Before Your First Niseko Trip: What I Tell Every Friend About the Cold, Boots, Ice and Nights Out

Short answer first. On your first trip to Niseko, what matters most isn't skiing well — it's not getting hurt by the cold and the snow. Temperatures drop to around -10°C, and some days it blows a blizzard. Snow gets into your shoes, the roads freeze, and the air is bone dry. I've been skiing Niseko since 2018, and this is what I tell every friend who comes for the first time.

• The cold: Kutchan averages -9.6°C overnight in January (climate normals). Coming from somewhere warm? Pack like you're overdoing it
• Your feet: snow gets into your shoes. Bring rubber or waterproof snow boots
• Driving: there are accidents every year. December and days around 0°C are the most dangerous
• Nights out: I've seen plenty of people drink too much and fall on the ice
• Gloves: always wear them outside — and don't lose them
• Your skin: it's extremely dry. Moisturise every day

How cold is Niseko?

In January, Kutchan averages -5.4°C, with overnight lows of -9.6°C (JMA, climate normals). It's colder and windier up the mountain, and some days it blizzards.

I grew up in snow country, so the cold itself was never much of a struggle for me. It's a different story if you're coming from the tropics. Fly in from Singapore, Malaysia or an Australian summer and your body simply isn't used to it.

What to do:

• Several thin layers beat one thick jacket
• Bring something to cover your neck, face and ears (a neck warmer, a beanie)
• If you're coming from a cold part of Europe or North America, your usual winter gear will be fine

It might sound dramatic, but the most important thing in a Niseko winter is getting home in one piece.

Rubber boots or waterproof snow boots

The thing people overlook most is their feet. Niseko's snow is deep, and it gets into your shoes just walking around. In sneakers, your socks are soaked within minutes.

• For walking around town, rubber boots or waterproof snow boots
• Ankle height or higher is safest
• Pick soles with good grip

You can rent ski and snowboard gear, but you need your own shoes for town. You can buy them here, but you'll need them from the day you land, so it's best to sort them out before you come.

Driving: take it seriously

Some of you will rent a car. Around Niseko, winter accidents happen pretty much every year.

The most dangerous times are December and days when it's around 0°C. Snow that melts a little during the day freezes at night into ice you can't see.

• Keep your speed down — especially downhill and on bends
• Leave at least double your usual following distance
• If you're not used to snow, don't force it. Take the bus or a transfer

A local tip: everyone gets excited when they see snow. The white world really is beautiful, and I get why people get carried away. But there's as much danger in it as there is beauty. Check your footing first — then get excited.

Drinking and icy streets

When it's cold, "let's have a drink to warm up" comes naturally. I get it. But drink too much, stagger home on an icy road, fall and hit your head — I've seen that happen in Niseko more times than I can count.

• Remember the way home is icy before you start drinking
• On nights out, sort out how you're getting home first (bus times, hotel pick-up)
• Don't walk home alone

Always wear gloves — and don't lose them

Forget your gloves outside and your hands hurt within minutes. And gloves are incredibly easy to lose.

Some bars and restaurants don't have much space to hang coats. You think you put your gloves in your pocket and drop them, or leave them on the chair. It happens all the time.

• When you take them off, put them straight into your jacket pocket
• A spare pair is a good idea
• Look after them the way you'd look after your valuables

Dry air and skin care

The air in a Niseko winter is very dry. It's cold and dry outside, and heating dries it out even more indoors. Lips and hands crack easily.

• Moisturiser and lip balm every day
• Sunscreen too — snow reflects a lot of sunlight
• Drink water regularly

FAQ

How cold is Niseko in winter?

In January, Kutchan averages -5.4°C, with overnight lows of -9.6°C (climate normals). It's windier up the mountain and feels colder.

Can I wear normal sneakers?

I wouldn't. Snow gets inside and they're slippery. Bring rubber or waterproof snow boots.

Is it safe to drive in Niseko in winter?

If you're used to snow, yes, but there are accidents every year. December and days around 0°C are especially icy. If you're not used to it, take the bus or a transfer.

What should I pack if I'm coming from a warm country?

Layers you can stack, something to cover your neck and face, gloves (plus a spare pair), waterproof shoes and moisturiser.

— Niseko Hub Editorial Team