Niseko Annupuri Confirms Complete Gondola Modernization for Winter 2028
The structural transformation of the Niseko United mountain network is expanding to its western flank. Following major lift overhauls at Grand Hirafu and Niseko Village, Hokkaido Chuo Bus Co.—the parent operator of Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Ski Area—has finalized plans for a complete architectural and technical renewal of the primary Annupuri Gondola. The current system, a […]
Niseko Village to Unveil New Gondola for December 2026 Season Opening
Niseko Village’s Most Significant Infrastructure Upgrade in Decades Niseko Village has announced the development of a major new gondola lift system — the “Shin Mori-no Gondola” (New Forest Gondola) — set to begin operations in December 2026. The project replaces the resort’s ageing Mori-no Chair, a two-person chairlift in operation since the 1980s, and represents […]
United Airlines to Launch Direct San Francisco–Sapporo Winter Flights
New Route Adds Further Momentum to Hokkaido’s Growing International Access United Airlines has announced a new seasonal nonstop service between San Francisco and Sapporo, marking the first direct route between the continental United States and Hokkaido. According to the airline, the new service will operate three times weekly between San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and […]
New Gondola at Hakuba Happo-One Ski Resort: What It Means for Property in Hakuba
Hakuba Happo-One Ski Resort has announced one of the most significant infrastructure upgrades in the Hakuba Valley in decades: a new high-capacity gondola and base area redevelopment scheduled for December 2027. The new system will run from the Nakiyama base area to Usagidaira mid-mountain, replacing ageing lift infrastructure and modernising the resort’s primary access route. […]
A Major Win for Investors as Qantas Boosts Sydney-Sapporo Direct Flights
06 April 2026 Direct Flights Return: Sydney to Sapporo (CTS) 2025/26 and Beyond Following a successful return to the route, Qantas has confirmed its direct seasonal service between Sydney (SYD) and Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport (CTS). Running from December 15, 2025, through March 28, 2026, this non-stop link removes the need for a Tokyo transfer, […]
Air Canada Launches Direct Sapporo Flights and Why It Matters for Niseko Property
Niseko, Hokkaido, has cemented its status as the “Aspen of Asia,” transforming from a local ski hill into a year-round, luxury resort destination.