International investment started in the early 2000s with a rising awareness from Australia of the amazing snow conditions. A strong world economy and a unique snow and cultural experience changed the trickle of visitors and investors into a flood in this previously struggling resort.
While Australia remains a strong source of visitors and property investors, the new growth markets have changed to regional Asia, especially Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia. Highlighted by the purchase of Hanazono Resort Area by HK tycoon Richard Li's PCPD, and the purchase of Higashiyama Resort by YTL group from Malaysia with the Hilton chain operating the existing Prince Hotel at the resort.
Arguably still in the infancy of its growth, Niseko continues to attract enormous interest from investors and visitors alike.