English
An eventful December took over Setsu as the holiday crowds started rolling in Niseko.
The holiday celebrations began on 8 December where guests and the local community gathered to celebrate Setsu Niseko’s annual Lighting Ceremony. After enjoying a wonderful music performance by the Mount Yotei Junior Jazz School, everyone headed just outside the hotel’s entrance – with their warm drinks on hand – to watch the Christmas tree light up immediately followed by a spectacular fireworks display, brightening up the night.
The holidays became a lot sweeter when the world-renowned Hokkaido brand, ROYCE’ Chocolate Shop (operated by Moving Shop Co., Ltd.) came to Setsu Niseko, allowing guests and the local Niseko community to indulge in some deliciously sweet goodies, including the iconic ROYCE’ Nama Chocolate, and season-limited products like the Happy Selection [Christmas] chocolates.
On the days leading up to Christmas, nightly live performances were held in Park90 including renowned Tokyo-based singer Pey-ling, whose voice enchanted the guests into enjoying the nights of 23 to 25 December. Christmas Eve and Christmas celebrations were truly special as Santa Claus also dropped by to say hello and read the letters sent to him by our lovely little Setsu guests.
Time flew by with everyone still feeling the holiday cheer and soon enough, energy was once again high in Setsu as we prepared to welcome the new year. A special New Year’s Taiko and Shamisen performance by Nitta Masahiro and Shinta kicked off the celebrations. A great insight into Japanese culture, the duo played upbeat and rhythmic music, including their very own rendition of “Beat It” by Michael Jackson.
Setsu restaurants also joined in on the celebrations with AFURI serving Toshikoshi Ramen – putting their own twist to the traditional New Year dish, Toshikoshi Soba; and Sushi Kato INORI holding a special pop-up event in Park90 where guests could enjoy a special tuna dish for New Year’s Eve.
As the night grew, DJ Fuminori Kagajo (Snowk) played his carefully curated sets – perfectly building the excitement and anticipation as the guests counted down the New Year. The last day of 2024 came to a perfect close with loud cheers and a spectacular fireworks display.
The festivities continued on the next day, 1 January, filled with more traditional Japanese New Year traditions. The rhythmic and booming sounds of the taiko drums resounding throughout Setsu’s courtyard was a strong start to the first day of 2025, followed by the ceremonies of opening the sake barrel and mochi pounding. To wish for everyone’s good year ahead, our guests were invited to enjoy some sake, a symbol of good health and prosperity; as well as mochi which symbolises good fortune and happiness.
We would like to thank everyone who came over and celebrated the holiday season with us, including the amazing artists and performers who helped in making our celebrations a moment to remember. Wishing everyone a prosperous and amazing 2025, and we hope to see you again soon.
Celebrations are not yet quite finished at Setsu and we still have more in store this winter season. Check out our Events page to know any upcoming events happening during your stay with us.
