Narita Airport to Niseko (Hirafu)

Highlights

• Direct flights from Narita to New Chitose take about 1 hr 45 min to 2 hr. Low-cost carriers fly this route.
• In the ski season, direct buses run from New Chitose Airport to the Niseko resort areas (about 2.5–3 hours; reservations are usually required).
• By JR, change at Otaru for Kutchan Station (about 2.5–3 hours from the airport). Hirafu is about 15 minutes from Kutchan by bus or taxi.
• Outside the snow season there are far fewer direct buses. Check operating dates on the official site before you plan.
• Going overland only, by Shinkansen and local trains, takes more than half a day from Tokyo.

Good for

Fastest

A direct flight from Narita plus a direct bus from the airport. This is usually quicker than transferring to Haneda first.

Large luggage or skis

A direct bus carries your bags in the hold almost to your lodging. You can also ship skis and boots ahead by courier.

With kids

A direct bus means no transfers. Book seats ahead to be sure of sitting together.

Cheapest