The food in Japan is unlike anywhere else on earth and is a huge drawcard for travellers from across the globe. Niseko is known for having some of the best restaurants of any ski town in Japan, but you might be surprised that there are even more, great restaurants right next door in the town of Kutchan.
Kutchan is one of Hokkaido’s snowiest towns, and hosts around a hundred different restaurants – all offering something different, and each charming in their own way. Getting to Kutchan is easy, simply get a bus from the main bus stop in Hirafu or the Hirafu Welcome centre.
Modern – Sekka Lab
Sekka Lab is one of Kutchan’s most modern dining experiences, offering elegant dishes that embrace locally grown produce as well as the best of Hokkaido’s famous seafood. The omakase course (chef’s choice) is always a great choice with five of the best dishes chosen by the head chef himself. Sekka Lab is located on the main street that runs perpendicular to Kutchan’s JR station.
International – Taj Mahal
Niseko is a very international town, and with that comes excellent international food! Taj Mahal is an Indian restaurant serving authentic Indian curry alongside freshly baked naan bread. An absolute crowd pleaser with lots of options including vegan-friendly curries. They have two main branches – one halfway between Hirafu and Kutchan on Route 5, and another in Annupuri.
Bar – Seventh Heaven
There is no shortage of bars in Kutchan, but one of the most fun and lively is Seventh Heaven. There’s darts, beer and even nomihodai (all you can drink) on offer with incredibly friendly and accommodating staff on hand to refill your glass as often as you like. Located in Kutchan’s central nightlife district, this fun bar is one to remember.
Sushi – Sato
Hokkaido is said to have the best seafood in all of Japan, and there’s no better way to enjoy fresh fish than with sushi. Sato is easily one of the best sushi restaurants in the Niseko area, and even recently was listed on the Michelin guide. The omakase set is highly recommended, with the chef selecting only the best and freshest cuts of sushi.
Ramen – Nakama Ramen
Nakama Ramen is a local favourite, with slices of juicy, thick cut roast pork with a hearty broth and delicious noodles. They offer the usual ramen flavours (salt, soy and miso) as well as signature flavours such as ume (plum), and a spicy broth. They also have homemade gyoza (dumpling) including kimchi gyoza – definitely a must try. Find Nakama Ramen on Ekimae Avenue, perpendicular to the Kutchan JR station.
Soup Curry – Markie Curry
Soup Curry is Hokkaido’s signature dish, and is hugely popular for its unique flavours and ability to warm you from the inside out – perfect for winter! One of Kutchan’s best and only dedicated soup curry restaurant is Markie Curry, located on Route 5 right near M Pocket supermarket. In Hirafu, soup curry can be found at Tsubara Tsubara in Izumikyo. This unique dish is highly recommended for any visitor to Hokkaido.
Hotcakes – Za Hotcakes
Za Hotcakes is one of the coolest restaurants in town. The tiny store makes both sweet and savoury hotcakes, delicately prepared and infused with unique flavours influenced by the four seasons. This cosy store is a must visit if you’re after something sweet, unique, and even a new Instagram post. Za Hotcakes is located right near Kutchan JR station on the main street.
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Burgers – Paddy Daddy
Great burgers are a global favourite; no matter where you’re from, you can’t say “no” to a good burger. Patty Daddy is Kutchan’s dedicated burger store with a cosy interior decorated in Americana and offers a range of unique and delicious burgers. They make all the meat patties in-house, and offer craft beers on tap. Find Patty Daddy’s just north of Kutchan JR station near the 711.
Fusion – Bagus Café
While Kutchan might be a small town, it is full of locals who love international travel, surfing, snowboarding and all the great things life has to offer. Bagus Café offers a fusion of Japanese and Southeast Asian cuisine; the food inspired by a love of surfing and a relaxed lifestyle. This restaurant is a favourite, so try to book in advance. Bagus Café is located in the heart of Kutchan’s nightlife district.
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