Seasonal Events

Even Santa needs a chance to unwind before the big day! Trading in his sled for skis, Santa will take to the slopes of Grand Hirafu during the 24th & 25th of December to spread some holiday cheer! Will you be lucky enough to spot him? Don't be afraid to greet him for photos and fun!

24th to 25th December
Grand Hirafu Ski Slopes

Wrap up warm and witness a dazzling display of colourful flashes and dizzying explosions over Niseko’s favourite Ski Resort! A loud, proud crowd favourite in Niseko—this year, local pyrotechnic prodigies are determined to outshine displays of seasons past!

21:00 to 21:30
Grand Hirafu Ski Resort

Come and visit Santa in AYA Niseko on Christmas Day! Santa will be in the AYA lobby from 9:00 to 11:00 and 13:00 to 15:00 having photos taken and passing out gifts to both children and adults alike!

9:00 to 11:00 — 13:00 to 15:00
AYA Niseko Lobby

Niseko Kid’s Club will be FREE at AYA throughout Christmas morning! 

Anyone can come to visit Santa, but if you would like to join Niseko Kid’s Club on the morning of the 25th, please book in advance to avoid disappointment!

8:30 to 12:00
Niseko Kid's Club
[email protected]

Join a thousand people bidding farewell to 2016 with a very special New Year’s Countdown at the base of the Grand Hirafu Ski Resort.

When the clock strikes midnight, the 41st Annual Torchlight Ski will commence, with a winding line of skiers and snowboarders bearing burning torches snaking down the mountain to mark the beginning of a brand new year—an inspiring Niseko celebration of the New Year.

Crowds gather from 23:30
Grand Hirafu Ski Resort

Toast the New Year in authentic Japanese style with the traditional Kagami-wari Sake Ceremony. 

A large sake barrel adorned with colourful decoration has its timber lid broken open with large wooden hammers and a triumphant shout! The sake within is served using an ornate bamboo ladle, and a toast is made for good luck and good fortune for the rest of the year.

King Bell Hut
Grand Hirafu Ski Resort