Japan: VIP cabins with dining tables

Niseko Village in Japan has announced a major upgrade to its gondola lift system, scheduled to open in December 2026.

Replacing the longserving Mori-no Chair, which has carried skiers since the early 1980s, the new Morino Gondola will feature sleek cabins that double transportation capacity while cocooning passengers in warmth and comfort.

Divided into two sections with an intermediate station, the gondola is designed for all-weather performance, able to operate even when summit conditions grow severe.

Among its 86 cabins, four VIP versions offer tables for light dining, while two glass-floor cabins deliver a thrilling new perspective on Niseko’s snow-draped terrain.

When the first section is completed in December 2026, guests will be able to ride from base to the intermediate station. With the completion of the second section in December 2027, the gondola will connect seamlessly from base to summit – without requiring a change of cabins.

Guests can choose to disembark at the intermediate station or continue upwards, tailoring their journey to snow quality, weather, and personal skill level. The Wonderland Chair will also see a significant upgrade, moving from single to two-person lifts.