We are both avid skiers with a background in competitive alpine ski racing. Thus, planning a ski vacation in Japan was a natural fit for us. We’ve had the pleasure of visiting Niseko on multiple occasions, and we highly recommend Niseko Village Ski Resort to anyone looking to satisfy their craving for skiing in Japan. It is known for its quality powder skiing. Beyond the thrill of skiing, Niseko also offers a variety of attractions worth exploring.

For fellow skiing aficionados, our advice is simple: Don’t get bogged down by a fixed itinerary. Instead, head straight to the mountain and let the pristine, snow-covered mountains be your guide.

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Niseko

Enjoy Powder Skiing: Niseko Village Ski Resort
Get up, get on the ski wear, pick up your ski gear, and get to the lift ticket counter early morning. Niseko Hilton is located right next to the gondola to take you to the power snow-covered mountain. This mountain (Niseko United) has four different areas – Annupuri, Niseko Village, Grand Hirafu, and Hanazono. Once you go up to the mountain by the gondola, you have access to all four areas.

Lunch at Sobadokoro Rakuichi
For lunch, visit Sobadokoro Rakuichi, an acclaimed soba (buckwheat noodle) restaurant, renowned for its handcrafted noodles. Watch the fascinating process of soba-making and enjoy a meal that is both simple and extraordinarily flavorful. The restaurant’s rustic setting and the chef’s dedication to the art of soba create a truly authentic and memorable dining experience.

Niseko Distillery
In the evening, head to the Niseko Distillery, a newly opened by the renowned Hakkaisan sake brewery company. Here, you’ll delve into the world of Japanese whisky and gin. The distillery tour offers an insightful peek into the meticulous process of spirit-making, from fermentation to aging. Taste a selection of their finest whiskies, appreciating the unique flavors influenced by the local climate and terroir. The distillery’s beautiful setting and the warm hospitality of the staff make this experience both educational and enjoyable.

Milk Kobo
Conclude your day with a visit to Milk Kobo, a delightful dairy farm known for its fresh, creamy products. Indulge in their famous ice cream, cheese tarts, and other dairy delights, all made with milk from their own cows. The farm’s picturesque setting and the joy of tasting fresh dairy products straight from the source make this a unique and delightful experience.

Day 2: A Journey Through Flavors and History

Yoichi Distillery
Day two takes you to the renowned Yoichi Distillery, a 1.5-hour drive or 2-hour train ride from Niseko. This distillery is steeped in history, known for producing some of Japan’s most acclaimed whiskies. The tour here is a journey through time, highlighting the legacy of its founder and the evolution of Japanese whisky. Explore the old stone buildings and witness the traditional distilling methods still in use. The tasting session is a highlight, allowing you to savor whiskies with distinct character and richness.

Kamimura for Dinner
Conclude your Niseko adventure with a sumptuous dinner at Kamimura, a Michelin-starred restaurant. This intimate dining establishment offers an exquisite fusion of Japanese and Western cuisines, crafted by the renowned chef Yuichi Kamimura. Each dish is a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavors showcasing local produce. The restaurant’s elegant setting and impeccable service provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable culinary experience, a fitting end to your two-day exploration of Niseko.