Seasonal Events
From exciting fireworks displays and traditional New Year's celebrations to visits from Santa in the heart of your hotel, we warmly invite you to get involved in some of the many wonderful seasonal events taking place in and around AYA Niseko during the festive period.
23rd December
Santa Hits the Slopes
Even Santa needs a chance to unwind before the big day! Trading in his sled for skis, Santa will take to the slopes of Grand Hirafu during the 24th & 25th of December to spread some holiday cheer! Will you be lucky enough to spot him? Don't be afraid to greet him for photos and fun, and maybe a special gift! Grand Hirafu Ski Resort Ski Slopes (23rd / 24th December)
24th December
Christmas Eve Fireworks
Wrap up warm and witness a dazzling display of colourful flashes and dizzying explosions over Niseko’s favourite Ski Resort! A loud, proud crowd favourite not to be missed! Grand Hirafu Ski Resort (Crowds gather from 20:00)
Santa Comes to AYA Niseko!
Santa Claus is coming to town, and will be making an appearance at our very own AYA Niseko! Santa will be in the AYA lobby from 16:00 to 18:30 for photos and christmas gift giving! AYA Niseko Lobby - 16:00-18:30 (24th / 25th December)
31st December
New Year's Countdown, Fireworks & 42nd Annual Torchlight Skiing
Join a thousand people bidding farewell to 2017 with a very special New Year’s Countdown at the base of the Grand Hirafu Ski Resort. When the clock strikes midnight, the 42nd Annual Torchlight Ski will commence, with a winding line of skiers and snowboarders bearing burning torches snaking down the mountain to mark the beginning of a brand new chapter. Grand Hirafu Ski Resort (Crowds gather from 23:30)
1st January
AYA Niseko New Year's Celebrations
Witness a stunning show to welcome the new year, featuring Shishimai (traditional lion dances), kirigami (a live paper-cutting performance) and complimentary New Year's sake. AYA Niseko Lobby - 16:30-18:00
Traditional Sake Ceremony (Kagami-biraki)
Toast the New Year in authentic Japanese style with the traditional Kagami-biraki Sake Ceremony. A large sake barrel adorned with colourful decoration has its timber lid broken open with large wooden hammers. The sake within is served using an ornate bamboo ladle, and a toast is made for good luck and good fortune for the rest of the year. Grand Hirafu Ski Resort - King Bell Hut
Other Events
With something for everyone and events organised throughout the winter, why not join Kiyoe Gallery for Wa - A Celebration of Japanese Art and Culture!
