Real estate insights into the Niseko United Resort area

While Hirafu still remains the central hub of the Niseko area with all the restaurants and entertainment options located within one small area, however there is a strong demand for luxury projects outside of the Hirafu area driven by a lack of prime land and rising prices.

This has contributed to areas such as Hanazono, Annupuri and Niseko Village having consistently high price rises as more and more investors and developers expand their focus further around the Niseko United area.

Once a quiet village area Hanazono is now the center of significant development. Strategically located only 5 minutes from Kutchan Town, with its local amenities, shopping and restaurant options, is also home to the Shinkansen (bullet train) station which will connect Niseko to the rest of Japan with the completion of by 2025.

The Park Hyatt was the first major development in the area right next to the Hanazono Golf Club with an 18-hole, 7,003 yard championship course. Odin Hills is the most recent to enter the market with its offerings of land packages for private residences.

With more developments in the pipeline for Hanazono and the surrounding area it is expected further investment interest will follow over the next few years.

Annupuri, compared to Niseko Village and Hanazono, still remains less developed but with wide open spaces, variety of onsens and array of restaurants it continues to be a favorite for both owners and visitors.

Previously centered around residential development projects and housing estates such as Annupuri Residences, Annupuri Village and Annupuri Gardens, larger-scale international operators Aman Resorts is now in the planning phase for the development of the neighboring Moiwa Village and it is expected that will spark an even greater international investment down the line.

Situated between Hirafu and Annupuri, Niseko Village and the surrounding Higashiyama area is home to several well-established resort hotels including the Hilton, Ritz Carlton, Hinode Hills as well as New World La Plume coming soon in 2024.

Niseko Village ski resort offers both gentle lower slopes for beginners and also long and steep runs for experienced skiers or alternatively is only a short drive to both Hirafu and Annupuri as well as Moiwa Ski Field.

In summer, golf enthusiasts have easy access to the popular 18-hole golf course and for the young and young at heart there is an adventure park with tree walking experiences.