About Niseko

The Niseko Experience

Niseko is famous for many unique things. World class powder snow, amazing dining experiences, luxurious accommodation, beautiful onsens and stunning views on Mt. Yotei! This is truly a special place in the Hokkaido area of Japan, that we are all lucky to share with our family and friends. Guests come from all around the world to enjoy this unique setting. Whether you want to ski or snowboard the finest snow in the world, relax in onsen or try the tastiest food, Niseko is the place for you.

Skiing and Snowboarding in Niseko

Niseko is comprised of four individual ski resorts which together make up the Niseko United ski area. Hanazono, Hirafu, Niseko Village. These four resorts provide a huge amount of terrain which are linked at the top of the mountain and by shuttle bus. From the resorts, you’ll also find access to the backcountry through designated gates. Niseko is a world famous ski resort, boasting incredible powder snow. You can find the deepest, driest and softest snow here, due to consistently low temperatures, low humidity and high snowfall. Those that live here may sometimes say that they haven’t seen the sun in weeks with the endless powder that many winters can provide!

Night skiing is also a must do on any Niseko trip. There is something truly magical about skiing or snowboarding beautiful powder snow under the lights. You’ll find little to no crowds at night and plenty of terrain to keep you occupied. Large snowflakes will float down under the glow of the lights while you’re having the most fun riding into the evening.

There is something for all ski and snowboard abilities in Niseko, from first time families to expert powder seekers! For the beginners, Niseko boasts the softest and most forgiving snow to learn skiing or snowboarding. For intermediates, there are a variety of slopes on offer across the four ski areas to challenge yourself with. For the advanced, deep snow awaits you, both in bounds and out of the Niseko United Gate System. Find out how you can get the best from your time in Niseko with us at Hokkaido Core.

Along with amazing skiing and snowboarding in Niseko itself, there are other fantastic resorts worth a visit not too far away. Both Rusutsu and Kiroro offer great snow and something different. Kiroro is fantastic for deep snow and Rusutsu has some of the best tree skiing in the world. You’ll find less accommodation and dining options at these resorts, so Niseko is a perfect base for your time here in Hokkaido, both Rusutsu and Kiroro are an easy drive of no more than one hour from Niseko.

Ski lessons and guiding in Niseko are available in a variety of languages, so you can be rest assured that you’ll be able to improve with full understanding while experiencing this amazing Japanese destination. To see the which lesson or powder guiding would suit your goals, take a look here.

Niseko Dining

Niseko is home to some of the best Japanese and international food around. From local Japanese Izakaya restaurants to fine dining, there is a huge selection of restaurants on offer. Along with this are some great lunch spots and Hokkaido’s famous dairy farms providing the tastiest creations!

There are options to suit all tastes and budgets. Some options to consider are shabu shabu hotpot, sushi, udon, tempura, yakitori, gyoza and of course the classic katsu curry. Japanese food is known for flavourful dishes tasting so good that you might want to come to Niseko for the food, more than the snow! Along with the various types of Japanese cuisine on offer, you’ll find equally well prepared authentic food from around world such as Indian curries, pizza, fondue, French bakeries, Chinese dumplings and many more.

Niseko Food You Must Try

A Hokkaido speciality dish is Soup Curry. Different from Indian curries, here you’ll find colourful veggies and a meat or tofu of your choice in a flavourful soup. Sushi rice is served alongside the dish to dip in and enjoy. You can choose your spice level and add extra vegetables or meat should you like. It’s a truly unique Hokkaido flavour that can’t be missed!

Ramen is also a must try during your time in Japan. Ramen is a dish consisting of noodles in a delicious broth with toppings such as pork, bamboo, egg, leeks and seaweed. It’s a hearty meal that goes down exceptionally well on a cold winter’s day. There are usually multiple flavours on offer such as soy sauce or miso. Some of the Niseko restaurants will offer different spice levels from mild to something that would certainly challenge even those that love extra spicy meals.

If you’re looking for fine dining experiences in Niseko, you’ll have plenty of restaurants to choose from. Dishes includes Japanese, French, Italian and Fusion to name a few. Each restaurant takes great care in the quality of the ingredients and presentation to create a unique tasting experience! Niseko chefs show pride in the exquisitely prepared food. You’ll find local ingredients carefully selected and cooked to perfection, along with carefully selected drink pairings to enrich your dining.

Last but not least, Hokkaido dairy farms are not to be missed. Dairy treats are on offer around Niseko from local farms. Cream puffs, cheese cake, soft serve ice cream, milks and yogurts will keep anyone’s sweet tooth delighted during a trip to Niseko. You’ll find a rich and creamy taste in each bite of anything produced from Hokkaido’s dairy.

 Niseko Nightlife

Like many other things in Niseko, the nightlife is a unique experience. You’ll find some interesting little places tucked away down the Hirafu streets, along with larger lively venues and even karaoke bars. Friendly and welcoming service can be expected, making you feel at home while you sit and watch the beautiful snowfall outside.

Niseko Nightlife Not To Be Missed

If you’re a fan of whisky, Niseko is the ideal destination. Toshiro’s Bar has been serving an extensive array of both Japanese and international whiskys, along with exquisitely prepared cocktails. Inside you’ll find a cosy and relaxing atmosphere where you can enjoy quality drinks with friends. At Toshiro’s, the bar staff are welcoming and put great care into the drinks they serve. You’ll find one of the most extensive whisky selection in Niseko right here.

For those looking for a fantastic cocktail, you must check out Bar Gyu, also known as Fridge Door Bar. Entering through, you guessed it, a fridge door, you’ll find another cosy drinking establishment serving delicious cocktails and craft beers. From the outside, this bar seems unassuming yet quirky. Once inside, you’ll be welcomed with excellent service and attention to detail.

Craft beer fans can expect some tasty options at Niseko Tap Room, located in the Odin Building. This small venue serves a selection of quality craft beers from a team who is passionate about bringing you the best of Hokkaido’s breweries. This is a great location for an after ski drink in Hirafu.