Niseko Ski Resort in Hokkaido

Four resort villages lie scattered around Niseko United, each appealing to a different type of traveler (and skier).

• Hirafu
• Niseko Village
• Hanazono
• Annapuri

Alpinists looking for après-ski beverages and top-end gastronomy should stay in Hirafu, home to a high concentration of restaurants and notorious nightlife. First-time visitors and families might prefer Niseko Village, especially when seeking convenient ski-in- or ski-out lodging (there’s plenty available).

Tiny Hanazono is the best bet for experienced skiers seeking adrenaline-pumping tree runs. For an authentic Japanese alpine experience, base yourself in Annapuri. Brimming with traditional soba stalls and charming log-built ryokan (inns), the tranquil village offers an enticing taste of local mountain life.

Need a day to rest your weary legs? There are plenty of other things to do around Niseko.

The Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum pays homage to the famous Japanese novelist of the same name. Pop into the Ogawarashu Memorial Museum to see artworks from local painters or the SOMOZA Gallery for landscape works. Check out Niseko Kaributo for an authentic Shinto shrine. Niseko View Plaza offers a fabulous photo opp, while the Niseko Meisui Kanrosui fountain is a picturesque spot to refill your bottle with spring water.

In summer, Hokkaido Lion Adventure does rafting and other sports. Alternately, the Annupuri Gondola Station leads to a scenic hiking summit trail.

Geothermal-fed onsen (hot springs) lie scattered throughout Niseko, perfect for soothing those ski-worn muscles. Indoor and outdoor baths are available.

Thanks to Hakkaido’s fertile volcanic soil, it has a bounty of top-notch produce. This has led Niseko to become a sought-after foodie destination. The top gastronomic institutions book out months in advance. Local specialties like yakitori (skewered meat) and shabu-shabu (hot pot) are worth sinking your teeth into.

Local
For a bowl of steamy noodles in a traditional log cabin, try Rakuichi Soba.

Luxury
An Dining is an excellent option for high-end izakaya-style Hokkaido cuisine.

Iconic
For something more casual, Prativo does a hearty all-you-can-eat set menu on a lush dairy farm. As a strict paddock-to-fork establishment, all ingredients are sourced onsite or from local providers. 

Although Niseko isn’t a major shopping destination, there are plenty of places to pick up winter clothing, skiing gear, and cute souvenirs.

Gallery Katachi offers a broad range of authentic Japanese artworks, from paintings to pottery and colorful embroideries. Some of the artists work onsite and will happily explain the production process. For authentic souvenirs, make a beeline for Kutchan, where you’ll find several mom-and-pop-style shops on the main street.

Rhythm Snowsports and Rhythm Summit stock a dizzying array of ski and snowboard gear, including all your backcountry essentials. The Odin Place mall has the best selection of snowboarding equipment – it has a large Burton Snowboards store.

Hirafu has the liveliest ensemble of foreigner-friendly drinking holes, from low-key après-ski venues to boisterous late-night bars.

Part ramen restaurant, part buzzing pub, Tamashii is a cozy spot to hang out after an action-packed day on the snow. Hit Bar Gyu+ for smooth vinyl tunes and tasty cocktails with a mesmerizing alpine view. Although a tad on the pricey side, TOSHIRO’S BAR is famous for its amicable ambience and excellent whiskey collection—try the smoked old-fashioned.

For a more traditional tipple, Niseko Shuzo is a famous barnyard sake brewery in Kutchan. The charming semi-rural venue does daytime brewery tours and tasting sessions. Sample some of the different labels and grab a bottle of the good stuff to take home. 

Fukidashi Park is a serene Japanese garden full of ponds, streams, and waterfalls. Based at the foot of Mount Yotei, its spring-fed water is crystal-clear and safe to drink. Look for the trickling PVC pipes to refill your bottle with fresh mountain water. 

A short but picturesque walking trail meanders through the verdant park, perfect for a romantic stroll. Keep an eye out for the 33 statues of the Goddess of Mercy, which perch among moss-covered stones. The park looks prettiest in spring as it transforms into an oasis of green. Nonetheless, it’s still worth a visit in winter when it’s covered in a blanket of snow.