Photo: Setsu Niseko
Cover Photo: Setsu Niseko

Planning ahead for a holiday in Hokkaido? Here are some luxury resorts in Niseko that you can consider for your next trip

It’s a widely known fact that Japan is a hot favourite when it comes to Asian destinations to visit during the holiday season. With its changing seasons, delectable food, abundant shopping and more, it’s a no-brainer why most of us love the country. 

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Unfortunately, due to the ongoing pandemic, Japan’s borders remain closed to much of the world, Singapore included.

On November 8 this year, Japan began the first phase of its border reopening by allowing business travellers to come in and serve a shorter quarantine period. As long as business travellers had proof that they were vaccinated, they were allowed to enter the country and have their quarantine period shortened from 10 days to three, according to the Japanese government. This ceased shortly after as Japan continues to attempt to prevent the spread of the new Covid-19 variant, Omicron, in their country. 

However, there is still hope that Japan may continue with its border reopening plans when Omicron fears eventually subside—and it’s well worth thinking about a potential holiday in anticipation of this.

If you can’t wait to head back to Japan once borders reopen, here is a list of our top resort picks from Niseko, Japan, which boasts gorgeous mountains, ski resorts and general tranquillity. 

Don’t miss: Property in Japan: Why Niseko-Kyo is a Dream Holiday Home for Ski Lovers

1. Setsu Niseko

Tatler Asia
Photo: Setsu Niseko
Above Photo: Setsu Niseko

If you’re looking for something completely brand new, Setsu Niseko is worth a visit. It is also the first luxury property that SC Global, a Singapore developer for exclusive luxury residences, opened in Niseko.

The property is set to welcome guests in the summer of 2022 and is located in Hokkaido’s northernmost prefecture of Japan with spectacular views of Mount Yotei. 

What makes Setsu Niseko stand apart from the rest is the fact that it creates customised experiences for all its guests. From adrenaline-packed adventures to off-the-grid retreats, festive pop-up events and culinary frontiers, Setsu Niseko aims to capture the authentic Hokkaido experience while also ensuring that each guest is well taken care of. 

Tatler Tip: Setsu Niseko houses one of the largest wellness facilities in the heart of Niseko so make sure you check out one of its four private onsen rooms, the onsen lounge, its cold dipping pool and more while you’re there.

2. Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono

With stunning views of Mount Yotei and the Annupuri ranges, this mountain resort is one that seamlessly blends nature with luxury to form a truly unforgettable experience. 

No matter if you go in the winter or summer, you can enjoy clear river water, forests and a variety of outdoor, sport and cultural experiences. During the winter months, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowmobile tours, snowshoe tours and more. 

In the summer, you can enjoy golfing on lush courses, rafting, canoeing, mountain biking and more. 

The hotel itself offers spacious guest rooms, suites and penthouses that feature large living and dining spaces that will completely immerse you in the experience. 

3. Hotel Niseko Alpen

Located at one of the largest snow resorts in the Niseko area, Niseko Alpen is one that you should visit in the winter to get the most out of your experience there. 

You can enjoy skiing or snowboarding but the highlight of the resort is its chefs who will mesmerise you with exquisite dishes made using the freshest local ingredients.

Enjoy seasonal dishes from executive chef Shigeyoshi Nakai, who has been part of the hospitality industry since 1983 and has a keen eye for sourcing and pairing ingredients from Hokkaido with the most fitting recipes. 

Tatler Tip: Visit the hot stone saunas at the resort while you are there as these saunas produce infrared light and negative ions that can extract toxins from the body while moisturising the skin.  

4. Hilton Niseko Village

Hilton Niseko Village is an award-winning ski hotel located at the foot of Niseko Annupuri Mountain and provides access to the mountaintop through a gondola, and also has a golf course not far away from it. 

Of course, the rooms here are luxurious with massive twin aspect windows that boast panoramic views, beds fitted with 250 thread count sheets and more.

Tatler Tip: If skiing and golf do not interest you, rest and relax at the property’s Higashiyama Onsen and Wakka Spa that faces Mount Yotei and boasts natural hot spring waters and offer breathtaking views. 

The outdoor bath is also a highly Instagramable spot as it is fronted by a colourful carp-filled pond. 

5. Higashiyama Niseko Village

Higashiyama Niseko Village is a luxurious alpine resort in Hokkaido that allows guests to connect with nature by inviting them to explore all that the area has to offer.

From traditional Japanese onsens fed by the mineral-rich waters of Niseko’s natural underground thermal springs to breathtaking views of Niseko and culinary feats that showcase the culinary traditions of Japan, you will certainly be spoilt here. 

With mounts Yotei and Niseko Annupuri serving as a gorgeous backdrop, this is a holiday spot that you won’t want to say goodbye to. 

6. Plus, opening soon: Niseko-Kyo

Tatler Asia

An idyllic retreat within a tranquil setting, Niseko-Kyo holds an allure for many, especially well-travelled urbanites looking to escape the fast-paced bustle and the perpetual summer heat and humidity in Singapore. Located in Niseko's Hirafu Village, the new development—which is set to open its doors in the fourth quarter of 2023—offers direct access to the high-speed Ace Family Lift, a ski lift that leads visitors directly to the mountain courses.

What’s more: a private natural onsen within each unit allows one to rejuvenate the body and mind as they soak in the breathtaking views amidst crisp alpine air, while luxurious fittings and amenities promise a decadent and relaxed setting.

Offering lavish residences with worldly finesse, Niseko-Kyo sets a new benchmark when it comes to luxury living. The tranquil destination is an enticing getaway with spectacular views of snow-covered hills.

To discover more about Niseko-Kyo, visit niseko-kyo.com

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