Niseko Seasonaires Guide: Jobs, Tips & Events

PRE-SEASON CHECKLIST:

Email freshiesniseko@gmail.com for more answers!

WORKING HOLIDAY VISAS?

This is a requirement to be able to work in Japan.

Check eligibility: Are you from a participating country, age-eligible, and never issued WHV before?

Secure funds: £/€ or USD 2,500+ and proof of return ticket or funds to purchase one.

Apply at your home country’s Japanese embassy/consulate (interview and itineraries often required). Check Embassy details for requirements.

Report your address within 14 days to local town hall after arrival.

SHOULD I BUY GEAR BEFORE THE SEASON?

Steeze doesnt always need to come with a huge price tag... but ultimately the answer to this question is Yes and No. One good pair of Sallopetes and Jacket will suffice and soon your winter wardrobe will be full of Second Street finds.

Many Ski/Snowboard hire shops often sell last seasons demo gear at a discounted price.

Ski Boot shops like Boots Solutions offer discounts on Boot fitting and moulding.

Second Outdoor in Sapporo as well as numerous other second hand shops are great for finding cheap good quality gear.

No Helmet/ No Sneeze - Helmets and low-light googles. Limited sunlight and Night skiing means you need lenses that enhance contrast and brightness. Look for VLT (Visible Light Transmission) around 30–70% for cloudy or stormy days. Look for these coloured lenses:

Rose / Pink
Amber / Persimmon
Yellow
Light blue

PACKING ESSENTIALS

Packing for a ski season sounds pretty simple right....but you don't want to forget some essentials!

Jacket for nights out (one you don't care too much about, but make sure it's warm!)
Good pair of snow boots....they will be your best friend when you're stumbling home at 2am.
Slippers - shoes inside are a big no no and you never know what your housemate could have dropped on the floor.
Towel.
Gloves/mittens for walking around.
Beanies - life saver for that helmet hair!
Small rucksack/tote bag for your onsen trips.
Trackies and cosy socks for those post-pow days.
Ear plugs

¥1000 OR LESS RESTAURANTS

Dog Tail - Niseko Town

One of our top favourites in Niseko, this restaurant is a must-visit for seasonaires during the ski season. They offer large sets of karaage chicken, chicken katsu curry, and plenty more—perfect for a pre or post ride lunch out. Be sure to check the job board for upcoming events and travel tips while you're in town!

Check it out

Moon Bar - Hirafu

If you're in Niseko during the ski season, don't miss out on the amazing Dan Dan noodles and yummy ramens at local restaurants. Plus, check out the job board for seasonaires looking for tips on upcoming events and travel tips to enhance your experience.

Check it out

Tsubara Tsubara - Hirafu

One of the best soup curries that you will experience can be found in Niseko, where many restaurants cater to seasonaires during the ski season. While enjoying this delicious dish, be sure to check out local job boards for upcoming events and travel tips to make the most of your visit.

check it out

BEST COFFEE SHOPS

Hidden Stand Coffee - Hirafu

One of our favorite coffee shops in Hirafu, perfect for seasonaires during the ski season. They serve the best baked goods you’ll find around, making it a must-visit spot for anyone looking for travel tips or wanting to explore local restaurants. Don't forget to check the job board for upcoming events in Niseko!

check it out

Sprout - Kutchen

Lovely little coffee shop based in Kutchen, perfect for doing admin or catching up with friends after a day on the slopes in Niseko. Enjoy delicious coffee and small bakes while checking out the job board for upcoming events and tips for seasonaires during the ski season.

Check it out

DAY TRIPS

Rusutsu Resort

If you're looking for a fun new resort to explore this ski season, just less than 30 mins from Niseko, you'll find an amazing destination with endless tree runs and good times.

Check it out

Round One - Sapporo

Think Rollerblading to Inflatable Football with ¥100 drinks; this six-story game wonderland in Niseko is the perfect day trip with mates. It's an ideal place for seasonaires looking for fun during the ski season, and you can also discover nearby restaurants.

check it out

Sapporo Snow Festival

Held from February 4th - 11th, this is a must to add to your season itinerary, especially for those looking to explore Niseko. Be sure to follow our travel tips to enhance your experience!

Check it out

BEST SNACKS TO TRY

Bears Cafe - Cinnamon Roll

Cup of coffee and cinnamon roll on a patterned tray on a rustic wooden table.

Based on the Slopes of Annupuri - the Bears' Cafe cinnamon roll is one of the best post powder riding snacks you need to try this season. Pair it with a cheeky mulled wine.

Seciomart - Fresh Onigiri

Bears Cafe - Cinnamon Roll

Hand holding a packaged rice ball with Japanese label and price.

Yes, the OG from 7/11 is good. But, the Seciomart fresh, warm onigiri are top tier. If your feeling adventurous, try the spicy salmon roe.

Meiji Macadamia Chocolates

Bears Cafe - Cinnamon Roll

Meiji Macadamia Chocolates

Hand picking a chocolate-covered macadamia nut from a Meiji Macadamia box.

Once you try one of these bad boys, trust me it's going to be hard not to munch the whole packet in one go.

7/11 - Mochi Donut

Milk Kobo - Ice cream

Meiji Macadamia Chocolates

Colorful mochi donuts with various glazes and sprinkles on a tray.

Milk Kobo - Ice cream

Hand holding a soft serve ice cream cone against a blurred red building.

FRESHIES

BUILT BY SEASONAIRES, FOR SEASONAIRES

DISCOVER NISEKO

Our Mission

INFORMATION

to make your season even better....

FIRST LIFTS?

PRE-SEASON CHECKLIST:

Upcoming Events

10/12/2025

Boot Solutions Sale

All day

10/12/2025

Boot Solutions Sale

All day

JOB BOARD

¥1000 OR LESS RESTAURANTS

BEST COFFEE IN NISEKO

DAY TRIPS

¥1000 OR LESS RESTAURANTS

Dog Tail - Niseko Town

Moon Bar - Hirafu

Tsubara Tsubara - Hirafu

BEST COFFEE SHOPS

Hidden Stand Coffee - Hirafu

Sprout - Kutchen

DAY TRIPS

Rusutsu Resort

Round One - Sapporo

Sapporo Snow Festival

BEST SNACKS TO TRY

Bears Cafe - Cinnamon Roll

Bears Cafe - Cinnamon Roll

Bears Cafe - Cinnamon Roll

Seciomart - Fresh Onigiri

Bears Cafe - Cinnamon Roll

Bears Cafe - Cinnamon Roll

Meiji Macadamia Chocolates

Bears Cafe - Cinnamon Roll

Meiji Macadamia Chocolates

7/11 - Mochi Donut

Milk Kobo - Ice cream

Meiji Macadamia Chocolates

Milk Kobo - Ice cream

Milk Kobo - Ice cream

Milk Kobo - Ice cream

BUY AND SELL GEAR

Black Crow Divus Birdie

Giro Ledge Mips

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