Beyond The Powder: Non-Skiing Activities in Niseko

Updated June 10, 2025

Niseko may be Japan’s premier ski resort, but not all guests are moved to ski or snowboard through the resort’s famous powder snow. Winter sports in general come with its own risks, and with the growing popularity of Niseko as a tourist destination, there are sure to be crowds on its famous ski runs and gondola stations.

So what can guests at the finest private chalets in Niseko do when they don’t want to ski? The answer comes from exploring the wide variety of non-skiing activities available, including non-skiing winter sports as well as elevated experiences that don’t always require being in the snow at all.

Related article: Skiing in Hanazono

Alternative Winter Sports and Activities Worth Trying

Photo: Skye Niseko

Niseko’s winter resorts offer a variety of sporting activities that go beyond skiing and snowboarding. Many of these activities can be done in groups, which are great for beginners as well as families. Some of these winter activities are also less strenuous than skiing, making them ideal for guests who want to enjoy activities at a leisurely pace.

If you’re a nature lover who loves taking tranquil walks, you can join a snowshoe tour where you can immerse yourself in Niseko’s snow-covered forests. Families traveling with kids can also try snow tubing and snow rafting, which involves gliding down gentle slopes using inflatable tubes or rafts. For adventure enthusiasts, a ride on a snowmobile can deliver thrills.

Related reading: Beyond the Slopes: Exploring Niseko’s Adventure Parks

Other Non-Skiing Pastimes to Explore in Niseko

Both skiers and non-skiers can agree that some activities don’t require them to be on the slopes of Niseko after all. These activities can be undertaken on everyone’s downtime at any of Niseko’s finest resorts. Best of all, these activities don’t even require additional athletic skills to enjoy.

1. Relax in An Onsen

Photo: Ski Japan

If you’re looking to unwind from the hectic pace of travel, you can’t go wrong with a soak in an onsen. Onsens are natural hot springs produced by volcanic mountains, and both public and private onsens are popular among guests. For the ultimate luxury experience, however, having your own private onsen at a luxury Niseko chalet is as relaxing as it gets. 

2. Get an Indulgent Spa Treatment

If soaking in an onsen isn’t comforting enough, you can also try getting a spa treatment from the comfort of your own private luxury chalet in Niseko. Whether you’re getting a one-hour oil massage or a decadent body treatment, a spa treatment can bring you the relief you need. Pair your treatment with a soak in your private onsen for full-body relaxation.

3. Indulge in the Best of Niseko’s Dining Scene

Photo: Experience Niseko

The dining scene in Niseko is also worth trying out if you’re a food lover. Niseko is home to high-end sushi bars and izakayas, which serve small Japanese bites with cocktails. International restaurants are also present in Niseko, serving dishes from steaks to pasta. There are also casual restaurants for those looking for home-style Japanese fare like ramen and nabemono.

Related article: Niseko Activities that Kids Will Love

4. Go Shopping

Niseko has a collection of shops where you can find the latest must-haves in winter fashion, sports gear, unique souvenirs, and even artwork. Stores like Rhythm Japan, iGate Ikeuchi, and Grand Hirafu Mountain Center Shop are havens for high-quality winter clothing and sports gear. Foodies will also be thrilled to learn about shops that offer gourmet food and drink souvenirs.  

5. Enjoy The Comforts of Home in A Luxury Chalet

Photo: The view from the living room at Chalet Hakuchozan. 

The four resorts of Niseko United are havens for high-end accommodations, including chalets and penthouses. Many of them offer the best facilities to maximize your experience during your stay in Niseko. These features and amenities range from media rooms with wide-screen TVs and saunas to open-plan living rooms with fireplaces for warm nights indoors.

Related article: Mastering Niseko: Your Quick Guide to Japan’s Premier Ski Retreat

Go Beyond The Slopes

The variety of non-skiing activities in Niseko are sure to delight guests who choose not to hit the slopes, or at least those who don’t want to do any sports for the moment. Some of these activities don’t even have to involve snow, but it can include simple creature comforts such as good food, good company, and a comforting place to stay in.

Guests who are both skiers and non-skiers can make the most of their stay in Niseko by contacting Guest Experience services before arriving at their chalet. Working with the chalet’s Guest Experience team can guide guests toward the activities and experiences that can take their stay in Niseko to the next level, even if it means leaving the skis at home.

Discover the best of Japan in winter with our Niseko Travel Guide.