If you're heading to the land of endless powdery slopes, Michelin-worthy food and hot springs you’ll never want to leave, there's one place that pulls it all together: Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. It's not just a ski-in, ski-out resort—it’s a secluded sanctuary wrapped in luxury, where the snow is always just a glance away and the real world seems like a distant memory.

As you approach Higashiyama, the building feels like it was gently placed among the snowy peaks—its natural wood and stone exterior blending into the mountain landscape as though the designers were in on some beautiful secret with Mother Nature. There’s nothing flashy about it, but don’t let that fool you—this is the kind of understated luxury that whispers rather than shouts. When the snowflakes are falling (which is most of the time), the hotel looks like it was carved straight out of a winter dream.

Upon arrival, you're greeted by a small army of staff, all with that polite efficiency Japan is famous for. Sliding doors open, and the warmth of the lobby immediately hits you. It’s a far cry from the freezing world outside, with massive floor-to-ceiling windows framing a perfect view of Mount Yotei—because who needs artwork when you have that? You almost want to throw your luggage to the side and just stare out at the snow-capped mountain peaks.

If Marie Kondo and a luxury resort had a baby, it would be this. The common areas feel like a modern take on traditional Japanese minimalism—there’s space to breathe, quiet corners to relax in and views from every angle that make you forget the word "stress." You'll find yourself wandering through lounges with oversized fireplaces and wooden beams, where you can sink into plush seating after a day on the slopes. If you're up for a nightcap, the Ume Lounge is perfect, offering a warm, intimate atmosphere with an impressive selection of local spirits (hello, Hokkaido whisky).

For those who appreciate a cozy nook of calm, the Library Lounge offers the perfect space for quiet reflection. It’s the kind of spot where you can lose yourself in a good book or simply enjoy the serenity while sipping your tea, whether you're actually reading or just pretending to.

THE ROOMS

The rooms at Higashiyama are the perfect respite from a day on the slopes. It’s boutique in feel, with only 50 rooms–a much smaller footprint than its other luxury hotel friends nearby. Each room is designed with the same natural elegance as the rest of the property, with warm woods, plush textiles and views that will make you think about extending your stay.

The suites are particularly impressive, combining traditional Japanese design elements like shoji screens and deep-soaking tubs (cut to your post-ski soak) with modern touches like heated floors and state-of-the-art tech. For singles or solo travelers, we suggest the Yotei Suite, with a cozy living space, mini-kitchen set-up, two bathrooms and lots of space to sprawl out après-ski.

The Higashiyama Suite takes things up a notch, giving you another expansive living space complete with a fireplace, two bedrooms with en suite baths, a dining set-up and a powder room–oh, and a spot where you can watch the snowfall while you sip on freshly brewed matcha from your personal tea set.

Need anything at all? Just ask your personal host, or “Do San” in Hokkaido, who will cater to whatever wish your wintery heart desires. Like music to our ears, right?

DINING

Let’s talk food—because you’re in Japan, so obviously the dining has to be spectacular. And at Higashiyama, it is. Their signature restaurant, Yukibana, elevates Hokkaido’s rich culinary traditions with fine ingredients sourced locally from farms and the sea. Expect a mix of Japanese kaiseki cuisine and Western influences, all served with a view that almost makes you forget you’re eating. Almost.

For something more casual (but still highly refined), Sushi Nagi offers an intimate experience with some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste—think sushi that almost melts in your mouth. You sit at the counter and watch the chefs do their thing in the open kitchen, crafting dishes with the kind of precision you’d expect from a master jeweler.

Breakfast here is no joke either. The spread is a beautiful fusion of Japanese and Western options, with everything from delicate miso soups to the fluffiest croissants this side of Paris. It’s the perfect way to fuel up for a day of adventure—or a day spent lounging in the spa.

Post-ski you can be had at the Ume Lounge, a cozy bar with sweeping views outside the wall of floor-to-ceiling windows. Local spirits are mixed up by the hotel’s ‘Alpine Mixologist,’ which we love the sound of. Who doesn’t love après the Japanese way?

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WELLNESS

Speaking of the spa, let’s just say this place knows how to help you recover from a day on the mountain. The Spa at Higashiyama is all about relaxation and restoration, combining traditional Japanese techniques with modern treatments to melt away any aches from your adventures.

The signature treatment here is the Niseko-inspired body ritual. Black silica, a rare element from Hokkaido once used by the indigenous Ainu for healing, takes center stage in this treatment, combining a massage to relieve stiffness and pain with a facial using hot-spring water to soothe and nourish the skin. But the real soothing can be found in the outdoor onsen—a natural hot spring where you can have a full-body soak under the stars while surrounded by snow. It’s the kind of experience that makes you wonder why you don’t live in a country with hot springs in every corner.

For those who want to balance out all that indulgence, the fitness center offers everything from yoga classes to personal training sessions, all with a view that’ll almost make you forget you’re exercising.

OUTSIDE THE HOTEL

Higashiyama Niseko Village is, of course, a skier’s paradise. With direct access to some of the best slopes in Japan, you’re just a quick gondola ride away from fresh powder. Whether you're a seasoned skier or someone who's never strapped into a pair of boots, the hotel offers lessons, equipment rentals and guided tours to help you make the most of the mountain–all of which KAX can arrange to your liking.

But it's not all about skiing here. During the warmer months, Niseko transforms into an adventure playground with hiking, mountain biking, golf and even horseback riding. The nearby town is also worth exploring—think quaint cafés, local markets and hidden shops where you can stock up on everything from handmade ceramics to artisanal chocolates.

Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is a gateway to experiencing the magic of Japan’s wild side. Whether you’re there to carve down some of the best ski slopes in the world or just relax and take in the beauty of Hokkaido, it delivers on all fronts. And when the snow melts, the charm doesn’t fade—Niseko’s stunning landscapes and endless outdoor activities ensure that you’ll want to return, season after season.