomed into a tranquil alpine century in the Heart of Hirafu. Check into your elegantly appointed premium suite room in Niseko that features floor-to-ceiling windows with sweeping views of Mount Yotei.

The warmth of timber in its interiors and curated furnishing set the tone for a luxurious escape. Unwind after your journey by enjoying a gourmet dinner reservation at one of the refined restaurants in Hirafu to get introduced to the sophisticated culinary scene.

Day 2: First Tracks – Ski-In Ski-Out Convenience

Wake up to powder-dusted peaks, and indulge in an in-room breakfast provided by Aspect Niseko. Your ski gear fittings are arranged by the concierge service at Aspect with direct delivery to your door. With your United pass in hand, you can step out for an immediate ski-in ski-out in Niseko in the Grand Hirafu slopes.

Spend a day exploring the legendary terrain, famous for dry and soft powdery snow. Return in the afternoon to your private residence and warm up by the fireplace. As the snow falls outside, you can opt for in-room dining and sip on the vintage wine while enjoying the panoramic mountain view.

Day 3: Explore Other Resorts – Niseko United Pass

With the Niseko United pass, you can set out to discover other resorts like Annupuri and Hanazono. The complimentary chauffeur service by Aspect ensures effortless transfer. Every resort offers distinct options, perfect for those seeking comprehensive skiing in Japan.

After an exhilarating day, you can unwind with cocktails at the luxury Lounge or a wine bar in Hirafu. Return to the quiet sophistication of Aspect Niseko, where the concierge can arrange a late-night or private massage upon request.

Day 4: Rest and Rejuvenate

On day four, you can trade the slopes for serenity. Start with a tranquil spa experience and a nearby mineral-rich bath, or a private therapist arranged in the room. An optional snowshoeing excursion can provide a peaceful way to connect with a winter Wonderland.

For lunch, you can head to the mountain top restaurant while enjoying panoramic vistas. Later, you can relax in your private room and enjoy the sunset from the balcony. The day can be a perfect balance of the thrill of skiing and the peaceful indulgence of luxury.

Day 5: Private Ski Lesson + Kutchan Town Visit

Fine-tune your skills with a private ski instructor, customised for any level and arranged by the concierge. Whether you’re just beginning or craving confidence, the one-on-one approach ensures a superior experience on the slopes. In the afternoon, you can enjoy a cultural outing at Kutchan, a charming local town in Niseko.

Sample fresh produce from Hokkaido, indulge in a testing session, and visit artisan shops. Return to Hirafu at a boutique eatery that fuses Japanese with contemporary flair, which makes it the best accommodation in Niseko.

Day 6: Snow Adventure Beyond Skiing

Niseko is not just about skiing, but it is also about a lot more. You can try snowmobiling through forest trails or snow tubing for families to enjoy an exhilarating ride. These winter activities in Niseko become an ideal choice for people looking forward to experiencing the outdoors in a new way.

In the evening, you can dine out at the most celebrated restaurant, such as the Michelin-starred Kakimura.

Day 7: Departure

On the final day, you can wake up to the serenity of snow-covered rooftops and enjoy a government breakfast while overlooking Mount Yotei. After a relaxing morning, enjoy seamless checkout service with assistance.

A private transfer return to the airport will ultimately make a graceful close to the Niseko itinerary for 7 days. You will leave with memories and timeless luxury provided at this luxury resort in Japan.

Why Choose Aspect Niseko for a Luxury Ski Holiday?

Aspect Niseko provides an unrivaled view of Mount Yotei as it is set on a coveted Millionaire’s Row. It provides access to the world-class slopes at Grand Hirafu. Every apartment features spacious layouts, floor-to-ceiling windows, and designer furnishings, which are perfect for a refined alpine escape. This luxury resort in Japan includes personalised services, ski equipment delivery, and a private shuttle to ensure a seamless experience from arrival to skiing. With the central location and exquisite comfort, Aspect redefines the best accommodation in Niseko.

Packing Tips for a Luxury Ski Trip

Before you visit Niseko, here are some packing tips that you have to keep in mind.

• Bring performance-driven and high-end skiwear for a seamless day on the slopes of ski in Japan.
• Be sure to pack elegant après-ski outfits for fine dining at your Hirafu accommodation.
• Include insulated snow boots for exploring in comfort.
• Layer designer sweaters, thermals, and outerwear properly.
• Do not forget to pack goggles, gloves, and a beanie.
• Take advantage of in-suite laundry and drying amenities at your premium suite room in Niseko, a hallmark of Niseko ski accommodation excellence.

Final tips for booking

To secure the best accommodation in Niseko, it is always recommended to book early, especially when you are planning to visit in the peak winter months when premium suites are in high demand. Make sure that you consider travel insurance with winter sports coverage for your peace of mind. For the ultimate luxury ski holiday in Niseko, you can explore our accommodation and reach out to us via the contact page to personalise your stay at this exclusive luxury resort in Japan.