Where to Eat, Sleep, and Ski in Niseko, Japan
At Mountainwatch Travel, we understand the quest for the ultimate skiing adventure. Enter Niseko, Japan, a winter wonderland known for its world-class powder snow, diverse terrain, and luxurious hospitality. Our 2023/4 season guide is here to help you make the most of your time in this extraordinary destination.
Niseko’s Unbeatable Skiing
Niseko’s reputation as a premier ski resort is well-deserved. With four interconnected ski areas – Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village, Annupuri, and Hanazono, the resort offers an unrivaled range of runs to suit skiers and snowboarders of all experience levels.
Where Niseko truly excels is in its off-piste and backcountry offerings. Unlike many Japanese resorts, Niseko actively promotes off-piste skiing, presenting an irresistible allure for those with a taste for adventure. Its 15-metre annual snowfall ensures the off-piste conditions are consistently excellent, allowing you to carve fresh tracks in the powder almost every day of the season.
The resort operates a well-established gate system, which provides access to controlled off-piste areas and backcountry zones. Through these gates, skiers and snowboarders can explore Niseko’s magnificent wilderness while remaining within the resort’s safety protocols. For those new to backcountry exploration, there are plenty of local guides available to show you the ropes and ensure you venture off the beaten path safely.
Restaurants & Après
When it’s time to refuel, Niseko offers a gastronomic experience as thrilling as its slopes. Whether you’re after a hot steaming bowl of ramen, fine dining delights created by a Michelin-starred chef or casual burgers and fries, there’s something for every taste in Niseko. Keep reading for our top picks in Upper and Lower Hirafu.
Upper Hirafu
If you’re after a taste of traditional Japanese cuisine, A-Bu-Cha is a must. The hot pots and sushi are local favourite and perfectly complement the cold weather. You’ll find all your western breakfast, lunch and dinner classic at Green farm cafe and dining. With a focus on fresh, local and organic produce and plenty of options for all dietaries, it’s a crowd-pleaser. If fine dining is your go, Kamimura Restaurant, helmed by Michelin-starred chef, Yuichi Kamimura, offers a delicious blend of French and Japanese cuisine. Its seasonal menu showcases local produce, paired with an impressive wine list. For après, Wild Bill’s is the place to be. What starts as a relaxed après bar with good Tex/Mex turns into party central as the drinks go down.
Lower Hirafu
For a laid-back Japanese meal, family run Izakaya Kougetsu serves delicious Hokkaido delicacies like oysters, juicy dumplings and hot pots in a warm, inviting atmosphere. As the sun sets, the excitement continues with Niseko’s vibrant après-ski scene. A good place to start is Niseko’s iconic Bar Gyu+, also known as the ‘Fridge Door Bar’. Unwind with craft cocktails or a selection from their extensive range of Japanese whiskies.
Comfortable Accommodation
In Niseko, your comfort is paramount, and this is reflected in the variety of accommodations available, catering to a range of tastes and budgets. Some of our favourite properties for the 2023/4 season include:
Green Leaf Niseko Village
With direct ski-in/ski-out access, contemporary rooms, an outdoor hot spring, and two on-site restaurants, the Green Leaf is a deluxe accommodation option offering both convenience and comfort – making it an excellent choice for your stay.
Landmark View
Located in the heart of the village, the deluxe Landmark View offers fully furnished, self-contained apartments with stunning views of Mt. Yotei. With convenience and comfort at its core, it’s a great option for those wanting a home-away-from-home experience.
M Hotel
As a mid-range accommodation option in Niseko, M Hotel offers clean and comfortable accommodation in a warm and friendly setting. Located conveniently close to the heart of the action.
If you’re ready to experience Niseko for yourself, complete an enquiry form and our team will happily create a custom package for you or discover our packages below:
