GRAND HIRAFU VILLAGE, NISEKO, HOKKAIDO, JAPAN - 2017/03/12: The snow-capped Mount Yotei, a dormant volcano in Niseko, Japan, as viewed in the evening light from the village of Grand Hirafu. (Photo by Stefan Irvine/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Cover The Chedi Niseko is scheduled to open in 2029 in Japan’s Niseko region, offering a new option for alpine hospitality. (Photo: Stefan Irvine / LightRocket / Getty Images)
GRAND HIRAFU VILLAGE, NISEKO, HOKKAIDO, JAPAN - 2017/03/12: The snow-capped Mount Yotei, a dormant volcano in Niseko, Japan, as viewed in the evening light from the village of Grand Hirafu. (Photo by Stefan Irvine/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Opening in 2029, The Chedi Niseko aims to elevate Niseko’s status as a year-round destination for luxury travellers

The Chedi, a luxury hospitality brand known for its refined design and alpine expertise, is set to make its debut in Japan with The Chedi Niseko, a boutique hotel scheduled to open in June 2029. Located in the heart of Hirafu, one of Niseko’s premier ski and nature regions, the development responds directly to growing international demand for refined, experience-focused stays that blend cultural authenticity with innovation. This marks a significant strategic move for the brand, underscoring Niseko's appeal as an all-season destination to a discerning global clientele.

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A new luxury player in Niseko

The Chedi Niseko promises seamless access to some of Japan’s finest ski slopes and a dynamic culinary scene, positioning itself as a critical new player in Niseko’s luxury accommodation market. The brand’s expansion here signals its re-entry into Asia and reinforces its standing in premium alpine destinations, joining its other mountain ventures in Europe and the Middle East. Chedi’s approach centres on design-led, locally attuned hospitality, carefully respecting Niseko’s environment and cultural fabric.

Culinary offerings at The Chedi Niseko will include seasonal activations ahead of its opening as a preview of its gastronomic vision, which melds global culinary standards with the nuances of Japanese hospitality traditions. Such curated experiences align with the broader trajectory of Niseko evolving from a ski resort to a year-round destination that appeals to international travellers seeking authenticity and sophistication.

The hotel also benefits from its proximity to Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport, enhancing its accessibility for discerning travellers. With this investment, Chedi Hospitality aims to elevate Niseko’s profile, providing accommodation that appeals to both elite travellers and sophisticated investors, making it a milestone in the region’s ongoing luxury market development.

This entry into Niseko by Chedi reflects a clear recognition of the region’s unique blend of natural beauty, international appeal and year-round attractions. It demonstrates a thoughtful approach to meeting the expectations of travellers who seek elevated hospitality that respects local culture while maintaining consistently high standards in service and design.

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Chonx Tibajia is a senior editor at Tatler Asia’s T-Labs team, where she writes widely on lifestyle subjects including beauty, style, entertainment and travel. She has a long career in journalism, including roles as a columnist at The Philippine Star, and is the founder of the creative platform Pineappleversed. Beyond Tatler, her bylines appear in regional lifestyle and business publications, showcasing a broad portfolio that spans beauty trends, travel guides and culture pieces.