Hokkaido is Japans largest prefecture (83,000 square kilometres) and represents only 5% of Japans population. Niseko-Rusutsu is one of Hokkaido’s regions with a population of 30,000 which increases dramatically with reported tourist numbers reaching 1.5 million across the year.

Domestic visitors still account for a large number of tourists to the region. In addition to this each year international numbers increase, the last few ski seasons saw a large increase in number of visitors from Hong Kong and Singapore. Visitors also included those from Australia, Taiwan, Hong Kong and China. Direct flights to Sapporo from Hong Kong and China should see visitors from these regions continue to increase.

International travellers visiting Niseko stay on average for 8-10 nights and a majority come on a package with accommodation included, which is organised through the various tour operators in the region. Niseko accommodation in self-contained apartments is much sought after.