Niseko United Trail Map

Niseko United comprises four interlinked resorts, each with its own style of terrain. Grand Hirafu is the largest and most popular, offering long, groomed runs, moderate pitch and expansive access to higher elevations. Hanazono is known for its freestyle zones and tree-lined descents, while Niseko Village and Annupuri cater more to advanced and expert skiers with tighter lines and natural snow zones. In total, the resort boasts 50.8 km of skiable terrain, with the longest run extending 5.6 km top-to-bottom.

Beginners and families gravitate toward lower Hirafu and Hanazono sectors, where wide pistes and gentle gradients make for safe, forgiving skiing. Surface lifts and nearby ski schools ensure accessibility. Tubing lanes and guided snow play areas add variety to the day, while proximity to cafés and indoor play spaces enhances comfort for children.

Intermediate skiers are spoilt for choice, particularly in Niseko Village and upper Hanazono. Red-rated pistes such as "Crystal Garden" and "Park Lane" offer broad carving zones with dependable grooming and stunning alpine views. The high-speed six-seater lifts ensure minimal waiting and smooth transitions between areas.

Advanced skiers favour Annupuri’s steeper upper zones and off-piste tree skiing routes. Signature runs include "Dynamic Course" and "Kokutai", which provide a mix of steep chutes, natural bumps and technical descents. Snowboarders often prefer Hanazono’s sidecountry and freeride park setups, which include rail lines, kickers and rotation features.

Expert-level access is available through Niseko’s famed gate system, where controlled backcountry entries lead to powder bowls and ridgeline descents. Zones such as Gate 5 near Annupuri and Gate 3 at Hirafu summit offer untracked snow with panoramic terrain. Avalanche gear and experience are essential, and entry depends on daily patrol decisions.

Terrain diversity is one of the resort's strengths — with regular snowfall and wind-affected layers creating fresh powder zones across faces and treelines. Scenic variety, from volcanic cones to birch forests, makes exploration rewarding beyond the marked runs. Night skiing across Hirafu adds even more dimension, with floodlights illuminating key pistes until late evening.