Niseko Now - The best festivals for the summer season

* This post was updated in July 2024 to give you the most current information

One of the best parts of experiencing summer in Japan is the festivals and events that seem to dot the calendar every weekend throughout the warmer months. Referred to as ‘matsuri’ in Japanese, these events celebrate anything from a local shrine’s special day to praying for a good harvest. These lively and community-oriented gatherings are reason enough to make the trip up north in the summertime! Here are our top picks for festivals in the Niseko area this summer season.

NIKO NIKO NISEKO VILLAGE FESTIVAL

Kick off the summer season with a range of family fun activities, live music and games will be held throughout the day. It is also the best time to sample tasty food from local vendors! 

2024 Niko Niko Session - July 15th & 16th
Check out the event page HERE

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KUTCHAN JAGA MATSURI

Arguably the biggest summer festival in the Niseko area is the Kutchan Jaga Festival, celebrating the town’s proudest produce - the humble potato. It’s held to congratulate the community on another successful harvest and to wish for another, with games, musical performances, parades and of course, plenty of delicious food! Make sure to be there for the taiko drumming and nighttime fireworks - they’re not to be missed.

2024 Jaga Session - August 5th & 6th
Check out the event page HERE

HIRAFU MATSURI

Held in Niseko’s hub of Hirafu, the annual festival will be endless fun with games, market stalls, live music, fireworks and amazing food provided by locals. Come to Sunsports to see the town come alive with community spirit and meet others in the area!

2024 Hirafu Festival - August 23rd & 24th
Check out last years event page HERE

AUTUMN FOOD FESTIVAL

The Niseko Autumn Food Festival boasts thoughtfully created dishes crafted by local restaurants. Focusing on delicious in-season ingredients the festival enhances Niseko's reputation as an emerging foodie destination. This gastronomical affair includes something for everyone. Local craft beers wash down great food while your ears dine on the best local DJ selections and live music. Getting more and more popular each year, if visiting from out of town, make sure to book early for good times.

2024 Foodie Session - mid-September
Event page coming soon. (See last years event page HERE)

Interested in making an accommodation reservation for any of the above festivities? Just reach out to one of our friendly local experts through the form below!

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