Japan’s Number One Snow Hotel: Park Hyatt Niseko
Japan’s northernmost prefecture might be known for its harsh winters and extreme terrain, but combine that with some of the world’s best powder snow and an influx of international tourists every winter, it’s easy to see why Hokkaido has attracted some of the biggest names in luxury hospitality.
Opened in January 2020, Park Hyatt Niseko is the third Japanese property from Park Hyatt, and has already swept up awards including World’s Best New Ski Hotel and the IDEA Interior Design Award for 2020. In the new Hokkaido-based property, local culture is celebrated through art, design and cuisine. Nature abounds and is embraced throughout all four seasons. And hotel staff, residences and guests create a genuine and warm experience. It’s definitely one to add to your Japan bucket list.
Designed by Melbourne-based BAR Studio, the concept celebrates Japanese crafts and natural materials; inspired by the warmth of an alpine lodge and the craftsmanship of a Japanese villa. Guest rooms have a homely feel with living and dining spaces separated by timber screens referencing Japanese shoji paper. Residences follow a similar format, with added kitchen facilities, private open-air onsen and balcony areas.
The architecture itself has been designed in response to the mountain, and each of the hotel’s 100 suites and 113 branded residences gently carves around the ski slope itself, offering clear views of the iconic Mt Yotei and celebrating the pristine natural surroundings.
Public areas follow in Park Hyatt’s signature sophisticated style, with original works from Japanese artists Akira Minagawa and Nobuyoshi Araki. Further pieces are curated in collaboration with Tokyo-based charity, The Art Foundation, as well as light installations designed by Australian interdisciplinary paper artist Geoff Nees.
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Each of Park Hyatt Niseko’s eleven lounges, bars and restaurants showcases creative cuisine, sustainably sourced from local Hokkaido farmers and markets. These include the hotel’s signature Italian, Chinese, Robata and Tappanyaki restaurants, as well as Michelin Star Sushi and Two star French restaurant Molière Montagne. Those with a sweet tooth can indulge at the lower floor’s ‘delicatessen street’ and upstairs the Mountain Lounge is equipped with a central fireplace, sofas and all-day dining to reinforce the resort’s homely feel. Of course a Japanese breakfast in bed is always an option too.
For the adventurer travellers among us, the on-site ski valet offers full ski and snowboard equipment rental, as well as hiking and trail gear, and expert staff are on hand for shortcuts up the mountain via snowmobile and for lessons and activities for kids and families.
After a day out on the mountain, or for something a little more relaxed, visit the hotel’s Signature Spa for world class facial and body treatments, as well as a 25-metre pool, natural hot spring onsen and an on-site gym.
Nestled into the mountain, and surrounded by some of the best winter conditions in the world, Park Hyatt Niseko is an ideal place to indulge and embrace your adventurous side. Book a stay during the winter months for a memorable snow adventure and become a part of one of the world’s fastest growing ski destinations.
Getting Around
Each of Niseko’s three main resorts; Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Annupuri, are connected at the top of the mountain and are easily accessible by skiing or shuttle bus. The nearest airport, Sapporo New Chitose is approximately two hours away, and local Kutchan Station is a 10 minute drive. Public transport options are available, but car hire is recommended.
Local Highlights
For guests visiting outside of the popular winter months, the area’s top attractions include river rafting and canoeing down the Shiribetsu River, private mountain biking tours through Niseko’s forest during green season, and the Hanzono Golf course, surrounded by Niseko’s natural birch forest.
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