Things To Do
in Kutchan
Kutchan is a charming town located in Hokkaido, Japan, known primarily for its proximity to the famous Niseko ski resort area. This picturesque town offers stunning views of Mount Yotei, also referred to as Ezo Fuji due to its resemblance to Mount Fuji. In addition to winter sports, Kutchan boasts a rich cultural heritage, with traditional Japanese architecture and local festivals.
The town is also celebrated for its delicious local cuisine and warm hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kutchan Morning Market, where you can sample local produce and homemade goods.
Explore the Kutchan Town Museum to learn about the area's history and culture, followed by a stroll through the beautiful Shikotsu-Toya National Park.
Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, sampling various Japanese dishes while mingling with the locals.
Head out for a morning of skiing or snowboarding in the Niseko area, known for its powder snow.
Take a guided snowshoeing tour of the scenic trails around Mount Yotei.
Relax at an onsen (hot spring) in the area to unwind after an active day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍣Sushi meal | $20 |
| 🍜Ramen bowl | $10 |
| ☕Coffee | $4 |
| 🍺Local beer | $6 |
| 🏨Hotel night | $100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery year-round.
- Rich cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine.
- Access to world-class skiing and outdoor activities.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- English may not be widely spoken, creating communication challenges.
- Transportation may be limited during off-peak seasons.
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "おいしい" - Delicious
- "トイレはどこですか？" - Where is the restroom?
Places to Visit in Kutchan
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture breathtaking views of this iconic mountain, especially at sunrise or sunset.
A stunning building that showcases local history, perfect for architectural photography.
Ideal for capturing action shots of skiing and the beautiful snow-covered landscapes.
Food in Kutchan
Kutchan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A grilled lamb dish that is a local specialty, often cooked on a dome-shaped grill.
Must-Try!
A hearty bowl of ramen featuring a rich miso broth, perfect for warming up after a day outdoors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market open in the mornings, offering fresh local produce, seafood, and street snacks.
While in the region, try the famous Sapporo-style corn ramen from street vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always bow when greeting and thanking someone; it is a sign of respect.
Remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional accommodations.
Keep noise levels down in public transport and while walking through residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Kutchan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally not customary in Japan, and good service is expected without extra gratuity.
Cash is widely used in Kutchan, but credit cards are accepted at many establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect heavy snowfall and cold temperatures, making it perfect for skiing and snowboarding.
Milder weather with blooming flowers; great for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.
Warm temperatures and lush green landscapes; ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.
Cooler weather with beautiful fall foliage, perfect for photography and hiking.
Kutchan at Night
Hiking in Kutchan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area, best tackled in the summer.
Various trails ranging from easy to difficult, showcasing beautiful lakes and volcanic landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Kutchan by plane.
The nearest major airport, located about 100 km from Kutchan, offering domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents are Japanese, with a mix of families and elderly citizens living in the area.
During the winter months, Kutchan sees a significant influx of international tourists, particularly from Australia and other Asian countries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Niseko is renowned as one of the top ski destinations in the world, attracting avid winter sports enthusiasts.
Football (soccer) is also popular, with local teams and youth leagues promoting the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kutchan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be modified to accommodate vegetarians, but it's best to inquire about specific ingredients.
Some traditional dishes may contain gluten; however, rice-based options are widely available.