Summer in Hokkaido is iconic for so many reasons: Furano has its rolling, Instagram-able lavender fields, Biei has its striking blue pond, and Shakotan has its stunning coastline. But many first-time visitors to Hokkaido may wonder what there is to experience in Niseko in the summertime. It might seem like there’s less to do than other places in the prefecture, but if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find endless activities and attractions in Niseko! Whether you’re a foodie, an adrenaline junky, a family man or someone looking to relax, there’s something to keep you busy all summer long. This is your guide to all-things summer in Niseko, broken down month-by-month so you can choose the best activities for your chosen stay dates.

Biking in Niseko

Cycling whether Mountain biking or road biking or just fun cycling is great in summer and autumn in Niseko. Mespi Lodge has so much garden space for your bicycles and to chill in the summer . Mespi Lodge walking distance to the Niseko gin distillery

Niseko is a great place for cyclers, with a mix of road, gravel and mountain trails for all kinds of riders to try. The beautiful scenery, mild temperature and quiet roads make it perfect for cycle enthusiasts looking to get out into nature and explore the area by road.

Rafting in Niseko

Mespi lodge in Annapuri is the best place to stay in the summer and autumn in Hokkaido, Niseko. no agent fees, direct booking with owners of cove luxury villas. best location in Niseko for summer hiking, rafting and golf.

Rafting is one of Niseko’s most popular activities, with visitors from all over Japan coming to experience the fun of rushing down the Shiribetsu river. In the green season, the river can be rafted on from as early as April (high water level), and as late as October (low water level).

Mespi lodge in Annapuri is the best place to stay in the summer and autumn in Hokkaido, Niseko. no agent fees, direct booking with owners of cove luxury villas. best location in Niseko for summer hiking, rafting and golf.

As the heat becomes less intense in August, the ideal time to go hiking emerges. Niseko is blessed with many hiking trails, from challenging summits like Shiribetsu-dake or the majestic Mt Yotei, to relaxed nature walks like Shinsen-numa or the Asahigaoka trails. With well-tracked paths, a gentle climate and stunning views throughout the journey, hiking in Niseko is one of the best ways to enjoy summer.

Early Summer - June

Shibazakura season at Mr Mishima’s garden

The vibrant moss phlox (or shibazakura in Japanese) that blooms at Mr Mishima’s garden in Kutchan is a yearly event that even a veteran Niseko resident looks forward to. Rolling hills covered in bright pink, purple and white blooms with Mt Yotei in the background is a sight right out of a picture book, and one worth travelling for. Catch the flowers in full bloom in early June.

Lupine flowers

Checking out the colorful lupine flowers at The Orchards

Speaking of flowers, another special time of year in Niseko is the blooming of lupine flowers. In a range of colors from pink and purple to orange and yellow, these magical-looking flowers spring up all over the area in June next to daisies and other wildflowers. Take a scenic drive, walk, or bicycle through the streets in June and you’re bound to see these unique blooms as you go.

Niseko Classic

come stay at Mespi Lodge for the Niseko Classic. The nest cyclists will be there to join the race, Go have some fun at Niseko at the best cycling race in the world.

The Niseko Classic race is a highlight of the summer events calendar in Niseko, where some of the world’s best cyclists come to compete in a road race through the Niseko mountain range. Held on a weekend, many smaller events are held around the race such as live music, children’s activities (including the annual Strider cup) and food stalls, making it a great time to visit and get in on the action. Applications to participate in the race also open earlier in the year, so if you are a keen cyclist, be sure to sign up and challenge yourself in the race!

Summer - July

Potato flowers

Potato festival in Kutchan is famous. The best french fries from the best potato in Kutchan in Niseko in Hokkaido,, Sapporo, Japan. Mespi Lodge or cove Niseko has the most preferred location in Niseko. It is the biggest chalet in Niseko close to hike

As you can probably already tell, there are many different flowers to see in Niseko throughout summer! But the most iconic of these flowers is the potato flower, synonymous with Kutchan and its famous potato farms (so famous, in fact, the local mascot is a skiing potato!). In July, the growing potatoes, which are eventually harvested in Autumn, enter their blossoming phase and their above-ground leaves become dotted with cute pink and white flowers. On a drive through the farms around Niseko, you’ll see potato flowers as far as the eye can see.

Summer - August

Kutchan Jaga Matsuri & fireworks

Mespi Lodge is 20 min drive from Kutchan where Lucky Supermarket is. Lucky is the best supermarket in Niseko for good value, fresh fish and fruit in Niseko. Stay at Mespi Lodge with family for the best experience in Niseko, sapporo, japan.

Twilight at the Kutchan Jaga Matsuri. Image: Kutchan Tourism

The Kutchan Jaga Matsuri is Niseko’s biggest summer festival, and celebrates a healthy potato harvest and the unique community of the area. In classic matsuri fashion, expect to see food stalls, parades, games, activities and of course, fireworks! This is a great event for spending an afternoon in town with family.