Deep Winter Rhythm
As winter reaches its midpoint, Niseko is fully shaped by snow. The mountains hold deep coverage, daily life moves to a steady winter cadence, and visitors expeirience the season at its most complete. Days revolve around time on the slopes, while nights slow down with food, onsen, and rest.
Chef's Winter Menu Week: Must-Try Restaurants
Four restaurants across Niseko are showcasing what winter cooking means to them. Each has crafted a menu that tells a story—whether it's multi-course kaiseki that follows the season from sea to mountain, or a three-dish set centered around a single perfect ingredient.
MASONRY.
The ski-in, ski-out restaurant at Niseko Kyo, brings Mediterranean flavors cooked over Japanese charcoal, showcasing Hokkaido's finest produce. Expect a curated wine list, handcrafted cocktails, upbeat dining room at the heart of Hirafu.
Wagyu & Seafood Niseko Naniwatei
Experience the taste of Hokkaido with creative Japanese cuisine featuring Wagyu and seafood. Enjoy a semi-live multi-course dinner, or visit them at lunchtime for their Tonkatsu, Chicken Katsu, and Katsu Sandwiches.
THE WAGYU
Japanese Wagyu grilled on crystal stones. Experience the pure flavor and delicate texture of authentic red meat
Delsole Niseko
Indulge in 18 years of authentic Italian flavor. The pizzas are crafted with fresh dough and baked in a stone oven, offering a truly unforgettable experience.
After a day on the slopes, Niseko’s izakayas come alive. Locals and visitors sit side by side at the counter, sharing stories from the day and talking about the snow forecast for tomorrow.
Grilled skewers arrive one after another, beer and sake are poured freely, and conversations drift easily from one table to the next. Tucked along Hirafu’s side streets, glowing warmly in Kutchan, or quietly humming in Annupuri, these izakayas offer a relaxed way to enjoy a classic Japanese night after skiing.
Locals’ Tip: Don't plan too much. Just step inside, take a seat, and let the evening unfold.
GOGYO - Powered by IPPUDO
RAMEN DAYS, IZAKAYA NIGHTS. GOGYO embraces Ippudo's signature Hakata Tonkotsu ramen by day, shifting to a laid-back izakaya by night, showcasing a harmonious culinary shift.
¥1,500–¥15,000
Izakaya Koharuya
Boasting tasty dishes made with carefully selected ingredients from Hokkaido, beautifully prepared by the owner-chef. One visit will prove why locals come here to dine.
¥4,000–¥5,000
YAOYA NISEKO
A hugely popular yakitori izakaya restaurant from Tokyo makes its long-awaited Niseko debut. Enjoy authentic Japanese nightlife with seasonal set courses and casual à la carte dishes in a lively atmosphere.
¥8,800~
Ski Passes & Lift Access 101
Niseko United connects four resorts—Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village,
and Annupuri—across one mountain, all accessible with a single pass.
Niseko United All Mountain Ticket
Niseko United Season Pass
Where to Purchase
Lift and season passes can be purchased from the Lift Ticket Counters of four resorts of Niseko United or online. Moiwa Resort tickets are available at the resort center.
Locals’ Tip
Buy online before you arrive—it's faster and often discounted. All Mountain passes let you follow the snow and explore different terrain each day.
Dining Reservations: What You Need to Know
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How to Book
- 5-7 days ahead, especially for weekends
- Hotel concierges can help secure tables
- Some izakayas take walk-ins, but expect to wait
Locals’ Tip
- Lunch reservations are easier with the same quality
- Weeknight tables open up more readily than weekends
- Omakase and kaiseki require advance booking
Upcoming Events
Yukitopia Snow Festival 2026
A winter event in Kutchan Town featuring snow sculptures, play areas, and local food stalls. It offers a friendly, community-driven atmosphere and a lively way to enjoy the winter season.
Rhythm Rail Jam
Niseko’s largest winter snow festival brings together a high-energy jib competition and live music at Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu. With world-class course design developed in collaboration with the team behind Swatch Nines, it delivers a visually striking experience with a strong international edge.
