From what’s sizzling on the robata to opening dates and reservations, here’s everything to know about Zuma Niseko — the restaurant’s first-ever outpost in Japan.
There was sushi before Zuma, and sushi after it. Since opening in London in 2002, the cult contemporary Japanese restaurant has planted its flag in Dubai, Miami, Rome, Hong Kong and the Maldives; almost everywhere, it seems, except Japan.
That’s set to change this winter, with Zuma coming to Niseko for a one-season-only pop-up, with reservations opening 14 August 2026.
Here’s everything worth knowing about the restaurant’s Niseko milestone:
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Zuma has been offering Japanese food abroad for over 20 years. Why open in Japan now?
Zuma began in London in 2002, but its roots reach back to Tokyo. After spending six years working in the Japanese capital, German chef-restaurateur Rainer Becker joined forces with Arjun Waney to open a contemporary take on the izakaya in Knightsbridge.
The Niseko pop-up lands just before the group’s 25th anniversary, in the country that gave them the idea in the first place. Sven Koch, CEO of the Azumi Group, calls it “a natural and meaningful moment”; almost like a homecoming, after over two decades of fabulous dining around the world.
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Where exactly is the Zuma restaurant in Niseko?
You’ll find the Zuma Niseko pop-up in Lower Hirafu, at 163-53, Nisekohirafu 2-jo 1-chome, Kutchan — just a four-minute drive from the slopes of Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu. Better still, it’s right in the heart of Hirafu Village and close to many of our stays. Nearby are Corniche Hirafu, Terrazze, and Haven Niseko — handy when dinner involves lots of hot sake and sumptuous small plates. Your stay can pick you up, or you can take in the fresh alpine air and stroll home.
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When is Zuma Niseko opening and how do we reserve?
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The restaurant will be open seven days a week, from 3pm until midnight. Drinks start flowing from 3pm, just as the lifts begin to slow down, and dinner service starts from 5pm. In other words: prime territory for après-ski drinks, or a proper feast after a day chasing powder.
The official opening date is still under wraps, though we’d expect the snow to have some say in the matter. Niseko’s ski season typically gets going around late November (roughly the 28th), give or take a few days depending on conditions — so watch the forecast, and this space.
Reservations, however, open on August 14, 2026. So if you have your trip sorted, might as well book one of your tables, too.
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What can we expect inside Zuma Niseko?
In this large 141-seater restaurant, the robata counter steals the show, as it does in every Zuma location: Date Kan stone with an oxidised front edge, backed by red glazed ceramic tiles. Above it, timber-slatted ceilings and around it, winter furniture in cosy wool bouclé and bronze screens filtering the winter light. The private dining room sits behind teak screens hand-carved in Indonesia, with a snowflake pattern. There’s also a DJ counter, which is a hint of just how lively it will be after 9pm.
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And what about the menu?
Nigiri, sashimi and the robata grill. The wine cellar is located at the front of the house, featuring sake, Japanese whisky, wines from around the world. Also not to be missed: Zuma’s signature cocktail list, which may potentially include favourites like Ozaka Spritz, Mandarin Americano and Chanko sour.
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We’re a big group, is there room for all of us?
In short: yes. The private dining room takes 12, and the main room handles parties of 10 to 20, and there are 141 seats in total.
Bring your entourage or treat the whole family — just be sure to make your reservation early. If you’re staying with us in Hirafu, your concierge can handle it.
Address: 163-53 Nisekohirafu 2-jo 1-chome, Kutchan, Hokkaido 044-0089
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 3pm to 12am
Website: zumarestaurant.com/en/niseko; bookings open from 14 August
Email: [email protected]
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