Zuma to Open First Restaurant in Japan With Niseko Pop-Up This Coming Winter

Internationally acclaimed Japanese restaurant brand Zuma is heading to Niseko, Japan, this winter, opening its first-ever location in Japan as a seasonal pop-up in the heart of Hirafu. The new Zuma Niseko will open on December 1, 2026, bringing the restaurant group’s contemporary take on Japanese cuisine to one of the world’s most famous powder destinations just ahead of the brand’s 25th anniversary.

The opening marks a significant milestone for Zuma. Although the restaurant was founded in London by German-born chef Rainer Becker, its concept is rooted in Japanese culinary traditions, making its first Japanese location a homecoming of sorts.

Reservations for the winter season will open on August 14, allowing skiers and snowboarders to book ahead of the 2026-27 season.

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Located in Hirafu, the new restaurant will be approximately four minutes from Niseko Tokyu Grand HIRAFU and close to the area’s famous powder terrain and night skiing. Zuma Niseko will accommodate up to 141 guests and operate seven days a week throughout the winter. The venue will open at 3 p.m. for après-ski drinks before transitioning into dinner service from 5 p.m.

The restaurant will feature Zuma’s signature contemporary Japanese menu, including freshly prepared nigiri and sashimi alongside its famous robata dishes. An extensive selection of premium sake, Japanese whisky, wine and signature cocktails will also be available.

The design combines Zuma’s established aesthetic with Japanese-inspired details, including timber-slatted ceilings, bespoke wood-chip floor lamps, Japanese-sourced stone at the robata counter and hand-carved teak screens inspired by snowflakes.

A dedicated DJ booth will add to the après-ski atmosphere, while a private dining room will accommodate up to 12 guests. Flexible private-dining arrangements will also be available for groups of up to 20 people.

“After more than two decades of bringing contemporary Japanese cuisine to leading destinations, making our debut in Japan is an incredibly special milestone,” said Sven Koch, CEO of the Azumi Group. “As we approach our 25th anniversary, opening in the country that inspired the brand and celebrating our Japanese heritage feels natural and meaningful.”

Zuma Niseko will be the brand’s latest seasonal destination as it continues expanding beyond its established restaurants in major cities and resort destinations around the world.

The Niseko opening comes one year after Zuma opened in Courchevel, France, and Gstaad, Switzerland last year. For skiers looking for fine dining in Japan this winter, Zuma Niseko will offer another high-end dining destination.