Niseko Jazz Festival

Creating meaningful places has always extended beyond architecture. At SC Global, we believe that extraordinary destinations are shaped by the experiences they inspire, the traditions they cultivate and the communities they bring together.

Conceived and spearheaded by SC Global, the Niseko Jazz Festival was established to enrich Niseko’s Green Season through world-class music and cultural experiences. Presented in collaboration with Blue Note Tokyo and supported by local partners, the festival has quickly established itself as one of the region’s signature summer events, bringing internationally acclaimed jazz musicians together with guests, residents and the wider community amidst the beautiful landscapes of Hokkaido.

Now in its third edition, the festival has grown from a two-day event into a four-day celebration across multiple venues. More than simply attracting visitors during the summer months, it reflects SC Global’s long-term commitment to creating experiences that strengthen the identity of Setsu Niseko while contributing to the continued evolution of Niseko as a year-round destination.

The Niseko Jazz Festival is an expression of SC Global’s belief that architecture provides the stage, but it is culture, music and shared experiences that give a place its soul.

Orquesta de luz

Artistic Direction

Central to the festival’s artistic direction is Shigeru Shiraki, founder of the Kutchan Jazz Festival, whose lifelong passion for jazz and long-standing relationships within Japan’s music community have been instrumental in shaping the Niseko Jazz Festival since its inception. Working in partnership with Blue Note Tokyo—one of Japan’s most respected jazz institutions—Shiraki-san has curated an exceptional line-up featuring many of Japan’s leading jazz musicians alongside internationally acclaimed artists, including Keiko Lee, Miki Hirose Quartet, Satoru Shionoya, Junko Yagami, Orquesta de la Luz, Andrea Motis Duo featuring Josep Traver, Andrés Barrios and Cañizares.

Andrés Barrios and Cañizares

Keiko Lee

A Vision Beyond Winter

The Niseko Jazz Festival reflects SC Global’s long-term vision of broadening Niseko’s international appeal beyond the winter season. While the region is renowned worldwide for its exceptional skiing, SC Global has long believed that world-class destinations are defined not only by their natural beauty, but by the quality of the experiences they offer throughout the year. Through internationally recognised cultural initiatives such as the Niseko Jazz Festival, together with exceptional hospitality, wellness, culinary and artistic experiences at Setsu Niseko, the Group continues to strengthen Niseko’s position as one of Asia’s leading year-round lifestyle destinations.

The Ultimate Living