Summer fun in Niseko

Niseko is best known as Japan’s powder playground, but you don’t need to be a winter sports enthusiast to enjoy the charms of this beautiful region located in the mountainous north of Hokkaido. The alpine scenery makes a sensational backdrop for all kinds of summer activities from hiking to kayaking to horse riding to hot air ballooning.

Plum trees and Lake Toya and Mt.Yotei

Soak up the scenery

As the snow melts the landscape explodes with wildflowers making Niseko a perfect base for hiking and biking. Enjoy the crisp clean air as you ramble across the moors or climb Mount Yotei to enjoy a 360-degree panorama from the trail that winds around the caldera.

Sekka Ni 3 - Fabulous view of the living and dining area

Quiet country lanes are ideal for family biking, while cycling enthusiasts can access exhilarating downhill mountain trails via gondola. Golfers will be thrilled to know that Niseko has some renowned courses to choose from, including Niseko Village Golf Course, which was named Japan’s Best Golf Course at the World Golf Awards in 2014.  For those who like to enjoy the scenery in a more prone position, and enjoy a touch of Japanese culture in the process, Niseko has some beautiful onsen (hot springs) in various scenic locations.

Japanese onsen

Fun on the water

Picturesque lakes and rivers make freshwater fishing, kayaking, canyoning and rafting popular summer pastimes. Shiribetsu River offers some of the best rafting in Asia and you can expect stunning alpine scenery and crystal clear water. Alternatively, head to the nearby Shaoktan Peninsula where sea kayaking reveals a magical ocean colour known as “Shakotan blue.”

kayaking background

Fun for all the family

Tree top adventures and the longest zip line in Japan are just one of the drawcards at Pure at Niseko Village – a  nature activity centre and great all-round family destination. This is also the place for horse riding, exhilarating hot air balloons rides and cycling. ‘Pure’ Adventure is the parks newest attraction and has proved a huge hit thanks to its inflatable playground filled with mazes and slides. 

Family experiencing horse riding

Food and festivals

Niseko has grown a formidable dining scene in recent years, with the paddock to plate philosophy embraced by restaurants and cafes. Head to Niseko Green Farm to pick your own vegetables and build a pizza which will be cooked in the woodfire oven. Head out to discover local specialities like Kaisen Don – a hot rice bowl topped with sushi and sashimi, Hokkaido Ramen, and the famous Hokkaido soft serve ice cream.

Ramen

Or enjoy a unique in-chalet dining experience such as a seafood and wagyu dinner prepared by a private chef. With Niseko Gourmet private catering service, you can share an amazing in-house dining experience with your family and friends without leaving the comfort of your own accommodation. A Niseko Gourmet Host and Private Chef will come to you, arrange the setting, prepare and serve you incredible dishes, and clean everything away so that you can relax and enjoy the experience.

Traditional Japanese food Sushi

Summer is also festival season, known as Matsuri, every town has its own themed festival, often based around food, as the region is renowned for excellent fresh produce. Hirafu Matsuri takes place in August with festivities including great music, food and fireworks. If you happen to be around in October don’t miss the three-day Konpira Temple Festival, best known for its firewalking. 

Fireworks

Book and secure one of our Japan chalets to make the most of your Niseko Summer escape.