The Hotel Guru
The 19 Top Ski Hotels in Japan

The 19 Top Ski Hotels in Japan

Japan's dramatic snow-capped peaks promise ample opportunity for adrenaline-pumping winter sports. Whether you venture to the ever-popular Niseko, set on Hokkaidō Island and famed for its almost 18m of snowfall each season, or to Hakuba, Madarao, Nozawa Onsen and Karuizawa on the main island of Honshu, the country's resorts offer well-maintained pistes and excellent ski schools. The other big draw is the après-ski scene, which often involves lively bars (with plenty of karaoke!) and top-notch restaurants serving local specialities. Many of the top ski hotels in Japan also have rejuvenating hot spring baths, saunas and soothing spa treatments for unwinding after big days out. There's also a good range of accommodation options to choose from, whether you like modern luxury, traditional ryokans or something at the cheaper end of the scale!

For Romantic Couples

Zaborin sits just above the Zabo natural spring in Niseko. A luxurious choice for romantic couples, the property's 15 villas offer minimalist decor and private onsens with stunning views. Feast on traditional cuisine at the elegant restaurant after active days. Exceptional.
Hinode Hills is an indulgent mountain hotel with floor-to-ceiling windows framing marvellous views from cool rooms with crisp, grey-clad interiors. Dine in style at the Bistro at Hinode Hills after superb spa treatments and thrilling days out skiing, hiking or snowmobiling. For couples.
Shishi Iwa House is a chic, ten-bedroom hotel with light, airy spaces, contemporary artwork and plenty of pale wood, Designed by renowned architect Shigeru Ban, it's a gorgeous minimalist pad for a weekend escape. Ski at the nearby Karuizawa Snow Park in the winter months. One for couples and architecture aficionados.
Satoyama Jujo is a gorgeous, 13-room hotel with sleek, minimalist interiors in a stunning mountain setting. A design-led hideaway with a contemporary art collection, striking outdoor onsen and farm-to-table cuisine, this is a very romantic spot. Try cross-country skiing, or hone your skills on the slopes of Minamiuonuma and nearby Yuzawa between December and May.
Snowball Chalet at Madarao Mountain is a cosy boutique lodge in the heart of Madarao village. Expect atmospheric, alpine-inspired interiors with Japanese accents, and romantic rooms for couples as well as larger spaces for families. Gather around the fire for après-ski drinks in the evening before heading out to dinner. Warm and welcoming.

For Families

Sierra Resort Hakuba is a swish property with contemporary rooms yielding forest views and beds topped with crisp white linens. Families should book the two bedroom Junior Suites. Unwind in spoiling onsens or a refreshing outdoor pool after enjoying easy access to the slopes. Set on 25 acres of grounds near Hakuba, this is a luxurious resort choice for active guests of all ages.
Hoshino Resorts Risonare Yatsugatake is a family-friendly hotel surrounded by the forests and mountains of the Yamanashi prefecture. Airy rooms with pale wooden furnishings can accommodate couples or families. With everything from swimming pools and horse riding to wine tastings and skiing, this is an active holiday favourite.
The Green Leaf Village sits at the base of Mount Annupuri. Families will adore larger rooms with space for extra beds, or gathering in the games room. Unwind in the spa and glamorous bar after days out on the slopes. Ski-in ski-out access is a highlight.
Snow Peak Field Suite is made up of eight generous tents, perfect for the ultimate glamping experience in Hakuba. Families and groups are welcome, though it can also be a wonderfully romantic escape. The property offers cosy beds, minimalist interiors and gorgeous views of starlit skies. Cosy up by the fire pit or feast on Italian cuisine. For outdoorsy types eager to hike and ski.
Hoshino Resorts Risonare Nasu is a beautiful, design-led escape surrounded by forests and farmland, close to the ski slopes of the Nasu Highlands. Kick back in swish, contemporary rooms and suites after days at the spa, soaking in the hot spring baths or feasting at the two restaurants. There are outdoorsy kids' activities galore. Fabulous.

For a Tranquil Ryokan

Miyamoso Takamiya is an historic ryokan in Zaō Onsen, offering an intimate, traditional experience. Unwind in one of the property's nine onsen baths, dine on delicious kaiseki cuisine and stroll to the slopes in winter or summer. Three cable cars zip guests up the mountain to superb Zao Onsen Ski Resort. One for romantic couples eager to combine tranquil onsen soaks with big ski days.
Miyama Sansou resembles a small village, with buildings set between the forest and the paddy fields close to Kurokawa Onsen. Individual cottages with private onsens promise plenty of privacy, ideal for couples looking to unwind in a restful ryokan. Active types can hit the slopes at the nearby Kuju Forest Park Ski Area during the winter months.
Mozumo is a tranquil, adults-only ryokan hidden in the forest outside Takayama. Set alongside the Mozumo River, the hotel's sliding doors reveal generous terraces with indulgent baths fed by natural hot spring water. Adventurers can zip down the snow-clad pistes of the Hida Takayama Municipal Ski Resort. An intimate romantic escape.
Akan Tsuruga Besso Hinanoza is a beautiful ryokan on the banks of Lake Akan, near the Akankohan National Ski Area. Pick this place for the generous suites, which boast lake views, private hot spring baths and traditional seating areas. The multi-course kaiseki cuisine highlights the region's best ingredients. Very luxurious.

For Private Chalets or Apartments

Kasara Niseko Village Townhouse offers a hip take on the traditional Japanese townhouse, with multi-bedroom chalets promising a chic stay for groups or families. With a dedicated concierge service, ski storage and well-equipped kitchens, these are a brilliant choice for a private, upmarket stay.
Snow Crystal Apartments are a short walk from the ski lifts in Niseko. Minimalist spaces with lots of glass, clean lines and polished wooden floors will appeal to well-heeled travellers, as will the excellent concierge team. Apartments have multiple bedrooms and smart kitchens.
Chatrium Niseko is a chic hotel offering contemporary rooms, suites and apartments with mountain views. Michelin-starred Kamimura specialises in Japanese-French fusion cuisine, perfect for keen foodies to savour after days out on the slopes. Set in Upper Hirafu Village, this really is one of the top ski hotels in Japan.
The Ridge Hotel & Apartments has a collection of modern rooms and self-catering apartments with up to four bedrooms in Hakuba. Expect spacious sitting rooms and well-equipped kitchens, as well as access to an onsite restaurant. Chic and contemporary — also brilliant for longer stays.
Muse Niseko has inviting private studios and multi-bedroom apartments clad in monochrome tones, with striking modern art pieces. Take long soaks in free-standing tubs with expansive views, cook up a storm in the kitchen and savour time together as a couple or group. Just opposite Michelin-starred Kamimura.

STILL NOT SURE?

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Alternatively, expand your search to see the 15 Top Design-Led Hotels in Japan or the 14 Best Hakone Ryokans with a Private Onsen.
Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
- Zaborin Niseko (Kutchan-cho) 15 rooms from £996
  
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  Total relaxation  -  Each villa boasts its own private indoor and outdoor onsen, perfect for unwinding whilst enjoying magical views
  Romantic Break  -  A gorgeous rural escape for romantic couples eager to embrace blissful onsen soaks and exemplary cuisine
  Great walks  -  Reconnect with nature on long forest walks or guided excursions with members of the hotel team
  Golf  -  Hone your golf skills with a round at the beautiful Niseko Village Golf Course
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  A few miles outside Niseko, the boutique Zaborin features 15 villas situated directly above the Zabo natural Spring. The villas offer minimalist and chic accommodation boasting wonderful views. Enjoy wonderful traditional local cuisine in their restaurant! A stunning and truly rejuvenating stay. See More
  
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- Hinode Hills Niseko (Abuta-gun) 72 rooms from £292
  
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  Romantic Break  -  A romantic luxury hotel for keen skiers eager to unwind in indulgent suites and enjoy delicious bistro fare
  Skiing  -  Hire skis from the onsite shop, book your lift passes and head out to hit the slopes!
  City Style  -  A stylish contemporary hotel with all the mod-cons for a swish mountain stay
  Restaurant  -  The Bistro at Hinode Hills serves authentic Western cuisine using locally sourced products
  
  A smart hotel set in Japan's famed ski area, Niseko Village. Sleek minimalist rooms are decorated in cool grey hues, with sharp lines and large floor-to-ceiling windows framing mountain views. With a gourmet restaurant & soothing massages to return to after a day outdoors, this is a luxury stay. See More
  
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- Shishi Iwa House Karuizawa 10 rooms from £295
  
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  Architectural  -  Expect a sleek natural feel in this small hotel designed by Pritzker Prize laureate Shigeru Ban
  Short break  -  Located just an hour from Tokyo by train, this is ideal for a quick weekend getaway in nature
  Active Holiday  -  Spend your days skiing or hiking before unwinding in a hot spring onsen
  Restaurant  -  Casual dining plus chef prepared in-room meals and the opportunity to order in from nearby (very good) restaurants
  
  A stylish small hotel that cleverly blends with the surrounding nature, designed by renowned architect Shigeru Ban. Expect light open spaces, soft curves, and plenty of wood. Ten expansive rooms have outdoor space, high ceilings, and gorgeous minimalist style. Perfect for a weekend escape. See More
  
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- Satoyama Jujo Minamiuonuma (Minami-uonuma-shi) 13 rooms from £423
  
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  Skiing  -  Minamiuonuma & neighboring Yuzawa boast more than 20 ski resorts, with ski schools open from December to April
  Foodies  -  The restaurant follows a farm-to-fork ethos, serving gourmet cuisine inspired by the Minamiuonuma region
  Mountain biking  -  Hire bicycles to explore the surrounding mountain trails on two wheels during the summer months
  Back to Nature  -  A perfect destination to reconnect with nature, enjoy long hikes and soak in a hot spring onsen
  Recommended by  -  Design Hotels, Tablet
  
  A small luxury hotel in a spectacular & secluded mountain location. Chic, minimalist rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows and light wooden walls. The exemplary restaurant serves delectable organic fare, and there's a strong focus on art & design. Unwind in the hotel's superb onsen. A spoiling stay. See More
  
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- Snowball Chalet at Madarao Mountain Madarao 9 rooms from £121
  
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  Skiing  -  The hosts at this hotel are seasoned skiers & offer all the information to get you on the slopes at 6 nearby ski resorts
  Romantic Break  -  With cosy fireplaces, comfortable beds and great drinks, this is an atmospheric boutique spot for a romantic hideaway
  Trekking  -  Discover the beautiful landscape surrounding the hotel on a guided hike; enquire with your hosts for local tours
  Active Holiday  -  Set 100m from the slopes of Madarao Mountain, this is a fantastic hotel for an active winter sports holiday
  
  This boutique chalet is nestled in the heart of Madarao village. Originally constructed from local cedarwood, the property has undergone a full renovation and offers cosy, alpine-style interiors with Japanese accents. Enjoy après-ski by the open hearth after a day on the slopes. See More
  
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- Sierra Resort Hotel Hakuba Hakuba (Nagano) 74 rooms from £337
  
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  Active Holiday  -  Set within 25 acres of forest and with easy access to ski slopes there's plenty to keep outdoor enthusiasts entertained
  Families  -  Larger rooms are great for families, and kids will love the outdoor pool, garden & access to outdoorsy activities
  Skiing  -  A bus links the hotel directly to the ski lifts & to four resorts, including Tsugaike and Iwatake
  Mountain biking  -  Hire a bike and set out on scenic rides through the mountains during the warmer months
  
  A luxury resort set amidst a picturesque forest and boasting access to no less than four ski resorts. Rooms are chic and contemporary with large windows allowing the outside in, crisp white linen and indulgent bathrooms. A number of onsens and expansive outdoor pool aid utter relaxation. Fabulous. See More
  
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- Hoshino Resorts Risonare Yatsugatake Hokuto (Hokuto-shi) 172 rooms from £322
  
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  Short break  -  Located an easy two-hour limited express train from Shinjuku in Tokyo, this is perfect for a quick weekend getaway
  Active Holiday  -  Whether you want to ski, horse ride, wine taste or star-gaze — there is a wide choice of activities on offer
  Families  -  Perfectly designed for children with endless activities and a show-stopper of swimming pool complex
  Designer  -  Unique architecture designed by Mario Bellini
  
  A family-friendly hotel set amidst mountain peaks and forests in rural Yamanashi. Spacious rooms are light and airy with pale wood furniture, crisp white linen, and mountain views from vast windows. With a host of activities, an enormous pool complex, and a spa — the whole family will be happy. See More
  
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- The Green Leaf Village Niseko (Higashiyama Onsen) 200 rooms from £111
  
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  Skiing  -  The powder mecca of Japan (there's miles of pistes too), Niseko is a skiers' favourite - the hotel boasts ski-in ski-out access
  Families  -  Larger rooms with extra beds are brilliant for family trips, and kids will love the games room and outdoor activities
  Active Holiday  -  Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, hiking, snowmobiling and rides in reindeer-led sleighs
  Other Activities  -  Zip across the snowy landscapes on a thrilling snowmobile excursion
  
  A contemporary property located at the base of Mount Niseko Annupuri. Offering ski-in ski-out access to some of Japan's best skiing. Spend evenings unwinding with a cocktail in the glamourous bar or being pampered in the spa. The service is slick and rooms boast simple chic design. Superb. See More
  
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- Snow Peak Field Suite Hakuba (Kitaazumi District) 8 rooms from £249
  
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  Skiing  -  Whether you are experienced or a newbie, there is good skiing for all plus some great off-piste options
  Short break  -  The train journey from Tokyo is around 3 hours making this a great option for a quick city getaway
  Great walks  -  From lesiurely strolls to more challenging hikes, there's miles of scenic trekking trails
  Active Holiday  -  As a base for skiers and hikers, this is an outdoor enthusiast's dream destination
  
  A boutique tented camp set in the Japanese Alps. Tents are cosy and rustic with feather-down duvets, simple minimalist furniture, and large private deck spaces. Gourmet cuisine is Italian with well-chosen wines. A rejuvenating outdoorsy stay with fire pits, stargazing, and wonderful mountain views. See More
  
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- Hoshino Resorts Risonare Nasu Nasu-Gun, Tochigi Prefecture, Nasu 43 rooms from £262
  
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  Short break  -  A bullet train to Nasushiobara takes 60 minutes from Tokyo making this an easy option for a quick weekend getaway
  Kids Club  -  It isn't a Kids club exactly but Poko Poko is one of the most creative play spaces you'll find in a hotel
  Families  -  There are a wide choice of activities for kids ranging from farming lessons to pizza making
  Restaurant  -  Shaki Shaki is a relaxed family restaurant while elegant Tuscan-inspired dishes are served in Otto Sette Nasu
  
  A stylish agriturismo set amongst mountains, farmland, forests and hot springs just an hour (by bullet train) outside Tokyo. Chic rooms are contemporary in design with sharp lines, and plenty of glass and wood. There are two restaurants, a spa, and hot springs. A family-friendly escape to nature. See More
  
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- Miyamaso Takamiya Zao Onsen (Yamagata-City) 18 rooms from £306
  
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  Skiing  -  Located a short walk from the Yamagata Zao Onsen Ski Resort lifts, this is a top spot for sporty travellers
  Romantic Break  -  A restful, romantic choice for couples eager to unwind in hot springs and feast on delicious cuisine
  Total relaxation  -  Experience the authentic bath culture of Zao Hot Spring at this traditional Japanese ryokan
  Riding  -  The International Horse Riding Club offers scenic guided treks for all abilities
  
  A historic and luxurious ryokan situated in the Zao Hot Spring area. Traditianal rooms are atmospheric and authentic with floor level dining tables, delicate paper shutters and tatami mats. Unwind in the healing onsens and feast on regional Hana no kaiseki cuisine. A spoiling stay. See More
  
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- Miyama Sansou Kurokawa Onsen (Kumamoto Prefecture) 16 rooms from £401
  
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  Total relaxation  -  Rooms with private hot spring tubs are perfect for unwinding in traditional, luxurious surroundings
  Country Escape  -  Overlooking a stream, leafy forest and lush green paddy fields, this is a picturesque rural spot
  Skiing  -  Hit the slopes at the nearby Kuju Forest park Ski Area during the winter months
  Great walks  -  Ask the team about marked paths for relaxing walks in the area
  
  A luxurious rural escape built to resemble a small village. Chic individual cottages have minimalist traditional interiors and architecture making the most of the epic views. Rooms feature natural spring hot tubs, western beds and paper shutters. The perfect countryside hideaway for adults. See More
  
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- Mozumo Takayama 10 rooms from £293
  
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  Back to Nature  -  Located in a beautiful natural setting with views of the Hida Mountains, book this hotel for a tranquil back-to-nature retreat
  Cycling  -  Borrow the hotel's bikes to explore the beautiful surrounding forest individually or as a couple
  Romantic Break  -  The relaxed atmosphere at this adults-only bolt-hole is ideal for a romantic getaway
  Trekking  -  Trek to the Hirayuotaki Falls, a pristine natural waterfall close to the hotel
  
  This serene nature retreat is named after the Mozumo River which flows past the hotel, set in Takayama. Interiors harmonize with the landscape, visible from floor-to-ceiling windows and outdoor terraces. Guestrooms have open-air baths fed by natural hot spring water, perfect for relaxation. See More
  
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- Akan Tsuruga Besso Hinanoza Hokkaido, Hokkaidō 25 rooms from £673
  
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  Romantic Break  -  A gorgeous, upmarket take on the traditional ryokan experience for a memorable couples' hideaway
  Fishing  -  Lake Akan is well known for its excellent fishing, and the hotel can organise guided excursions
  Total relaxation  -  Unwind in luxurious suites with beautiful open air onsen baths and lake views
  Cycling  -  Hire bikes to cycle around Lake Akan and to explore Hokkaidō more widely
  
  A boutique property comprising of 25 individually designed suites. Rooms are contemporary yet the style is traditional. Find floor to ceiling windows, large terraces with outdoor free standing baths, tatami mats and shoji paper screens besides all the mod-cons. An utterly spoiling stay. See More
  
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- Kasara Niseko Village Townhouse Niseko (Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun) 8 rooms from £94
  
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  Self catering  -  With chic kitchens, an attentive concierge service, heated ski storage and a garage you have everything you need here and more
  Skiing  -  From 1st December to May you can hit the slopes. There are a wide range of pistes, excellent snowfall, and a ski school too
  Families  -  Each self-catered townhouse has three bedrooms and capacious living areas making this an ideal choice for families
  Active Holiday  -  Whether you want to ski, hike, golf, or kayak there is something for everyone here
  Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels
  
  A chic collection of houses set in the foothills of Hokkaido’s mountains. Residencies include three bedrooms, a stylish kitchen, and even ski storage. The concierge is on-point while the design (a modern spin on Japanese heritage townhouses) doesn't disappoint. A hip option for an outdoor getaway. See More
  
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- Snow Crystal Apartments Niseko (Hokkaido) 11 rooms from £274
  
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  Skiing  -  Find top-class skiing both on and off-piste; speak to the hotel about ski storage and pre-purchasing lift passes
  Active Holiday  -  With ski storage and easy access to the slopes, this is a great spot for active adventurers
  Riding  -  Go horse riding through the forests at the base of towering Mount Annupuri
  Groups  -  Swish, modern apartments for self-catering stays as a group or family
  
  Contemporary apartments boasting stunning mountain views and located a short walk from the ski lifts. Minimalist design throughout; think plenty of glass, clean lines, soft hues and polished wooden floors. The sophisticated concierge are eager to lend a helping hand. A chic choice. See More
  
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- Chatrium Niseko Niseko (Yamada) 72 rooms from £123
  
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  Families  -  Multi-room suites invite families and groups to unwind in chic, contemporary accommodation 600m from the slopes
  Skiing  -  Enjoy special ski tours on Niseko's hidden trails with the hotel's experienced guides
  Mountain biking  -  Hire bikes from the hotel to hit scenic mountain trails during the warmer months
  Foodies  -  The Michelin-starred Japanese-French fusion Kamimura restaurant is a must-visit
  
  Located in the heart of Upper Hirafu Village, Chatrium Niseko offers spacious, contemporary accommodation just a short distance from the slopes. Chic apartments are ideal groups or families, the the restaurant serves wonderful cuisine! Car rentals can be organised. A smart and stylish spot. See More
  
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- The Ridge Hotel and Apartments Hakuba (Nagano Perfecture) 17 rooms from £161
  
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  Skiing  -  The Hakuba Valley offers some of Japan's most varied pistes, suitable for beginners as well as advanced skiers
  Families  -  Multi-bedroom apartments and a fun games room make this a great base for families or groups
  Active Holiday  -  A mountain hotel geared towards skiers but within easy reach of multiple outdoor pursuits
  Fishing  -  Catch and cook your fish in a striking setting in the Hakuba Green Sports Forest
  
  A contemporary hotel offering rooms and self catered apartments with easy access to the slopes. Chic design includes plenty of glass, modern art, sink-into beds and polished wooden floors. A chic restaurant and cosy lounge provide the ideal spot to unwind post a day on the slopes. Superb. See More
  
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- Muse Niseko Niseko (Hokkaido) 9 rooms from £205
  
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  Active Holiday  -  Offering secure ski lockers for each apartment in the residents’ ski room, book this hotel for a break on the slopes
  Groups  -  These spacious, contemporary apartments with multiple bedrooms and great living spaces are perfect for a group stay
  Foodies  -  Located opposite a Michelin-starred restaurant, this hotel is perfectly placed for foodies
  Sights nearby  -  Take a day trip to Otaru, a charming nearby town famous for its perfectly preserved historic buildings and irresistible seafood
  
  This boutique hotel is located opposite the Michelin Star restaurant Kamimura on Niseko's popular central promenade. Contemporary guest apartments have stylish wall art and panoramic Mount Yotei views, plus cosy fireplaces. Enrol in ski school with the help of the friendly concierge. See More
  
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