Setsu Winter: What to Do in Niseko in January?

January is an exciting time in Niseko. While it is known to be the month when the heaviest storms hit the area, it is also the month that brings about the best and most powder dry snow that Niseko is known for – earning its nickname “Japanuary”. However, there is more to Niseko than just snow. If you’re looking to take a break from the slopes, or you’re a non-skier looking for what to do, here is a list of events happening in Setsu and Niseko for the month of January. 

In Setsu

New Year’s Celebration

31 December 2025 – 1 January 2026

Our New Year celebrations start on the evening of New Year’s Eve with a live traditional Shamisen & Taiko performance and a New Year’s DJ Countdown. The festivities will continue the next day, 1 January, where guests can experience how the Japanese welcome the New Year with the traditional sake and mochi.

In and Around Niseko

Niseko Music Recital

10 and 12 January 2026

Enjoy a night of special music performances from renowned musician Richard Tognetti and ensemble artists at the Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono from 10 and 12 January. The first night’s performance is dedicated to a well-loved figure in Niseko, Colin Hackworth, followed by a cocktail party of drinks and canapès. On the night of the second performance, the recital will be followed with a five-course dinner and wine pairing. 

Grand Hirafu Fireworks

Every Friday until 20 March

End your week on a high note with a fireworks display at Grand Hirafu every evening at 20:00 every Friday. Head on over to the Mountain Centre, slope side, and watch the winter sky light up with numerous fireworks after a day in the mountains.

The fireworks display will be ongoing until 20 March, Friday.

Fireworks Saturday

Every Saturday in January

Night skiing in Hanazono just got a little more special this winter. Lighting up the sky every Saturday in January, Hanazono will hold a fireworks display at 19:00 that everyone is welcome to enjoy. Just in time for the night skiing hours to end, the fireworks will be a great way to finish a day of skiing and snowboarding during your Niseko holiday. 

The Hanazono ski resort can be reached within a 10-20 min drive from Setsu Niseko. Hanazono shuttle buses are available throughout the winter season with Setsu Niseko as one of their bus stops. 

Yoichi Illumination

until 28 February 2026

Hometown of the world-renowned Nikka Whisky, the town of Yoichi will be welcoming visitors with 8,000 warm golden amber LED lights hung from the gingko and maple trees surrounding the train station – befitting their image of being a whisky town. The illumination will be lit up from 16:00 – 22:00.

Yoichi is a great day trip destination from Niseko as it is only an hour away by car or public transport, and it’s also just a 30-minute train ride away from the romantic city of Otaru. 

Snow Light Path (Jozankei)

From 27 January 2026

On the other side of Lake Toya and just an hour’s drive away from Niseko is Jozankei. Another hot spring town that holds an illumination very much different from Lake Toya’s. 

Announced to be the last of its current format, this year’s Snow Light Path will be held from 27 January from 18:00 – 21:00. A conclusion of a 15-year tradition, Jozankei Shrine will be lit up from the ground up with thousands of candles. Visitors can walk within this magical space and peacefully enjoy the warm scenery. Past the Snow Light Path area, one will be greeted by the snow forest, or the “Forest of Prayer”, that is illuminated by colourful lights and images that seamlessly blend into its surroundings. 

Sapporo White Illumination

until 14 March 2026

For the whole month of January, different parts of Sapporo will be illuminated by festive and colourful lights, making the exploration of the city much more exciting. From trees wrapped up in white glowing lights to light and sound performances, combined with Sapporo’s gorgeous snowy landscape, visitors can look forward to experiencing a festive Hokkaido winter wonderland. 

Lake Toya Illumination

until 27 April 2026

An hour’s drive away from Niseko, Lake Toya’s stunning Illumination Tunnel can be visited for the whole month of January. 

While Lake Toya’s Illumination Street is held all year round, the Illumination Tunnel only happens during the winter months, right at the centre of this famous hot spring town. 70 metres long with approximately 400,000 light bulbs, visitors can enjoy strolling through the tunnel, admiring the breathtaking festive glow it provides.