Spending New Year’s Eve in Niseko this year? If you haven’t secured tickets to our sold out
Hatsumode is the first Shinto shrine visit of the Japanese New Year, with some people opting to visit a Buddhist temple instead. Many people will perform hatsumōde on New Year’s Eve and in the early hours of New Year’s Day. At this time, people pray for a long life and happiness for the year.
At popular shrines and temples, you can experience a festival atmosphere. This year, Yamada Shrine located in the Hirafu area will offer free sacred sake (hot and cold), and street
booths offering corn dogs, amazake (sweet drink made from fermented rice) and paper fortune. Visit from 12:00am to 2:00am.
In the evening, find a spot nearby the slopes to witness the 39th Torch Light Skiing and end the year with a firework display from midnight.
There are a number of countdown parties taking place at the many bars and bistros scattered throughout Hirafu.
With so much happening around town, you are guaranteed to bring in the new year in the best possible way. Most of all, ensure that you and your friends or family remain safe this New Year's Eve and we hope you have a great celebration.
From all the team at MnK, we wish you a prosperous, healthy and happy 2018!
