Nestled at the base of Hokkaido’s Mount Annupuri, Hanazono is a premier skiing destination of the Niseko United Four. Highly coveted for its legendary powder snow, diverse terrain, comprehensive guest infrastructure, and stunning mountain views, Hanazono offers a memorable experience for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
Whether you’re wanting to try out perfectly groomed slopes, exploring the fun and lively Apres-ski scene, or exploring various off-piste areas, Hanazono offers a unique combination of family-fun activities and exhilarating adventures.
Related article: One Mountain, Four Ski Resorts: Niseko United
Here is everything you need to know about Hanazono, including ski runs and other attractions.
Hanazono: a Winter Paradise for Everyone
Hanazono is located at the base of Mount Annupuri, 100km south of Sapporo. It is a popular destination as part of the Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park, and it features a north-easterly location that gives it a slight advantage over other areas in terms of snow quality.
Featuring some of the driest, lightest powder in the world, you can enjoy more extended time on the mountain with favorable snow quality throughout, making it an ideal area for families with varying skill levels.
Speaking of skill levels, Hanazono features notable ski runs that range from easy to intermediate to off-piste. All ski runs mentioned here are serviced by the Hanazono Hooded Lift #1, a ski lift for accessing most of the area’s terrain.
Easy
1. Juicy Fruit
This is a beginner-friendly ski run with gentle slopes and beautiful views. It offers a smooth and wide slope that’s ideal for those who are new to skiing.
2. Mango Salad
This is another gentle slope that’s great for beginners. It offers a relaxed experience for both novices and intermediate skiers.
Intermediate
1. Colly’s Folly
Colly’s Folly is a fun and more challenging run on various terrains. It offers interesting steep sections, making it a slope for those who already have some skill and knowledge in skiing.
2. Silver Dream
Silver Dream is a slightly more advanced run with a variety of pitches. It allows skiers to gain more speed, but not too challenging.
3. Stairway to Heaven
Its name is a fun reference to its descent, which is relatively straightforward, and with beautiful views down the mountain. A popular run, it’s known for its steady and moderate gradient with twists, making it a fun and engaging slope for intermediate skiers.
Off-Piste
1. Strawberry Fields
For the more advanced skier, Strawberry Fields offers an unmarked area with access to deeper and more fresh snow. It’s a local favorite of skiers and snowboarders with more experience. Anyone who attempts to ski or snowboard here must have backcountry terrain experience and avalanche safety knowledge.
2. Blueberry Fields
Blueberry Fields offers an adventurous run for advanced skiers and snowboarders, offering a more open terrain, with more twists and challenges. And yes, only those with backcountry experience and avalanche safety knowledge should attempt to explore this off-piste run.
Other Attractions to Enjoy in Hanazono
Aside from the popular slopes, there is more to do in Hanazono. Here are some of the other attractions to enjoy:
1. Parks
There are terrain parks in Hanazono, where various jumps, boxes, rails, and other features offer thrilling park riding for intermediate and advanced skiers. A family park is also found in Hanazono, perfect for children and novices.
2. Restaurants
Whether you’re looking for sushi, ramen, or international cuisine, you can find it in Hanazono. Restaurants and cafes offer sumptuous meals, coffee, pastries, and Japanese street food.
3. Winter Sports Schools
For those looking to learn to ski or snowboard, or for anyone wanting to improve their skills, Hanazono has several winter sports schools that offer private lessons and group classes. Many of these schools have English-speaking instructors, so there’s no problem with the language of instruction for non-Japanese guests.
4. Areas for Snowboarding and Snowmobiling
Many ski runs also serve as ideal slopes for snowboarding, with snowmobiling being offered as guide tours in Hanazono. These tours feature scenic landscapes with some bringing you to backcountry areas.
Other things to enjoy in Hanazono include shopping, with plenty of boutiques and unique stores in the Resort; as well as onsens or hot springs with mineral-rich water, offering the perfect way to end a day of skiing amidst scenic routes.
Related article: Must-Try Activities in Niseko Beyond Skiing
Experience the Magic of Hanazono
Overall, Hanazono is an exceptional destination that offers a unique blend of thrilling activities, natural beauty, and world-class hospitality. Whether craving for exhilarating skiing and snowboarding experiences, bringing the whole family to experience a stunning winter landscape, or simply enjoying the vibrant local culture, Hanazono is for everyone.
Don’t miss out on the chance to explore the winter paradise Hanazono has to offer. Reach out to talk about exploring this beautiful Niseko Resort and experience an unforgettable journey in this must-visit spot on your next Niseko holiday.
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Featured Image by Hanazono Niseko
