This cool après-ski spot is now open for green season
When the ski lifts close, Niseko goes back to the quiet village it was before it became the “Aspen of Asia”. And as the temperature rises, it reveals a lush summer spectacle — a verdant landscape dotted with thriving plants, flowers and more. This means summer in Niseko is perfect for hiking, a round of golf or just taking in the fresh air (if we could bottle it, we would!).
This coolcation destination is still sort of a secret, and while we love the endless fresh soft serve to be had, one of the drawbacks is that a lot of the cute little bars and omakase restaurants we visit in winter are closed. However, as more people realise how lovely Niseko is during the summer, this is changing.
Case in point: Niseko Confidential, one of our favourite après-ski spots that debuted in the winter 2024/25 season, reopens for service on July 2. Set to serve both locals and in-the-know travellers in Niseko for the green season, the bar and restaurant will stay open until August 31.
Read next: Summer in Hokkaido: 10 Best Activities in Niseko, Rusutsu and Furano
Tell us, what is Niseko Confidential?
Niseko Confidential is the sister establishment of Tokyo Confidential, an award-winning bar established by hospitality veterans Holly Graham and Tom Everton (who were behind the lauded Argo at the Four Seasons Hong Kong).
Since opening in 2023, Tokyo Confidential has built a cult following thanks to its creative cocktails (with a strong focus on agave) and its cheeky character. Standing at No. 53 at the Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024, it stands out from the other conceptual, high-end bars in Tokyo because it doesn’t take itself too seriously — and that’s part of the fun.
Last winter season, it opened an outpost in Niseko serving curated wines, beers, spirits, and, of course, world-class cocktails. The big plus? They also have an extensive food menu including multi-course sets. We’re happy to report that they also managed to replicate the cool, relaxed vibe.
What kind of food can we expect in the summer?
While the winter menu focused squarely on prix-fixe dining menus, this summer you’ll find an expanded à la carte offering fresh seasonal dishes.
Enjoy light bites like the Summer Vegetable Gazpacho, Spicy Scallop Crispy Rice, and the delectable Wagyu Beef Tacos with premium Hokkaido wagyu beef with yuzu pepper teriyaki. Main course offerings include Pan-Fried Salmon with charred corn salsa and couscous salad as well as rich Wagyu Beef Curry and Hokkaido Wagyu Filet.
If you’re looking to splash out, Niseko Confidential will still serve its signature 4- and 6-course dining menus.
Read also: 6 Top Mount Yotei Photo Spots In Niseko That’s Not From The Slopes
What is the drink menu like?
Niseko Confidential made a splash last winter for their unique après-ski cocktails including the Gingerbread Old Fashioned (bourbon, gingerbread syrup and bitters) and the Tokyo Banana Colada with rum.
New summer-inspired additions have a more refreshing twist. There’s Spring Garden (gin, basil, verde amaro, sake, lychee and soda), as well as the Blueberry Smash (shochu, blueberry, elderflower, mint and citrus).
The bar will continue to serve their original creations from last ski season (in case you’re craving for it), as well as Tokyo Confidential’s two signature sakes in collaboration with Katō Kahachirō Shuzō brewery, Yamagata.
Should you miss summer but definitely booked for winter, stay tuned for a new agave-focused bar to open for the upcoming ski season.
Niseko Confidential is located at 1-3-20, Niseko Hirafu 2-jo, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido, 044-0089. Open for the summer season from 2 July through 31 August 2025, 5 – 11PM, Wednesdays through Sundays.
Reserve through TableCheck (tables now available for both the summer and winter seasons).
Hungry for more? Read these next:
Cheat Sheet: Niseko’s Newest Dining Spots to Know
12 Best Soft Serves and Ice Cream To Taste In Hokkaido
Lavender Lover: A Pocket Guide To All Lavender Spots In Hokkaido