What's on this Christmas - Niseko, Japan

The fairy tale landscape of Niseko is the perfect place to live out wintry dreams.

The resort has increasingly embraced Christmas year-on-year, with the emphasis on bringing loved ones together for fun and festivities, as opposed to a more traditional, religious celebration.

Chalet Kitsutsuki is perfectly placed for the many attractions, from live music against a mountain backdrop, to illuminated night skiing, fireworks, and even a visit from Santa Claus!

Here's your guide to what's going on in the area this year over Christmas and New Year.

15th December, 2023 | Travel Inspiration

Yotei Taiko live music

Every Saturday at 7pm, between 16th December and the end of February, you can enjoy the powerful drumming performance of Yotei Taiko, a musical celebration of the natural beauty of Mt. Yotei and the lives of the locals living in the snowy region. An incredibly expressive and energetic experience, amidst the snow in Niseko Shopping and Dining Village.

HANAZONO fireworks

From 16th December to the end of February, fireworks are launched at Niseko HANAZONO resort every Saturday for 12 weeks. The clear night skies will be illuminated by a brilliant pyrotechnic display, viewable from the slopes on your board or skis, or alternatively sit back and ride the illuminated gondola to catch the spectacle.

Gifts from Santa Claus

Santa Claus is coming to town! On Christmas Eve, 24th December, Santa Claus will be waiting near the Christmas tree at the HANAZONO resort to hand out presents for the children. Hot drinks and delicious cookies will be handed out for free, and there will be a grand fireworks display at 7pm. On Christmas Day, 25th December, Santa will hand out presents to children at various hotels in and around Niseko Village, Grand Hirafu and HANAZONO.

New Year's Jazz

On New Year's Eve, Niseko Village comes alive. From 8pm, there will be a live music performance from a jazz band at Hinode Hills, Niseko Village, and The Green Leaf, Niseko Village. From 11.30pm, Yotei Taiko will 'drum up' the celebrations at Hilton Niseko Village Flame. A special Soba dish will be served up at the Hilton and The Green Leaf, and countdown fireworks will be set off on the slopes. Spoilt for choice!

HANAZONO night skiing

The resort will be open for night skiing from 16th December - 20th March, and the gondola lights will illuminate the night sky in a spectrum of colour. A huge Christmas tree will debut with a light-up event on 16th December, at the same time as a fireworks display, with approximately 10,000 lights decorating the 12-metre tree.

New Year's Eve at Annupuri

With free-of-charge access to the ski area, torchlight skiing and fireworks, Annapuri is a great place to spend the last night of the year! There will be the renowned torch run, where skiiers hit the slopes holding flaming torches, and a countdown fireworks display to welcome in 2024.

Louis Vuitton pop-up

From 15th December, Park Hyatt Niseko will host the first-ever Louis Vuitton pop-up store in a Japanese resort. Surrounded by the spectacular scenery of Mt. Yotei, the LV store will sell a range of its famous products, including handbags and accessories. A shopper's paradise!

Niseko is a winter wonderland of powder snow, world-class runs and ambient après-ski; a fitting place to celebrate the festivities!