Music lovers rejoice! The inaugural Niseko Jazz Festival is set to kick off this August at the award-winning luxury hotel Setsu Niseko. Nestled amidst the stunning Hokkaido mountains this two-day musical extravaganza taking place over the Obon holidays promises an unforgettable music journey that marks a new era for Niseko.

Bringing Jazz Legends Together 

This brand-new event brings together an extraordinary line-up of jazz heavyweights. Headlining the festival is the world-renowned jazz singer ‘Keiko Lee’, lauded for her powerful vocals and voted “Japan Jazzmen Reader Popularity Poll” for an impressive 13 consecutive years. Joining her is the acclaimed pianist ‘Satoru Shionoya’ with special guest, City Pop icon ‘Junko Yagami’. What’s more, the festival features over 25 Japanese jazz musicians including the ‘Miki Hirose Quartet’, ‘Takezo Yamada Group’, ‘Junichiro Oguchi Trio’, and ‘Yoshito Eto Group’. Prepare to be captivated by eight different jazz acts creating music that resonates deep into our souls, celebrating the many vibrant styles of jazz music.  

The festival celebrates not only established stars but also rising talents within the local community. The stellar line-up of jazz legends will be joined by the ‘Shiraki Shigeru Quartet’ and ‘Mount Yotei Jazz School’ showcasing the vibrancy of Hokkaido’s local music scene.

More than Just Music: A Family-Friendly Celebration 

The Niseko Jazz Festival extends beyond the stage. The picturesque courtyard of Setsu Niseko will be transformed, offering a variety of children’s activities and delectable food stalls showcasing the incredible produce of Hokkaido. When hotel guests are not soaking up the cool festival vibes, they can take a break and rejuvenate at Setsu’s renowned range of facilities including a wide selection of acclaimed restaurants and one of the region’s largest wellness centres. Setsu Niseko offers an unparalleled experience for relaxation and family fun, with a plethora of activities available in the surrounding area, there’s something for everyone to enjoy throughout the Obon holidays.

A Vision of Music, Art, and Food 

The Niseko Jazz Festival was born from a shared vision by Hokkaido businessman and jazz musician Shigeru Shiraki and Simon Cheong, the founder of SC Global Developments and visionary behind Setsu Niseko. Shigeru Shiraki has over two decades of experience fostering the local jazz scene through events like the highly successful Kutchan Jazz Festival (1990-2021). Working together with SC Global Developments as the inaugural event’s sponsor, their vision is to establish the Niseko Jazz Festival as an annual event that celebrates music and food, bringing together icons in their respective fields for an unforgettable music and lifestyle experience.

Entry to this inaugural event will be primarily reserved for guests of Setsu Niseko, who will enjoy complimentary, unlimited access to this spectacular two-day festival.  A limited number of tickets will also be available to the public through a free registration process. Interested parties can register their interest on the official website https://www.nisekojazzfestival.com  The deadline for registration is 21 July and tickets will be allocated through a random ballot. 

Setsu Niseko 雪ニセコ

Setsu Niseko offers an exemplary collection of 190 luxury hotel suites encompassing a beautiful synthesis of Japanese design with contemporary luxuries, within easy access of Grand Hirafu Ski Resort. At Setsu Niseko, we believe that your holiday goes beyond the beauty of Niseko, to encompass the unique and special experiences and warm hospitality you enjoy along the way. With an elevated culinary and wellness experience, Setsu is a destination unto itself for every season. Setsu Niseko has garnered a slew of awards worldwide for its luxurious hospitality including “World’s Best Ski Hotel” at the World Ski Awards 2023, Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2023 & 2024, and more recently a “One Michelin Key” accolade by the prestigious Michelin Guide.      

Keiko Lee ケイコ・リー

Since her debut album, “Imagine” in 1995, Lee has launched a remarkable career including 26 albums. A powerhouse vocalist praised by fellow musicians for her strong vocals on equal footing to musical instruments, Lee’s improvisational flair and electrifying performances have captivated fans worldwide. The 2001 Nissan Stage commercial featuring her rendition of “We Will Rock You” propelled her into the mainstream, with her subsequent album “Voices” becoming a major hit, selling over 250,000 copies. Lee’s accolades include topping the female vocalist category in the “Japan Jazzmen Reader Popularity Poll” for an impressive 13 consecutive years. Her popularity extends beyond Japan, with a dedicated following in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and South Korea. Lee continues to push boundaries, as evidenced by her 2015 album “LOVE XX,” featuring a virtual duet with the legendary Billie Holiday. More recently, Lee released her 25th-anniversary album “Keiko Lee Live at Jazz in Lovely” (2020) and her fourth best-of collection “Voices IV” (2022).

Satoru Shionoya 塩谷 哲

Headline act Satoru Shionoya’s musical journey is as diverse as it is impressive, flourishing as a pianist, composer, arranger, and producer. Shionoya has served as the pianist for award-winning ORQUESTA de la LUZ for over a decade; a group that garnered a UN Peace Prize and a Grammy nomination during his tenure. He has also released 12 solo albums, showcasing his virtuosity and compositional prowess. Shionoya’s collaborative spirit extends beyond his solo work, performing alongside renowned artists like Makoto Ozone and Chikuzen Satō (“SALT & SUGAR”), as well as international jazz legends Richard Stoltzman and Steve Gadd. Shionoya’s influence transcends the realm of jazz. He has contributed to the sound of popular music icon Ayaka and brought his musical vision to television, composing and arranging music for shows like “Hobby Do Raku” and “Kole Nande Shokai.” Currently, Shionoya shares his vast knowledge and experience as an Associate Professor of Jazz at the National University of Music.

Junko Yagami 八神純子

Legendary Singer-Songwriter Junko Yagami rose to prominence with a bang in 1978 when her debut single “Omoide wa Utsukisugite” (Memories Are Too Beautiful) became a hit, showcasing her powerful vocals and a sound that blended disco, pop, and jazz. Never afraid to experiment incorporating elements of soul and funk to her later work. Throughout the 80’s Yagami released a string of successful albums with well-known hits such as “Mizuiro no Ame” (Light Blue Rain), “Polar Star”, and “Purple Town”. After a temporary hiatus from her music career, Yagami returned in 2011, releasing a string of successful new albums to critical acclaim with her captivating blend of genres with her powerful vocals. Yagami has released 25 albums including live recordings, a prolific and prominent career that led her to be inducted into the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame in the USA in 2022. 

Summer is all about indulgence. The Lounge at Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono has just what you need. With the  Niseko Locals Card offer of 20% off our Summer Afternoon Tea and Mountain Light Dinner menus, you can  indulge in a delicious treat and enjoy the peaceful mountain views. 

Pierre Hermé Paris and Leafull Darjeeling House Summer Afternoon Tea 

From 1 July to 15 September, indulge in a specially curated afternoon tea at The Lounge, in collaboration with Pierre  Hermé Paris and Leafull Darjeeling House. This unique afternoon tea experience celebrates the beauty and sophistication  of Mountain Lights through a series of meticulously crafted courses.  

1st Course 

Monaka, Smoked Salmon, Sour Cream, Mountain Wasabi, Beetroot Ravioli, Niseko Marcellin Cheese Hokkaido Beef Croquette, Herb Mayonnaise 

*** Beverage Pairing*** 

Leafull Darjeeling House Iced Masala Chai Tea with Hokkaido Milk Foam 

or Camel Farm, Kerner Sparkling Brut 2022, Hokkaido Additional 1,500JPY (1,650) 

2rd Course 

Scone Jardin de l’Atlas, Miel de Châtaigner, Crème Double 

*** Tea Pairing*** 

Leafull Darjeeling House Lemon and Japanese Lemongrass TAKEO 

3rd Course 

Dégustation Signature : Madeleine A l’Huile d’Olive, Fruits de Saison Millefeuille « A la Minute », Cake Carotte et  Noisettes and Glace Au Lait D’Hokkaido, Fruits de Saison. You can also choose 3 pastries and a macaron of your  choice. 

*** Tea Pairing*** 

Leafull Darjeeling House Lady Jasmine 

By the end of the afternoon tea course at The Lounge, we are offering guests the Leafull Tea Selections as souvenir  to enjoy the perfect serene at home. 

Exclusive Tea Brewing Seminars 

On 16 and 17 August, guests can deepen their appreciation and understanding of tea by participating in our complimentary  tea brewing seminars led by esteemed ambassadors from Leafull Darjeeling House. These 20–30-minute sessions,  conducted in Japanese, will include small talks and personalized tea servings, offering an unparalleled enriching and  educational experience that adds a personal touch during afternoon tea. 

Summer Afternoon Tea  

Mountain Light Special Dinner Set 

Enjoy an exceptional omakase dinner, featuring Hokkaido’s finest seasonal ingredients and expertly prepared by our  culinary team. The first course is a delight! Silky smooth sea urchin bavaroise paired with fresh green asparagus, served  with delicate Japanese broth foam. The next course is a veritable feast! Creamy, rich Shinanotsu barley risotto with  Hokkaido scallops, crunchy guanciale chips and raspberry powder. 

Cold Appetizer: Sea Urchin Bavarois, Green Asparagus, Dashi Foam 

Hot Appetizer: Shinshimotsu Barley Risotto, Scallop, Crispy “ELEZO” Guanciale Cauliflower, Raspberry Powder Main Course: Hokkaido Catch of the Day, Ikura & Clam Sauce Couscous, Micro Leaves Or Roasted Hokkaido Beef Tenderloin, Red Wine Sauce Mashed Potato, Summer Vegetables Dessert: PIERRE HERMÉ PARIS Pâtisserie du Jour 

Chefs Garden Herb Tea 

Mountain Lights Special Dinner 

We are pleased to announce for Locals Card users that by using Locals Card 2023-24, 20% discount will apply to the  Summer Afternoon Tea menu and Mountain Lights Special Dinner set menu at The Lounge.  ※Local Card 20% discount does not apply to other promotions. 

※Discount applicable from July 1st to September 15th, 2024. 

 Black out date: August 10th to August 18th 2024 for dinner time. 

※For more information, please contact the hotel directly.  

 mail：[email protected] 

tel：0136-27-1234

Embark on an unparalleled journey into the world of Japanese whisky with the exclusive “Nikka Whisky Immersive Package” at Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, Japan’s premier mountain resort nestled in the enchanting landscape of Niseko, Hokkaido. This luxurious three-night stay is an unmissable collaboration with Nikka Whisky. Celebrated globally for its distillery in the picturesque town of Yoichi, Hokkaido, Nikka Whisky is the proud birthplace of this world-class brand.

This bespoke experience is available in two distinct packages, crafted for guests who want to immerse themselves in the sophistication and artistry of fine whisky-making.

Yoichi Distillery Exploration
Immerse yourself in the artistry of Japanese whisky-making at the legendary Yoichi Distillery. Explore where Nikka Whisky was born and delve into the rich history and exquisite craftsmanship guided by the spirit of Masataka Taketsuru, the visionary founder of Nikka Whisky. Each guest on this exclusive tour will receive a special gift: three small bottles of Yoichi-exclusive whisky, a treasure that embodies the distillery’s unique character and legacy.

Immersive experiences are guaranteed with the Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono Artisan Whisky Connoisseur Experience package, crafted for those seeking a deeper immersion into the world of Japanese whisky. This exclusive package goes beyond the Legacy Whisky Journey  with additional, distinctive elements that promise a truly comprehensive encounter with Nikka Whisky.

Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Arrive and settle in with leisure time to enjoy the hotel’s amenities.

Day 2: After breakfast, embark on the distillery tour and ambassador seminar (Artisan Whisky Connoisseur Experience), followed by the Robata dinner.

Day 3: A day to relax or explore, capped with the enchanting Mountain Lights and a whisky-paired dinner at China Kitchen.

Day 4: Conclude your stay with a final breakfast before departure.

Nikka Ambassador Seminar and Blending Session
Artisan Whisky Connoisseur Experience offers a unique opportunity to engage directly in creating your own malt blend with expert guidance from a skilled Nikka Whisky ambassador. This exclusive session, held separate from the distillery tour, focuses on the intricate art of whisky blending and provides an intimate encounter with the distillation of fine spirits. You will learn how to craft a personalized and unique expression of Nikka Whisky.

Further enriching your experience, a captivating seminar led by the Nikka Whisky ambassador will delve into the nuances of Japanese whisky culture, its rich heritage, and the distinctive characteristics that set Nikka whiskies apart. This seminar will provide a deeper appreciation of the complexities and traditions that contribute to the excellence of Nikka Whisky.

Nikka Whisky Ambassador, Mr. Taro Kaneko
Joined Nikka Whisky in 1983. Following a period of initial commercial sales in Sendai and Tokyo, he transitioned to the marketing and sales departments, specializing in advertising and planning for Western-style alcoholic beverages. His role also included the dissemination of key information about Nikka’s distilleries, significantly contributing to the brand’s public image and outreach.
 Appointed as a Whisky Ambassador since 2018
 Whisky Professional Certification: Awarded by the esteemed Institute of Whisky Culture.
 Accredited Whisky Seminar

Culinary Journey
The Nikka Whisky Immersive Package is unmissable when combined with our exceptional gourmet culinary experience. Each menu is thoughtfully paired with Nikka whiskies, enhancing both the flavors of the dishes and the spirit for a truly unforgettable dining experience, crafted by our signature dining venues: Robata and China Kitchen.

Robata
At Robata, experience the art of Japanese grilling at its purest. Each dish is a testament to traditional techniques, showcasing the delicate interplay of flavors. Savour the Grilled Scallop and Shiitake Mushroom, where the natural sweetness of scallops meets the deep umami of shiitake, enhanced by the subtle smokiness imparted by the robata grill. Further elevate your experience with our local meats and vegetables, glazed in a bespoke BBQ sauce crafted from Yoichi Single Malt. This unique sauce is the perfect accompaniment, introducing a nuanced, smoky depth that harmoniously marries with the whisky’s rich profile, perfectly complementing the robust flavors of our grilled Hokkaido specialties. This bespoke sauce, drawing inspiration from the local spirit of Hokkaido, not only perfectly complements the robust flavors of the grilled dishes it is served with but also enhances the overall dining experience. It is the perfect fusion of local Hokkaido ingredients and Japanese grilling techniques.

China Kitchen
China Kitchen offers a unique dining experience with its dynamic flavors of Chinese cuisine. Each dish is crafted to evoke a rich sensory experience. Try the Pan-Fried Scallops with Nikka Taketsuru Whisky Sauce to experience a luxurious texture and deep umami flavor, enriched by the complex and robust Nikka Taketsuru Whisky Saucethat complements the delicacy of the scallops. And our Cantonese Sweet and Sour Iberico Pork redefines a traditional favorite by combining the succulent richness of Iberico pork with a refined sweet and sour sauce that cuts through the fat, balancing each bite with its vibrant acidity – it is a whole new take on this classic dish.

Robata Whisky Pairing Dinner

China Kitchen Whisky Pairing Dinner

Mountain Lights
As dusk falls, head to Niseko Hanazono Resort for the incredible “Mountain Lights” by renowned British artist Bruce Munro. This mind-blowing light installation transforms the night landscape into a luminous dreamscape where light and landscape merge to form a breathtaking spectacle. The Mountain Lights are a celebration of Niseko’s natural beauty and an unforgettable evening that complements the day’s exploration of whisky artistry.

Mountain Ligths website: https://mountain-lights.com/en/

This summer, let Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono take you on a transformative journey through the sensory delights and delicate art of whisky making. Join us to celebrate tradition, innovation, and the serene beauty of Niseko. Discover Japan’s cultural and culinary excellence at its source, not just as a tourist, but as a true explorer.

Legacy Whisky Journey 

• Exclusive Schedule: Available on July 27, August 11, and August 16, 2024
• Accommodation: 3-night in luxurious comfort at Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, including daily breakfast.
• Price: JPY280,000 (incl. tax and service charges)
• Yoichi Distillery Tour
• Whisky Pairing Dinners at Robata and China Kitchen
• Mountain Lights Ticket for participants
• Original Room Amenities

WAY Online booking:
https://www.hyattexperiences.com/park-hyatt/ctsph#!/e/the-legacy-whisky-journey-package-e840fade/?categoryIds=4dc6d113-0b1e-439a-ba9d-dbe43c16f136

Artisan Whisky Connoisseur Experience

• Exclusive Schedule: This enhanced experience is available on September 13 and 20.
• Price: JPY330,000 (incl. tax and service charges)
• Accommodation: 3-night in luxurious comfort at Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, including daily breakfast.
• Yoichi Distillery Tour
• Ambassador Seminar and Blending Experience
• Whisky Pairing Dinners at Robata and China Kitchen
• Mountain Lights Ticket for participants
• Original Room Amenities

WAY Online booking:
https://www.hyattexperiences.com/park-hyatt/ctsph#!/e/artisan-whisky-connoisseur-experience-2898fbc7/?categoryIds=4dc6d113-0b1e-439a-ba9d-dbe43c16f136

Itinerary Overview

• Day 1: Arrive and settle in with leisure time to enjoy the hotel’s amenities.
• Day 2: After breakfast, embark on the distillery tour and ambassador seminar (Artisan Whisky Connoisseur Experience), followed by the Robata dinner.
• Day 3: A day to relax or explore, capped with the enchanting Mountain Lights and a whisky-paired dinner at China Kitchen.
• Day 4: Conclude your stay with a final breakfast before departure.

ABOUT PARK HYATT NISEKO HANAZONO

A Year-Round Luxury Mountain Retreat in Japan’s Premier Ski Destination 

Set in a spectacular natural landscape with stunning mountain views including Mount Yotei, Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono offers guests enriching experiences steeped in carefully curated art, fine cuisine and contemporary design. This is the third Park Hyatt brand property in Japan after Park Hyatt Tokyo and Park Hyatt Kyoto, bringing the Park Hyatt brand’s refined home-away-from-home hospitality to the northern island of Hokkaido. 

For details, please visit our website parkhyattniseko.com

About Park Hyatt 

Park Hyatt hotels provide discerning, global travelers with a refined home-away-from-home. Guests of Park Hyatt hotels receive quietly confident and personalized service in an enriching environment. Located in several of the world’s premier destinations, each Park Hyatt hotel is custom designed to combine sophistication with understated luxury. Park Hyatt hotels feature well-appointed guestrooms, world-renowned artwork and design, rare and immersive culinary experiences, and signature restaurants featuring award-winning chefs. There are currently 45 Park Hyatt hotels in the following locations: Abu Dhabi, Auckland, Bangkok, Beaver Creek, Beijing, Buenos Aires, Busan, Canberra, Changbaishan, Carlsbad, Chennai, Chicago, Doha, Dubai, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Hyderabad, Istanbul, Jakarta, Jeddah, Kyoto, Maldives, Marrakech, Melbourne, Mendoza, Milan, New York, Ningbo, Niseko, Paris, Saigon, Sanya, Seoul, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Siem Reap, St. Kitts, Suzhou, Sydney, Tokyo, Toronto, Vienna, Washington, D.C., Zanzibar, and Zurich. For more information, please visit parkhyatt.com. Follow @ParkHyatt on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and tag photos with #LuxuryIsPersonal.

In preparation for what’s guaranteed to be another landmark winter season for both Rhythm Japan and snowsports in Japan, Rhythm is now offering early bird deals! 

Book now and take advantage of our exclusive Early Bird Special to experience 20% off Rhythm Rides lesson and guiding services when you book for three days or more. What’s even better, those who book now will also receive 20% off rentals, ensuring they’re kitted out in the best possible gear when they’re shredding in Niseko over the 2024/25 winter season. 

For those pre-booking their rentals, there’s a lot of new gear to be excited about. As explained by Rhythm Hirafu Store Manager, Sean Potts, 

“With the aim of having a ski or a snowboard to excite everyone from beginners to expert powder hunters, the 2024/25 winter will see the most new rental gear in Rhythm Japan’s history. We are particularly excited about the new ARV series from Armada skis and to offer Shaun White’s new brand, Whitespace, in the Niseko rental fleet.”

Whether you’re a seasoned JaPow veteran looking to smash deep lines or a first timer wanting to make the trip over and finally experience Japan first-hand, there’s no better time to start booking than now. 

Book early and secure the best gear and the best instructors and guides before the rush. More info HERE.

Bookings must be made before the 31st of July 2024. Rides Early Bird Specials not available during these blackout periods (16th Dec – 5th Jan & 25th Jan – 2nd Feb). 

Nook AnNupuri restaurant, located in Niseko Annupuri International Ski Resort and Center House, begin its summer operations on Saturday, June 22, 2024!

The menu includes a variety of dishes such as hearty dishes using herb pork from Makari and menus created in collaboration with businesses in Niseko Town. Please feel free to use the cafe as well! Groups of up to 200 people are also welcome.

More info HERE.