An Insider’s Guide for Guests: Food & Dining at SnowDog Village

What’s available, what works well, and how to plan with confidence this winter

When planning a winter stay at SnowDog Village, food is one of the most common practical questions our guests ask about after lift passes, lessons and airport transfers.  What is nearby? Can we get delivery? Should we plan to cook?

This guide is designed to answer those questions clearly. We outline the food, delivery and dining options available to guests this winter, and how to make the most out of them during your stay.

Dining out: When it is Worth Heading Out

Onsite Dining

Upashi Seta is the go to onsite dining options for SnowDog Village. We are not talking about breakfast and lunch, but an evening, reservation only Japanese dining experience.

We recommend our guests book early and have at least one meal here during your stay. However, expectations should be left at the door as this is a Kyoto-style Omakase experience. In short, this means the chef has prepared a course meal of small tradtionally cooked and seasoned dishes. The “I leave it to you chef” concept behind Omakase is a little different from the western, customized, special request, dietary restriction and huge portion experience we often see in the competitive dining markets overseas.  Omakase is both an exercise in trust, pairing of flavours and suspension of expectation for those of us visiting from overseas.

However, not to put too fine a point on it, there is an a la carte menu to top off your experience. We all know that a long day on the snow can build a very healthy appetite, so you can enjoy the best of both worlds as you see fit.

Please note there are no walk-ins and you must reserve at least 5 dys in advance.  ￥6,900 per person with a la carte items and beverages.

Cooking In  : A Comfortable Option for Winter Stays

What kitchens are set up for

SnowDog Village offers accommodation ranging from Studios and Studio Suites to the 3 bedroom penthouse.  It stands to reason that the penthouse offers better facilities for cooking than the studio. Let’s look into what works in what accommodation.

Studios are setup for 1 or 2 people whose primary purpose in Niseko is skiing or snowboarding. For this room type simple cooking is the only option.  We recommend ordering a the breakfast pack to have something to have in the morning. Eggs, bacon, cereal, fruits, jam, coffee and more.  This is not overly complicated cooking and suited to the studios.  The curry packs we offer are also an option for guests in studios as the cooking is simple. (Soup Curry is recommended!)

For all other room types, more complex meals can be prepared. We offer not only the breakfast and curry packs, but Sukiyaki sets, Crab hot pot sets and Shabu-Shabu sets which will warm you up on cold winter nights as well as expose you to more traditional asian style hot pot cooking!  We even include instructions on how to do it like a pro!

For the kids in 2 bedroom and above accommodation, we also offer a pizza pack too ;).

Why it works well for families and longer stays

As ideal as it sounds, eating out every night is not only expensive, but can become tedious, loud and less special. Save restaurants for special occasions, food adventure and nights when you have no power to cook. (See the pick up service above!)  Otherwise, prepping dinner at home on your own can be a revitalizing experience allowing for more energy to tackle the night beyond the room.

Grocery access and planning tips

SnowDog Village is not near any convenience stores or grocery stores. Planning ahead is essential. If you are driving here, stopping in Kutchan at the supermarket is mandatory. There are 3 in Kutchan and all of them are good.  If you are taking a private taxi, arrange for a grocery stopover on your arrival. It may cost more, but it is worth it in the long run.  Lastly, if you arrive by bus to Niseko, the grocery store is not in your playbook unless you try to get a taxi both ways into Kutchan.   Your best move in this instance is to order grocery delivery via the button below. Be sure to order enough as there is a pre-booking window of 5 days.

Pick up and Drop off  Services  : Like a Concierge for your Tastebuds!

What do you mean a Pickup/Drop Off Service?

Just like it sounds, the restaurant will come to your door to get you and drop you off when dining is done.

Why it is worth It

Have you ever been the designated driver on a vacation? Well it is a noble calling, but I know I would rather have a couple of glasses of cheer with my friends and family than watch! With this service there are no worries about driving safety involved. Also, drivers are more familiar with the roads and conditions than visitors to the resort.

Who offers this legendary service?

Luckyfingers Izakaya – 0136-44-1160

Lupicia Fine Dining – 0136-21-7880 (Hirafu area only during peak season)

Kobito Izakaya – 0136-38-3212

Ascent Niseko Izakaya – 090-2872-6889

Delivery, Takeaway: Easy Nights In

What types of delivery are available this winter

The food delivery options in the Niseko Village area are not as robust as you may be used to at home. There are no apps and no pizza service.  I know, I know.  We do live in 2025, but the reality is, Niseko is in the countryside and 2.5 hours from the nearest city of measure, so when the winter tourists are gone, the need for delivery food dries up, so making a go of delivery is tough sledding for business owners.

Pi-kan Roll Pizza does deliver and has a minimum order amount.

12:00 – 19:30 (Last order 18:00)

0136-55-6262

When delivery is most reliable

Delivery is reliable when the road conditions are good and visibility is good. White out conditions do not add to the possibility of delivery. So, having sensitivity to conditions when calling to see if delivery is possible is advised. A good rule of thumb: If you won’t drive, then neither will they.