KANPAI Shabu Shabu Buffet Niseko — Restaurant in Kutchan

Very disappoint! Much more expensive that quality buffets in Tokyo. Understaffed, the waiters were running around. We waited for out meet for 30 minutes and it only came because we complained.

Drinks also very expensive, a small glass of tea, TEA, for 700¥.

The vegetable options were very limited and every time we went to get more, the bows were almost empty.

Soup was not tasteful 🙁

Going as a couple, the only option were tables similar to ramen shops, seats side by side facing the window. Even arriving when the restaurant had other tables and seats to offer (we also had a reservation), the staff said they couldn’t move us (happens a lot in JP, I guess 🫤).

And the cherry on top was a drum by the entrance (out table was the closest to the entrance). Costumers (Kids AND adults) would play it very loudly while we were dining. Very unpleasant...

Worst Shabu shabu in Japan (possibly)! TLDR: Definitely would not recommend.

Cons: Poor quality food. Stomach-ache after eating (both my partner and I). Thinking is was due to the beef as that’s the only thing we didn’t cook for a long time. Also, never seen an egg in japan that had yellow yolk before (usually orange).

Taste and authenticity. Sukiyaki broth was horrible, sausage tasted like rubber. Beef was inconsistent cut, and shrimp and squid was not fresh.

Expensive. 9000yen for subpar quality. Are you kidding - this is Japan!

Service. Many times waiter would say ‘I’ll be right back’ and never return. Eggs for sukiyaki and a lot of other items are always gone. Simply lack of staff running the place.

Pros: Soft serve was good.

The image does this place too...

Great place for families after a long day of skiing. No need to think, all-you-can-eat shabu shabu for 90 minutes! You can also choose the meal with unlimited drinks package too which includes beers wine, sake, and sochu (there was Bombay Sapphire gin and a house vodka as well).

No frills and loaded with veggies and some cooked food. They also have a shuttle bus that can take you to and from the restaurant in case you decide to drink!

Second time here and will keep coming back...