Known for its abundance of white powder-like snow during winter, Niseko is one of the most famous ski resorts in Hokkaido, Japan. The ski resort attracts large numbers of foreigners annually which, over the years, has given rise to a number of newly-opened establishments opening up from shopping areas in the central town area, eateries that cater to Western palates and of course, bars.
Perhaps one of the places you’d least expect to find a vibrant bar scene, Niseko impresses with its wide variety of drinking holes. From speakeasy bars, laid-back burger-and-beer joints to a one-of-a-kind premium nightlife destination, here is a list of 7 bars in Niseko, Hokkaido.
1. Bar Gyu+ – Enter the bar through a fridge
Traditionally open only in winter, Bar Gyu+—or better known as the Fridge Door Bar—is perhaps one of the most iconic speakeasy-type bars in Niseko, Hokkaido, and one of the oldest too. It get its nickname seeing as to how the only means of access is through an old fridge door surrounded by ice.
The bar curates a wide selection of Japanese whisky and its team of talented bartenders come up with new cocktails every season.
Address: 167-21 Yamada, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0081, Japan
Opening Hours: 7PM – 12AM (Daily)
Contact: +81 136-23-1432
2. Bigfoot Bunker – Burgers & cocktails
In this cosy little lodge, you’ll find no sign of the abominable snowman (a.k.a Big Foot), but what you will find is a warm hearth, outrageously good burgers, a good selection of handcrafted cocktails and an oddly vast arsenal of imported hot sauce that’ll take the edge of the cold.
Address: 170-290 Yamada, 字, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0081, Japan
Opening Hours: 12PM – 2AM (Daily)
Contact: +81 90-3893-1241
3. Ground Pub Niseko (CLOSED)
Exuding a certain rustic charm about it and boasting quite possibly one of the largest whisky collections around, there’s no wondering why locals would rather keep Ground Pub Niseko a closely guarded secret.
Here, they house many Hokkaido-distilled spirits and have many seasonal fruit cocktails available but if you’d rather something crafted to suit your liking better, just let owner, Tomita know and he’ll handle the rest. You will find Ground Pub Niseko on the main road heading towards Kutchan station.
Address: 1 Chome-16-番地 Minami 1 Jonishi, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0031, Japan
Opening Hours: 7PM – 2AM (Daily)
Contact: +81 136-55-5329
4. Niseko Taproom – Paradise for craft beer lovers
A gem for craft beer enthusiasts, Niseko Taproom is located in the centre of Niseko’s Grand Hirafu village on the 3rd floor of Odin Place. The bar is cosy and has on tap, a good selection of craft beers ranging from lagers to IPAs. They also do really amazing food such as rotisserie chicken.
Address: Odin Place 3F, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido, Japan 044-0081
Opening Hours: 2PM – 11PM (Daily)
Contact: +81 50-5316-9488
5. Tamashii – Opens till 2AM every day
More club than an actual bar (let alone restaurant), Tamashi in the Abuta District of Hokkaido is a place brimming with energy, a refuge from the unforgiving winter where one can come to enjoy tasty food, a few tipples and good music.
Listen to the sets of famous DJs as you indulge in anything from homemade burgers, wings, gyoza to fresh local sashimi. Their arsenal of drinks is extensive, catering to craft beer drinkers to those who prefer something more refined.
Address: 170-138 Yamada, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0081, Japan
Opening Hours: 12PM – 2AM (Daily)
Contact: +81 136-23-2222
6. Powder Room Niseko – A luxurious nightlife spot
Located in the heart of Hirafu, Powder Room is the first-ever premium nightly entertainment spot to take up residence in Niseko, setting the nightlife standard for the popular ski resort.
This upscale bar curates a chic experience for party enthusiasts and international jet-setters, serving a Japanese contemporary-inspired menu and quality libations which include a spectacular selection of exotic sake, wine, champagne and whiskey, in a super modern setting.
Address: 163-145 Yamada, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0081, Japan
Opening Hours: 7PM – 2AM (Daily)
Contact: +81 136-55-7066
7. Wild Bill’s – Happy hour starts at 4PM
A rustic and laid-back place to chill, Wild Bill’s is one of the largest and most lively bars in Niseko, boasting live music, pool tables and impressive nosh to boot.
Located in the upper Hirafu village, the bar is housed in a classic alpine lodge complete with a proper fireplace. It exudes a warm, cosy atmosphere and serves a good variety of local draft beer and cocktails. The restaurant has a Japanese izakaya-style menu featuring Latin inspired dishes, all made from locally grown Hokkaido produce.
Address: 189-8 Yamada, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0081, Japan
Opening Hours: 4PM – 2AM (Daily)
Contact: +81 136-55-5774
Read our guide to Japan’s nightlife.
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