New Niseko Restaurant: MASONRY. Japan Debuts in Hokkaido

If you’ve ever dined at MASONRY. Bali, you know that their kind of food is something you’ll crave, no matter the setting. This winter season, the team behind MASONRY. Bali is trading the tropical heat for sub-zero temperatures as they set up MASONRY. Japan in Niseko, a brand-new dining destination by Co-Founder and Culinary Director Ben Cross. 

“Our ethos has always been about simple food, done properly, with a big focus on fire cooking and things made by hand. In Japan, we’ve taken that a step further by putting an even bigger emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, so the menu truly reflects Niseko and Hokkaido,” says Cross. “There is such a plethora of amazing ingredients in Hokkaido. It's well known for having some of the best seafood in the world, as well as legendary dairy. I’m excited to create dishes using the local quality pork, wagyu beef, potatoes and corn, to name a few. It’s about tapping into what’s unique here while keeping true to our style.”

Here’s everything you need to know about MASONRY. Japan. 

What is the difference between MASONRY. Bali and MASONRY. Japan?

Let’s start with the similarities — they’re part of the same much-loved restaurant group co-founded by acclaimed chef Ben Cross. Seven years since founding MASON. Bali, the group is evolving with a refreshed name and identity: MASONRY.

Rooted in the craft of masonry — built by hand, from scratch, and with intent — the evolution signals both artisanal integrity and global ambition. Renowned for wood-fired Mediterranean cooking, house-made charcuterie, and a philosophy of refined simplicity, MASONRY. is poised to take over the globe. The first step? MASONRY. Japan, which opens 1 December, 2025, in Niseko. 

Where is MASONRY. Japan located, and when is it opening?

The restaurant is set in Niseko Kyo, a luxury ski-in ski-out property in Hirafu. Located right by the Ace Quad Family Lift, MASONRY. Japan is one of the few restaurants literally steps from the slopes; get to glide right in for lunch or walk right up from Hirafu-zaka come dinnertime. 

The 60-seat restaurant brings the restaurant group’s philosophy to one of the world’s most renowned alpine destinations. Inspired by Japan’s vibrant izakaya culture, the relaxed atmosphere makes it the perfect place to gather after your powder chasing adventures. Plush leather chairs, paired with velvet curtains, polished floors, teak tables, and cosy lighting invite you to linger. Guests can also slide up to the counter for a front row view of the kitchen and witness the culinary team in action.

So, what’s on the menu at MASONRY. Japan?

Hewing close to what made the Bali outpost a crowd favourite, the new Niseko restaurant features Mediterranean-inspired share plates made with Japan’s exceptional ingredients. In-house curing and fermentations showcase the team’s hands-on approach, and the menu will also feature signatures from Bali but reimagined with local produce. 

Main course highlights include the local Okhotsk chicken, seared to a crispy edge by the intense heat of Japanese Binchotan charcoal. There’s also the aromatic, wood-fired Furano Wagyu striploin, brightened by zesty notes from the mandarin yuzu kosho, cabbage slaw, and sweet and sour shallots. 

Don’t miss the signature house-made Halloumi cheese crafted with Hokkaido milk, buckwheat honey, shio kombu and other local ingredients. Other tantalising sides include the Kamameshi rice with fried garlic, smoked butter and chives, as well as a charcuterie spread featuring Wagyu pastrami.

What’s there to drink? 

If you’ve ever had a taste of their signature cocktails, you’d be happy to know that favourites like the Margarita a la MASONRY. (tequila, lime, pomegranate) and the Canggu Fizz (rum, lime, basil, watermelon, coconut soda), will also be available in Niseko.

With a bar helmed by multi-award-winning Bar Director Zac de Git, who formerly shaped the offerings at Tippling Club Singapore, expect exclusive creations such as Goma (sesame spirit, cucumber, lime, agave, saline). 

There’s also a killer wine list, curated by MASONRY. COO Marcus Boyle, who is a certified Court of Master Sommeliers member. The wine menu will be organised by style and balances local and international producers to complement the wood-fired food offerings.

Now, how do I book a table at MASONRY. Japan?
Stay tuned for more details on the restaurant opening, by following NISADE and MASONRY. Japan on Instagram.

Address: Niseko Kyo, Upper Hirafu, Kutchan, Hokkaido 044-0082, Japan

Opening hours: 7am to 10am (exclusively for Niseko Kyo guests only); 12pm to late daily for lunch and dinner service.