Niseko, on Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido, is coveted by skiers and snowboarders for its powder and luxurious winter retreats. This starts from around $1,820 in the winter season) from Muramura Village in Niseko Village in winter to Hainazonono in the Hainazonono Tribe. (Starting at about $581 during the winter). It wasn’t exactly quiet, but in terms of size it wasn’t competing with the big North American mountain resorts like Whistler or Vail.
That’s all about to change. The region is about to undergo a major growth spurt, with some of the biggest names in luxury brands set to join the action in Niseko in the coming years.
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Aman Niseko was originally targeted to open in 2023 before the pandemic, but is now scheduled to open in 2027 on the slopes of Mt. Moiwa. Six Senses, which just debuted its first Japanese facility in Kyoto, is reportedly aiming to open a Niseko store near Hirafu in 2027 or 2028. Japanese luxury brand HOSHINOYA, known for its stylish, minimalist take on ryokans that incorporate traditional style and modern amenities, has announced the opening of its ninth location and first hotel with residences. I’m planning. HOSHINOYA Lodge Niseko is planned to have ski-in/ski-out access and is scheduled to open in Kutchan in 2028.
New World La Plume Niseko Resort, a luxury brand under the Rosewood Hotel Group, is scheduled to open this year, while Marriott is planning to build a new Moxy Hotel in Niseko Village, and other derivative brands under famous umbrellas. Currently being planned. In a few years.
Now that all development plans are complete, there’s a great chance to head to Niseko and experience what Higashiyama Niseko Village resort director Panchi Ratnaveer calls “iconic Japau” (Japanese powder snow) before the crowds. is.
In the meantime, you won’t have to worry about luxuries. While staying at Niseko Village, enjoy a cozy atmosphere with ski-in/ski-in access, indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, fireplaces and blankets. The spacious, contemporary rooms have their own deep stone bathtubs. This is exactly Hokkaido Hygge.
“Higashiyama Niseko Village revolves around the philosophy of “Kacho Fugetsu,” or discovering yourself through nature,” says Ratnaveer. “During their stay, travelers will explore the local origins of the dishes on their plates, savor the power of solitude on mountain walks and ski slopes, and enjoy the healing elements of Japanese hot springs for an experience rooted in discovery and harmony.” I recommend that you do that.”
Growth is not limited to resorts. Hirafu and the surrounding area have long been the region’s busiest neighborhoods in terms of restaurants, bars, and nightlife. Nowadays, the Niseko Village scene is expanding and making a name for itself. A new complex has opened showcasing Ippudo’s ramen restaurant Gogyo and Baby Crosta, home of chef Yuichi Abellare, one of Asia’s most acclaimed pizzaiolo. Abellare also operates an exclusive pizza omakase tasting menu above the store. This year, Nisekoyo, a new gastronomic and nightlife experience, opened in the heart of the village. Another two-concept space is also home to daytime teahouse Chuya, which transforms into an evening cocktail bar run by the team from Kuala Lumpur’s Penrose.
“The current Niseko Village has enough charm that we came here from Kuala Lumpur to spend the winter. We plan to come back next year,” said Matthew Goh, who managed the bar program at Chuya last season. speaks.
Also in Niseko Village is Mandara Club, run as a pop-up last season by bar veteran Elliot Faber. He has assembled a long list of internationally acclaimed bartenders for an ongoing series of special events. The two-story ski clubhouse has a separate restaurant and bar, both of which represent a fusion of alpine ski chalets and Hokkaido surroundings. Outstanding dishes by Chef Escha Koo included, for example, cutlet-style schnitzel topped with Hokkaido sea urchin and potato rosti, while drinks ranged from sake to champagne to craft cocktails.
When you return to Higashiyama, be sure to book an omakase tour at Sushi Nagi. The daily menu is packed with fresh and rare Hokkaido specialties.
Meanwhile, the Park Hyatt Niseko in Hanazono has a number of restaurants, including restaurants specializing in traditional Japanese cooking styles such as robatayaki and teppanyaki. “Molière Montagne,” which utilizes Hokkaido ingredients using French techniques by three-star Michelin chef Hiroshi Nakamichi, will also be added.
However, those looking to make the most of Niseko’s attractions over the next few years may want to consider planning a trip outside of the winter peak season. The area’s first claim to fame is the legendary JAPOW, but there’s plenty to offer at other times of the year as well.
“There are fewer people and the weather is milder,” Ratnaveer says of the shoulder season. “Travelers can explore local markets, go hiking, admire fall foliage and budding flowers, and enjoy a variety of seasonal produce.”
Warmer weather brings golfers to the Arnold Palmer-designed Niseko Golf Course and Hanazono Golf Course. Cyclists, mountain bikers, and hikers will find plenty of trails to enjoy, while water lovers can enjoy river activities like rafting and kayaking.
“Our vision is to evolve Niseko into the ‘Whistler of the East’ in the not-too-distant future,” says Ratnaveer.
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