Once you’ve put your skis up for the day, it’s time to hit Niseko’s cool bars, cosy cocktail dens and lively izakayas for an après scene like no other.
Once you leave the piste and the boots come off, you know what comes next. Onsen, of course — a post-ski pleasure you can only enjoy in Japan — then a careful plan of where to après in Niseko.
When the sun sets, this small ski town transforms into a playground of dimly lit bars, cocktail hideouts, and intimate izakayas humming with energy. And this winter, Niseko is brimming with new openings alongside steady favourites that are perfect for shaking off the cold. Whether you’re after a crisp nama-beeru and yakitori, a fireside whisky in cosy surrounds, or a lively DJ set to dance to, these are the spots worth sliding into after the slopes.
Read also: Niseko Dining Guide 2025: The Best Restaurants, Bars and Cafes to Know
COCKTAIL HAUNTS
Bar Gyu+
Why go? For the iconic “fridge door” entrance and a world of quirky craft cocktails and signature Japanese whisky waiting on the other side
No trip to Niseko is complete without walking through the famous “Fridge Door Bar” styled like a vintage Coca-Cola vending machine. Singled out by Bloomberg as one of the best après-ski bars in the world, it embodies the spirit of Niseko: youthful, lively and sophisticated. Keep warm with the extensive collection of exquisite Japanese whisky and a menu that only gets more interesting year after year.
Address: 1-50, 2-Jo, 3-Chome, Niseko Hirafu, Hokkaido 044-0081
Reservations and website: Walk in only; Visit www.instagram.com/bar_gyu
Bar Haku at The Select
Why go? Be it an aperitif or a nightcap, expect expertly crafted cocktails with a twist
Cocktail hour becomes an unforgettable experience in the hands of Shirano, the award-winning mixologist behind Bar Haku. The refreshing mojito is renewed as Instagram bait in his slow-melting, ice-encrusted Wa-jito cocktail. The top shelf whisky and original spirits including its own gin are not to be missed. It’s a charming spot for an aperitif before your reservation at the nearby restaurants in The Select, or a stylish nightcap to wrap up your evening.
Address: 2-Jo 1-Chome 9-41, Niseko Hirafu, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0089
Reservations and website: +81-136-55-6855 or visit theselectniseko.com/about-bar-haku
Toshiro’s Bar
Why go? If there’s a classic Niseko night out, that would be spending time in this gem
This consecutive grand slam winner in the Best Après Ski category at the “Best of Niseko” from 2018 to 2020 is a local icon for a reason. Helmed by master bartender Toshiro Akinori and his wife Yoko, Toshiro’s Bar is the epitome of high-end Japanese bartending. Alongside his work as an owner-bartender, Toshiro is also a craft bottle artist performing guest shifts across Asia. Come for the extensive list of whiskies and cocktails, and stay for the warm, genuine Japanese hospitality.
Address: Sansui Niseko, 1-Jo 4-Chome 5-32, Niseko Hirafu, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0080
Reservation and website: Walk in only; Visit www.instagram.com/toshiros_bar_niseko
The Flats. Restaurant/Bar
Why go? Perfect for winding down in a speakeasy-style surrounds
Simmer down after a day out in the cold at The Flats. Wine Bar/Lounge. Hidden behind glass doors at Niseko Snow Resort, this speakeasy-style bar and lounge features traditional Japanese raised seating and a serene ambience that makes it hard to leave. You can’t beat a night sipping on rare wine, sake and Japanese whisky from their cellar while taking in the views of Mount Yotei — sure to be a high point of your Hirafu stay.
Address: Chatrium Niseko 1F, 1-Jo 3-Chome 3-12, Niseko HIrafu, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0080
Reservations and website: +81-136-55-6656 or email reservation@theflats.jp; Visit www.instagram.com/theflats.niseko
DRINK, DINE, UNWIND
Niseko Confidential
Why go? For when you want big-city cocktails, delicious plates, and an intimate après-ski evening
From the award-winning creators of Tokyo Confidential, Niseko Confidential brings an urban touch to Hokkaido. This stylish bar is designed for cocktail enthusiasts, offering expertly crafted drinks and luxurious dining to match including an indulgent Furano A5 Wagyu course menu. Whether you’re winding down after a day on the slopes or having a big celebration, Niseko Confidential has you covered.
Address: 2-Jo 1-Chome 3-20, Niseko Hirafu, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0089
Reservations and website: Call +81 70-3311-7260 or visit nisekoconfidential.com
MASONRY. Japan
Why go? Sophisticated plates made with Hokkaido produce that you can actually ski into
This season, chef Ben Cross brings his acclaimed Bali dining concept to the slopes of Niseko with Mediterranean-inspired, wood-fired cuisine that highlights Hokkaido’s exceptional produce — from house-made halloumi crafted with local milk to Furano Wagyu grilled over Binchotan charcoal. Don’t miss out on their signature cocktails like the well-loved Margarita ala MASONRY. curated by award-winning bar director Zac de Git, complemented by an extensive wine list.
Address: 3-2, 1-Jo 4-Chome, Niseko Kyo, Niseko Hirafu, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0081
Reservations and website: tablecheck.com/en/masonry-japan/reserve; Visit https://masonryjapan.com/
Read more: Inside MASONRY Niseko: Chef Ben Cross Brings His Acclaimed Bali Restaurant to Japan
Tepache
Why go? Mezcal, Mexican heat and a tequila-fuelled winter? You can’t say no to a fiesta in the snow
The newest concept from the creators of both Niseko Confidential, Tepache is a festive hideaway that’s bringing Mexico’s heat to Hirafu. Home to Hokkaido’s largest agave collection, it’s where mezcal and modern Mexican plates meet mountain air to spark a tequila-fuelled fiesta.
Address: 2F, 1-Jo 3-Chome 21, Niseko Hirafu, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0081
Reservations and website: tablecheck.com/shops/tepache/reserve; Visit tepache-niseko.com
Mūsu
Why go? Fireside cocktails, global bites and cosy couches to slouch on after a gruelling powder day
Just steps from the slopes, Mūsu is a bistro and cocktail bar where alpine comfort meets cosmopolitan flair. By day, it serves hearty bistro fare; by night, it transforms into a lively après-ski spot with global tapas, craft cocktails and weekend music performances. Set around a crackling fireplace with plush sofas, it’s the kind of place you’ll linger long after your last drink.
Address: Odin Place 2F, 1-Jo 3-Chome 3-12, Niseko Hirafu, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0080
Reservations and website: Walk in only; Visit musuniseko.com
Otsukisama and Bar moon
Why go? For spicy miso ramen upstairs, cocktails downstairs, and the kind of night that somehow stretches way past your bedtime.
Located just below the Hirafu junction, Otsukisama and Bar Moon is a beloved Niseko hideaway combining hearty ramen, classic izakaya bites, and a great cocktail list. Guests flock to the cozy upstairs dining space for steaming bowls of spicy miso ”Devil Ramen” and other comforting dishes before dancing the night away at the lively bar downstairs.
Address: 2-Jo 170-280, Niseko Hirafu, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0089
Reservations and website: +81 136-23-2265; Visit https://www.moon-kikaku.com/moon_hirafu
HEY MISTER DJ
Hertzz
Why go? A temple for audiophiles where dim lights, deep bass and world-class DJs rule the night
Helmed by Camilla Dias, founder of MUNE JP, Hertzz Niseko is a haven for music lovers of all stripes. It’s here where you’ll find deep rhythms and world-class DJs sets, too. More than a bar, it’s an immersive soundscape crafted for those who live for the beat.
Address: 2-Jo 1-Chome 5-10, Niseko Hirafu, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0089
Reservations and website: www.instagram.com/hertzz__niseko____/
Music Bar MINA MINA
Why go? If analogue sounds are up your alley, this spot beckons with vinyl crackles, premium pours, and a vintage vibe like no other
Tucked away in Upper Hirafu, Music Bar MINA MINA invites guests to unwind by the wood-burning stove with quality drinks and good music. The bar is fitted with well-maintained vintage audio equipment and plays music exclusively on analogue records, creating a nostalgic vibe. Enjoy live performances five nights a week, alongside a wide selection of Japanese whiskies, premium tequilas and gins. Whoever you’re relaxing with, this place hits all the right notes.
Address: 1-Jo 3-Chome 2-14, Niseko Hirafu, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0081
Reservations and website: Walk in only. For private bookings, contact +81 90-9437-4141. Visit nisekominamina.net
Magic Mountain Bar
Why go? For good cocktails, laid-back grooves and that unmistakable Hirafu-after-dark buzz
Cosy lighting, crafted cocktails, and groovin’ DJ sets set the mood at Magic Mountain. Nestled in the heart of Hirafu on Momiji Zaka Street, this bar is where good vibes, great music, and well-made drinks come together — a perfect taste of Hirafu’s nightlife magic.
Address: 2-Jo 1-Chome 7-29, Niseko Hirafu, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0089
Reservations and website: Walk in only; Visit magicmountainbar.com
DANCING UNTIL DAWN
Freddie’s
Why go? For a delicious dinner and dancing on tables come midnight.
Located one street from Hirafu Village’s main restaurant strip, this American-style clubhouse draws in a young crowd with its fusion of Texan and Hokkaido flavours. Come for the eight-hour, coffee-rubbed, maple-smoked beef brisket, the apple and sake-brined fried chicken, and the Hokkaido pork ribs with hot BBQ peaches. After 10pm Freddies transforms into a Western saloon, with lively entertainment that usually leads to dancing on the tables.
Address: 1170-164 Yamada, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0081
Reservations and website: Walk in only; Visit www.instagram.com/freddiesniseko
Powder Room Niseko
Why go? If a proper night out is what you’re after, shimmy up to this spot
Think Hong Kong’s iconic Dragon-i nightclub in the heart of Hirafu. The Powder Room welcomes an international crowd of clubbing enthusiasts with its electric atmosphere, contemporary Japanese-inspired menu and extensive selection of sake, wine, champagne and whiskey. Dress to impress — this is the place to see and be seen in Niseko. Don’t miss the must-try caviar shots for the ultimate extravagance on a glamorous night out.
Address: 2-Jo 2-Chome 10-45, Niseko Hirafu,, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0089
Reservations and website: +81 136-55-8288 or Whatsapp/LINE +81 80-8290-0291; Visit powderroomniseko.com
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Additional text by Marbbie Tagabubca