Niseko Summer Japan
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Niseko during summer in Japan is a welcome cool reprieve from Japan’s typically oppressive summer heat and humidity.
Niseko makes the perfect summer getaway in Japan, with a whole host of activities and cultural activities to provide a memorable, uncrowded and relaxed Japanese vacation.
Experience outdoor activities like white-water rafting, tree-trekking, summer festivals, fireworks, sunflower fields and more! It’s the perfect family holiday location.
Hire a car in Niseko in summer
I highly suggest hiring a car for your summer adventure in Niseko. Everything is quite spread out and there are many attractions in towns nearby worth visiting. Please check your country’s requirements for driving in Japan before arriving as you may need an international driver’s licence!
White water rafting
Although Niseko is known as a skier’s paradise, in summer, it’s a green wonderland, full of activities and glacial rivers, perfect for adventurers.
We went white-water rafting with OAC Japan and the whole family enjoyed it. The river was gentle enough that the children never felt scared and the team was really friendly.
We enjoyed jumping off the raft into the water and cooling ourselves in the beautiful Shiribetsu River. The whole experience was a lot of fun. The team even took photos of us and air-dropped them to us at the end.
The whole experience took around three hours including around an hour and a half in travel time in their air-conditioned bus.
OAC Japan also offers other activities like canyoning and hot air balloon rides.
Where to book: You can book direct with OAC Japan or you can also book with Niseko Hanazono Resort.
Cost: Approx 6,500 yen per person.
Tree-trekking
Behind the Hilton Niseko Hotel, you will find an outdoor adventure land called Pure. Here you can experience tree-trekking, zip-lining and other family activities.
At Pure, there are two different tree-trekking courses, one is more difficult and the other an easier one, which is especially good for smaller children.
We didn’t book when we visited, as it was a spontaneous decision, but I suggest you plan ahead and book if you can.
Pure also offers other activities such as a jumping castle slide, kids’ golf course and more activities such as craft, which cost extra.
The ‘super passport’ offers entry to many activities for 4,800 yen per adult and 3,800 per child. However, you can also just partake in tree-trekking separately for 2,000 yen per adult and 1,500 per child.
There aren’t a lot of food options nearby. So I suggest bringing a picnic, otherwise you can buy pretty tasty ramen from a vending machine or visit one of the restaurants in the Hilton Hotel.
There are two other tree-ropes courses in Niseko you can also try. The Hanazono Tree-trekking offers even more courses and a slightly higher price at 5,500 yen per adult and 4,500 yen per child.
The other option is the NAC Course which is bigger yet again and the highest cost of them all at 5,700 yen per adult and 4,700 yen per child. However, this is the only one also open in winter for a snowy treescape experience.
Rusutsu Resort amusement park
Rusustsu Resort is located approximately 20 minutes drive from Niseko Village and it should be on your summer activity list!
This amusement park was incredible. There were rides to suit all ages, delicious food, a fun water park, plenty of activities and best of all, there were no crowds and no lines!
I suggest you spend a whole day at this resort as there’s so much to enjoy. As it’s located in the winter ski resort town of Rusutsu, in summer, it’s a cool breezy location without the humidity.
Spend your time enjoying the various rides, (without lines!), ride the ferris wheel, take the cable-car up to the Panorama Terrace for a gorgeous view and enjoy all the flowers and greenery!
Don’t forget to enjoy a barbecue lunch then spend the afternoon at the water park!
For a full list of activities click here.
The resort also offers a barbecue yakiniku lunch set which is a lot of fun, although it gets very hot in there!
You can order the yakiniku buffet with pork, lamb, chicken, vegetables, noodles and rice for 3,400 yen per adult and 2,040 yen per elementary student. You can also order your favourites separately.
Rusutsu Resort also offers some great accommodation options also including a camping experience where absolutely everything is provided, including your tent and food!
Rusutsu Resort amusement park cost: Adults 7,000 yen (or 6,000 if ordered online), children from 1,700 – 6,400 depending on age.
Hanazono Art Light Installation Mountain
During the summer-time in Niseko the Hanazono Resort offers a Mount Yotei art installation event. This is a great night-time activity for families, especially if you’re staying on the Hanazono side of Niseko. It’s located right behind the Park Hyatt Hanazono Hotel.
Cost: Adults 3,500 yen, children 1,600 yen
Where to book: Book online at Klook
Summer festivals near Niseko
Summer is full of festivals in Japan and Niseko hosts some fantastic matsuri! Check the Niseko matsuri calendar and line up your trip with one of the many wonderful summer events happening.
Kutchan Jaga (Potato) Festival
We were lucky enough to be in Niseko during the Kutchan Potato Festival and we loved it! It’s held in early August.
Unlike Tokyo summer festivals that are generally crowded, humid and sticky, the Niseko festivals are uncrowded and a comfortable temperature.
We were even invited to take part in the taiko drumming show and the kids had so much fun joining in!
Access: The Kutchan Potato Festival is held on Ekimae Dori in Kutchan, directly opposite the Kutchan train station.
Cost: Entry to the festival is free, however have some cash on hand for matsuri games, to buy the kids some festivals masks, potato on a stick, beer or whatever makes you happy!
Fireworks
During summer on select days you can experience fireworks at Hanazono. Check the schedule to plan a typical Japanese summer activity, fireworks!
Other festivals
There are many other festivals in and around Niseko in summer such as the Niko Niko Summer Festival, usually around mid-July; the Mountain Lights and Fire Goddess Performance; Niseko Hirafu Green Park and Hirafu Festival.
Sunflowers and dairy products
There is a gorgeous sunflower field at Niseko Takahashi Dairy Farm, perfect for taking pictures in front of Mount Yotei.
The dairy farm also includes a delicious woodfired pizza restaurant with incredible views, a gift shop and store called Milk Kobo selling dairy goods and ice cream.
Famous Hokkaido dairy products
Hokkaido is famous for its delicious dairy products and it’s where more than half of Japan’s dairy originates. Hokkaido provides the perfect environment for relaxed cows with fresh air and green pastures.
Attractions close by Niseko
Swimming at Shakotan Peninsula
The Shakotan Peninsula is a great place to go swimming in the ocean and we found this lovely beach at the Nozuka campsite.
The water was a perfect temperature and we spent a few hours enjoying the beach and swimming in the sea. There were a few waves and there aren’t any lifeguards so be careful.
There is a toilet block nearby, but no showers. We did find an undercover barbecue area with a hose with could rinse off with however.
You can also swim at the Shimamui Coast (rocky beach) after the pedestrian tunnel or Nozuka campground for a sandy beach.
Shakotan Peninsula
The very beautiful and incredibly windy Shakotan Peninsula is a must-see while in the area. The day we visited, the walk out to Cape Kamui was closed due to heavy winds, but we still enjoyed a great view from the main track.
The sign does say ‘women are forbidden’ in Japanese, but it’s referencing a legend and is not applicable today.
The walk up the hill is quite long and steep, so kids might complain, but it’s a beautiful sight. We did have to be careful not to get blown away.
The Shakotan Peninsula is also known for many water activities, so if you wish, spend a day here kayaking at the blue cave, diving if you have a Padi certification or just enjoying the beautiful coastline.
Cost: Free
Access: The Shakotan Peninsula is around 1 hour and 30 minutes drive from Niseko
Nikka Whiskey Yoichi Distillery
Nikka Whiskey is one of Japan’s top whiskey makers. It has accumulated many awards and is known as one of the best single-malt whiskies in the world.
Their main distillery is based in Yoichi near Otaru. This site was chosen because of its rich peat, clear water and a climate similar to Scotland’s.
The founder, Taketsuru Masataka is referred to as the father of Japanese whiskey. He studied the craft in Scotland before bringing it to Japan. Initially, he created the Yamazaki Distillery near Kyoto, then created Nikka Whiskey in Hokkaido in 1934.
The distillery offers interesting guided tours around some of the original brick buildings in Japanese. However, they do hold up signs explaining everything in English. Children are welcome, however, you must book in advance.
Nikka Whiskey Yoichi Distillery tour
The majority of this tour is held outside looking into buildings so I suggest bringing hats and umbrellas to shield you from the hot sun in summer.
The tour ends in a tasting room where non-drivers can taste whiskey in all forms from raw to ready!
There is also an interesting whiskey museum on the distillery grounds with pictures of Taketsuru Masataka and his Scottish wife. The gift shop is worth visiting and they sell the very famous Salty and Peaty Single Malt, however, they restrict sales of this one type to one per adult.
No tasting and driving
When you arrive for the tour, they will ask who is driving and that person will receive a badge to wear. This ensures you are not served any whiskey during the tour.
For the kids
A Whiskey distillery may not be a kids’ dream destination, however, Nikka does have a cute stamp treasure hunt for kids. At different locations around the distillery, kids can overlay stamps to create a cute scene of the distillery.
How to make distillery tour reservation: Reservations will be open on the 15th of every month for the following month, then call +81 (0)135-23-3131 (Japanese only) or visit the reservation webpage.
Access: The Nikka Whiskey Distillery is located around 1 hour and 5 minutes driving from Niseko
Otaru Canal Town and boat ride
Otaru Blue Cave Tour
Off the coast of the famous canal town Otaru, you can find a beautiful blue water cave. Apparently…! Unfortunately, the day we went, the seas were a little too rough to visit the cave.
However our friendly guide took us out in the glass bottom boat anyway and we enjoyed cruising around the harbour, watching seagulls and even holding some alive sea urchins and starfish before releasing back to the sea.
Despite not seeing the blue cave, we still had a wonderful day and our ship captain was so kind and helpful. The kids especially enjoyed the experience.
How to book: We booked directly through Blue Grotto Glass Bottom Boat tours. They only communicated in Japanese so have your translation ready if you need it. Otherwise, you can book a Blue Cave tour with fishing experience included through Klook in English.
Access: Shukutsu Marina, Otaru is around 1 hour and 30 minutes from Niseko driving.
Address: Hokkaido, Otaru-shi, Shukutsu 3-chome 197
We also visited the famous canal city of Otaru after the tour and I was surprised how humid and sticky it was here compared to the cool mountains of Niseko.
Hokkaido is still humid in summer!
I imagined that just being in Hokkaido in summer would mean it would be cool everywhere. However, the coastal city of Otaru and even Sapporo were still surprisingly humid in August. It was a stark contrast between the cool mountains of Niseko.
So I suggest basing yourself in Niseko or Rusutsu, somewhere in a mountain area then driving to nearby attractions where you can escape if it’s too hot and uncomfortable.
We explored the very cute glass shops where they offer glass-making and decorating activities. As we didn’t book in advance, unfortunately we missed out. I suggest arriving here early, putting your name down for a time to come back and then exploring the city until it’s your time.
There is also a beautiful stained glass museum in Otaru featuring works from England from old churches. It’s a good idea to visit to escape the heat!
Another option is to visit the famous music box museum in Otaru. It was on my list however, the family voted against walking the 15 minutes to the museum in the heat.
My tips: If you visit Otaru in summer, have a plan for the city which involves plenty of indoor time. I wish I had planned for that because it was very uncomfortable wandering the streets in August.
Otaru is also famous for sea urchin (uni)! Definitely try uni when you are in this city. You can buy a sample from small street vendors if you want a taste at a very affordable price.
If you love cheesecake, visit the famous Le Tao cheesecake. If you’re a fried chicken fan, try some delicious fried chicken from Naruto Chicken. Order this from a vending machine outside.
Lake Shikotsu
Lake Shikotsu is the second deepest and clearest lake in Japan! It is also apparently Japan’s farthest north open water lake.
Lake Shikotsu is probably best known for its winter ice festival, however in summer it’s a picturesque dream. It’s surrounded by gorgeous mountains and the colour of the water is mesmerising.
There is also a bird sanctuary and volcano museum nearby to enjoy. Kayaking on the clear water is a popular activity at Lake Shikotsu. We didn’t have time, but I’d love to next time we’re in Hokkaido.
Address: Shikotsuko Onsen, Chitose City, Hokkaido
Access: Lake Shikotsu is a 1 hour 40 minute drive from Niseko, or a 48 minute drive from New Chitose airport. There is plenty of parking near the information centre.
Melons
Hokkaido melons are famous and usually quite expensive, so they are a must-indulge when visiting in summer. These melons are exported all over Japan from this beautiful prefecture and they are the sweetest, most delicious melons you will ever taste!
I bought some boxes of melons from the roadside stand at Sato Fruits and Vegetables at Kyowa. The staff were extra helpful and helped me fill out delivery forms to have boxes sent to my relatives in Japan.
They also had a variety of vegetables and a restroom next door if you’re road-tripping around Hokkaido.
As you can see from the prices in the photos, they are great value compared to buying them in Tokyo for example where prices can soar.
Other options
I had a few more activities on my list, but we ran out of time, but I will include them for you to investigate!
Noribetsu Onsen town has mineral-rich waters and their hot springs are considered in the top 10 in Japan.
It’s also known as Hell Valley because of its steaming landscape. Most baths here have day-use access so this could be a great day trip from Niseko at around 1 and a half hour’s drive.
Jidai Village, is an Edo-themed amusement park close to Noribetsu Onsen and it looks like great fun for the family. You can dress as ninja or samurai, play Edo games, learn the ways of the ninja and more.
Lake Toya is another one of Hokkaido’s beautiful lakes with an active volcano Mount Usu close by. This volcano last erupted in the year 2000. For activities in this area, consider hiring kayaks at LakeHouse.
Where to eat in Niseko
There are so many great places to eat in Niseko and the surrounding area. For this list, I have focused on restaurants that support large groups and families, as these are often the most difficult to find.
Book restaurants in advance
When travelling in Japan with families and larger groups, I do suggest booking all restaurants in advance where possible.
Restaurant Lupicia
This atmospheric restaurant has a lot to offer. It has casual day-time outdoor/indoor dining and a bakery and fine-dining option for the evening. They can seat large groups and can even amend menu items for picky kids (this is not common in Japan!)
Indulge in delicious steak, pork and fish dishes and they also have an array of tasty salads and pasta dishes too.
The restaurant is located on a large grassy area, perfect for kids, with a gorgeous garden full of flowers in summer. There is parking directly adjacent, making it a great family spot to grab a bite.
They also offer events and a free drop-off, pick-up service if you fancy some wine with your meal!
Tourists also receive an 8% discount if they show their passport!
Cost: Lunch set menu is 2,800 yen. For dinner, pasta dishes are around 1,800 yen and steak dishes around 3,800 yen.
Access: 3 minutes driving from Niseko Gran Hirafu (Approx.1.7km), 10 minutes driving from Niseko Village (Approx. 5km), * Free parking available
Transportation service available
Complimentary pick-up and drop-off service is available for our dinner guests staying in Hirafu area. Please request the service upon making dinner reservation.
Address: 58-5 Aza Kabayama, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido
How to book: book directly on their website.
Dainimon Yakiniku, Kutchan
This restaurant Dainimon or 焼肉大仁門 倶知安店 in Kutchan has the most delicious yakiniku from the top tier A5 Chateau Briand for around 4,500 yen per plate to beef ribs and even tongue.
They also offer rice dishes, kimchi and more. The staff were extremely friendly and the kids enjoyed the experience of cooking their own dinner over the fire.
Cost: A wagyu platter is 6,500 yen or you can order individual plates from 700 yen to 4,500 yen.
Access: If driving you can park out the front of this restaurant.
Address: 1 Chome-1-4 Minami 3 Johigashi, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0013
How to book: You must make a booking here with a large group. The only way to book is to call, so I suggest asking your hotel if you cannot speak Japanese so they can book for you.
Call: 0136 232 929
Him Kee Niseko Hot Pot
Him Kee Niseko Hot Pot (temporarily closed) is a wonderfully delicious Hong Kong hot pot restaurant near Hirafu.
They offer platter sets with sumptuous seafood and many different types of meats and vegetables.
This is another great dinner option for kids as they enjoy choosing the things they like to add to the hot pot and cooking it themselves.
Address: Shop A, 2/F, 72-1 Nisekohirafu 5 Jo, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0086, Japan
Access: There is free parking directly underneath the restaurant
How to book: Check Google Maps to see if the restaurant has reopened, then email [email protected]
Niseko Pizza
Niseko Pizza has the most mouth-watering, delicious wood-fired pizza. The kids absolutely loved this restaurant and gobbled down the pizza without any complaints!
The restaurant is not huge however, so definitely book a table by calling 0136 556 655.
Address: 1 Chome-1-14 Minami 6 Johigashi, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0016
How to book: Call 0136 556 655, you may need the hotel to book for you if you can’t speak Japanese.
Where to stay in Niseko
The Hilton Niseko Hotel is a large family-friendly hotel located on a golf course in quiet part of Niseko. This hotel hosts Pure Adventureland and has a very cute Ghibli-esque restaurant quarter located directly behind it.
The Park Hyatt Hanazono Hotel is a gorgeous hotel located on the Kutchan side of Mount Yotei. This hotel has everything you would expect from a five-star hotel including incredible dining, the friendliest staff and more. In winter, it even offers ski-in, ski-out.
How to get to Niseko
The quickest and easiest way to get to Niseko is to fly to New Chitose airport in Hokkaido, then hire a car from there.
Driving from New Chitose to Niseko will take around two hours. However, the roads in Hokkaido are generally wide and easy to navigate.
International driver’s license
Check Japan’s requirements for you to drive before you arrive as you may need to acquire an international driver’s license before renting a car in Japan.
You can also get an overnight ferry to Hokkaido from Niigata or from Oarai (closest to Tokyo) which is what I did! An article on that coming soon!
Round up of Niseko summer Japan
Japan in summer is not something to mess around with! The temperatures and humidity soar and many people end up hospitalised from heat stroke.
If you visit Japan in summer, you have to plan to escape the heat and visiting Niseko in my opinion is the perfect way to do this, while still enjoying this incredible country.
Be prepared and plan plenty of indoor or water activities and invest in some items that may help cool you down like a neck fan which I use a lot in summer!
