When people talk about Niseko, most imagine snowy slopes and ski lifts—and I totally get it, because Niseko in winter is amazing. But let me tell you, Niseko summer caught me completely off guard in the best way. Think lush green mountains, clear skies, fresh air, and a pace that lets you truly take things in. If you’re wondering whether Niseko in the summer is worth your time, here’s what I found during my trip.

Absolutely yes—and that’s coming from someone who usually chases beaches during summer. I was surprised by how peaceful and refreshing Niseko summer felt. It’s perfect if you’re looking to slow down, breathe in fresh mountain air, and enjoy nature without needing ten layers of clothing. There’s a calmness to the area, but also plenty going on if you're keen to get out and explore.

There are all sorts of Niseko summer activities to try—cycling along country roads, hiking up Mount Annupuri, and even rafting if you're up for a splash. I spent one afternoon just picnicking by a river and it felt like time had stopped. That kind of quiet, paired with some really good local food (hello, Hokkaido milk and fresh soba), made my trip feel really well-balanced.

Summer in Niseko usually kicks in from June to August, with early June being a bit cooler and green, and August feeling the most summery. I visited in late July and it was lovely—warm but not sticky, and just right for spending hours outdoors without wilting.

If you’re trying to chase the sun, August is usually the warmest month in Niseko. I didn’t find it overly hot—especially compared to city heat. Daytime temperatures sat around 25°C (77°F), which was just right for outdoor stuff without feeling like you’re melting. Evenings were cooler, so a light jacket came in handy.

I personally think July hits the sweet spot. The flowers are out, everything feels alive, and you get long days to really enjoy the scenery. If you’re into things to do in Niseko summer style, like hiking or canoeing, the weather is usually settled and clear. Plus, the summer festivals start popping up around this time and bring a fun buzz to the area.

Driving around Niseko in the summer was honestly one of the best parts of my trip. The roads are open, the views are absolutely stunning, and there's something really calming about cruising through the countryside with the windows down and a playlist on. If you're planning a summer escape and thinking of renting a car, here’s what I learnt first-hand, plus a quick look at what the weather’s like and what to pack so you're not caught off guard.

1. Driving is on the left side of the road
Coming from the UK, I found this really comforting. Everything felt familiar, from road signs to the layout of junctions.

2. Rent a car with GPS or use Google Maps
I relied heavily on Google Maps. Signal was decent around most of Niseko, and having a good map app made it so much easier to find smaller spots for Niseko summer activities, like hiking trails and farm cafés tucked away in the hills.

3. Watch out for wildlife
I spotted a fox crossing the road one morning, which was super cute but also a reminder to stay alert. Early mornings and evenings are when they’re most active.

4. Don’t speed – even if the roads are empty
The roads might be clear, but the speed limits are low in a lot of areas, especially around villages. I took my time and just enjoyed the drive. Honestly, that slow pace suited the whole Niseko summer vibe.

5. Parking is easy and mostly free
This was a nice surprise—plenty of parking at most attractions, cafes, and lookouts. I never had to circle around or stress about space.

1. Mild and fresh, not sweltering
One thing I loved about Niseko in the summer was how comfortable the weather felt. Days were warm but not humid, usually around 20–25°C (68–77°F), and evenings cooled off enough for a jumper. It made spending the day outdoors feel breezy and relaxed.

2. Occasional rain
July and August can bring light showers now and then. I always had a small foldable umbrella in my bag just in case—but rain never ruined my plans. It usually passed quickly, and the fresh smell afterwards made the greenery even more stunning.

1. Light layers
I brought T-shirts and shorts for the daytime, but also packed a hoodie and light jacket for the evenings. That mix worked perfectly for the changing temps.

2. Comfortable walking shoes
Whether I was strolling through a field of flowers or hiking up a trail, having comfy trainers made a huge difference. If you're planning any things to do in Niseko summer-style, like biking or walking to waterfalls, you’ll want proper support.

3. Sun protection
Even though it wasn’t blazing hot, the sun can sneak up on you—especially at higher altitudes. I packed sunscreen, a cap, and sunglasses, and I was glad I did.

4. A small backpack
For day trips, this was my best friend. I kept water, snacks, my camera, and a light raincoat inside, which covered me for just about any kind of adventure.

Exploring Niseko summer by car gave me the freedom to stop wherever I liked and take in the beauty around every corner. The weather was comfortable, the roads were easy to manage, and the whole experience felt relaxed and rewarding. If you're still planning what to do, don’t skip out on the joy of simply driving from one lovely little spot to the next—it made Niseko in the summer feel like one big, open playground.

Before visiting, I mostly thought of Niseko as a winter hotspot, all snow and ski gear. But Niseko in the summer completely won me over with its wide open spaces, crisp air, and peaceful charm. Whether you're into getting active or just slowing things down, there's a lot going on. So if you're wondering about things to do in Niseko summer, here’s what I personally tried—and a few extras I wish I had time for.

This was honestly the highlight of my trip. The trails are clear, the views are amazing, and you don’t need to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy it. I took my time, packed a little lunch, and just enjoyed the fresh air. Perfect way to kick off Niseko summer activities.

I rented a bike for the day and rode through quiet roads lined with green fields and cute little farms. It felt so freeing to explore at my own pace. I even stumbled across a tiny local café where I had one of the best iced coffees of my life.

You can’t talk about Niseko attractions in summer without mentioning Milk Kobo. I went mainly for the cheesecake, and wow—it lived up to the hype. The views from the café are also worth sticking around for, especially at sunset.

For something with a bit more excitement, I booked a rafting tour. It was my first time trying it, and I had a blast. The guides were friendly, the river was gentle but fun, and the scenery along the way made it extra special.

Yes, even in summer! I found an outdoor onsen with mountain views, and sitting there in the warm water while looking out at the green hills was pure magic. It’s one of those Niseko summer experiences I didn’t expect to love so much, but I’d go back just for that.

Some of the most popular onsens in Niseko in Summer are:

I was lucky to catch a small local matsuri (festival) one evening—lanterns, food stalls, music, the whole lot. It added a fun, lively twist to the trip and made me feel part of something a bit more local. If you're planning when to go, July and August are best for catching these.

Depending on the time of your visit, there are farms that let you pick your own fruit. I spent a sunny afternoon picking strawberries and snacking as I went—can’t get fresher than that!

This one caught me by surprise. I found a farm offering short horse rides through gentle forest trails. Even as a complete beginner, I felt at ease and got to enjoy a totally different way of seeing the countryside.

With a car, it’s easy to explore nearby spots like Kutchan or even Lake Toya. I did a little loop drive one day, stopping for lunch and scenic photo spots along the way. The whole area is full of hidden gems if you like a bit of a wander.

Before my trip, I wasn’t sure what Niseko in the summer would offer beyond its famous ski scene. Turns out, there’s loads to love—especially when it comes to food, nature, and chilled summer adventures. If you’re wondering what to eat, what to do, and where to go, here’s a little guide based on my own experience in this stunning part of Hokkaido.

1. Hokkaido Milk Soft Serve

I’m not kidding—this is the creamiest ice cream I’ve ever had. I grabbed one at Milk Kobo, and I still think about it. Perfect on a warm summer day.

2. Soup Curry

This is a Hokkaido specialty and such a comforting dish. I found a small local spot near Hirafu and ordered the veggie version with roast pumpkin. Warm, slightly spicy, and so satisfying after a day outside.

3. Fresh Soba Noodles

The soba here is something else—nutty, chewy, and served cold with a dipping sauce. It hit the spot during the hotter afternoons and felt super light yet filling.

4. Local Cheese and Yoghurt

Niseko has a few family-run dairy farms, and I picked up some cheese and yoghurt from one near Annupuri. The flavour was so clean and fresh, I ended up going back the next day for more.

5. Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ)

One night I treated myself to a proper grilled dinner, and I loved the whole experience of cooking meats and veggies at my own table. If you’re looking for a hearty evening meal, this is the one.

1. River Rafting

I wasn’t sure if rafting would be too much, but it turned out to be such a fun ride down the Shiribetsu River. The water was chilly but refreshing, and I got to see Niseko’s green side from a new angle.

3. Hiking to Lookout Points

There are several trails around Mount Annupuri and nearby ranges. I followed one up to a viewpoint and sat there for ages just watching the clouds move. It felt peaceful and a bit magical.

3. Visiting Farm Cafés

Many local farms open up cafés in summer, serving food made with ingredients straight from the garden. I had a salad so fresh it made all other salads I’ve eaten feel like a joke.

1. Milk Kobo

More than just a dessert shop—this spot has epic views, a bakery, a shop selling handmade goodies, and a proper relaxed countryside feel. A must-visit in Niseko summer.

2. Niseko Panorama Line

If you’re driving, take this scenic road. The rolling hills, distant peaks, and fresh air made it one of the most beautiful drives I’ve done. I stopped several times just to soak it all in.

3. Lake Hangetsu

Tucked away near Mount Yotei, this little lake feels like a secret. I had a quiet morning walk there, and it was just me, the birds, and a mirror-still lake. If you want a break from the more popular spots, this is ideal.

4. Kutchan Town

This town has a cosy local feel, with small shops, a morning market, and a few spots to grab casual bites. Great for a gentle stroll and a change of pace from the touristy areas.

5. Yukichichibu Onsen

Even in summer, sitting in a natural onsen surrounded by green hills was such a treat. The sulphur smell is strong, but once you get past that, it’s incredibly relaxing.

Whether you're up for easygoing sightseeing, nature-packed Niseko summer activities, or just keen to try something new on your plate, Niseko in the summer has so much to offer. I left feeling recharged and already planning my next visit—this time with an even bigger appetite.

I booked all my Niseko summer plans through the Traveloka App, and honestly, I couldn’t be happier with how easy it was to sort everything out in one go. From attraction tickets to hotels and flights, I found everything I needed without the stress of jumping between different sites. I loved being able to compare prices quickly and see all the options clearly laid out—it made the whole process feel smooth and straightforward. If you're planning a trip and want to keep things simple and hassle-free, I really recommend checking out the Traveloka App. It made planning my summer escape to Niseko feel exciting rather than overwhelming.