Aurora Braid has lived in Niseko for seven seasons and works for Rhythm Snowsports. Seven seasons is a lot of time to get to know a place inside-out – so we’ve asked Aurora for her best insider tips on one of the snowiest places in the world.
Why Niseko?
I’ve made a lot of friends in Niseko over the years, it was the first place that really felt like home (or a second one at least!). Plus, there are so many options for where to ski because of the four resorts that connect and make up ‘Niseko United’.
Favourite ski run
Waterfalls, it’s short but always sweet. Just have to watch out for the waterfalls at the bottom.
Favourite powder day run
I normally head to Miharashi first thing because it’s wide and steep in areas. If it’s busy, Ill head to Niseko Village.
Favourite apres spot
Amaru has the best cocktails (and mocktails, cause I don’t drink) and music in the evenings. It’s just past Lawsons on the left! Get a ‘Hachi’ special if you’re feeling lucky. I normally get a Virgin Lime and Coconut Daiquiri, soooo delicious.
Favourite on mountain dining
It’s all ‘on the mountain’ in Hirafu (that’s where everyone normally is) so if you’re skiing during the day, you can’t go past Tozanken ramen on the main street. Best ramen in town and it’s not expensive either.
Favourite village dining
Ebisutei and Jam Bar for Japanese style. They never disappoint and always have you leaving with a full belly and a smile on your face.
Must-do snow activity
If you can ride a motorbike, go timber sledding! Niseko Snowbiking Adventures take you out on a huge ride and have guides who are actual world champs!
If you want fresh powder all day, go cat skiing! I went with Niseko Photography and Big Wave Cats and I had amazing snow conditions all day. They even take photos of you so you can relive the moment forever! (One of the best days of my life so far!)
Best hot chocolate
Best hot choccie is at ‘The Day: Mountain Store’, located right next to the welcome center. Preeetty sure they use hot cream in there to make it super delicious.
Best breakfast
Green Farm make a pretty good brekky burger, hashbrown included.
Favourite non skiing/boarding activity
Visiting an onsen! You cant come to Niseko without trying one of the many local onsens. The area is watched over by a glorious mountain called Mt Yotei and it’s a dormant volcano which means that there is a lot of natural hot water springs all around the area.
Favourite date spot
Dates for me normally consist of a meal. So for something romantic and fancy, but not crazy on the wallet, I would go to Le Cochon. It’s run by the same people that own Amaru, but it’s a French-style menu. They have home made bread and butter (which will keep coming until you say stop), amazing mains and totally more-ish desserts with home made ice cream! Try the creme brûlée.
Best activity in resort or town for kids/families
A snowball fight! It’s free and there’s always snow!
Where do you take visitors to impress them?
There is one place that I take all of my friends and recommend to all of my guests, as well as many customers that come through the store. And it is Milk Kobo. Hokkaido is famous for its milk and Milk Kobo has amazing fresh ice cream as well as chou creams (cream puffs) with fresh vanilla cream inside! They also have cheese cake, cookies and cream caramel!
What should visitors not leave your resort without doing?
Try some Hokkaido-style ramen! Corn, butter, chashu pork and some bean sprouts!
What item should visitors take back with them?
A Niseko t-shirt from Rhythm Snowsports is one of the coolest things you could take back and wear at home! You can also get some beautiful images of the area from Niseko Photography printed on nice pieces of timber, if you want something for in the home.
