Niseko Area

The Niseko Sensory Experience

The greater Hokkaido region is not only famous for its ski areas, but also its sensory delights. All of the local produce is virtually organic as the soil is rich and the climate ideal for growing in the warmer months. Indulge your tastebuds in fresh seafood, local beers, chocolate, and ramen noodles. Make sure you stop into Hanazono 308 for the famous Niseko signature dish of Kani Rahmen and a superb cup of coffee.

Out & About in Niseko 

The greater Niseko Ski Area is surrounded by a number of small towns, these include the township of Niseko itself, Kutchan, and the bustling resort village of Hirafu.

Until the exciting development of Hanazono is under way, Hirafu provides the greatest range of accommodation and services for International and Japanese guests.

Accommodation in the town of Hirafu includes fully catered pensions, self-contained apartments and slope side Hotels.

The township of Hirafu or Hanazono is only a short 10-minute bus trip to the nearby town of Kutchan where you will find more shopping, traditional Japanese eating, and some great Karaoke bars.

Relax in the famous Onsen natural hot springs, and during February, experience the visual spectacular of The Sapporo Ice Festival.

Restaurants & Bars

Niseko offers a wide selection of dining experiences including Izakayas, Yakitori & Sushi restaurants, ramen shops, pizza houses, Western/Japanese fusion, hamburgers and curry places. Prices are about average by Japanese standards and provide great value for international guests.

There are bars for all occasions, from the quaint to the obscure, such as Gyu which boasts a small “coke-fridge” door as its entrance; Wild Bills for the party goers or the new Irish Pub, Paddy McGinty’s.

The Japanese enjoy a party so there is always plenty happening around town for those who are not too weary after a day in the powder.

Kutchan Town 

Kutchan Town is the closest town to the village of Hirafu and Hanazono with a population of approximately 16,000 people.

The town offers a wide range of cultural activities, dining, bars, Karaoke, supermarkets and shops.

Kutchan is a must for those seeking true Japanese dining and Karaoke Bars.

There is a bus service that leaves outside of Seiko Mart (timetable posted) and will take you to the heart of Kutchan – it is free after 6pm.

A taxi will get you home during the late hours.
Kutchan Ekimae Park

Experience the best tasting spring water in Japan and possibly the world, straight from the majestic Mt Yotei. The Park also includes a number of monuments beautifully illuminated at night.

Activities

There are a wide variety of classes and activities available in the region including pottery, glass crafts, traditional Japanese craft work, tolepainting, plant dying, wreath making, beer brewing or cooking (making jams, smoked goods, ham and sausages, ice cream, butter, soba, cake and breads).

Onsen—A Hokkaido Specialty

Onsens are natural thermal hot springs that seep from deep within the earth, providing steaming hot water that flows into large outdoor and indoor pools.

Niseko is a famous destination for Onsen lovers, and there is no better way to finish your day on the slopes. There are many hot springs in the Niseko and surrounding region, each with a different view of the amazing landscape and all offering unique experiences.

We recommend:

Yukoro Onsen – see some video footage from skihanazono.com PTV on Onsen etiquette
Hanazono Onsen Resort & Niseko Weiss Onsen
Hirafutei Onsen Resort
Alpen Hotel Onsen
J First Hotel Onsen
Poporo Onsen – Scott Hotel
Niseko Grand Hotel
Goshiki Onsen Resort
Yamada Onsen Hotel
Niseko Annupuri Hotel Onsen
Niseko Higashiyama Hotel
Chichibu Hotel – Yumoto hot-spring village