Thinking about visiting Hokkaido? Mt. Yotei and Niseko should definitely be on your list! Whether you're chasing powder snow in winter or looking for stunning summer hikes, this area has it all. I’ve been there a few times, and let me tell you—there’s something magical about seeing Mt. Yotei up close. Let’s dive into what makes this spot so special and how to make the most of your trip.

📍Kawanishi, Kyogoku, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0131, Japan

Mt. Yotei is often called “Ezo Fuji” because it looks a lot like Mt. Fuji, but with a Hokkaido twist. It’s right next to Niseko, which makes it super easy to explore both spots in one trip.

Why Visit Mt. Yotei & Niseko?

Mt. Yotei

Mt. Yotei is a massive dormant volcano, and it’s one of those places that will take your breath away. It’s a big hit with hikers in summer and a cool backdrop for your skiing adventures in winter.

Niseko

If you love skiing, you’ve probably already heard of Niseko. It’s famous for having some of the best powder snow in the world! But even if you’re not into skiing, Niseko is packed with cozy cafes, hot springs, and some of the best food in Hokkaido. It’s a great place to kick back and relax after a day of exploring.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

The weather here can change a lot depending on the season, so it’s good to know what to expect:

Winter (December to March)

• Temps: -8°C to -2°C (17°F to 28°F)
• Snow: Tons of powdery snow—perfect for skiing and snowboarding
• What to Do: Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and soaking in hot springs

Spring (April to June)

• Temps: 3°C to 15°C (37°F to 59°F)
• What to Do: Hiking, cherry blossom spotting, and visiting local farms

Summer (July to September)

• Temps: 17°C to 25°C (63°F to 77°F)
• What to Do: Hiking, cycling, river rafting, and checking out flower fields

Autumn (October to November)

• Temps: 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F)
• What to Do: Enjoying the fall colors, visiting onsens, and trying seasonal food

If you’re into skiing, winter is your best bet. But if you love hiking and outdoor activities, summer and autumn are awesome too.

Getting to Mt. Yotei & Niseko

By Car 

Driving is hands-down the best way to explore this area. The drive from Sapporo takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, and the views along the way are stunning. Having a car means you can stop at cool spots whenever you want and explore at your own pace.It's a 2.5-hour drive from Private Villa BIG EAST.

Most ski resorts, trailheads, and attractions have parking, so it’s super convenient. Just be careful in winter—roads can get pretty snowy, so make sure your rental car has snow tires.

Other Ways to Get There

If driving isn’t your thing, you’ve got some other options:

1. By Train and Bus:

   • Take the JR Limited Express from Sapporo to Kutchan Station.
   • From Kutchan, hop on a local bus or grab a taxi.

2. By Shuttle:

   • A lot of hotels and resorts in Niseko offer shuttle services from New Chitose Airport or Sapporo.

Top Things to Do in Mt. Yotei & Niseko

1. Hit the Slopes:

   • Niseko United is the main ski area, with four interconnected resorts: Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village, Annupuri, and Hanazono. Each has a different vibe, so it’s worth checking out more than one.

2. Hike Mt. Yotei:

   • If you’re up for a challenge, the hike to the top of Mt. Yotei takes about 8 to 10 hours round-trip. The views? Totally worth it!

3. Soak in a Hot Spring:

   • After a day of adventure, there’s nothing better than relaxing in a hot spring. There are plenty of onsens in the area, many with views of Mt. Yotei.

4. Visit Local Farms:

   • The Niseko area is known for its fresh produce and dairy products. Stop by a local farm to try fresh cheeses, ice cream, and other goodies.

5. Go Rafting:

   • In summer, the Shiribetsu River is perfect for rafting. It’s a fun way to see the area from a different perspective.

Tips for Visiting Mt. Yotei & Niseko

1. Check the Weather: The weather can change fast in Hokkaido, especially in the mountains. Always check the forecast before heading out.

2. Dress for the Season: In winter, make sure you’ve got proper snow gear. In summer, comfy hiking shoes are a must.

3. Rent a Car: Seriously, having a car makes everything easier. You’ll be able to explore hidden spots that you’d miss if you were relying on public transport.

4. Book Ahead: Niseko is super popular during ski season, so book your accommodation early to get the best spots.

5. Try the Local Food: Hokkaido is famous for its dairy products, fresh seafood, and hearty soups. Don’t leave without trying miso ramen or soup curry!

Final Thoughts

Mt. Yotei and Niseko are two of my favorite spots in Hokkaido. Whether you’re carving through fresh powder or hiking through lush trails, there’s always something to do. And the best part? The vibe here is super chill—you can enjoy the beauty of nature without the crowds you’d find in other popular destinations.

If you’ve got the chance, rent a car and hit the road. It’s the best way to soak in all the beauty that this region has to offer. Happy travels!