Niseko United

Niseko United is the lift-linked ski area on the south face of Mount Niseko Annupuri in Hokkaido, marketed as a single product across four base areas: Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village (Higashiyama), and Annupuri. 60 km of pistes run from a base of 190 m to 1,308 m at the summit, and the area holds one of the world's most reliable powder records: Hirafu averages over 14 metres of dry champagne snow per season from the Sea of Japan effect. Tree skiing is permitted and the 'in-bounds backcountry' off the upper boundary is a defining feature.

Key Stats

Vertical Drop

1,000m (3,281ft)

The height difference between the top and bottom of the mountain

Summit Elevation

1,308m (4,291ft)

How high the highest lift or peak reaches

Base Elevation

190m (623ft)

Height of the main base village — higher means cooler, drier snow

Annual Snowfall

1,524cm (600in)

Average annual natural snowfall — higher is better for powder days

Trails

Total number of marked runs on the trail map

Lifts

Total number of lifts including chairlifts, gondolas, and t-bars

Skiable Area

490ha (1,211ac)

Total groomed and patrolled skiable terrain

Terrain Breakdown

The percentage of marked trails in each difficulty level. A higher beginner percentage means more terrain suitable for novices and families; a higher advanced percentage means more challenge for experts.

Beginner

30%

Intermediate

40%

Advanced

30%