Niseko's Powder Capital Transforms into a World-Class MTB Destination
Niseko Hanazono Resort unveils its new Mountain Bike Park with a Grand Opening on July 1, 2026
Renowned around the world as one of the birthplaces of legendary Japanese powder snow, Niseko Hanazono Resort enters an exciting new chapter this summer. Amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Kutchan in Hokkaido, Niseko Hanazono Resort—operated by Nihon Harmony Resorts KK (Head Office: Kutchan, Abuta District; Representative Director: Justin Downes)—is proud to announce the grand opening of the Hanazono area’s first full-scale mountain bike trail, Hanazono Mountain Bike Park, on July 1, 2026.
The mountain that has long captivated skiers with some of the world's finest snow transforms into a dynamic alpine playground, where flowing trails, exhilarating descents, and breathtaking landscapes redefine the green season. More than a new outdoor attraction, the opening marks another milestone in the resort's evolution into a truly world-class, all-season mountain destination.
A World-Class Mountain Bike Park Designed to International Standards
Developed under the supervision of the Niseko Mountain Bike Association (NAMBA), one of Niseko's leading organizations for mountain biking, and designed and built by Swiss trail specialists ALLEGRA, the new Hanazono Mountain Bike Park is Japan's first large-scale, lift-accessed mountain bike park of its kind.
Spanning 5.5 kilometers, the trail network makes the most of the mountain's natural terrain, with every trail thoughtfully designed to suit different riding abilities and experiences. This design philosophy reflects the quality found at many of the world's leading trail destinations.
The park adopts the internationally recognized color-coded trail rating system based on International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) standards. From beginners to experienced riders, guests can choose trails suited to their skill level and enjoy the park with confidence.
Hanazono Mountain Park
- Hanazono Skyline: Blue Trail (Intermediate) | 4,212 m | Vertical drop: 347 m
- Mori Loop: Complimentary | Green Trail (Beginner) | 1,360 m | Elevation gain: 39 m
*Free access for the first five days after opening.
Standard rate (Hanazono Skyline)
- Single Ride Pass: Adult ¥2,000 | Child ¥1,000
- 1 Day Pass: Adult ¥3,800 | Child ¥2,500
- AM / PM Pass: Adult ¥3,500 | Child ¥2,200
- Season Pass: Adult ¥28,000 | Child ¥14,000
Hanazono Skyline: An Intermediate Downhill Trail on an Epic Scale
The highlight of the new park is Hanazono Skyline, a 4,212-meter intermediate (blue) downhill trail purpose-built for mountain biking. Designed to make the most of the mountain's natural topography, the trail offers an exhilarating ride defined by speed, flowing terrain, and an immersive connection with the surrounding alpine landscape.
Access to the summit is provided by Hanazono's summer gondola. Featuring a 360-degree panoramic glass cabin designed by Italian design house Pininfarina, each 10-person gondola is appointed with premium leather seating, making the journey to the top an experience in itself. The premium ride begins long before the first descent. With flexible ticket options ranging from single-day passes to season passes, Hanazono Mountain Bike Park offers an authentic downhill experience for every rider.
Mori Loop: A Complimentary Trail for Beginners
At the base of the mountain, the Mori Loop offers a 1,360-meter green trail designed for beginners. Open to all at no charge, the trail winds gently through the forest, inviting riders to experience the mountain's natural terrain beneath a canopy of trees while discovering the enjoyment of mountain biking. Designed to be approachable for first-time riders and families alike, Mori Loop provides an easy and welcoming introduction to the sport.
Premium Rentals for Every Rider
Hanazono's on-site rental shop, Niseko Sports, offers a carefully selected fleet of high-quality mountain bikes chosen specifically for the new trail network. Featuring premium models from Santa Cruz and a range of options for children, youth, standard, and premium riders, guests can select the bike that best suits their needs.
Protective equipment, including helmets, knee and elbow pads, and gloves, is also available to rent, providing added confidence for beginners and young riders alike. With everything available on-site, guests can simply arrive and enjoy a mountain biking experience suited to their skill level.
Towards an Ever-Evolving Mountain Destination, Asia’s Next Great MTB Destination
Hanazono offers more than 20 activities throughout the summer season, making it one of Hokkaido's leading destinations for outdoor adventure.
Across the region, mountain biking is playing an increasingly important role in regional revitalization while establishing Niseko as a global riding destination. Alongside established trail networks such as Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu and Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area, as well as the community-developed public trail Twin Peaks Bike Park, the area as a whole is rapidly evolving into a dynamic mountain biking destination.
The opening of Hanazono Mountain Bike Park marks the first phase of Hanazono's long-term vision. Beginning with two trails totaling 5.5 kilometers, the resort plans to expand the network in stages. Later this year, four additional trails, including new courses designed for skill development and technical progression, are scheduled for addition. As the trail network continues to grow, Hokkaido will evolve beyond individual ski resorts to establish itself as one of Japan's leading, and ultimately one of Asia's premier, mountain bike destinations. From first-time riders taking their first turn on the trail to experienced riders seeking their next challenge, we are committed to growing alongside the region's expanding trail network, creating a mountain destination that continues to evolve with every season.
This Summer, Into a New Stage of Adventure
The quiet, snow-covered landscape of winter transforms in summer into a dynamic playground filled with speed and excitement.
The resort offers a new way to experience the mountain, one that can be enjoyed across seasons.
This world-renowned snow mountain becomes, once again, a stage for new adventures during the summer months.
A mountain biking experience found only here will further expand how guests can enjoy the mountain.
Beyond this lies the vision of a new kind of mountain resort, one that continues to evolve into the future.
Through this experience, we hope more guests will discover the appeal of Hanazono across all four seasons.