April in Niseko offers the best of both worlds
April is the perfect time for a Niseko holiday. Enjoy relishing in the last of the season's snow while enjoying the best of both winter and spring activities.
Despite the rising temperatures, the mountain still boasts a good cover of snow, and any rain at the base is a blessing in disguise as it translates to snow up the mountain. So, what can you look forward to this month in Niseko?
Read on to discover what Niseko has to offer this April.
Catch the last of the spring skiing - one month of the season to go!
Experience the ultimate spring skiing and snowboarding adventure in Niseko, where the stunning Bluebird spring days offer the best views and the slopes are practically all yours. Yes, the beloved JaPOW may have retired for yet another season, but with a full season's worth of snow, the resort boasts an impressive base that is groomed daily. Get up early to ride the fresh tracks and soak in the views.
If you’re here earlier in April, be sure to catch the final week of skiing and snowboarding at Hanazono and Niseko Village - both close Sunday 9 April 2023 for this season.
Those visiting later in April, Grand Hirafu and Annupuri will keep the lifts spinning until Sunday 7 May. Be sure to check out the Grand Hirafu Spring Lift Timetable here, to plan your day out on the slopes.
Sample the change of the season on a plate
Serving this refreshing spring dish of Burrata Cheese with Marinated Beetroot and Strawberries, An Dining is open until 11 April.
Try delicious spring local produce - like Marsh Marigold, Alpine Leek and White Asparagus! Many of these plants can only be found in Hokkaido and are staples on spring menus around Niseko, they all taste amazing both raw and cooked.
Strawberries are in season across Japan from late March until early May and are guaranteed to be much sweeter and juicer than those typically found in Europe and America. Grab a dish around town (like the above pictured from An Dining) to try for yourself!
Win, win and win!
April is the ultimate time to visit Niseko if you're looking for a budget-friendly, crowd-free, and beautiful weather vacation. With the powder season coming to an end, the influx of powder skiers and boarders has also subsided, leaving the groomed slopes all to yourself. Imagine shredding the slopes with breathtaking views and no one to compete with - Now that's what we call a win!
As the icing on the cake, there are many accommodation specials for April such as Niseko Central's Stay & Save, where the longer you stay the more you save with FREE nights. You will also save on lift passes, with Niseko United having switched to low season pricing at the end of March.
Hooray for Spring Activities
NAC Spring Rafting: Spring provides a wonderful opportunity to get your heart rate up by experiencing white water rafting on the Shiribetsu River. Available from 8 April, 2023, get ready for a thrilling river adventure like no other! More information here.
Snowshoeing: Early April is a great time to strap on some snowshoes and join a snowshoe tour. Hike through the last of the winter snow in the middle of the forest with majestic trees, and you might even a chance to spot a local Hokkiado Red Fox or Japanese Raccoon Dog as they slowly start to come out of hibernation.
NAC Adventure Park: Enjoy a new kind of outdoor fun this spring as you climb, swing, balance and trek along the tree-tops at the NAC Adventure Park. The largest of its kind in Japan, the park measures 9,265 square metres, has 101 elements and is an exciting outdoor experience for all ages. More information here.
Grand Hirafu Spring Park: Face your fears and test your skills on the newly-opened Grand Hirafu park, with a variety of jumps that can be enjoyed by both beginners and advanced skiers. More information here.
Sneak a peak of the world-famous cherry blossom blooms
With the arrival of spring, Niseko's natural beauty is on full display. The cherry blossoms set to bloom in Hokkaido during the final week of April, and with this the mountains come alive with vibrant colors. This is a sight not to be missed!
There are several spots around Hokkaido to see the best of the cherry blossoms in the north. If you are planning a Niseko holiday towards the end of April, be sure to keep an eye on this handy Cherry Blossom Forecast for 2023.
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Whether you're eager to hit the slopes for the last of the skiing season or looking to explore the spring activities, Niseko has something for everyone in April. With its breathtaking scenery, longer days, affordable prices, and fewer crowds, it's no surprise that Niseko is becoming a more popular destination for tourists beyond the peak powder season.
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Interested to learn more about the resort snow conditions in April? Read our tips on spring skiing.
