2023 is just around the corner. Grand Hirafu is bursting with energy making January the perfect time to plan your next getaway to Niseko.
Here are five reasons why a visit to Niseko to stay with us this January should be one of your New Year's Resolutions:
#1 The snow just keeps falling!
A paradise for skiers and snowboarders: January and February are peak-powder months in Niseko.
The snow is getting more powdery, soft and plentiful by the day. January (along with February) are traditionally peak-powder months in Niseko, and the best time to be out there shredding up the slopes.
We've had over 3 meters of snowfall this season so far, and that number will only keep rising as we enter the new year.
#2 Night skiing has returned and is open every night
All four resorts in Niseko United are offering night riding this year, from 4:30PM - 7:00PM each night.
Going night skiing or snowboarding is the best way to view the beautiful twinkling lights of Hirafu village from above. At night, the slopes are a lot quieter, and even though the trail is the same as you've been riding in the daytime, it feels like a brand-new experience under the bright lights.
Get access to all of the night terrain from Grand Hirafu Ace Quad Lift #2 (Center 4) operating from 4:30PM - 7:00PM every night.
#3 Grand Hirafu is buzzing with energy and excitement
Plenty of restaurants, bars and shops to explore in Upper and Lower Hirafu, both day and night!
With the return of international guests for the first time in three years, exploring Hirafu is a must. Upper and Lower Hirafu are packed with a range of eateries, bars and shops, to suit any taste or budget.
The village is coming alive in the lead-up to Christmas and New Year, and this positive energy will be sure to continue into January.
Make sure to pick up an Experience Niseko 2022/23 Eats Guide to read up on the hottest eateries around town, and plan your Niseko food tour in advance. You can also view the 2022/23 Resort Map here, to begin to mark out your must-see spots all over Hirafu.
#4 Take a day trip to one of Hokkaido's World-Famous Snow Festivals
During the evening, the ice sculptures light up in a rainbow of colours, which is a feast for the eyes.
Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is the first of Hokkaido's snow festivals this year from January 28 – February 23, 2023. There's something for everyone with ice sculptures, tasty food or maybe even a dip in one of the area's famous Onsen.
If you can extend your trip a bit longer, Sapporo Snow Festival kicks off the first weekend of February. Catch this worldwide famous event making a comeback to its full scale for the first time in 3 years.
#5 Chinese New Year Celebrations for the Year of the Rabbit
Be sure to keep an eye out for our Chinese New Year decorations in and around our Niseko Central accommodation.
2023 marks the start of the Year of the Rabbit in the Chinese Zodiac. The rabbit is the luckiest out of all the twelve animals, symbolising mercy, elegance, and beauty in Chinese culture.
Niseko is one of the most popular destinations in Japan to celebrate the Lunar New Year. Expect to see busy streets, live performances and many celebrations all over the resort.
Interested in coming to stay at Niseko Central this January?
We'd love to host you, and we still have a variety of room / house options available for January. If you'd like to make a booking to come and stay with us, please contact our reservations team or click the button below.
- Phone: 0136-23-3503
- Email: [email protected]
Posted on 23 December, 2022 by in Winter.
