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April is one of the more interesting months to be in Niseko as this gives everyone a short window to experience three seasons in one month. With the blessing of spring weather, winter and summer activities can be enjoyed simultaneously during this month.
In and Around Niseko
Spring Skiing
Until 6 May
Niseko United’s ski resorts will end their winter operations on the following dates:
- Grand Hirafu: 6 May
- Niseko Village: 5 April
- Hanazono: 12 April
- Annupuri: 6 May
Two of the four ski resorts in Niseko United will be closed by mid-April. If you’re coming to Niseko in early April, this will be a great time to get in some last-minute spring runs for the season. If you’re coming after 12 April, don’t fret as Grand Hirafu and Annupuri will still be operating until the end of Golden Week (6 May).
Setsu Niseko’s shuttle service will still be operational as well until 15 April.
Photo Credit: Hokkaido Love
40th Jozankei Onsen Keiryu Koinobori
10 April ~
A popular hot spring town about an hour’s drive away from Niseko, Jozankei will be holding their annual Keiryu Koinobori (mountain stream carp streamers) event to welcome the arrival of spring.
The koinobori, or carp streamers, are usually hung up during Children’s Day on 5 May. However in Jozankei, this event lasts for about a month starting from 10 April to 10 May this year. Witness this fascinating sight of around 400 carp streamers “swimming” in the sky all over the town of Jozankei while enjoying the hot spring town’s facilities.
Photo Credit: Toyako Onsen Tourist Association
45th Toyako Long Run Fireworks Festival
28 April ~
Almost an hour away by car from Niseko is Lake Toya, famous for its stunning scenery and numerous spa resorts. It is also home to the 187-day fireworks display, the Toyako Long Run Fireworks Festival. In its 45th year this year, the festival will run from 28 April to 31 October 2026 where visitors can enjoy a 20-minute fireworks display just by the lakeside.
Summer Activities Open
Late April
While skiing is still possible during this time, several summer activities usually start operating from late April as well. One of the more popular activities is the white water rafting in spring where the waters are rougher and higher due to the melting snow. By late April, Niseko Village’s golf course and the Hanazono Gondola will also reopen for the summer season.
Cherry Blossoms Season
Late April
The cherry blossom season in Hokkaido starts in late April, much later compared to most areas in Japan. The Niseko area and its neighbouring towns have plenty of cherry blossom viewing spots that you can visit and even parks where you can have picnics to just relax and leisurely enjoy the scenery.
Photo Credit: Hokkaido Travel Navi
Day Trips Around Niseko
From April
You can also consider visiting other spots outside Niseko. With better driving conditions and good weather brought by the spring season, driving around Niseko and in Hokkaido is a great way to explore this April. A day trip to neighbouring towns like Lake Toya and Otaru during this time is a great springtime activity as well.
Ongoing Events
Photo Credit: Hokkaido Travel Navi
Lake Toya Illumination
Until 27 April 2026
An hour’s drive away from Niseko, Lake Toya’s stunning Illumination Tunnel can be visited until April.
While Lake Toya’s Illumination Street is held all year round, the Illumination Tunnel only happens during the winter months, right at the centre of this famous hot spring town. 70 metres long with approximately 400,000 light bulbs, visitors can enjoy strolling through the tunnel, admiring the breathtaking festive glow it provides.
If you’re looking to visit Niseko this April, check out our Spring Flexible Rate with Breakfast and get a discount on Rhythm Rides’ Private Lessons and Guiding packages.
