We stayed in Kutchan for a few nights as part of a broader trip to the Niseko region. We essentially stayed in Kutchan because it was a really peak time and prices for other Niseko accommodation were exorbitant. Nevertheless we were glad that we got to experience Kutchan. Whilst there were plenty of tourists about, it felt like we were getting to hang out with some of the locals and get a bit of a taste of Japan (especially at the pachinko parlour!). We also enjoyed exploring the streets and the many eateries and izakaya bars. It was so different to Hirafu or Niseko Village that have been purpose built for ski tourism.

We also didn’t need to stay near the Niseko slopes, because we had a car and for those few days we visited Kiroro, Rusutsu and Iwanai Cat Skiing.

We stayed at First Cabin Niseko, which was not in Niseko nor a cabin! The hotel/hostel had plenty of things going for it, with a main detractor being its distance from downtown Kutchan.
See our video here