What's On in May in Niseko

From local art and culture to exciting nightlife and festivals, there is a lot happening in May.

May is a beautiful month with summer approaching and flowers beginning to fully bloom. There are plenty of activities leading up to the amazing summer in Niseko. Here's what to look forward.

The House of Machines Summer Opening

Serving artisan coffee and cold beers in the day, The House of Machines turns into the trendiest place in Niseko by night. 

Opened last December, The House of Machines are ready for their first summer season in Niseko with a very exciting lineup. Every Friday, local DJs Masaki 'MFP' and Taka will be spinning vinyl with a mix of funk, soul, hip-hop, disco and house. While open mic Saturday nights will welcome talents from all around. Brighten up Sunday mornings by heading to the venue which will serve brunch from 9am and BBQ from 1pm.

Date: April 27 onward

Find out more

Shu Ogawara Musuem of Art Reopens

Learn about the local culture of Kutchan Town by visiting Shu Ogawara Musuem of Art. 

Featured Shu Ogawara Museum

Shu Ogawara Museum of Art in Kutchan Town.

The museum commemorates Shu Ogawara, an avant-garde painter who spent over 70 years painting in Kutchan Town. Throughout April, the museum has been closed for a change in exhibition but will reopen in May for visitors. During summer, the museum will exhibit surrealism artwork by Ogawara which was recently restored last year. The temporary exhibition will feature a collection of work from prominent artists outside of Hokkaido.

Date: Temporary Exhibition April 28 - July 8, Permanent Exhibition April 28 - August 26

Find out more

Lake Toya Summer Fireworks

Experience a magical night of firework displays by Lake Toya. 

Fireworks

Fireworks at night. 

Watch the fireworks illuminate the skies every night at Lake Toya in its May opening month. Lake Toya is one of the few places in Japan which hosts a firework display nightly. The fireworks are set off from a moving boat in the middle of the lake and last roughly 20 minutes every night. Enjoy the firework displays right next to one of the most picturesque spots in Hokkaido. 

Date: April 28 - October 31

Find out more

Ki Niseko Golden Week Festival

Bring the whole family to Ki Niseko and enjoy the traditional festival games.

Ki Niseko Rodeo 1

Ride the rodeo, a classic game at Ki Niseko Festival.

To celebrate Golden Week, Ki Niseko is hosting a three day festival for all ages. Whether it's playing a few games yo-yo scooping or grabbing a pint of beer from An Café and Bar, there is something for everyone. Throughout the event, there will be live music from gifted performers including Emi Metcalf, Sapporo Jazz Trio and Jazz Min. There are also many prizes up for grabs including half price stay, spa vouchers and other goods!

Date: May 3-5

Find out more

Mr. Mishima's Garden

See a blanket of pink and white Shibazakura spread across a secret garden Kutchan Town. 

2017 Hdr Shibazakura Mishima Sans Garden Kutchan Town 6

Shibazakura (Pink Moss Flowers) at Mr. Mishima's Garden.

A privately owned garden which grew from a handful of blossoms to large garden full of Shibazakura, otherwise known as pink moss flowers. It is now often featured in the local magazines and guidebooks. Free of charge to enter and is popular spot amongst locals in May. 

Date: Late May - June

Find out more

Want more activities in May? Watch our videos on spring rafting in Niseko!