Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu is a prestigious ski resort located in the town of Kutchan, built into the mountainside of Niseko Annupuri from its base to 1,308-meter summit. 325 hectares of remarkable powdered snow attracts winter athletes from around the world and beautiful surroundings allowed for the development of equally popular summer activities.
In winter, 16 chairlifts provide access to 30 ski runs varying from beginner to advanced levels as well as rest stops along the mountain including the King Bell Hut and the Rest House Ace Hill. A snow park and ski school are available for children and families. In summer, the resort boasts an amazing gondola ride, mountain bike course, BBQ garden, hot springs, nature walks, and a unique beetle exhibition.
Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu is 1.5 hours by car from Sapporo and 2 hours from the closest New Chitose Airport. A train runs from the airport to the Kutchan station from where a bus or taxi can be taken 15 minutes to the resort. The Hokkaido Central Bus and Donan Bus Co. offer buses directly from the airport to the resort throughout winter ski season.
Originally three different resorts until 2004, the area is now under joint ownership between an Australian company called Japan Harmony Resort and Tokyo Real Estate, functioning together under the name Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu. The resort remains a year-round highlight of Hokkaido’s Niseko Annupuri mountainside.