Just off some black runs, so only regulars end up here. Authentic skiing style hut and decor. Warm. Good food. Really was the best place to go, some of the others are huge and just churning it out to the masses, or limited menu. Also, as you exit, there's a funny shaped tree you can ski-limbo under to exit! On the negative side, service takes a while, and the stairs to the loos are old Victorian spirals, which are not easy in ski boots! And they lead to an amazing discovery downstairs. The only cold toilet seat in Japan!!!

This is by far the best place to eat while skiing at Hirafu Niseko. (apart from a quick mutton bun at the 1000 m hut, yum!) It is the only really traditional izakaya on the slopes situated above the holiday pair lift #1. Best to get to it either across from top of the King Pair #1 or come down from the Ace Quad via a short black run. You will find it on a map when you get there. Very old fashioned inside and they make the best soba and udon dishes, tempura and katsu curries to warm you back up. Also have the best Niku-man (pork buns) Food here is about half the price of what you will pay elsewhere on the mountain and I believe its twice as good. Opens about 11:30 but get in early if you can or maybe after 2 as it is generally packed when the resort is busy.

Cozy, genuine food, smoking ok after 3pm, great views, cold beer, coal fire. Totally opposite to the mass produced fare for the crowds in the big cafes. A great discovery. Similar to the very cozy and equally cute 1000m hut, but that doesn't do food apart from wicked chocolate brownies. Don't miss either of them.

I loved this little hut! Perched on the ski-runs, it's a creaky old wooden building with a lovely fireplace indoors and cheap, tasty food. Order at the counter and take your token to the kitchen window to collect. Popular at lunch-time in peak season... With good reason. Tempura, Ramen, Katsu-don, it's all good, cheap and handily ski-in/out!

They serve the best kani-don, crab on rice with miso soup & pickles. Their katsu curry is also a favorite! The food is authentic and flavorful.