As you glide through the serene, snow-blanketed forest roads leading to Zaborin in Niseko, you might briefly wonder if you’ve accidentally entered a painting. The approach is deliberately understated—no grand archways or neon signs announcing your arrival—just a simple path flanked by towering trees. And then, Zaborin appears, like a hidden temple emerging from the forest. The building itself is modern but minimal, with clean lines and neutral tones, letting the beauty of nature steal the show. It's the kind of place where you almost feel like whispering upon arrival, just so you don’t disturb the tranquility.

Once inside, you quickly realize that Zaborin isn’t vying for attention with gaudy decor or overwhelming luxury. The ryokan’s common areas are designed for quiet reflection, with large windows framing the surrounding forest like a piece of living art. The lounge feels more like an extension of the outdoors, with wooden floors and minimalist furniture that invites you to sit, sip some green tea and lose yourself in the view and vibe. You won’t find a bustling lobby here—just calm, intimate spaces that feel like your own personal retreat. It’s the kind of place where you won’t hear much more than the occasional rustle of leaves or the soft hum of the wind.

For art lovers, the Zaborin Gallery is a hidden gem, featuring local artists and pieces that blend seamlessly with the ryokan's earthy aesthetic. It’s not a massive gallery where you’d get lost for hours but more of a curated nook that adds to the overall ambiance.

The Living Room at Zaborin is an expansive, communal area where guests can relax and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding forest. It features a seamless blend of modern comfort and traditional aesthetics, with large windows that invite nature indoors. Perfect for unwinding with a book or simply taking in the beauty of the landscape, it serves as the ryokan’s heart of relaxation.

For more introspection and indulgence, head to The Library, a quiet retreat for those who appreciate a good read. The shelves are stocked with a selection of books on Japanese culture, art, and nature, providing a calm and introspective space. With its subdued lighting and tranquil atmosphere, the library is ideal for sinking into a cozy chair and escaping into literature.

THE ROOMS

Zaborin doesn’t do “rooms” in the traditional sense—each guest is treated to their own private villa, and yes, that’s as luxurious as it sounds. The 15 villas are crafted with a combination of Japanese and modern design principles, offering plenty of open space and floor-to-ceiling windows that make you feel like you’re living in the middle of a forest (without the whole camping part, of course). And then there are the private onsen hot springs.

Each villa comes with its own onsen—both indoor and outdoor—where you can soak away your worries while staring out at the snow or the lush greenery, depending on the season. If there’s a better place to unwind, we’d like to see it. The suites, especially the two-bedroom options, take it a step further with more space, more views and more reasons to never leave.

Inside, the furnishings are minimalist but plush. Think tatami mats, low wooden tables, and futons that magically appear when it’s time for bed. The villas are a careful balance between traditional Japanese ryokan elements and the comforts of modern luxury. And while you’re basking in that balance, the Zaborin staff somehow seem to know exactly when to be available and when to leave you be.

DINING

The restaurant at Zaborin doesn’t bombard you with a dozen courses and endless waiters explaining each one. Instead, expect an exquisite, seasonal kaiseki experience that’s fine-tuned to Niseko’s local ingredients. Chef Yoshihiro Seno crafts meals that celebrate the simplicity of fresh, regional produce and ingredients, while throwing in just enough creativity to keep you intrigued. Think Hokkaido seafood so fresh it might as well have jumped onto your plate and vegetables that taste like they were picked moments before being served.

What makes Zaborin’s dining experience stand out is its unpretentious elegance. There’s no need to dress to the nines or feel intimidated by elaborate dishes. It’s thoughtful, seasonal and completely in tune with the natural surroundings, letting the food speak for itself—without being loud about it.

Traditional dining elements of ryokan can be found throughout the property, as well. The Irori is Zaborin’s traditional sunken hearth, a gathering place where guests can sit around the open fire and enjoy the warmth. It’s both functional and nostalgic, harkening back to Japan’s old rural homes, making it a cozy spot for conversation or quiet reflection. The simplicity of the space highlights, and the fact that it’s set in the center of the property away from the outdoor sights, invites you to connect within. This space also serves as a private dining room, where you can enjoy the robatayaki omakase, where the chef hand-selects ingredients that are cooking over the hearth for long periods of time, creating an immense flavor you will not want to miss.

Chanoza is Zaborin’s tea offering, an opportunity to experience the elegance of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a much more informal setting. The room is designed with minimalistic beauty and designed to be part of the everyday movement of your stay. It's a peaceful space where you can slow down and appreciate the serenity of this cultural practice.

The Bar offers an intimate setting for enjoying a selection of drinks, including local sake and fine whiskies. With a minimalist design and a focus on high-quality ingredients, it’s a perfect spot for a nightcap or a quiet conversation. The atmosphere here is understated but refined, with the surrounding natural views adding to its charm.

For the cigar aficionado's, the Cigar Lounge is a refined, cozy space where you can enjoy a quiet smoke. Elegantly furnished, the lounge provides a tranquil atmosphere for those looking to unwind.

WELLNESS

While Zaborin doesn’t have a sprawling spa complex, its focus on wellness is clear. The private onsens in each villa are the stars of the show, filled with mineral-rich waters straight from Niseko’s volcanic springs. Trust me, once you’ve soaked in these waters under a sky full of stars, with the cool mountain air on your face, you’ll forget all about that massage you thought you needed.

But if you insist on a muscle-release, the Massage Room will be your sanctuary. Expert therapists offer a range of massages tailored to ease tension and restore balance. With a calm and intimate setting, the space enhances the sense of serenity that flows through the entire ryokan.

The Footbath is a unique feature at Zaborin, offering a way to unwind while enjoying views of the surrounding forest. This warm, therapeutic bath is designed to soothe tired feet and is a perfect prelude to a longer soak in one of the private onsens. It’s a small but thoughtful touch that enhances the overall relaxation experience.

For those seeking a deeper wellness experience, Zaborin also offers yoga and meditation sessions. These are often held in a serene, light-filled space or, if you prefer, out in the gardens where you can meditate with the sound of birds chirping. The ryokan’s wellness offerings are understated yet effective—a subtle nudge to reconnect with nature and yourself.

OUTSIDE THE HOTEL

Though Zaborin is all about relaxation, there’s plenty to do for the active traveler. Niseko is known for its world-class skiing, so in winter, you’re just a short drive away from some of Japan’s best powder. And when you’ve had your fill of the slopes, returning to your private villa’s onsen feels like the ultimate reward. For those who visit in summer, the area transforms into a hiker’s paradise, with trails that lead you through lush forests and up gentle slopes with breathtaking views of Mount Yotei.

The little details

Zaborin is one of those places that gets the little things right. From the handpicked teas waiting for you in your villa to the staff who seem to know what you need before you even ask, it’s the attention to detail that elevates the experience. If you’re up for a little cultural exploration, KAX will arrange activities like traditional Japanese tea ceremonies or tours of the local area, where you can visit farms and get a taste of Niseko’s rural life.

Don’t miss the in-house boutique as well, which offers a curated selection of local artisan goods, from handmade crafts to high-quality Japanese skincare products. It’s a space where you can take home a piece of Hokkaido’s culture, with items that reflect the region’s natural beauty and craftsmanship. Whether it's a small keepsake or a luxurious product, the boutique adds an extra layer of personalization to the stay.

Zaborin isn’t trying to dazzle you with over-the-top amenities or flashy luxuries. Instead, it’s a retreat—a place where the outside world feels a million miles away and the only thing on your agenda is to relax. Whether you’re soaking in your private onsen or dining on fresh Hokkaido seafood, it’s the kind of stay that makes you feel like time itself has slowed down. And if you’re lucky, it might just convince you to do the same.