Those fortunate enough to experience Niseko in winter, understand that a single visit is never enough. If it isn't for the allure of pristine powder, it's the delicious food, culture, and exquisite views. This sentiment is especially true for the upcoming winter in 2024/2025. With a new gondola, an array of restaurants for you to enjoy, and the promise of a La Nina weather pattern, we are looking forward to another memorable winter.
A brand new gondola for Grand Hirafu
Returning visitors now have a place in Niseko's history as Japan's oldest quad lift, Ace Quad #2 Center Four, wrapped up its 38-year tenure at the end of the previous season. Since its launch in 1985, the beloved 'Center Four' chairlift has ferried over 25 million skiers and snowboarders from .Dot Base in Grand Hirafu, offering scenic rides over skiers below. Although the Center Four is no longer in operation, its legacy lives on through a charity auction that saw 33 chairs mostly snapped up by local businesses and individuals. Many of these chairs have found new homes in local stores or yards, so keep an eye out to spot them.
Meanwhile, the .Dot Base ski area is undergoing a significant transformation to make room for Grand Hirafu's new 10-person gondola, slated to debut in the 24/25 season. This state-of-the-art gondola is set to carry nearly double the number of visitors per hour, providing a substantial upgrade for quicker access to the slopes. Riders in the upcoming season can anticipate modern amenities like heated seats and Wi-Fi, all while enjoying panoramic views. Moreover, the addition of a bike rack caters to summer mountain biking activities, further enhancing Niseko's appeal as a year-round destination.
60 new venues in the Niseko region
Towards the end of 2023, approximately 60 new dining establishments welcomed guests for the first full winter post COVID-19, broadening the array of culinary experiences for future visits. While returning guests may have naturally gravitated towards their beloved favorites such as Koharuya, Rakuichi Soba, and Bang Bang, here are a few fresh venues we suggest exploring in the upcoming season:
Serving A5 wagyu beef and fresh, local seafood, enjoy grilling your own meal over a hot plate, Japanese style! A fun and engaging way to enjoy dinner, Kuroushiya offers 3 different course menus for you to choose from. Welcoming kids and larger groups, this is the perfect venue for the entire family.
Located in central Hirafu, Dan restaurant specialises in a traditional omakase dinner course. Now known for their selective wine pairings and Japanese sake, Dan serves a slice of Japanese culture that will unfold at the hands of an experienced chef right before your eyes.
As one of the most requested meal types in Niseko, we are happy to share the recent opening of Shabu Shabu Mori. As an outpost of an already renowned restaurant in Hong Kong, Mori offers a culinary journey including premium beef, pork, and seafood for you to indulge in. We recommend bringing a group and reserving one of their private dining spaces for the ultimate experience.
Offering an intimate omakase experience and led by a local chef, Rikka is a hidden gem located in Kutchan. Providing seasonal course menus, as well as a kids menu, enjoy a family night out in the local town for a more authentic, cultural experience.
An old favourite in a new location. Originally opened in 2014, Toshiro's is a whisky and cocktail bar famously run by a seasoned barman turned bar owner, and Lady of the House traditionally dressed in a Japanese Kimono. Having recently moved to Sansui Hotel, Toshiro's bar is an experience that comes highly recommended.
Weather phenomenon forecast for 2024
Since early 2023, the globe has experienced an El Niño weather phenomenon, resulting in elevated temperatures worldwide. However, according to the World Meteorological Organisation, indications suggest that this warming trend is nearing its end, with a La Niña pattern set to take effect.
La Niña, characterised by cooler sea surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific Ocean, typically bodes well for snow enthusiasts. Historically, these cooler patterns have brought about significant snowfall rates, particularly in the Hokkaido region. Our most recent La Niña episode, spanning from 2020 to early 2023, led to some of the highest consecutive snowfall records since the years 2013-2015.
The Japan Meteorological Agency anticipates an increased likelihood of a La Niña weather pattern emerging in autumn 2024, bringing a cooling effect just in time for winter. With the potential for heightened snowfall in a cooler, drier climate (ideal for preserving our renowned powder!), we could anticipate an even snowier season ahead. Nevertheless, even an average winter in Niseko remains nothing short of spectacular.
New is nice, but familiarity is also important. Niseko Central will of course be back, providing more than 200 luxury properties for you to settle into. Click here to check online availability for next winter and begin planning your latest Niseko adventure.
Posted on 10 June, 2024 by Laura Melani in Niseko Central News, Niseko Life, Winter.
