Often regarded as the Aspen of the East, Niseko Village in Hokkaido, Japan transforms into a winter wonderland upon the arrival of the White Season, which runs from early December to May. With an annual snowfall of 18 metres, this enchanting period is a paradise for off-piste terrain, groomed runs for all skill levels, and snow-based activities besides traditional skiing.
Niseko Village’s abundance of facilities ensures seamless access to your winter adventures, encompassing an efficient lift system, comprehensive ski rental services, and the renowned Niseko Village Snow School. With its endless powder, exhilarating adventures, and breathtaking landscapes, here are several reasons why Niseko Village stands out as one of the world’s premier winter destinations.
Things to Do
Snow Machine Music Festival
Set to take place from March 11 to 14, 2025, Niseko Village will be hosting the Snow Machine Music Festival whereby skiers and snowboarders can enjoy world-class powder by day and an electrifying lineup of global artists by night. Merging skiing with music in a breathtaking alpine setting, the confirmed acts for the event so far include Chase & Status, Hot Chip, and Melanie C.
Beyond the slopes and music, festival-goers will be able to unwind in Niseko’s famous hot springs (onsen) and enjoy mouthwatering Japanese cuisine. This complete alpine escape will also showcase scenic views of Mount Yotei and pop-up performances around the village, further enhancing this unique fusion of adrenaline and entertainment.
The Niseko Village Kids Club
While the adults enjoy the slopes, the little ones from ages 1.5 to 9 years old will have equal opportunity to explore, create, and learn in a safe and nurturing environment at the Niseko Village Kids Club, available on flexible program options, including half-day, full-day, mini, and premium packages. With a focus on self-learning and exploration, the Kids Club’s Montessori approach encourages independence and cognitive growth.
Beyond fun and learning, the Kids Club promotes essential life skills, encouraging kindness, empathy, and responsibility. By way of daily themed activities, children are able to build cognitive, social, and emotional skills, growing both individually and as part of a group. The curriculum includes creative workshops, STEM exploration, and cultural learning involving Japanese traditions and those of the world.
Featuring multilingual coaches, outdoor snow play immerses them in Niseko’s winter wonderland, while eco-conscious activities foster teamwork and environmental responsibility. Niseko Village Kids Club also present the Guardians of Mount Yotei, five unique mascots with their own story, which will inspire adventure, teamwork, and a connection to nature, making it a joy-filled experience for every child.
Mandala Club
Returning to the world-renowned Niseko Village for its second season, Mandala Club will be offering a ski-in, ski-out clubhouse experience from 13 December 2024 to 16 March 2025, opening from midday till late. Visitors at Mandala Club can indulge in a special menu featuring iconic Hokkaido ingredients, from oysters to Shirai Black Wagyu, and unwind with après drinks beginning at 4pm. With seamless access via the Upper Village Gondola, complimentary shuttle service, and Mandala’s chauffeur fleet, getting to and from the clubhouse will be effortless.
Places to Eat
Niseko-yo
This season at Niseko-yo, a vibrant hub comprising both the charms of Niseko Village and global sophistication, dive into an array of new and reimagined outlets, showcasing a mix of gastronomic delights, bars and lounges, and high-end shopping set against Hokkaido’s stunning scenery.
Niseko-yo remains a gourmet paradise, offering a diverse array of culinary experiences that cater to every palate. Gogyo, brought to you by Ippudo, brings to the table specialty ramen by day and transforms into an izakaya by night, offering expertly grilled seasonal fare. Food lovers craving for artisanal pizzas can stop by Baby Crosta, by Crosta Pizzeria, which was recently ranked the 12th Best Pizza in the World by 50 Top Pizza World.
Alternatively, visit Hokkaien for its sizzling yakiniku, Long Tang that serves up delicate dim sum, or Yang Shu Ten for fresh sushi and tempura. Amongst the other old-time favourites include Moka that showcases authentic Italian dishes made with Japanese precision, and Chuan, tantalising diners with its fiery Sichuan hotpot.
On top of these favourites, there are also plenty of new dining options for food lovers to enjoy. By day, Chuya Wine Bar serves light bites and comforting, soul-warming dishes, and transforms into a lively bar at dusk with inventive cocktails concocted with seasonal ingredients and distinct flavour combinations.
Yamato, Niseko-yo’s new Tonkatsu restaurant, on the other hand, welcomes guests with its signature Rusutsu Yotei Pork, breaded, fried to a golden crisp, and served with a variety of house-made sauces. For a feast of fresh seafood, diners will never go wrong with Nani Kore Kani, which delivers the finest catch from Hokkaido’s waters right to your table, with each dish thoughtfully prepared to spotlight the natural qualities of the ingredients.
Those looking to indulge in meat-forward European fare will be delighted at Valhalla, located at the highest point in Niseko next to the Niseko Gondola and features a curated selection of craft beers and wines to complement its hearty menu. Finally, Omotesando Koffee draws in coffee enthusiasts with its meticulously crafted beverages, from espresso to pour-overs.
What’s more? There are all-new yatai (kiosks) scattered across Niseko-yo that emulates the lively street food culture of Japan, from rotisserie-grilled chicken at The Rotisserie, to traditional skewered yakitori carefully grilled over charcoal at Tori Tori.
Things to See
Arts and Culture Experiences
Brought to you by Niseko Tourism, embark on a mesmerising Journey Through Light and Motion and watch the pristine snow transition into a thrilling canvas of colours, lights, and movements. Wander pathways with projection illuminations that fuse traditional and contemporary elements, putting together an immersive experience that captivates the senses.
Besides that, the Ezo Artistic Odyssey presents a captivating collection of sculptures by the artist Frank Woo, celebrating Hokkaido’s rich folklore, tradition, and natural beauty. Experience the essence of the region through art with these magnificent creatures, such as Ezo Higuma, Ezo Kitakitsune, and Ezo Shimaenaga, along with their new friends Ezo Yuki Usagi, Ezo Shika, and Ezo Tanuki.
Places to Stay
For stays between 1 to 15 December 2024, Niseko Village is extending exclusive First Snow accommodation offers so that you can make the most out of your White Season holiday. Guests of all three properties will also be able to take advantage of a 15% discount on mid-range skis, boots, and poles, or mid-range snowboards and boots. Additionally, for guests, there will be a 20% discount on private ski or snowboard lessons at Niseko Village Snow School, as well as a 20% discount on the Niseko Village Lift Pass.
The Green Leaf Niseko Village
Popular due to its prime location, The Green Leaf Niseko Village fuses modern design with nature’s charm, offering various amenities such as ski-in, ski-out access, and a variety of dining options showcasing local seafood and seasonal Hokkaido produce. For a limited time only, indulge in a not-to-be-missed offer starting from JPY 26,937 nett per room per night. This offer includes accommodation for two in a Deluxe Room, daily buffet breakfast, complimentary dinner, and unlimited access to a serene onsen and thermal pool.
Kasara Niseko Village Townhouse
Kasara Niseko Village Townhouse is situated at the base of Mount Niseko Annapuri, meticulously designed to combine Japanese aesthetics with modern comforts. Integrating the principles of shibumi (an aesthetic of simple, subtle, and unobtrusive beauty), some of the amenities available at Kasara Niseko Village Townhouse comprise ski-in, ski-out access, and private onsen in selected townhouses. Enjoy a limited-time offer starting from JPY 104,340 nett per night for a luxurious 3-bedroom townhouse. The offer includes a dedicated driver on call within Niseko Village Resort from 8am to 10pm, one complimentary dinner, a concierge service, and unlimited access to the onsen and thermal pool.
Hinode Hills Niseko Village
Hinode Hills Niseko Village affords breathtaking views of Mount Yotei in a residence that celebrates natural beauty and Japanese authenticity in its interiors, comprising ski-in, ski-out apartments. Starting at JPY 29,600 nett per suite per night, guests can enjoy a limited-time offer at Hinode Hills Niseko Village with a package that encompasses a concierge service, one complimentary dinner, and unlimited access to the onsen and thermal pool.
Poised to deliver an unparalleled winter season, Niseko Village blends exceptional snow sports, diverse dining experiences, unique cultural offerings, and more. The resort continues to set the benchmark for luxury winter escapes, offering guests of all ages an unforgettable journey into the heart of Hokkaido’s winter landscape.
To learn more, visit Niseko Village’s official website or follow the world-class resort on Instagram.
Images courtesy of Niseko Village
