Winter sports are the perfect activity to enjoy the winter in Hokkaido. Niseko, a world-renowned ski resort, is famous for its powder snow and attracts many ski and snowboard enthusiasts.
Access from New Chitose Airport to the Niseko area is a key consideration and that’s where the “Niseko Direct Shuttle Bus” comes in. Many travelers choose this service for its direct operation, which prioritizes comfort and speed. In this article, we will introduce the features and advantages of this service in detail.
What is the Niseko Direct Shuttle Bus?
The Niseko Direct Shuttle Bus is a nonstop service that began operating between New Chitose Airport and the Niseko area in the winter of 2024. Starting in the winter of 2025, the route will expand to include Niseko Annupuri. With this shuttle, travelers can enjoy even more convenient access to major destinations such as Niseko Annupuri, Niseko Village, Nikko Style Niseko HANAZONO, and the Hirafu Welcome Center.
The bus will also newly stop at Midtown Niseko and Izumigo II, making transportation to these locations easier than ever.
This shuttle is an excellent option not only for skiers and snowboarders but also for families and group travelers.
Features and Attractions of The Niseko Direct Shuttle Bus
1. Get to your destination as quickly as possible!
Starting in 2025, in addition to the two existing routes connecting New Chitose Airport with hotels in Niseko Village (Hilton Niseko Village, Higashiyama Niseko Village – a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, The Green Leaf Niseko Village, Hinode Hills Niseko Village) and Nikko Style Niseko HANAZONO, two new direct shuttle routes will be added:
- New Chitose Airport ⇄ Niseko Annupuri hotels (Niseko Northern Resort Annupuri, Niseko Konbu Onsen Hotel Kanronomori, Niseko Grand Hotel)
- New Chitose Airport ⇄ Niseko Hirafu (Hirafu Welcome Center, Izumigo II, Midtown Niseko)
Compared to other shuttle bus services, this direct shuttle provides the fastest travel time to your destination. By eliminating intermediate stops, the route minimizes time loss and ensures the most efficient transfer possible.
It is the ideal option for travelers who want a smoother schedule or wish to start skiing and snowboarding as soon as possible. For those looking to maximize their time in Niseko, this shuttle will be a truly reliable companion.
2. A Route Designed Differently from Other Ski Buses
The Niseko Direct Shuttle Bus follows a route intentionally designed not to overlap with those of other ski bus companies. This helps avoid traffic and congestion, allowing passengers to reach their destination smoothly and efficiently.
Passengers can also enjoy different scenery along the way, turning what would normally be simple travel time into a pleasant experience. With this route, even the journey to the resort becomes part of the trip’s enjoyment.
3. Enjoy Multiple Ski Resorts While Staying in Niseko
The Niseko Direct Shuttle Bus will also begin operating round-trip shuttle services between the Niseko area (Hilton Niseko Village, Hirafu Welcome Center) and Rusutsu Resort.
This allows guests staying in either Niseko or Rusutsu Resort to easily enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Rusutsu Resort as well.
★ Reservations for the Niseko ⇄ Rusutsu Resort route are scheduled to open in late November. ★
Reservation and Fare Structure
It is recommended to reserve your seat on the “Niseko Direct Shuttle Bus” in advance. Reservations can be easily made through the official website, where you can check seat availability and operating hours. The fare differs depending on the destination, as follows:
Fare Structure
| Flight Type | Adult Rate (1 Person) | Child Rate (1 Person) |
| (Flights departing from and arriving at Niseko Village) – Hilton Niseko Village – Higashiyama Niseko Village Ritz-Carlton Reserve – The Green Leaf Niseko Village – Hinode Hills Niseko Village | 6,600 Yen | 5,500 Yen |
| (Niseko Hanazono Hotel Departure and Arrival) – Nikko Style Niseko HANAZONO Route | 6,000 Yen | 5,000 Yen |
| Hirafu Direct Route ・Hirafu Welcome Center ・Izumigo II ・Midtown Niseko | 6,000 Yen | 4,500 Yen |
| Hirafu Departure/Arrival Route (via Annupuri & Village) ・Hirafu Welcome Center ・Midtown Niseko | 5,500 Yen | 4,000 Yen |
| Niseko Annupuri Departure/Arrival Route ・Niseko Grand Hotel ・Northern Resort Annupuri ・Hotel Kanronomori | 6,600 Yen | 5,500 Yen |
| Sapporo Station Route ・Niseko Grand Hotel, Northern Resort Annupuri, Hotel Kanronomori, Hilton Niseko Village ・Hirafu Welcome Center, Midtown Niseko | 6,600 Yen 5,500 Yen | 5,500 Yen 4,000 Yen |
| Niseko ⇔ Rusutsu Route ・Hilton Niseko Village ・Hirafu Welcome Center | 3,800 Yen | 3,800 Yen |
When making a reservation, it’s a good idea to check the departure time, meeting location, baggage restrictions, and other details to ensure a smooth trip.
Summary of The Niseko Direct Shuttle Bus
The “Niseko Direct Shuttle Bus” offers a perfect balance of speed, comfort, and affordability as a transportation option between New Chitose Airport and the Niseko area.
It is the fastest way to reach your destination and travels smoothly along routes different from those of other bus companies, making it a reliable choice for tourists and ski enthusiasts. Additionally, its pricing is ideal for families and group travelers, making it a top choice for many.
If you’re planning a trip to Hokkaido, be sure to take advantage of this service for a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
Information
■ Operating company: Synex Network Co., Ltd.
■ Address: 5-3-15 Uehonmachi, Tennoji-ku, Osaka
