Alister, Author at Niseko Tourism

Niseko Village Announces Niseko-yo

Embracing the white season with distinction: dive into the world of niseko-yo, where luxury, remarkable gastronomy, and hokkaido's rich culture unfold under renowned snowfall.

As the “Aspen of the East” adorns itself with a shimmering blanket of snow, Niseko Village garners global attention, not just for its snowfall and champagne powder, but for the enriched lifestyle experiences it promises. Central to this year’s winter allure is the unveiling of Niseko-yo, a testament to the harmonious blend of gastronomy, shopping, and vibrant nightlife.

In the embrace of Hokkaido’s pristine environment, Niseko Village proudly wears the accolade of its staggering 18-meter annual snowfall. The mesmerising dance of the Siberian winds with the Sea of Japan’s moisture crafts a powdery paradise, a magnet for winter sports enthusiasts the world over.

Experience the magic and excitement of the Niseko-yo launch in our teaser video here.

Gastronomic Delights Await

Niseko-yo ushers in a culinary renaissance to Niseko, solidifying its reputation as an eternal haven for epicureans with several pioneering gastronomic delights. At the forefront is ‘Gogyo powered by Ippudo’, renowned globally for its ramen mastery. By daylight, it tantalises with its distinctive ramen and coveted side dishes. As twilight envelops the village, it metamorphoses into a vibrant izakaya, unveiling a spectrum of flavours derived from seasonal ingredients, impeccably grilled.

The gastronomic odyssey is further enriched with Baby Crosta, the latest addition to the internationally acclaimed pizza brand Crosta Pizzeria. Making the list of the Top 10 Pizzerias in Asia-Pacific and bringing home the World Pizza of the Year 2023 award from 50 Top Pizza, Crosta adds its unique approach to pizza by launching the first-ever Roman-style pizza in Japan’s powder haven. Moreover, the experience is elevated at Pizza Bianca, an intimate chef’s table nestled within. Led by Chef Yuichi Ito, awarded the Best Pizzaiolo 2022 in Japan, this will be the first Pizza Omakase experience in Niseko, taking pizza indulgence to an unparalleled art form.

Further culinary highlights include the mouthwatering yakiniku of Hokkaien, Long Tang’s delectable dim sum that transports one to Shanghai, the artful sushi and tempura presentations of Yang Shu Ten, authentically crafted Italian delicacies with Japanese precision by Moka, and the spicy allure of Chuan’s celebrated Sichuan hotpot.

Refined Liquid Indulgences

By day, Chuya, the teahouse by Higashiyama Niseko Village, a distinguished Ritz-Carlton Reserve, serves an array of sweet and savoury delights, beautifully juxtaposed against Niseko’s captivating snowy backdrop. This serene enclave is a testament to the spiritual essence of Japan, inviting guests to relish meticulously crafted pastries and perfectly steeped teas — emblematic of both the deep-seated Japanese tradition and the distinct touch of Higashiyama Niseko Village.

As dusk descends, Chuya unveils its elegant alter ego — Chuya bar by night. For the 23-24 season, this pulsating cocktail haven partners with the esteemed Penrose by Jon Lee, hailed among Asia’s 50 Best Bars of 2023. Together with six other renowned cocktail establishments from Asia, Chuya Bar by Night introduces a ‘Taste of Asia’ experience. This cocktail symphony is shaped by the genius of bar maestros from Bar Leon (Hong Kong, China), Night Hawk (Singapore), Teens of Thailand & Mahaniyom (Bangkok), Zest (Seoul), and Indulge Bistro (Taipei, China). Guests are presented with an enchanting array of drinks, ideal for sipping amidst the breathtaking winter sights of Niseko.

Luxury At Your Fingertips

Niseko-yo introduces two stellar retail destinations, ensuring guests are spoilt for choice when gearing up for winter. Village Sports is poised to cater to all skiing requirements, showcasing a range of skis, snowboards, and winter apparel alongside much coveted custom bootfitting services. On the other hand, The Holiday Project exudes alpine sophistication, presenting curated pieces that echo both adventure and elegance.

For a comprehensive understanding of these offerings, please refer to the Niseko-yo Offerings Booklet attached.

Mandala Club’s Exclusive Winter Soiree in Niseko

This winter, Mandala Club, in alliance with YTL Hotels, rolls out the red carpet, offering a matchless ski-in ski-out experience deep in the heart of Niseko Village. Starting December, guests can savour Mandala Club’s signature cultural experiences. A visit to POPI’s promises curated gastronomic delights, while the ‘Snow Parlour’ brings a harmonious blend of music and Japanese-inspired cocktails. For an experience steeped in exclusivity, potential visitors should register at mandala.club/niseko/.

Lighting up Niseko with Art

Adding to the Village’s essence is its dedication to the arts. As you wander the expanses of this winter haven, the transformative power of art becomes evident. Celebrated artists like Frank Woo and Emi Shiratori have left their indelible marks, offering guests a sensory exploration of nature and heritage. Entrusted with the responsibility of creating wayfinding sculptures, Woo masterfully offers a harmonious blend of heritage and contemporary design. His evocative pieces serve as more than mere aesthetic landmarks; they are storytellers, narrating Hokkaido’s rich folklore and traditions.

Guiding visitors through Niseko’s picturesque vistas are his symbolic creations: the majestic Hokkaido Brown Bear, embodying the might of the wilderness; the playful Red Fox, encapsulating the region’s spirit; and the ethereal ‘snow fairy’, the Long-tailed Tit, paying tribute to Hokkaido’s magical natural lore. At Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Woo’s artistry further unfolds. Outdoor sculptures beautifully mimic snow flurries, and radiant installations shimmer, mirroring the interplay of sun and moon. This continuous celebration of nature’s beauty extends to The Green Leaf, where Emi Shiratori’s creations resonate deeply with every brushstroke, paying a heartfelt homage to Hokkaido’s natural marvels.

As night descends on Niseko-yo, pathways are bathed in luminescence, enhanced by cutting-edge projections that weave traditional and contemporary tales. These illuminated trails are not merely routes but are immersive artistic odysseys. Every footstep deepens one’s connection to the region’s heritage, establishing Niseko as a sensory journey, inviting all to immerse in its rich culture and ever-evolving narrative.

Niseko Village: The Premier Winter Destination

While the charm of Niseko-yo is undeniable, the core allure remains rooted in Niseko Village. With a backdrop of unparalleled snow and premium amenities, properties like Higashiyama, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and Kasara Niseko Village Townhouse, promise unparalleled luxury. The architectural finesse of Hinode Hills and The Green Leaf Niseko Village offer guests the coveted ski-in, ski-out experience. At the same time, Hilton Niseko extends both relaxation and adventure.

For a complete winter experience and reservations, visit the rejuvenated www.niseko-village.com.

by Alister

Niseko Village Significantly Renovates on-site Shopping and Dining

Niseko Village (Headquarters: Malaysia, Management: YTL Corporation), a premium mountain resort located in Niseko Town, Hokkaido, has recently undergone a major renovation of its shopping and dining facilities, which will open this winter season. As the first step, from December 1st, the menus of casual dining “The Bistro” in Hinode Hills Niseko Village and international & Japanese fusion buffet “Goshiki” in The Green Leaf Niseko Village will be refreshed.

In addition to the two restaurants mentioned above, a total of 10 stores in the resort’s commercial complex will undergo major renovations. The facility currently called the “Shopping & Dining Area” will be reborn as an attractive facility that can be used not only by domestic and international tourists, but also by people living in the Niseko area. In addition, the two-story restaurant located at the entrance to Niseko Village and attached to the former main gondola will be re-opened as the clubhouse Mandala Club.

Additionally, the following two restaurants will be updating their menus on December 1st.

“The Bistro” casual dining located at “Hinode Hills Niseko Village” on the first floor:

The Bistro will be revamped offering a diverse menu, from Japanese-style dishes such as kakiage-don and salmon roe bowls to authentic Western-style course meals, using Hokkaido ingredients carefully selected by the chef. Enjoy après-ski atmosphere in a relaxing space.

Opening Hours: 1 December 2023 – 7 April 2024

Morning 7:00～10:00(LO 21:00)

Evening 17:30～21:00 (LO 21:00)

International & Japanese fusion buffet Goshiki – The Green Leaf Niseko Village, 2nd floor

The buffet restaurant Goshiki, which seats 220 is perfect for both groups and intimate dining, will reopen with a live kitchen as its centre and an extensive menu using carefully selected ingredients. Enjoy an extraordinary experience in this open space with large windows and high ceilings overlooking the snowy landscape.

Opening Hours 1 December 2023 – 7 April 2024

Breakfast 7:00～10:00 (LO 9:30)

Lunch 11:30～14:30 (LO 14:00)

Dinner 17:30～21:30（LO 21:00)

About Niseko Village

Located on the south side of Niseko Annupuri at an altitude of 1308m, Niseko Village is one of Japan’s leading mountain resorts, recognised as one of the world’s leading ski resorts along with Aspen (Colorado, USA) and St Moritz (Graubünden, Switzerland). Niseko Village is home to the Hilton Niseko Village, which was voted ‘Best Ski Resort Hotel in Japan’ (World Ski Awards 2013), The Greenleaf Niseko Village (hotel), an Arnold Palmer-designed golf course, as well as some of the best The Niseko Village ski resort boasts some of the best powder snow in the world.

About YTL Hotels

YTL Hotels is an award-winning chain of leading resorts, hotels and boutique hotels in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, China, Japan, France and the UK, including the Pangkor Laut Resort, voted ‘Best Resort in the World’ by Condé Nast Traveller magazine in 2003, In July 2012, it opened the Gaya Island Resort in tropical Borneo. In December the same year, it reopened The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, which has a 70-year history as one of the classic hotels, and in February 2014, the Vistana hotel brand, which targets business and leisure travellers. The company is also involved in the rebranding of the Vistana brand, which targets business and leisure travellers.

As the hospitality business of YTL Corporation Berhad (MYX: 4677), it is committed to providing facilities and services that enable guests to experience the natural and geographical features of the surrounding area, as well as its culture and traditions.

www.ytlhotels.com

by Alister

JCB launches a special offer programme in Hokkaido for inbound tourists to Japan

JCB International Co., Ltd., the international operations subsidiary of JCB Co., Ltd., Japan’s only international payment brand, announces the launch of “The heart of HOKKAIDO” programme, which provides special offers on shopping and experiences at merchants in Hokkaido, a popular tourist destination, to JCB card members issued outside Japan. This promotion will run from 1 October 2023 to 31 March 2024.

During this period, JCB card members will find great discounts and gift offers at selected merchants in Hokkaido.

In a statement released today, JCB stated that it hopes to contribute to local communities by stimulating visitors’ consumption as well as enriching the travel experience of JCB cardmembers.

By offering privileges to card members at a variety of merchants in Hokkaido with JCB Cards, this programme aims to encourage not only shopping but also spending on unique experiences in Hokkaido, which is attracting an increasing number of visitors to Japan.

JCB also stated, “JCB and partner merchants have agreed to launch this programme together because of our shared desire to contribute to the development of local communities and to provide visitors to Japan with a uniquely Japanese experience.”

This program is also in collaboration with JTB Corp. and Fun Japan Communications Co., Ltd., which operates ‘FUN! JAPAN’, the social media platform that provides information on Japanese culture, food, fashion, technology, and business. JCB cardmembers can also enjoy special offers via the special website of ‘FUN! JAPAN’.

In the same statement, JCB explained that the ‘The FUN! JAPAN Furusato Membership Program’ website is designed to continuously increase the number of fans of Hokkaido, including members who are long-lasting repeat visitors to the region and who purchase Hokkaido specialties from overseas via e-commerce.

The Campaign Website at “FUN! JAPAN”

Role of Each Partner

– JCB International Co., Ltd. organises “The heart of HOKKAIDO” programme, which provides special offers and discounts at shops and restaurants located in the hub of tourism in Hokkaido and promotes the program via the own media and advertisements, as well as the JTB’s programme to invite more JCB card members to Hokkaido.

– JTB Corp. HOKKAIDO Branch gathers partnered facilities and cooperates with local travel and tourism groups and associations.

– JTB Corp. Area Solution Business Division promotes registration of products that allow tourists to enjoy unique experiences in the region.

– Fun Japan Communications Co., Ltd. established the campaign website and the community “The FUN! JAPAN Furusato Membership Program”.

As a Japanese brand with a spirit of hospitality, JCB offers services to enrich the travel experience of JCB cardmembers. Visit “JCB Global“, the official YouTube channel, and the “JCB Special Offers” website for information on beneficial promotions and convenient services in multiple languages (English, Korean, Thai, Indonesian, Vietnamese, Simplified and Traditional Chinese only).

All JCB Offers Here

by Alister

Epic New Niseko Short by Acclaimed Filmmaker & Skier Eric Pollard Released

Influential pro skier Eric Pollard has crafted a visual masterpiece that celebrates Niseko’s legendary powder snow, vibrant culture and showcases the global spirit of skiing and snowboarding.

The captivating short film A Place Called Niseko brings together skiers and snowboarders from around the world, showcasing a united passion for winter sports in the breathtaking landscapes of Niseko.

Pollard has been visiting Niseko for almost two decades and his films are highly regarded in the industry, with one most recently winning Powder Magazine’s Ski Film of the Year in 2019.

In A Place Called Niseko, viewers are not only treated to thrilling winter sports action but also a glimpse into the heart of Niseko’s vibrant culture.

From the moment A Place Called Niseko begins, you’ll find yourself immersed in the traditions and customs that make Niseko unique – from the tranquil beauty of local shrines to the artistry of traditional tea ceremonies, the film captures the essence of Japanese culture.

A Place Called Niseko also captures the skill and artistry of a diverse group of athletes from around the world.

Leading the way is local pro-snowboarder Wakana Hama, a gold medalist at Freeride World Tour events, who shares the spotlight with global luminaries such as Lena Stoffel from Germany and Lisa Filzmoser from Austria.

These athletes effortlessly conquer Niseko’s pristine slopes, immersing themselves in the untouched natural beauty of the region.

A Place Called Niseko is a testament to the universal appeal of Niseko as a global hub for winter sports and adventure.

About Eric Pollard

Eric Pollard, a pro skier, artist, and filmmaker hailing from Oregon, has left an enduring legacy in the world of freestyle skiing. With a career spanning over two decades, Pollard’s innovations in ski design have revolutionised the sport. He co-founded Nimbus Independent, a renowned film crew dedicated to producing high-quality ski films that have received constant praise throughout the industry. His 2019 production, “Drawn From Here,” received accolades as Powder Magazine’s Ski Film of the Year.

A Connection to Niseko

Eric Pollard’s affinity for Niseko dates back nearly two decades. He has frequented the area and resort, exploring its pristine backcountry terrain and witnessing its remarkable growth. Pollard’s appreciation for Niseko’s unique character and world-class skiing experiences makes him the perfect ambassador for the region.

“Niseko has been a big influence on me, and I have found inspiration in so many places there. I’ve been visiting Niseko for many years and making films about those experiences, which have informed my product design as well as my art. Every time I come back to Niseko, there’s something new to check out or something worth revisiting.” – Eric Pollard

by Alister

Niseko Weddings - Now in Niseko

From fluffy powder snow in winter, to the vivid forest colours of summer, Hokkaido is the perfect backdrop for your wedding photoshoot. Niseko Weddings skillfully blend your personal story with Hokkaido’s breathtaking landscapes. Their fine art photographers and cinematographers create timeless images filled with joy and intimacy amidst the natural wonders of Japan’s northernmost island. Be it a traditional shrine ceremony, or a snowy forest pre-wedding photoshoot, Niseko Weddings will capture the day with a little Hokkaido magic, leaving you with cherished memories to last a lifetime.

Niseko Weddings is a small collective of creative photographers and filmmakers with over 15 years of experience in the wedding photography industry. Their journey as Benji & Sam in Byron Bay (Australia) has brought the team to the beautiful island of Hokkaido in Japan, where their Niseko Weddings studio is now based. For over a decade they have specialised in luxury destination wedding and pre-wedding photography and films taking the team on fabulous journeys throughout Bali, Australia, Fiji, Europe and Asia.

Niseko Weddings has been able to share the love stories of hundreds of amazing couples, while working alongside several exclusive resorts and brands as the preferred photography partners; including One&Only Resorts and Park Hyatt.

“Our passion is creating beautifully crafted memories from your most special day that you will cherish forever. For us – it’s all about you and it should be a fun journey every step of the way!”

Get in touch with Niseko Weddings today with your wedding plans or pre-wedding ideas for their upcoming winter availability.

by Alister

Salsa Dancing Coming to Niseko

Get ready to salsa your way into an unforgettable weekend at the Niseko Dance Festival 2023, happening from September 15 (Fri.) to 17 (Sun.). This Latin dance extravaganza promises a thrilling lineup of events, including dance lessons, mesmerizing demonstrations, and electrifying dance parties! Plus, don’t miss the chance to meet a guest dancer all the way from Australia.

Day 1: The festivities kick off with a vibrant Welcome Party at the Town Center, featuring a dance mini lesson for first-timers from 18:00 to 18:30, followed by an electrifying dance party and mesmerizing dance performances from 18:30 to 20:30. And here’s a fantastic offer: Niseko-Wari Discount – entrance tickets are free for all local residents!

Day 2: Dive into the world of Latin dance with a full day of workshops at the Town Center. With a whopping 8 lessons to choose from, you can select up to 4 lessons that pique your interest. And once again, Niseko-Wari Discount applies, offering free entrance for local residents.

Later in the evening, head over to Chatrium Niseko for a dance party like no other, featuring the thrilling Jack & Jill competition and a mini-lesson to keep your salsa skills on point. The Niseko-Wari Discount applies here too, with an entrance fee of 3000 yen (drinks not included).

Day 3: Wrap up this sensational dance weekend with a Sayonara Party at Chatrium Niseko from 14:30 to 18:30. Get ready to bid farewell to the Niseko Dance Festival 2023 in style. Once again, local residents enjoy the Niseko-Wari Discount, with an entrance fee of 3000 yen (drinks not included).

Don’t miss your chance to dance, learn, and celebrate the rhythms of Latin music at this incredible Niseko Dance Festival!

by Alister

Rhythm Japan Announces Trips by Rides for Ultimate Mountain Experience

Rhythm Japan, a pioneer in outdoor rental, retail, and lesson/guiding services, proudly introduces a ground-breaking addition to its portfolio with Trips by Rides. This innovative offering promises an unparalleled Niseko experience, seamlessly combining accommodation, transfers, and the renowned Rhythm Japan services into a comprehensive and convenient package.

Rhythm Japan has been a trailblazer since its establishment in 2005, providing world-class outdoor solutions and instilling a deep appreciation for the mountain lifestyle in its customers. The new Trips packages further elevates this commitment to new heights, ensuring that guests enjoy every facet of their mountain journey.

“We’re thrilled to unveil Trips packages, a true embodiment of our passion for the mountains and dedication to customer satisfaction,” says Tareesa Straatmans – Rides Director at Rhythm Japan. “These curated packages allow guests to fully immerse themselves in the Niseko experience, while our expert team takes care of every detail.”

Trips offer a range of enticing options, catering to diverse preferences and interests. Whether it’s the high-level instruction of the Niseko Progression Tour, the family-friendly amenities of the Ultimate Family Tour, the exhilarating backcountry adventures of The Japow Experience, or the skill-boosting Learn To Ride Taster, there’s a package tailored for everyone.

One of the standout features of these packages is the flexibility they provide, with accommodation tiers that allow guests to customise their stay based on their desired level of comfort. Guests can also take advantage of various upgrade options, including trips to nearby resorts, additional guests, equipment and room upgrades, and more.

However, what truly sets Trips packages apart is that when you pre-book you are promised guaranteed access to Rhythm Japan’s dedicated local rental & retail team, and expert Rides instructors & guides, even during peak season period. This ensures an unparalleled level of seamless service and expertise throughout your trip, delivering a true insider’s perspective of Niseko.

The Rhythm Japan team, comprised of individuals who live and breathe the mountain life in Japan, are passionate about sharing their unique insight and expertise with guests. “Our goal with Trips isn’t just to offer a convenient travel solution,” explains Tareesa. “It’s about creating an immersive, authentic Niseko Experience that only our local team can provide.”

Established in 2005, Rhythm Japan offers everything customers need to embrace the ultimate mountain experience. Year-round lessons, guiding, retail, and rental offerings are paired with knowledgeable local staff who share their expertise and passion for unforgettable experiences. In Summer, the Niseko flagship store also serves as a community activity hub, featuring skate and climbing facilities, workspaces, and more.

Rhythm Japan’s in-resort facilities and services are exemplified in the newly released Trips packages, which connect the dots to provide customers with the most convenient and memorable mountain experiences on offer.

Rhythm Japan is proud to be part of the evo family of brands. evo is a global outdoor retailer and experiences company with 11 evo stores in the U.S. and Canada, and global retail via evo.com. The evo family also includes travel and recreation businesses; evoTrip, evo Hotel, All Together Skatepark (Seattle and Salt Lake City), and Callaghan Country in BC Canada. Together, Rhythm and evo provide global access to experiences focused on sport, culture, the outdoors, and human connection.

To learn more about Rhythm Japan and their latest offerings for all seasons, visit www.rhythmjapan.com. Sign up for the newsletter and follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date.

by Alister

Celebrating Excellence: Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono Nominated for World Luxury Hotel Awards 2023

We are thrilled to announce that Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono has been nominated for the prestigious “World Luxury Hotel Awards 2023”! This nomination is a reflection of the unwavering commitment to providing exceptional hospitality to visitors to Niseko.

The World Luxury Hotel Awards are renowned globally as a benchmark of excellence within the luxury hospitality industry. With more than 300,000 votes cast each year by both hotel guests and industry professionals, these awards symbolize the epitome of recognition for outstanding service and opulent experiences.

The team at Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono is humbled and honoured to be considered for this remarkable accolade. It’s a testament to the dedication and passion that our staff invests in ensuring that every guest experience is nothing short of extraordinary.

Why Your Vote Matters

While the nomination itself is an accomplishment, we are reaching out to our cherished guests and partners to help us secure this prestigious award.

The voting period for the “World Luxury Hotel Awards 2023” is from August 11th to September 1st. Your support during this time is vital as we strive to showcase the unique offerings that make Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono an incredible destination for luxury travel.

How to Cast Your Vote

Casting your vote for Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono is simple. Just follow these steps:

Visit the official voting page HERE
Select “Luxury Ski Hotel”
Click “Vote For This Hotel”.

Thank you for your continued support and for being a part of the Niseko community.

by Alister

Summer Survey 2023

Enter To Win - 2023 Summer Survey

Have your say and be in the running for a chance to win great prizes from Niseko!

Your feedback on our survey helps to shape the future of Niseko, and incredibly useful for making Niseko the worlds best resort destination! Help us to make a better Niseko by filling out our survey. The best part? YOU will be in the running for incredible prizes from our sponsors!

Prizes

Prize 1: The Luxe Nomad x NISADE: A stay at ski hotel Always Niseko for two

Prize 2: China Kitchen Dim Sum brunch for two at Park Hyatt Hanazono (available on weekends and holidays)

Prize 1 Details:

3-nights accommodation for 2 persons in the “Superior Niseko Room” at Always Niseko

Includes breakfast and hotel shuttle service*
Stay dates valid from 1 November 2023 – 1 May 2024 (excluding blackout dates)
Blackout during: 19 Dec 2023 – 19 Feb 2024
Subject to availability.
Booking must be made 30 days prior to arrival
The prize is non-exchangeable, non-transferable and is not redeemable for cash or other prizes. Winner may pay additional costs to upgrade or extend stay length.
*subject to operation dates of shuttle and hotel breakfast

By submitting an entry to this NPB Lucky Prize Draw, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of Niseko Tourism, and that you satisfy all eligibility requirements. Terms and conditions will apply to prizes.

Prize will be drawn on Oct 31, 2023.

Create your own user feedback survey

If the survey does not appear for you above this line of text, please click here to complete the survey.

By entering into the draw you agree to sign up to the Niseko Tourism newsletter, and receive marketing communications from Niseko Tourism.

About Always Niseko

Always Niseko is the ideal home away from home for guests who are ready to dive into the year-round smorgasbord of excitement that Niseko has to offer. It’s a place to meet and make new friends, immerse yourself in unique experiences and a sanctuary you are thrilled to returned to, always.

About China Kitchen

Experience the very best of China’s rich culinary heritage in Niseko. From Cantonese cuisine faithful to the flavor of its ingredients to the aromatic spiciness of Sichuan. China Kitchen‘s team of master chefs with each specialty will please everyone’s palate.

by Alister

Californian Celebrity Chef Unearths Niseko’s Fascinating Food & Wine Scene

Trail-blazing Californian Chef Stuart Brioza explored the Niseko region and other parts of Hokkaido as part of an adventure and gastronomy tour with Niseko Tourism this month.

Over 14-days Brioza and his family visited farms and primary producers around Niseko and as far north as Rishiri Island, meeting the people behind the productions at dozens of locations.

The tour aimed to highlight the region’s diverse food bounty, tell the stories of Hokkaido’s fascinating food scene, and enjoy plenty of outdoor activities along the way.

It culminated with an 8-course feast in Niseko that Stuart and his wife prepared, with each course featuring ingredients discovered and collected along the journey (photos and details available).

Brioza is a James Beard Award-winning chef with 2 Michelin stars to his name.

With a profound belief in the power of nature to inspire cuisine, Brioza has become a pioneer in the American and Californian food scenes.

His success story underscores the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle and forging a closer connection to the natural world.

Throughout his career he has continually urged the food industry to embrace sustainable practices by “drawing inspiration from the oceans, mountains, and fields that surround us”.

Accompanying Brioza were his wife and award winning pastry chef Nicole, their son Jasper, and the owners of Niseko’s renowned Bar Gyu+, Ioanna Morelli, and Hisashi Watanabe.

The team cycled through the picturesque vineyards of Yoichi, sampling the region’s finest wines with the owner of the Niseko boutique wine shop, Cave de Bambou, Chiku Masahiro.

They visited the Niseko Distillery, organic farm Lalala Farm, and the famous Niseko View Plaza for all the freshest produce.

They were also able to enjoy the Hanazono Tree Trekking, and experienced the thrill of Hanazono ZipFlight, one of the longest ziplines in the world and the longest in Japan.

Brioza and his entourage travelled with new Niseko Tourism member Kammui, a leading Japan-based outdoor experience platform offering personalised services, and providing exclusive benefits to its guests.