New Gondola to Appear at Niseko Village in Winter 2026

Niseko Village, a world-class resort that combines comfort with environmental considerations, is reaching new heights. The latest gondola is set to debut in winter 2026.

Niseko Village K.K., which operates Niseko Village Ski Resort, will install the highly anticipated "Shin Mori-no Gondola" during the 2026-27 winter season. This next-generation gondola, blending comfort with a sense of adventure, will transform the mountain experience, providing smooth transportation, spectacular views, and extended skiing time.

Replacing the "Mori-no Chairlift," which has been popular with many skiers since the early 1980s, the "Shin Mori-no Gondola" will double the transport capacity and embrace guests in warm, comfortable cabins.

The gondola features a two-section configuration with an intermediate station, designed for all-weather access, allowing guests to reach the intermediate station even if the weather at the summit deteriorates. Out of 86 cabins, four will be "VIP cabins" with tables for light meals, and two will be "Skyview cabins" with transparent glass floors, offering a new perspective on Niseko's breathtaking snow-covered scenery.

This project will proceed in stages; the first section is scheduled to open in December 2026, connecting the base station to the intermediate station. When the second section is completed in December 2027, direct service from the base station to the summit station will become possible without transfers, allowing guests to freely choose to disembark at the intermediate station or access the summit station depending on snow quality, weather, and skill level.

Furthermore, the "Wonderland Chairlift" will be upgraded from a single-seater to a double-seater, improving convenience by reducing waiting times and allowing guests to flexibly choose optimal courses based on the day's conditions. This project also emphasizes environmental considerations; by consolidating five aging lifts into two state-of-the-art gondolas and a new chairlift, the construction footprint is minimized. This reduces the impact on the natural environment while providing a world-class resort experience.

"The Shin Mori-no Gondola is not just about improving access; it proposes a new way to enjoy the mountains that combines comfort, design, and sustainability." - Ron Shau Wee, CEO, Niseko Village K.K.

With this upgrade, Niseko Village will further solidify its position as one of the world's most attractive year-round mountain resorts, pioneering the future of resorts in Japan.

About Niseko Village:
Located at the southern base of Niseko Annupuri (elevation 1308m), Niseko Village is a premier year-round resort within the Niseko United ski area. This expansive area offers a total of 2,191 acres of skiable terrain through interconnected access to partner ski resorts within Niseko United, rivaling the scale of world-renowned ski resorts such as Aspen in Colorado and St. Moritz in Switzerland.

At the heart of Niseko Village, "NISEKO-YO" provides an unparalleled lifestyle experience, blending gourmet dining, shopping, and nightlife amidst Hokkaido's captivating landscapes.

Niseko Village offers a diverse range of accommodations. Leading the way is "Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve," an ultimate retreat isolated from everyday life. Other options include "Kasara Niseko Village Townhouse," embodying alpine luxury unique to this location; "Hinode Hills Niseko Village," uniquely blending residence and luxury hotel services; "Hilton Niseko Village," three-time winner of the "Japan's Best Ski Resort Hotel" award from the World Ski Awards; and "The Green Leaf Niseko Village, Tapestry Collection by Hilton," characterized by its distinctive lifestyle. All provide personalized services to every visitor.

Spas and hot spring facilities for physical and mental relaxation, vibrant multi-purpose commercial facilities, a ski resort characterized by dry champagne powder snow at a low elevation and varied terrain, and world-class snow schools and kids' programs—all these elements synergistically build the solid reputation of Niseko Village.