Elevate your ride to the top with heated Wi-Fi-equipped cabins, faster journeys, and stunning 360° views.
Any skier or snowboarder worth their salt has probably already heard that Japanese broadcasters and weather forecasters are predicting the heaviest snowfall in 11 years across Hokkaido. The forecast for December to February are already higher than average, which bodes well for the upcoming 2024/2025 winter season.
Perfect timing that Niseko Tokyu Grand HIRAFU unveils a sleek new addition to its alpine landscape: a state-of-the-art gondola, replacing the iconic Center 4 Quad Lift after 38 years. Offering both form and function, this new “Ace Gondola” allows you to hit the slopes in style once it opens in November 2024.
Photo Credit: Niseko Tokyu Grand HIRAFU
The gondola’s 10-person cabins move 1.5 times faster than the old chairlift, cutting down travel time while maintaining a tranquil pace that allows you to enjoy the view to the top. With the ability to transport up to 2,800 skiers per hour, the flow of visitors up the mountain will feel more seamless than ever.
Inside, the cabins are designed to maximise comfort. Heated seats provide warmth after hours in the cold, while Wi-Fi lets you stay connected or simply enjoy the luxury of streaming music as you journey up. Indoor racks are available to accommodate skis and bikes, making it functional for both winter and summer adventurers.
Our favourite upgrade? The two glass-floored cabins that offer a 360° view of the surrounding mountains. Gliding over the powder-covered terrain with a full panoramic vista is a truly breathtaking way to take in Niseko’s beauty.
Whether you’re in town to speed down the slopes or simply want to soak in the view, the new Ace Gondola ensures that you’ll enjoy the journey just as much as the destination.