A Non-Skier's Guide to Niseko

  • By Camryn

Not a skier or snowboarder? No problem. We have you covered with the best winter activities to keep you busy without needing to hit the slopes. Whether you want adventure, relaxation, dining or shopping Niseko is fun for everyone.

Snow Activities

If you still want to experience the snow without putting on skis or a snowboard, you can. There are a range of snow activities available so you can still feel as though you are in a winter wonderland.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is a great way to explore the mountain at a slower pace than skiing. It is essentially walking on the snow with both feet clipped into shoes to allow you to do this with ease. It is suitable for all ages so the whole family can take part. Snowshoeing is a guided activity where your guide can take you on trails that even skiers and snowboarders cannot access during the winter. 

Snowmobiling

If you are looking for something a bit more adventurous and fast, you may want to check out snowmobiling. Snowmobiling is like a jet ski for the snow. You can take a guided tour on a snowmobile. Do not worry if you have not driven a snowmobile before, the start of your tour will help to teach you how to drive one safely. Children can ride tandem with an adult to enjoy the fun.

Snow Rafting

Raft tours allow you to sit back and enjoy the ride. As you sit in an inflatable raft pulled along the snow, you can enjoy the winter scenery. Rafting is a great way to see the mountain even though you are not a skier or snowboarder. This is another activity that can be enjoyed as a family.

Horseback Riding

Lastly, the most peaceful and wholesome way to see the mountain is on horseback. There are a few options for horse riding in the snow. You can enjoy a gentle horse ride through the snow or you can go horse trekking through more untouched parts of the mountain.

Relaxation

If you really want to emphasise your holiday then you can lean into the relaxation and wellness facilities Niseko has to offer. Our wellness centre is one of the largest in Niseko with a yoga studio, onsen and day spa conveniently located alongside each other. Return home from your holiday feeling better than before.

Onsen

A Japanese holiday is not complete without a visit to the onsen. A tradition that dates back thousands of years as a way to relax and rejuvenate the body. Onsen baths are filled with warm, mineral rich water. At Setsu we have both public and private onsen available to guests. Guests are provided with one complimentary session in the private onsen per stay, more information can be found here. Additionally, there are select rooms that have onsen such as the penthouses and four bedroom suites. 

Spa

Just a few steps away from our onsen is Rikka Spa. Rikka Spa has a winter spa programme designed to lull you into a deep state of relaxation. You can choose from a range of massages, facials or foot baths. These treatments include special details such as sound therapy, hot stones and acupressure.

Yoga

You can keep your body moving at our onsite yoga studio - Studio En. Take your pick of the classes on offer, whether you want to stretch out with yin or flow through vinyasa. Studio En is an inviting space where you can connect with your body and find zen on your mat. 

Setsu Onsen
Rikka Spa
Studio En

Wining and Dining

Niseko can be a culinary experience where you can try both traditional Japanese cuisine and cuisines from all over the world too. Of course we have a wide range of restaurants to choose from at Setsu Niseko. With five onsite restaurants and a bar, you can take your pick without even needing to leave the hotel.

  • méli mélo -Yuki No Koe- serving you breakfast, lunch and dinner, méli mélo will be your go to while staying at Setsu. They focus on European cuisine with locally sourced ingredients.
  • AFURI - popular masters of ramen, donburi and gyoza.
  • Sushi Kato INORI - an intimate dining experience serving traditional Japanese kaiseki.
  • Tempura Araki - the perfect combination of omakase and tempura.
  • Luke’s Alpine Club - an oyster bar meets an American chophouse.
  • Park90 - a dedicated wine bar serving wine, cocktails and snacks from our other restaurants.

If you feel like venturing beyond Setsu, there are many delicious food spots to try in Niseko. Park Hyatt is located in the Hanazono ski resort. There is a free bus that runs between Park Hyatt and Setsu, the timetable can be found here. Park Hyatt also has a range of restaurants and cuisines to choose from. If you are feeling adventurous you could dine at China Kitchen and try their Cantonese dishes, or Olivio who specialise in Italian cuisine.

AFURI
méli mélo -Yuki No Koe-
Park90

Shopping

If you are in need of some retail therapy, look no further than The Holiday Project. The Holiday Project is Setsu’s newest addition and boasts a stock of high end winter clothing. Even for those who are not keen on hitting the slopes, you can pick up some dreamy clothing and accessories and look your best while exploring Niseko. 

Beyond Setsu, you can rely on the Rhythm stores located around Niseko for some practical winter fashion. The Rhythm stores immerse you in cool vibes with great music, friendly staff and onsite cafes. Take your time looking around for your next purchase.

Before you leave, you should also stop at Milk Kobo for some authentic Niseko souvenirs. Milk Kobo is located on Takahashi Dairy Farm and they sell delicious treats made from the cows milk from the farm. You can enjoy a range of treats from ice cream to baked goods. Additionally, you can take some goodies back home with you. Milk Kobo has a gift shop filled with gifts made right on the farm that you can take to enjoy with family and friends. 

The Holiday Project
Rhythm Base Store
Milk Kobo

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