7 must-try off-slope activities to enjoy in Niseko this winter

You don't have to be a skier or snowboarder to enjoy Niseko in winter. There's plenty of exciting activities to experience. Whether you're looking for a thrilling adventure or a relaxing day in the snow, we have compiled a list of our favourite off-slope activities for you to try during your holiday.

You may have already heard of the Sapporo Snow Festival, which is held annually in February, but did you know that there's a snow festival held in Niseko too?

Kutchan's Yukitopia Snow Festival is a must-see for all ages, offering an exciting range of snow-filled fun and games. Just a 15-minute drive away from Skye Niseko, you can explore the many attractions, from snow sculptures to snow-themed activities like the mid-winter mascot pond skim.

If you're visiting us in Mid-February, be sure not to miss the unique atmosphere and festivities that make this festival so special.

Dates: Saturday 18 February - Sunday 19 February, 2023

Location: The Asahigaoka Ski Hill in Kutchan Town

Timetable of events: View all of the events and plan your visit here

No trip to Niseko is complete without visiting an onsen hot spring, and at Skye Niseko, you don't even have to leave the hotel to do so.

Our mineral-rich onsen baths draw water from nearby thermal streams to create a luxurious and soothing bathing experience, available exclusively to our guests.

For added privacy, we offer a Private Onsen which can be booked free of charge and conveniently via our in-room tablets or at the Front Desk.

Due to Niseko’s location, much of the seafood served in this region is taken from the northern seas, and is known throughout the country as some of the finest Japan has to offer.

Want to sample some delicious local seafood dishes? You can try Hokkaido-famous Horsehair Crab, or grilled Scallops at Kumo Restaurant, conveniently located on L1 of Skye Niseko.

Want to browse other local seafood options? There's no better place to look than Experience Niseko's 2022-23 Eats Magazine, highlighting the best food on offer in both Hirafu and Kutchan. A free magazine will be given to our guests on check in, You can also access the magazine online for free here.

Cruise through the expansive snowfields of Niseko and be awestruck by the breathtaking views. Snowmobiling is an exhilarating way to experience the majestic beauty of the local landscape and to feel the thrill of the snow off the slopes.

Feel the wind and snow whip around you as you speed across the snow-covered terrain, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding area. Revel in the excitement of the ride as you explore the winter wonderland around you.

Our friendly concierge team is available to help you book the perfect private or group tour for your needs.

Attracting visitors from all corners of the globe with legendary powder snow, Niseko is the ideal destination for après-ski.

With many restaurants and bars offering an array of drinks, it can be difficult to decide on just one (or a few) for the afternoon or evening. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to relax with a hot cocoa or a lively bar to enjoy a cold beer, Niseko has something for all tastes.

Why not start your Après-ski adventure at Skye Café Deli? Open until 6 PM and with a mix of local beer, whisky, sake and non alcoholic drinks on offer, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

If you're a beer lover, be sure to try a nice chilled glass of Sapporo Classic, only available for purchase within Hokkaido!

Are you feeling a little off-balance after a day of adventure? Rejuvenate and restore your mind, body, and spirit with Ryko Spa's Float Tank Experience, located on Level 1 of Skye Niseko.

This is the first of its kind in Hokkaido, and it uses local mountain spring water filled with mineral salts that make you effortlessly float. This allows you to completely let go of any muscular effort, allowing you to drift into a peaceful state of mind.

If floating isn't your thing, Ryko Spa offers a range of other services to restore and refresh the mind, body, and spirit. These include invigorating massages, facials, and full body treatments using premium skincare. Guests can conveniently book any session at Ryko Spa from their in-room tablet.

Niseko's stunning landscape provides the ideal backdrop to channel your inner photographer and capture that perfect shot.

From breathtaking Mt. Yotei, also known as Ezo-Fuji, an iconic symbol of Niseko with its unique and photogenic shape, to the snow-covered trees, there are countless opportunities to snap pictures that will surely make your friends and family back home very jealous that they didn't join you on your trip.

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Whatever you're into, there's something to thrill, inspire, and entertain everyone this season, both on and off the slopes in Niseko. Please contact our reservations team if you'd like to book a stay at Skye Niseko. We hope to greet you at our winter wonderland soon.