A bucket list destination for our Winter Lifestyle Series, Japan has long been on our radar for its legendary powder, vibrant culture, and epic mountain adventures. After years of hearing about Niseko’s deep snow and incredible terrain, we finally made the journey—and it exceeded every expectation. From waist-deep powder runs to unforgettable meals and neon-lit nights in Tokyo, this was the ultimate ski trip we’ll be chasing for years to come.
Getting There: The Journey to Powder Paradise
The journey from the East Coast to Japan may be long, but with the right planning, it becomes part of the adventure. If you can swing it, upgrading to United Polaris (or similar) for the flight to Tokyo is a game-changer. The lie-flat seats, elevated dining, and premium service make the 14-hour journey much more comfortable, setting the tone for an unforgettable trip.
We flew Polaris from Newark, and the experience was seamless from start to finish. The Polaris Lounge at EWR was a relaxing escape before boarding, offering excellent food, drinks, and quiet spaces to unwind. Onboard, the cozy lay-flat bed, memory foam pillow, and pajamas made it easy to rest, while the in-flight meals were among the best we’ve ever had in the sky. A private entertainment center and ample storage space made the long-haul flight effortless—and dare we say, enjoyable.
After arriving in Tokyo, a short 1.5-hour domestic flight to Sapporo brings you closer to the powder. From there, arranging a shuttle or hopping on a bus is the easiest way to get to Niseko, where the real magic begins.
Where to Stay: Slopeside Comfort at Gondola Chalets
Staying slopeside in Niseko is key, and the Gondola Chalets are perfectly positioned within walking distance of the lifts. Spacious and modern, the accommodations offer an ideal home base, complete with stunning views of the mountain. Waking up and stepping outside to see the snow-covered peak in the distance is an experience in itself.
After long days on the mountain, it’s easy to return to the comfort of these well-designed chalets, where you can kick back, warm up, and relive the day’s best runs. The convenience of being so close to the lifts means more time on the slopes and less time commuting.
And when you’re ready to explore the town, it’s just a short 10-minute walk to Hirafu’s restaurants, bars, and shops. Plus, having a Lawson convenience store nearby makes grabbing snacks, drinks, or breakfast on the go super easy. It’s the perfect balance of slopeside serenity and village convenience.
Skiing in Niseko: The Perfect Powder Playground
Niseko lives up to its reputation as one of the best ski destinations in the world. Known for its deep, dry snowfall, the resort delivered exactly what we came for—three days of fresh snow, with a bluebird day that offered breathtaking views of Mount Yotei. It was the perfect mix of conditions, allowing for incredible powder runs and stunning scenery.
Renting gear from Rhythm made the process easy, and within minutes, we were carving through some of the lightest snow imaginable. Niseko’s terrain is a mix of open bowls, tree runs, and perfectly spaced glades. Taking the summit hike on a clear day is an absolute must—standing at the top, looking out over an untouched snowfield with Mount Yotei and the ocean in the background, is nothing short of surreal.
The lift system in Niseko is impressive, with plenty of covered bubble lifts to keep skiers warm on stormy days. The King Hooded Quad was our go-to for avoiding crowds while scoring fresh lines in the trees, and there was even a six-person lift with heated seats and a gondola equipped with its own WiFi. The efficiency and comfort of the lift system made the experience all the more enjoyable.
Après & Dining: The Best Eats in Niseko
Skiing in Japan isn’t just about the snow—the food is just as big of a highlight. After a full day on the mountain, nothing beats a hot bowl of ramen at Niseko Hanazono Lodge, followed by a scoop of rich, creamy Hokkaido milk ice cream.
For a more intimate dining experience, Ebisutei serves up incredible seafood and grilled skewers in a cozy setting. The Niseko-Yo food village offers a variety of options, perfect for sampling different dishes and warming up with a cup of hot sake.
For those looking for an elevated dining experience, Tempura Araki Niseko and Niseko So-an are both worth booking in advance. The freshness of the ingredients and the precision of each dish make every meal an experience in itself.
Exploring Tokyo: A Contrast of Tradition and Modernity
After days of skiing, Tokyo’s fast-paced energy provided the perfect contrast. Staying at the Shibuya Stream Hotel put us right in the heart of the action. Shibuya’s famous crossing was just outside the door, and watching the waves of people moving in perfect synchronization was mesmerizing.
Navigating Tokyo’s metro system was effortless thanks to the Suica pass, which we added to our phones. The system was fast, clean, and incredibly efficient, making it easy to explore the city’s different districts.
A visit to Senso-ji Temple was a step back in time, offering a glimpse into Tokyo’s historic past. The surrounding streets were lined with charming souvenir shops and hidden culinary gems, including a highly-rated onigiri shop that didn’t disappoint. Harajuku and Meiji Shrine provided another mix of the traditional and the modern, with peaceful forested paths leading directly into bustling streets filled with quirky shops and vibrant fashion.
For food lovers, the Tsukiji Outer Market was a must-visit, offering some of the freshest seafood imaginable. Breaking into small groups, we sampled everything from perfectly sliced sashimi to warm, freshly grilled scallops. Later in the evening, we wandered into the tiny alleyways of Shinjuku Golden Gai, where tucked-away bars offered a one-of-a-kind nightlife experience.
One of the culinary highlights of our Tokyo stay was discovering SG Low in Shibuya. Tucked behind an unmarked door on the second floor of an old office building, this hidden gem is one of the city’s best izakayas. The vibe is effortlessly cool, and the menu offers a creative take on traditional Japanese small plates, paired perfectly with craft cocktails. It’s the kind of spot where locals go to unwind—and a must-visit for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path dining experience.
Final Thoughts: Powder, Culture, and Unforgettable Moments
From bottomless powder runs in Niseko to the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, Japan delivered an adventure unlike any other. The mix of deep snow, world-class food, and rich cultural experiences made this trip truly special. Whether it’s skiing through some of the world’s best powder, soaking in an onsen after a long day, or discovering hidden gems in Tokyo, Japan offers something unforgettable at every turn.
For anyone considering a ski trip to Japan, start planning now—because once you experience it, you’ll already be thinking about your next visit.