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Niseko

Hokkaidō is dotted with world-class ski resorts, but the reigning prince of powder is unquestionably Niseko (ニセコ). There are four interconnected resorts with more than 2000 skiable acres along the eastern side of the mountain, Niseko Annupuri. Soft and light powdery snow and an annual average snowfall of more than 50ft make Niseko extremely popular with international skiers. Many own second homes here – resulting in a diverse dining and nightlife scene that is atypical of far-flung rural Japan. English is spoken virtually everywhere. While it's possible to do Niseko on a budget, be warned that it is getting increasingly difficult, especially in winter (peak ski season).

Explore Niseko

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Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Niseko.

  • Restaurants

  • Bistro

    Musu Bar + Bistro

    Musu offers great food, sweet service, and a lovely airy dining experience, plus easily the best cocktail menu in Niseko, with treats like the Yuzu…

  • Barbecue

    Niseko Loft Club

    Down the road from the Annupuri slopes, Loft Club glitters with fairy lights and the warm, glowing promise of a filling meal washed down with beer and…

  • Italian

    Niseko Pizza

    This authentic family-run pizzeria headed by the affable Cezar does thin-crust, wood-fired pizzas with a mouth-watering variety of toppings (plus pastas…

  • Soba

    Sobadokoro Rakuichi

    Niseko's most famous noodle shop is also famously hard to find, though its secluded location (accessed via a wooden boardwalk) is a big part of the appeal…

  • American

    Ginger

    A newcomer to the Niseko scene, Ginger offers American-meets-Izakaya cuisine, with Japanese takes on burgers, steaks, salads, and so on. The orange-and…

  • Cafe

    Graubunden

    This is Niseko's original hang-out spot in Hirafu East Village, a standby with season regulars and long-time expats for its sandwiches, omelettes and…

  • Cafe

    Jojo's Café & Restaurant

    Atop the Niseko Adventure Centre (NAC), Jojo's offers typical casual fare, like burgers, filling salads, wraps and nachos. The terrace has a spot-on view…

  • Sweets

    Milk Kōbō

    On the road up to Niseko Village, this popular complex brings together a number of Hokkaidō's signature dairy products under one roof: ice cream, yoghurt,…

Top experiences

Whether it’s a guided tour of a historic landmark, private tasting of local delicacies, or an off-road adventure — explore the best experiences in Niseko.

  • Activities

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