
冬の妙高での運転
Planning a winter trip to Myoko? Learn about snow tires, winter road conditions, 4WD recommendations, and essential driving tips for a safe journey.
One of the best things about staying in Akakura Onsen is that almost everything is within walking distance. If you’re staying at Kendama House, every restaurant, bar, café, and après-ski spot on this list is less than a five-minute walk from your front door.
After a day on the mountain, the village comes alive with cosy izakayas, family-run restaurants, lively bars, and late-night karaoke spots, making it easy to enjoy a relaxed evening without needing to drive.
Before we dive into our favourites, it’s worth knowing that Akakura’s dining scene changes every season. New businesses open, others take a seasonal break, and some close altogether. We always recommend to check Google Maps before heading out, particularly for smaller restaurants and bars. Most local businesses regularly update their opening days, hours, and any temporary closures on Instagram, and you’ll usually find links to their social media directly from their Google Maps listing.
Most restaurants in Akakura are independently owned and have relatively limited seating. If you’re travelling as a larger group, booking ahead is essential, especially during the winter season. We recommend planning your dinners before you arrive and securing reservations as early as possible to avoid disappointment. Even smaller groups will benefit from making bookings during busy periods.
Make sure to bring enough cash with you – most restaurants and bars are cash only.
One more thing to note: as with anywhere in Japan, punctuality is highly valued. If you’ve made a reservation, be sure to arrive on time, or let the restaurant know if you’re running late. This courtesy will go a long way in maintaining a positive relationship between locals and visitors.
So without further ado, let’s dive in…
Last updated: August 2026
Located inside Hotel Taiko at the upper end of the village, Sessions on the Mountain is a relaxed café and bar that’s equally good for a morning coffee, lunch between ski sessions, or après-ski drinks overlooking the mountains. Food trucks often operate outside the hotel, providing a variety of street food and casual bites which can be eaten inside. Open from morning until evening, with live music and open mic events.
A family-friendly long-time favourite, serving comforting Japanese classics including katsu curry, ramen, donburi (rice bowls), and other filling dishes. Reservations are essential.
A cosy, family-run restaurant specialising in handmade udon noodles, freshly prepared tempura, and warming winter comfort food. Highlight dishes include squid ink udon and apple tempura.
One of Akakura’s most popular après-ski venues, serving local craft beer, cocktails, great food, regular live music, and a welcoming international atmosphere.
A laid-back local favourite Izakaya (Japanese pub) with affordable drinks and a menu combining Japanese comfort food with Western classics.
Simple, fun, and always popular. Every beer comes with complimentary popcorn, making it the perfect casual stop while you’re waiting for your restaurant dinner reservation.
A small yakiniku restaurant where you grill premium locally sourced meats yourself. Due to its intimate size, it’s best suited to couples or smaller groups.
A traditional Japanese ryokan (inn) serving beautifully prepared teishoku set meals featuring a main dish, rice, soup, seasonal side dishes, and dessert.
Hidden beneath Myoko Guiding Company, Obake serves creative Japanese-Mexican fusion dishes (including gluten-free and vegan options) alongside an excellent range of cocktails, beer, and sake. Let the 5* reviews speak for themselves!
A modern izakaya showcasing local ingredients through inventive small plates and seasonal flavours that are beautifully plated. Has a warm, intimate atmosphere, and a wide selection of sake and natural wines.
A nostalgic karaoke bar with a fun retro atmosphere that’s perfect for finishing the night with friends.
A classic Japanese izakaya serving everything from grilled skewers and sashimi to share plates and local favourites.
A welcoming family-run restaurant offering an extensive menu of Japanese favourites, making it a great choice for families and larger groups. Offers a cook your own takoyaki (octopus dumplings) experience on the table which is great for kids – just watch out for the hot plate!
A favourite izakaya among the snowboard community, best known for its charcoal-grilled yakitori (BBQ chicken) skewers, karaage (fried chicken) and relaxed atmosphere. Due to its small size, it’s best suited to small groups only.
One of Akakura’s larger restaurants, specialising in sukiyaki and shabu-shabu which you can cook yourself. It’s one of the best options for bigger groups, although advance reservations are strongly recommended during peak winter periods.
One of the village’s newest additions, Hideout offers Japanese izakaya-style small-plates, creative drinks, and a relaxed modern bar atmosphere. Reservations required due to limited seating.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bowl of ramen after a powder day, a lively bar with live music, or an authentic Japanese dinner with family and friends, Akakura has something for everyone.
Discovered a new favourite spot we should add to the list? Let us know during your stay with us at Kendama House.

Planning a winter trip to Myoko? Learn about snow tires, winter road conditions, 4WD recommendations, and essential driving tips for a safe journey.

Discover the easiest ways to travel from Tokyo, Narita, and Haneda to Myoko Kogen. Learn about Shinkansen train routes, Nagano Snow Shuttle buses, driving tips, and how to avoid the most common transit mistakes.

妙高の魅力は、世界クラスのスキーだけではありません。スノーモンキーや天然温泉から、地元のマーケット、日帰り旅行、カフェ、隠れた名所まで、日本アルプスでの滞在を最大限に楽しむためのガイドをご紹介します。