SNOW & FLOWER COUNTRY
Niseko, Rusutsu, and Furano form the heart of Hokkaido’s natural splendor, world-renowned for their exceptional powder snow in winter and their vibrant floral landscapes in summer. It’s a dynamic destination that seamlessly transitions from thrilling alpine adventures to serene, colorful beauty.
This combined region is an alpine dream, offering some of the planet’s driest, deepest snow, alongside the iconic, rolling fields of lavender and sunflowers. It is the ultimate year-round destination for nature enthusiasts and active travelers.
Most Popular Attractions
Winter Sports & Alpine Thrills:
Niseko United (Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Annupuri, Niseko Village): One of the world’s most famous ski resorts, renowned for its champagne powder snow, extensive terrain, and vibrant village atmosphere.
Rusutsu Resort: A comprehensive winter resort offering excellent tree skiing, long, quiet pistes, and a fun amusement park area open in summer.
Furano Ski Resort: A more family-friendly, centrally-located resort with stunning views of the Daisetsuzan Mountains and excellent snow quality.
Mount Yotei: Often called “Hokkaido Fuji,” this majestic, perfectly conical volcano is a stunning backdrop for the Niseko area and a popular backcountry destination.
Niseko Backcountry Gates: Marked access points to some of the world’s best and most accessible off-piste skiing and snowboarding.
Niseko Gondola & Lift Systems: Offering year-round access to the mountain summits for both skiing/snowboarding and summer sightseeing.
Natural Beauty & Scenic Views:
Farm Tomita (Furano): Japan’s most iconic lavender farm, featuring vast, beautiful, multi-colored flower fields that bloom spectacularly in mid-summer.
Shikisai no Oka (Biei/Furano area): A panoramic flower garden with rolling hills painted by seasonal flowers, including tulips, lavender, and sunflowers.
Blue Pond (Aoiike – Biei/Furano area): A strikingly turquoise pond whose color is the result of natural mineral deposits, surrounded by submerged, petrified larch trees.
Shiragane Falls (Furano area): A dramatic waterfall flowing into the Biei River, known for its blue-tinted water and mist.
Lake Toya (near Rusutsu): A large, beautiful volcanic caldera lake with a central island, offering cruise boats and spectacular fireworks displays in summer.
Shakotan Peninsula Coastline: Famous for its dramatic cliffs and the crystal-clear “Shakotan Blue” ocean color (accessible as a day trip).
Fukidashi Park (Kyogoku): A spot famous for its pure natural spring water sourced from the slopes of Mount Yotei.
Culture & Local Experiences:
Niseko Milk Kobo: A popular dairy farm and cafe serving fresh milk, delicious pastries, and the region’s famous soft-serve ice cream.
Otaru Canal: A historic, picturesque canal lined with stone warehouses and gas street lamps (accessible as a day trip from Niseko).
Sake Breweries in Otaru/Yoichi: Including the Tanaka Shuzo Kikkogura brewery in Otaru, offering tours and tastings of local sake and liqueurs.
Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery: The original distillery of the renowned Nikka Whisky, offering tours and tastings in an atmospheric, historic setting.
Onsen (Hot Springs) Experiences: Numerous natural hot springs, such as Goshiki Onsen (Niseko) and Koganeyu Onsen (near Sapporo/Rusutsu), perfect for post-ski relaxation.
Farm Restaurants & Cafes: Dining experiences that feature Hokkaido’s incredibly fresh produce, dairy, and local ingredients, prevalent throughout Furano.
Roadside Stations (Michi-no-Eki): Stops like Michi-no-Eki Niseko View Plaza, offering local produce, handmade crafts, and snacks.
Ningle Terrace (Furano): A charming collection of rustic log cabins housing unique craft shops, particularly magical when lit up at night.
Activities & Experiences
Experience the Legendary “Japow”: Ski or snowboard the deep, light powder snow across the interconnected resorts of Niseko United (Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Village, Annupuri), or explore the expansive, less-crowded slopes of Rusutsu.
Hike the Backcountry Gates: For experienced skiers and boarders, access the famous Niseko gates (like the Peak Gate) for untracked powder and incredible views of Mount Yotei (Hokkaido’s Mount Fuji).
Unwind in an Onsen: Soak in a traditional Japanese hot spring to soothe your muscles after a day on the slopes. Many resorts and local villages offer beautiful indoor and outdoor mineral baths, often with snowy backdrops.
Wander through Furano’s Flower Fields: In summer (especially July/August), explore the vast, vibrant fields of lavender and other seasonal flowers at iconic spots like Farm Tomita in Furano.
Go Whitewater Rafting or Canoeing: In the warmer months, paddle down the scenic Shiribetsu River near Niseko and Rusutsu for a thrilling or leisurely trip through the natural landscape.
Enjoy a Thrilling Snowmobile Tour: Drive a snowmobile through the snowy forests and fields of Rusutsu or Niseko for an adrenaline-pumping break from the ski slopes.
Try Ice Smelt Fishing (Wakasagi Trout): In winter, try this unique local activity on a frozen lake, such as Lake Kanayama near Furano, usually from heated tents, and enjoy tasting your fresh catch.
Play a Round of Golf: In summer, take advantage of the milder temperatures and stunning scenery by playing one of the extensive courses, such as those at Rusutsu Resort Golf 72.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Flight: Enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the mountains, powder, or summer greenery on a tethered or free flight in Niseko or Furano.
Experience Snow Rafting or Tubing: A fun, family-friendly activity where you slide down the slopes on an inflatable raft or tube, often towed by a snowmobile.
Hike to the Summit of Mount Yotei: A challenging full-day summer hike to the top of the 1,898m volcano, rewarding you with spectacular crater views and alpine flowers.
Explore Local Produce and Cuisine: Visit local markets like the Kutchan Market for the region’s famous produce, including the “aged” Kutchan potatoes, or sample local dairy at Milk Kobo.
Local Tips & Transport
Airport Transfers are Easiest: The most popular and efficient way to arrive is via Express Bus from New Chitose Airport (CTS), with services like Hokkaido Resort Liner and White Liner directly connecting to Niseko and Rusutsu. Booking in advance is essential.
Travel Between Areas is a Journey: Niseko, Rusutsu, and Furano are not close. Travel between them (by bus, train, or private taxi) can take 4 to 6 hours and often requires a change in Sapporo or the airport. Plan travel days accordingly.
Free Resort Shuttles (Winter): Niseko resorts are connected by the Niseko United Shuttle (often free with an all-mountain lift pass). Rusutsu has a monorail/shuttle connecting its two main hotel wings.
Car Rental for Flexibility: A rental car (with 4WD and snow tires in winter) offers the most flexibility for exploring, especially to reach the White Roads (between Furano and Biei) or more remote onsen. Be prepared for snowy and icy driving conditions and ensure your accommodation provides parking.
Train is Scenic but Complex: Train travel exists (e.g., to Kutchan or Furano Stations), but often involves multiple transfers, making it less convenient than a direct bus for travelers with bulky ski luggage.
Niseko vs. Furano Vibe: Niseko has a highly international, developed resort feel with vibrant Après-ski and English widely spoken. Furano is more of a traditional Japanese farming town with a quieter nightlife and more authentic cultural feel. Rusutsu is a self-contained resort with an all-inclusive focus.
The Onsen Culture: Always wash thoroughly before entering the bath. You must enter the water naked. Tattoos are often an issue in public onsen; check in advance for private or “tattoo-friendly” facilities.
Respect the Backcountry Gates: When skiing, only enter the off-piste areas through the designated “gates” when they are open. Never duck ropes or cross closed gates, as this is illegal and extremely dangerous due to avalanche risk. Always carry a beacon, shovel, and probe if venturing into the sidecountry.
Summer Flower Season: The prime viewing period for the famous lavender fields in Furano is usually from mid-July to early August. Plan your summer trip during this window for the most spectacular blooms.
Luggage Delivery (Takkyubin): Use the convenient door-to-door luggage delivery service to ship your large bags/ski gear between accommodations or from the airport. This is highly recommended to avoid hauling gear on buses and trains.
Hidden Gems:
- Goshiki Onsen: A rustic, beautiful onsen high up on the slopes of Mt. Niseko Annupuri, offering a traditional experience with stunning views.
- Furano Cheese Factory: Visit to sample local cheese and other dairy products and see the production process.
- Niseko Distilleries: Visit the Niseko Distillery to sample local gin or the Yoichi Distillery (slightly further afield) for world-class Japanese whisky.
- Kutchan Jaga Matsuri (Potato Festival): A fun local festival held in early August celebrating the town’s famous potatoes with dancing and carnival games.
Top Restaurants
Rakuichi Soba [$30-$70] – A tiny, highly sought-after, traditional soba house in Annupuri where the master, Tatsuru Rai, hand-makes buckwheat noodles right in front of the 12 counter seats. Known for its exquisite soba kaiseki and immersive experience.
Kougetsu [$30-$50] – A cozy, family-run izakaya in Hirafu, famous among locals for its warm hospitality, authentic small plates, and traditional Japanese pub atmosphere.
Niseko Bang Bang [$30-$50] – A longtime, lively local favorite in Hirafu for yakitori (grilled skewers) and other pub-style eats, embodying a classic Japanese izakaya feel.
Teuchi-Soba Ichimura [$15-$30] – A local favorite in the Izumikyo area for its freshly made, hand-cut soba noodles and comfortable, traditional setting.
Tsubara Tsubara Hokkaido Soup Curry [$15-$25] – Famous for its rich, customized Hokkaido-style soup curry, a local specialty featuring regional vegetables and various meats.
Kumagera [$20-$40] – One of the most iconic Furano restaurants, offering a large menu of home-cooked Japanese meals, including hotpots and local delicacies, popular with both visitors and residents.
Robata [$20-$40] – A unique Furano restaurant that uses the traditional ‘robatayaki’ style of cooking, grilling fresh seafood and vegetables over a communal hearth.
Tanpopo Shokudo [$20-$40] – Considered one of the best local spots near Rusutsu for authentic Hokkaido seafood, particularly praised for its decadent kaisen-don (seafood rice bowl).
Nakamura-ya Izakaya [$20-$40] – A classic, simple izakaya in the nearby town of Kimobetsu, offering a true local dining experience and excellent Japanese pub fare.
Fukuzushi [$30-$60] – A well-regarded sushi restaurant in Furano City, popular with locals for its fresh sashimi, sushi, and reliable quality.
Inaka Soba Tamaya [$15-$30] – A highly-rated, simple soba noodle shop in the Kitanomine zone of Furano.
Kikoz Japanese-Middle Eastern Fusion [$15-$30] – A unique, casual spot in nearby Kimobetsu, known for blending Hokkaido’s fresh ingredients with Middle Eastern flavors (must-try falafels), and one of the few places with vegetarian/vegan options.
Yakitori Tsuyoshi [$20-$35] – A cozy local eatery in Furano City, known for its variety of grilled meat and chicken skewers, including the local Furano Chicken.
Daishin [$15-$25] – A local Kutchan favorite, slightly off the main Hirafu village, famous for its excellent and creative ramen, especially the Cheesy Tantan Ramen.
Bar moon! [$15-$30] – Always busy with local residents and tourists in Hirafu, this bar is popular for its energetic atmosphere and late-night ramen.
Somoza [$100-$180] – A one-of-a-kind, destination dining experience housed in a beautifully restored 150-year-old traditional farmhouse (kominka), offering an elevated multi-course Japanese menu inspired by Jōmon and Ainu culture.
The Barn by Odin [$50-$90] – A striking, barn-inspired building in Hirafu offering elevated Hokkaido-harvested cuisine in a sleek, bistro-style setting with French-inspired dishes.
An Dining [$40-$70] – Located in Ki Niseko, this spot offers a refined, modern Japanese menu with a strong focus on local sourcing and innovative takes on traditional dishes.
La Brunilde [$40-$70] – A modern tapas bar in Hirafu, putting a creative, seasonal twist on classic Spanish and local dishes.
Akaru Japanese Izakaya [$30-$60] – A laid-back and artsy izakaya in Hirafu, offering inventive, vegetarian-friendly, and creative small plates, run by a couple passionate about local ingredients.
The Red House [$30-$50] – Tucked behind a convenience store in Rusutsu, this warm spot offers a mixture of Japanese and Western dishes with a local focus, including shabu shabu.
Bistro Le Chemin [$50-$80] – A cozy bistro in Furano serving French cuisine with a Japanese twist, expertly utilizing fresh local produce.
Bistro Kanza [$50-$80] – Located in Furano’s Kitanomine zone, offering a refined French-Japanese fusion menu using local ingredients.
Kitchen Cafe and Pizza Bakusyuu [$20-$40] – A popular Furano spot with a Japanese-Italian fusion theme, well-known for its homemade pizzas.
KAMIMURA [$150-$250] – Niseko’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, offering colorful and creative degustation menus that blend the best local produce with sophisticated “Hokkaido French” techniques.
Sushi Shin by Miyakawa [$150-$300] – The Niseko branch of a three-Michelin-starred Sapporo restaurant, delivering world-class, premium Edomae-style sushi and an intimate counter experience.
Tempura Araki [$100-$200] – Located in Setsu Niseko, this refined spot offers an artistic tempura omakase experience, elevating the single art of tempura to perfection using seasonal Hokkaido ingredients.
Molière Montagne [$150-$250] – Located in the Park Hyatt Hanazono, this luxurious fine dining experience seamlessly merges traditional French techniques with the extraordinary bounty of Hokkaido’s local ingredients.
Mame Niseko [$100-$180] – A sleek, contemporary Japanese fine dining experience focusing on expertly plated, seasonal Hokkaido ingredients in an intimate setting, led by a chef with international experience.
HakuSteak [$80-$150] – A high-end steakhouse in Hirafu, delivering standout wagyu, including premium A4 grade cuts, for a classic indulgence experience.
Sushi Kato INORI [$150-$300] – An elegant sushi counter inside Setsu Niseko, known for top-quality omakase and premium seafood, often specializing in crab.
Robata Niseko by Naniwatei [$100-$180] – Offers a refined yet lively dining experience combining kaiseki and robatayaki styles, featuring fresh Hokkaido seafood and premium wagyu in multi-course menus.
Le Gaulois Furano [$80-$150] – A high-end Italian and French restaurant near the Shin Furano Prince Hotel, known for its sophisticated cuisine and refined atmosphere.
Maccarina [$80-$150] – Located in the nearby farming village of Makkari, this sister restaurant of a three-star chef delivers gourmet French-inspired meals using the highest quality local produce.
Ezo Seafoods [$50-$100] – A highly-regarded seafood restaurant in Hirafu where the owner sources pristine, fresh seafood daily from the coastal markets. Guests choose their catch to be prepared in their preferred style.
Niseko Loft Club [$30-$50] – A popular indoor BBQ restaurant specializing in Genghis Khan (Jingisukan), a classic Hokkaido dish featuring table-top grilled lamb, venison, and beef.
Prativo [$20-$40] – Located at the Milk Kobo complex near Niseko Village, this farm-to-table restaurant is famous for its delicious salad buffet featuring fresh local vegetables, as well as dishes utilizing fresh milk from the adjacent dairy farm.
J’ai la patate [$15-$30] – A casual French restaurant in Kutchan, with a cozy, rustic vibe, known for its food featuring the sweet local potatoes, like the 540 potatoes.
Rusutsu Teppanyaki Shiki [$80-$150] – A reservation-only teppanyaki restaurant located in the Rusutsu Resort, offering an interactive dining experience with chefs preparing premium Hokkaido beef and seafood right in front of you.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Bar Gyu+ (The Fridge Door Bar): A legendary Niseko spot in Middle Hirafu, known for its iconic entrance through a vintage Coca-Cola vending machine. It offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere perfect for sipping classic cocktails and rare Japanese whiskies.
Toshiro’s Bar: Located in Upper Hirafu, this bar is celebrated for its authentic Japanese hospitality and an elevated menu of creative cocktails, specializing in Japanese whisky. It’s an excellent choice for a refined, conversational night out.
Main Bar – Obrist: A jazzy and elegant bar on the second floor of the Rusutsu Resort Hotel (South Wing). The highly skilled bartender crafts top-notch classic and signature cocktails, including a specialty Moscow Mule with house-brewed ginger vodka, in an opulent setting.
Musu Bar & Bistro: Found in the Odin Place building in Upper Hirafu, this trendy, upscale bistro transitions into an après-ski bar in the late afternoon. It’s known for craft cocktails, tapas, and a chic, social atmosphere, often featuring live music on weekends.
Bar Barunba: Situated in Lower Hirafu, this spot has a quirky, alternative, Indonesian-themed vibe. It serves unique cocktails, plays great music, and has a very friendly atmosphere, making it a beloved local secret.
The Bar Niseko: Inspired by the Golden Age of cocktails, this sophisticated spot in Middle Hirafu focuses on fine drinking, offering an extraordinary selection of Japanese whisky and craft spirits in a modern, elegant setting.
Soh’s Bar: A cozy, secluded log and stone cabin found deep inside the New Furano Prince Hotel forest. It offers a unique, tranquil setting to enjoy a range of drinks and light snacks like fondue.
Bar Moon: A trendy and modern cocktail bar in Middle Hirafu that serves a wide variety of drinks and stays open late, providing a chic late-night venue.
Paddy McGinty’s Irish Pub: A classic Irish pub located in Hirafu, offering a familiar, warm, and friendly environment with a wide selection of beers and spirits, perfect for socializing.
Pub Cricket: By day, a casual cafe, by night, it transforms into a pub in the Rusutsu Resort Hotel (South Wing 1F). It’s a relaxed spot to sip drinks, watch sports, and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere.
Lobby Lounge Atrium (Westin Rusutsu): Located in the Westin Rusutsu, this elegant lounge is ideal for a classic cocktail while relaxing by the fireplace. It offers a tranquil setting for unwinding after a day on the slopes.
Half Note: A relaxed bar in Niseko known as one of the best live music venues, offering cocktails and a diverse set list until midnight. It’s a great spot to catch local talent.
Niseko Taproom: Located in Upper Hirafu, this spot is perfect for craft beer lovers, offering artisanal, locally-brewed beers alongside a selection of spirits in a relaxed, communal atmosphere.
TEIRYUJO FURANO MUSIC & BAR: A cozy music bar in Furano that opens early, featuring a professional DJ system and frequently inviting DJs to host parties, creating a vibrant musical atmosphere.
Bar & Dining AJITO: A popular local sports bar just a minute from the Kitanomine lifts in Furano. It features pool, darts, and big-screen TVs for sports, with an extensive drinks menu including original cocktails.
Tamashii: A popular and spacious bar and dining venue in Middle Hirafu, offering a wide selection of spirits, wines, and liquors, plus pool, games, and regular live music and DJ events.
Wild Bill’s: A Niseko nightlife institution in Hirafu, this large two-story venue functions as both a Tex-Mex restaurant and a major party spot. It features pool, live music, DJs, and transforms into a bustling nightclub with a lively dance floor late at night.
Powder Room Niseko: The first premium, luxury nightclub in Niseko, nestled in Lower Hirafu. It features a sleek, contemporary interior with a dedicated dance floor, a champagne lounge, and hosts sets by major DJs, appealing to a jet-set crowd.
Latino Splash: An infamous spot in Hirafu for a truly wild night out, known for hosting some of the biggest, most energetic parties on the slopes. It’s a dive bar atmosphere with pool, darts, and thumping club music.
Karabina: A vibrant Izakaya and bar in Niseko that often has a lively, club-like feel late in the evening. While an Izakaya, its social atmosphere makes it a great spot for drinks and late-night fun.
The Baddies: Located in Hirafu, this spot is known for its excellent sound system, talented DJs playing vinyl, and being a guaranteed place for making party memories.
Magic Mountain: A hidden gem in the heart of Hirafu offering retro, modern, and funky vibes. It’s known for good tunes and amazing cocktails, creating a great atmosphere for a lively night.
The Vale Bar & Grill: Situated in Upper Hirafu, this venue has a great bar area that’s perfect for socializing with a range of delicious cocktails before transforming into a more lively evening spot.
HirafuZaka: A large bar and occasional event space in Hirafu that hosts themed parties and late-night gatherings, often attracting a young, international crowd for a club-like atmosphere.
Powder Room Niseko (Lounge Area): While the main area is the club, its sophisticated lounge area provides a slightly more relaxed but still high-energy environment for mingling and enjoying a drink in a late-night setting.
AFURI Yuki Niseko: Primarily a Ramen and Tsukemen shop in Hirafu, it also has a bar area that stays open late, offering drinks in a stylish, modern setting after dinner.