Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a luxurious alpine resort on Hokkaido, Japan

The resort, owned by YTL Hotels, is a stunning ski-in/ski-out property that interweaves the highest level of personalised service and care with the charm of Japan’s local history, culture and cuisine. Higashiyama Niseko Village is only the fifth Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the world, and the very first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Japan.

Higashiyama Niseko Village, positioned at the base of Mount Niseko Annupuri in the heart of Niseko Village, is an integrated all-season alpine resort hailed as one of the world’s premier powder snow destinations. The resort is set within the Niseko United ski area that offers 2,191 acres of skiable terrain and access to extensive backcountry skiing. The area also has an international ski school, chairlifts and gondolas, a dining and retail venue, an outdoor activity park and two world-class golf courses.

Unfolding over a vast landscape with panoramic views of Mount Yotei and Mount Niseko Annupuri, the inspiration behind the ultra-luxury resort lies in the Japanese proverb “Kachou Fuugetsu” (Flower, Bird, Wind, Moon) that encourages reverence for the transient beauty of nature and wellbeing through self-discoveries. Expressions of heartfelt emotional connections, indigenous aesthetics, unique cuisine and sensory-rich journeys characterise every element of the guest experience.

Higashiyama Niseko Village features 50 elegant guest rooms and suites appointed with refined amenities. A sense of cultivated beauty infuses all the spaces in the resort, with natural polished marble, fragrant cedarwood and flame brushed finished granite. Every space is designed to frame nature, showcasing the transitions of light and the seasons on the nearby mountains.

Its culinary ethos focuses on the philosophy of “shun”, the celebration of seasonal produce harvested at its peak. Guests can expect delectable cuisine that mirrors the seasons with the finest locally sourced vegetables, prized cuts and seafood served at Yukibana, or quintessential dining experiences at Sushi Nagi that observes the omakase tradition of entrusting the “Itamae”, or head chef, with his delicate creations. Customised cocktails, single malts and local brews may be savoured by the fireplace at Ume Lounge, with an eclectic array of Izakaya-style dishes.

Bringing to life the Reserve brand’s commitment to intuitive and heartfelt service, a trusted personal host or “Do San” (a person of Hokkaido) will assist guests in a highly personalised stay through a single touchpoint to access every service, amenity and offerings. Their sense of genuine care and responsibility, known as “omotenashi”, is the gold standard of Japanese hospitality, driven from the purity of heart and mutual respect with no pretence or expectation, that has evolved over the centuries as a subtle art form.

With a holistic focus on wellness, the bespoke spa offers tailored treatments to provide respite for the body and soul. The resort also features a traditional Japanese onsen for guests to luxuriate in the rejuvenating mineral-rich waters of Niseko’s natural underground hot springs. For guests who wish to maintain their workout routines during their stay, the resort offers a fitness centre complete with high-end Technogym equipment.

Leveraging Niseko’s heritage and varied recreation, Higashiyama Reservists, the resort’s creative curators are familiar with the locale, terrain and natural wonders, and offer a crafted collection of unforgettable excursions and self-discovery experiences. Reservists are always on hand to provide guests with the best insider tips, exclusive access and priority privileges that span nature, adventure, culture and gastronomy.