Niseko is fast becoming one of the world’s most sought out ski destinations thanks to its ‘Japow’ (Japanese powder), sensational F&B scene and traditional onsen culture. The Hokkaido-based resort gets over 15-metres of snow every year and has over 60 kilometres of groomed runs, plus extensive off-piste options to keep things interesting. 32 lifts service four interconnected ski areas which can be accessed with an All-Mountain Pass, and each area has a different vibe. Grand Hirafu is the largest and most popular spot, Hanazono is perfect for high-end family-friendly holidays, Annupuri’s quiet wide slopes, chalets and onsens are great for more traditional stays, and Niseko Village has picturesque tree runs and beginner-friendly slopes. There is a myriad of accommodation options to choose from, but when only the very best will do, these incredible hotels and chalets will make you (almost) want to skip the Japow for après at home.
Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono
Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono is a refined luxury spa resort with a hotel and residence that has won numerous awards as one of the best ski-in, ski-out five-star hotels in the world. The elegant and sophisticated design is unrivalled in Niseko, and rooms often sell out a year in advance in mere minutes. Floor-to-ceiling windows keep the focus on the scenic snowscapes outside, and the modern interiors with every single amenity you can imagine, including hot chocolate on tap, make it very difficult to leave. The 11 food and beverage outlets range from Robata to fine dining, and the indoor pool, gym, onsen and spa are the most beautiful places for pre- and post-ski. The ski concierge will take care of your every need and will make sure you never lift a finger as you transition from slippers to skis and back again.
328-47 Aza Iwaobetsu, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido, 044-0082, Japan; hyatt.com
Higashiyama Niseko Village, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
This ski-in, ski-out alpine hideaway is strategically located at the foot of Mount Annupuri providing direct access to some of the best skiing in the world. Nature takes centre stage here, and the Higashiyama reservists on the hotel team are dedicated to helping guests navigate the mountain on skis, boards or foot. Full length windows frame vistas of Mount Yotei and tree-topped ski slopes that can be accessed straight from the hotel, or viewed more leisurely from deep sunken baths in each of the 50 bedrooms. All-day dining restaurant Yukibana celebrates seasonal local Hokkaido cuisine, while the Sushi Nagi counter showcases Omakase-style dining. When it’s time to slow down, Spa Chasi La Sothys has you covered with a hybrid traditional Japanese and French beauty treatment menu and private onsen with magnificent views. As an added bonus, guests have a dedicated do-san (butler) on call 24-hours a day and the famous Takahashi Dairy Farm is a mere 3-minute drive away. The soft serve and cheese tarts are a must.
919-28 Soga, Niseko, Abuta District, Hokkaido 048-1522, Japan; ritzcarlton.com
Skye Niseko
Skye Niseko on the doorstep of upper Hirafu is a beautiful ski-in, ski-out condo hotel with multiple room options ranging from studios to large penthouses. The property features a stunning architectural design that incorporates two interlocking ‘L’ shaped buildings, ensuring that all living rooms and bedrooms offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and ski slopes. The minimal and luxurious architecture by Wilson Associates features generous living spaces clad out in neutral, marble, warm wooden hues washed in natural light. There are private and public onsens, massages on tap at the spa, and multiple delicious dining options. Kumo has the largest culinary offering and can accommodate large groups, and the Café Deli is perfect for picking up a casual bite and indulging in some hot chocolate or Hokkaido soft serve. The hotel emphasizes the Japanese concept of “omotenashi,” or hospitality, ensuring that every guest’s experience is memorable and it embodies the concept in every way.
11-4 Niseko Hirafu 1-jo 3-chome, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0080, Japan; skyeniseko.com
Seasons
Seasons is a 650-square metre ultra-luxurious 6-star alpine retreat, nestled within a private gated compound surrounded by towering Japanese pine trees, offering complete seclusion for up to 15 guests. This sprawling chalet serves as the ultimate VIP escape for families or groups of friends, featuring modern industrial interiors and an array of high-end amenities, including an indoor heated pool, an eight-seat cinema, a wood-fired pizza oven, a sauna, a 1,000-bottle wine cellar, and Pioneer DJ decks. Guests enjoy personalised service from a private chef, chauffeur and butlers, along with complimentary daily massages and in-home ski fittings. Located in Annupuri National Park, the chalet is a one-minute drive from the Annupuri Gondola, within walking distance to gourmet restaurants and local onsens, and you can ski directly to the entrance.
Niseko, Abuta District, Hokkaido 048-1511, Japan; seasons-niseko.com
Corniche
Corniche is a special 580-square-meter chalet in Hirafu, designed by Riccardo Tossani Architecture and managed by The Luxe Nomad whose concierge team will take care of your every need. Nestled in a lovely silver birch forest with scenic cliff-edge views of Mount Yotei, the chalet features impressive 6-meter-high ceilings and spacious living and dining areas that are perfect for entertaining and relaxing. With four ensuite bedrooms, including two luxurious master suites, the interiors showcase a tasteful blend of stone and wood. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the living and dining rooms frame breathtaking mountain views, while the property is conveniently located near the gondola, ski lift, and vibrant restaurants and bars in Hirafu’s Middle Village. Notable amenities include a private hot-spring bath, sauna, plunge pool, home theatre, wine cellar, elevator, ski room, and heated driveway. The cosy fireside seating in the living room is ideal for unwinding after a day on the slopes.
1-chome-17-165-12 Yamada, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0081, Japan; theluxenomad.com
Editor
Dervla Louli
