Shopping in Niseko...
Niseko Hirafu offers a variety of shopping options however it is not quite like shopping in Whistler or Aspen. Ladies, just so you are not disappointed - there are no designer clothing stores or quaint little boutiques here. However there are a few shops to buy any necessary ski gear that you may require and of course there are a few convenience stores that will meet your basic day to day needs.
Located on the main street of Niseko Hirafu are the main two convenience stores - Seicomart and Lawsons. Here you will be able to purchase basic food for your accommodation including; milk, bread, butter, cheese, a variety of snacks and chocolates, cereal, small array of fruit and veg, jams, vegemite, soft drinks, noodles, soups, baked beans and of course a great selection of beer, wine and spirits. In addition, you can go to the Landmark Deli (located in Niseko Landmark View) or the J-Sekka Deli (also in the main street) where you will find more specialty gourmet foods, premium wines and champagne.
If you require more than the day to day basics and prefer to dine in rather than dine out all the time, we recommend going into the town of Kutchan, which is only ten minutes away by bus. With a population of approximately 16,000 the town offers a wide range of cultural activities, dining, karaoke, supermarkets and shops. There are several supermarket choices including the very large – Maxvalu. Here you will find an array of meats, seafood, pastas, condiments, breads, and fresh fruit and vegetables (similar to a Woolworth’s or Coles). A bus service runs throughout the day between Hirafu and Kutchan.
Banks and Money
There is no ATM located in Niseko that accepts international credit cards or eftpos cards. While you can use credit cards in Niseko restaurants and some shops, cash is king, so please ensure you plan ahead prior to arriving in Niseko Hirafu.
If you have cash in other currencies, you can exchange it for Japanese Yen at very competitive rates in the NGS office, opposite the Welcome Centre.
Alternatively, upon arrival at New Chitose International airport you can also access money from the ATM located on the arrivals floor of the airport. Directions can be found at the information desk manned by English speaking staff.
If you do run low on Japanese yen while in Niseko you can always get the bus into Kutchan, where you can access an international ATM machine which is located in the Kutchan post office. Please note that the ATM machine is limited to weekdays up until 6pm and Saturday mornings only.