Nestled in the snow-capped mountains of Hokkaido lies the most popular ski destination in Japan: Niseko, renowned for having one of the best ski conditions in the world. From December to March, tourists and luxury travelers flock to experience Niseko's powder snow paradise, its world-class tree runs, and more. With just one mountain pass, seasoned professionals and beginners can access the four ski resorts – Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village, and Annupuri – which are all operated by the Niseko United Ski Resort.

On top of the snow and its ski-adrenaline terrains, Niseko is also a great winter escape for other activities. Its high-end luxury accommodations and hotels – some just newly opened – rival those of world-class ski destinations like Aspen and Chamonix-Mont Blanc, complete with all the winter luxury.

There are also many hot springs, day spas, and outdoor baths in the city for guests to try for a relaxing afternoon and authentic tea experiences in Japanese ryokans to fully immerse in Japanese culture. And come nighttime, the ski town of Grand Hirafu has all the action with its lively bars, izakayas, and drinking spots to unwind and socialize after an adventure-filled day.

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Diverse gastronomic landscape in the Aspen of the East

What completes the winter wonderland of Niseko is its unique gastronomy and stellar local dining experiences. From Hokkaido local specialties to Michelin-starred fine dining signature dishes, Niseko has it all. One of the best things to do in Niseko is to try its most popular dish: handmade soba noodles crafted by Soba Masters directly in front of guests. These sumptuous noodles are offered in different ramen establishments.

There are a plethora of delectable cuisines to try when coming to Niseko. Here are just a few of these mouth-watering dishes:

• Hokkaido-style ramen with butter and corn

• Udon noodles with Hokkaido deep-friend “zangi” chicken

• Seasonal seafood and fish such as Pacific cod, king crab, and oysters

• Salmon Hotpot (Ishikari Nabe) with salmon, potatoes, and corn

• Hokkaido Soup Curry with different spice levels

Other things to try in Niseko:

• Kaiseki dining experiences in ryokan hotels

• Japanese and French fusion Niseko cuisine in Michelin-starred restaurants

• Local sake like Niseko Shuzo's Ezo no Homare (raw sake) and whisky

Must-visit restaurants in Niseko

At Niseko, gastronomic delights wait at every turn. These curated dining options in the main ski resorts of Niseko are a must-try for every traveler.

Kamimura

Led by star chef and owner Yuichi Kamimura, who trained in Australia under Tetsuya Wakuda in his renowned Tetsuya restaurant in Sydney, Kamimura is all Chef Yuichi's take on what Japanese-French fusion cuisine should be. Located at Chatrium Niseko Hotel, Kamimura offers fine-dining set menus using locally produced ingredients while combining the essence of Japanese and French cuisine. The result is nothing short of magical in one's taste buds. The restaurant also offers an omakase-tasting menu that's not to be missed.

Address: Ground floor of Chatrium Niseko Japan, 044-0080 Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido.​Niseko Hirafu 1-jo 3-2-3
Website: Kamimura
Reservations: TableCheck

Kitchen

The sister restaurant of Kamimura, Kitchen has been reopened this December 2023 in time for winter at Chatrium Niseko as well. Just like Kamimura, dishes are crafted using locally sourced produce in this 30-seater restaurant with stunning views of the Annupuri mountain range. Dishes are served in large portions that are meant for sharing with family or friends.

Address: Same as Kamimura
Website: Kitchen
Reservations: TableCheck

Note: The restaurant only serves dinner during wintertime

Kumo restaurant - Sky Niseko

Located at the premium Sky Niseko Hotel in Grand Hirafu which recently received the prestigious title of Japan’s Best Ski Hotel 2023 from World Ski Awards, Kumo Restaurant is the best place for guests to to start their day before heading to the slopes. While enjoying the Kumo Restaurant Buffet Breakfast, guests have the bonus of viewing Mt Yotei from the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling window. Kumo also serves lunch with a variety of local delicacies like Kumo-style chicken curry and ramen noodles cooked in a modern way. By dinner, Kumo Restaurant turns into a lively izakaya that can accommodate 190 seats where diners can sample tapa-style food, perfect for a large group.

Address: Niseko Hirafu 1-jo, 3-chome-11-4, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0080, Japan
Website: Kumo
Reservations: TableCheck

Melt, Bar and Grill

The Christmas Lunch Buffet at Melt, Bar and Grill Restaurant at the Hilton Hotel Niseko Resort includes Hokkaido meat with an extensive selection of hot dishes. It's a gastronomic feast with an array of dishes to choose from while those who opt for Western dishes can choose the Western Dinner Course – all while surrounded by a spectacular view of Mt. Yotei.

Address: Japan, 〒048-1521 Hokkaido, Abuta District, Niseko, 東山温泉
Website: Hilton Niseko Village
Reservations: TableCheck

Rakuichi Soba

Famously featured in Anthony Bourdain's No Reservations TV show, this cozy 20-seater soba restaurant is run by husband and wife team Tatsuru Rai and Midori. They serve Soba Kaiseki course menu to guests for both lunch and dinner. However, eating at a Rakuichi is like going to a performance – watching Soba master Tatsuru magically whip up soba noodles from local buckwheat flour and water completes the whole dining experience.

Note: Reservation required

Address: 431 Niseko, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun,
Hokkaido, JAPAN 048-1511
Website: Rakuichi
Reservations: TableCheck

Robata

Robata offers an array of succulent and perfectly grilled seafood creations and vegetables accompanied by the region's best sake, local beers, and international wines. Located at the Residence Tower 1F at Park Hyatt Hotel Niseko in Hanazono, it's the best restaurant to find the best winter grilled food to warm up guests on a cold day.

Address: 328-47 Iwaobetsu, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0082, Japan
Website: Park Hyatt Niseko
Reservations: TableCheck

Somoza

This 150-year-old Japanese farmhouse "Kominka" turned into a private gallery restaurant is located in the heart of the forest of Hanazon. While the view of the valley and mountains is the scene-stealer, the food is equally mesmerizing thanks to the creativity of Chef Ozeki Tatsuya who offers culinary powerhouses featuring the best of Hokkaido and Niseko's local produce cooked in French style. Guests can taste these culinary delights while being surrounded by Japanese art and antiques in the private gallery.

Note: During the winter season, 19:00 seating is mainly for the Somoza villa guests, and is only available for visitors on limited dates.

Address: ７８-5 Hanazono, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0084, Japan
Website: Somoza
Reservations: TableCheck

Sushi Kato INORI

Winner of the Best Ski Hotel in the World Ski Awards 2023, Setsu Niseko Hotel is a haven for culinary delights and unique Niseko-style wellness experiences. Sushi Kato INORI, one of its famous restaurants, is popular for its King Crab Kaiseki menus and other exquisite seafood sushi dishes. There are 6-seater sushi counter seats and a private room that can seat 8 people, making this the ultimate intimate fine dining experience in Niseko. This winter season menu 2023-2024 includes the Whole King Crab Kaiseki (an exclusive special course for counter seating) and the Premium Wagyu Sukiya Kaiseki meal.

Note: Walk-ins are available until December 2023 only (subject to availability)

Address: Japan, 〒044-0080 Hokkaido, Abuta District, Kutchan, ニセコひらふ1条 2丁目６番9号
Website: Sushi Kato
Reservations: TableCheck

The Barn by Odin

The Barn by Odin offers unforgettable bistro blended flavors throughout the winter season. Serving bistro-style cuisine amid beautiful interiors inspired by Hokkaido farm architecture, it’s a hotspot for après ski dining with Wagyu beef rump cooked in Japanese red wine or crispy duck breast in orange and blackcurrant jus as main courses. Meanwhile, appetizers like Wagyu sushi and paté de campagne as just some of the wide array of appetizers on offer.

Address: 170-323 Nisekohirafu 2 Jo, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0089, Japan
Website: https://www.nisekobarn.com/en
Reservations: TableCheck

Teppan

Another Park Hyatt Niseko's stellar restaurant, Teppan interprets Japanese traditional teppan menus with a French twist. Hokkaido Live Abalone in smoked soy sauce and butter, and Shiraoi Wagyu Beef Sirloin are just some of the mouthwatering dishes included in Teppan's set menus served in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Address: 328-47 Iwaobetsu, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0082, Japan
Website: Park Hyatt Niseko
Reservations: TableCheck