Winter enthusiasts, rejoice! Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido is experiencing one of its most remarkable starts to the ski season in decades, with Niseko leading the charge by breaking a 68-year snowfall record this December. While Mount Fuji and other parts of Honshu have seen delayed snowfalls, Hokkaido’s powder paradise is delivering the goods, reminding us why it’s the ultimate destination for Japow—Japan’s legendary powder snow.
Niseko: A Record-Breaking December
Niseko, often hailed as the crown jewel of Japanese skiing, has outdone itself this season. According to snowfall records from nearby Kutchan Town, the area reached a snow depth of 142 cm on December 17, surpassing the previous early-season record of 140 cm set in 1956. Cumulative snowfall in Niseko has already hit an astonishing 281 cm as of mid-December, compared to just 79.5 cm at the same time last year.
The snow keeps coming, with forecasts predicting even more powder in the days ahead. This is fantastic news for skiers and snowboarders flocking to Niseko’s four interconnected resorts—Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village, and Annupuri—collectively known as Niseko United. With its world-class terrain, vibrant après-ski scene, and now record-breaking snow, Niseko is the place to be this winter.
Download free ebook about top Christmas and NYE inspirations. Click here now!
What Makes Japow So Special?
Japow, short for Japanese powder, is renowned worldwide for its light, dry, and fluffy texture. This unique snow quality is a result of cold Siberian winds picking up moisture over the Sea of Japan before dumping it on Hokkaido’s mountains. The result? Consistently deep powder that’s perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Niseko, in particular, benefits from its location and elevation, receiving an average of 15 meters of snow annually—though this season might exceed even that lofty benchmark.
For powder hounds, Japow is a dream come true. The snow’s low moisture content makes it incredibly easy to float through, offering a surreal, weightless experience that’s hard to find anywhere else in the world.
Ski Pass Prices in Niseko (2024)
Planning a trip to Niseko? Here’s a breakdown of ski pass prices for the Niseko United area, converted into euros for your convenience:
- 1-Day Pass: ¥8,400 (approx. €53)
- 2-Day Pass: ¥15,200 (approx. €96)
- 3-Day Pass: ¥22,200 (approx. €140)
- 7-Day Pass: ¥48,000 (approx. €303)
For those planning an extended stay, Niseko also offers season passes, which are a great value if you’re planning to spend weeks exploring its legendary powder.
Looking for great skipass deals? Enter Skipasseo platform and join our community!
Other Hokkaido Resorts: Rusutsu and Furano
While Niseko is stealing the spotlight, other Hokkaido resorts are also enjoying a stellar start to the season. Rusutsu, just 20 km east of Niseko, has already recorded over 343 cm of cumulative snowfall, with consistent daily snowfalls of 10–20 cm. Furano, located further inland, has seen a steadier but still impressive 158 cm of snowfall so far, with more snow in the forecast.
Both resorts offer a quieter alternative to Niseko, with excellent terrain and fewer crowds. Rusutsu, in particular, is known for its tree skiing and family-friendly atmosphere, while Furano boasts stunning views of the Daisetsuzan mountain range.
Why You Should Visit Hokkaido This Winter
If you’ve been dreaming of skiing in Japan, this is the season to make it happen. With record-breaking snowfalls, perfect powder conditions, and a variety of resorts to choose from, Hokkaido is a winter wonderland like no other. Whether you’re carving through Niseko’s legendary powder, exploring Rusutsu’s tree runs, or soaking in an onsen after a day on the slopes, Hokkaido offers an unforgettable experience for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
So pack your gear, book your tickets, and get ready to experience the magic of Japow. This season is shaping up to be one for the history books, and you won’t want to miss it!
