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While this time of the year is Niseko’s quieter months with hotels and stores closing for their annual Winter preparations, a certain buzz in the air that can be felt as people start gearing up for the next 3 to 4 months of powder snow. Niseko already saw its first snowfall a few weeks ago and even Sapporo had theirs too – 22 days earlier than last year. With these early signs that winter is coming, there is anticipation about what this year’s winter has in store for us – so much so that there is chatter that this may be Niseko’s best winter yet.
Longer, Colder Powder Season for Niseko
Colder temperatures and above average snowfall is predicted to come to Niseko this winter.
After last year’s warmer than average winter, weather officials like the Japan Meteorological Association (JMA) came bearing good news for ski resorts like Niseko, reporting a 60% chance of La Niña developing this winter.
La Niña winters often result in almost daily, higher than normal snowfall. To compare, despite last year being relatively warmer winter due to El Niño, Niseko still received 12 metres of cumulative snowfall. While the last La Niña winter (2020-21) caused Niseko to receive up to 15 metres of snowfall.
JMA has also predicted a 40% chance of below average temperatures which means Niseko can enjoy an extended period of snow retention this winter due to prolonged lower temperatures.
The New Gondola at Hirafu
Photo Credit: Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu
Another exciting event happening this season in Niseko is the launch of Grand Tokyu Hirafu’s newest Gondola ride, the Ace Gondola. After the beloved Center Four chairlift that has been operating since the 1980s retired last winter, a brand new 10 person gondola will be taking its place this season.
Set to open on 30 November, the Ace Gondola is a big upgrade from its predecessor featuring heated seats, Wi-Fi, and a speed increase of 1.5 times more than the old 4-person chairlift. This upgrade is expected to significantly reduce the congestion at the slopes brought by the ski crowds in Niseko, especially during the peak season, estimated to transport 2,800 people per hour.
The gondola will have 54 cabins in total – two of them having glass-bottom designs for a breathtaking 360-degree view as you climb up the Hirafu slopes.
Winter in Niseko has always been the favorite of many. Along with some of the greatest powder snow and exciting winter events, this season is turning out to be one for the books as new developments and superb weather conditions are on the way.
Special Offers Available
Don’t miss out on what might be Niseko’s best season yet. If you have not yet booked your accommodation this winter, now is the time to reserve a stay in our remaining available rooms for this winter.
