Niseko’s Newest Gems Are Cropping up Where you Least Expect: Luxury Accommodations Around the Mountain
As winter approaches and anticipation builds for Niseko’s 2024-25 ski season, a spotlight is turning toward the fresh wave of luxury accommodations opening across the resort. Hirafu has long been Niseko’s main hub, drawing most of the accommodation and service development. However, with new properties now cropping up all around the mountain, it’s clear that the evolution of Niseko is well underway. From Niseko Village’s once-remote Higashiyama area to the serene landscapes of Annupuri and Hanazono, each base of the mountain is beginning to enjoy the benefits of premium services and amenities. One particularly exciting new addition is the Nikko Style Niseko HANAZONO, set to open its doors just in time for the 2024-25 ski season.
Hanazono: Far more than a Daytrip from Hirafu
Hanazono, typically accessed by lift from Hirafu, has long been recognized for its exhilarating ski terrain, featuring Niseko’s main terrain park with jumps, rails, a half-pipe for intermediate to expert riders, and a mini-park designed for beginners. It offers some of Niseko’s most thrilling backcountry terrain accessible from the peak or through Hanazono Backcountry Gate 5 which leads expert skiers and snowboarders through exhilarating tree runs and wide open powder bowls back to the base of the mountain – some of the most exciting and accessible side country terrain in Niseko. Yet despite these natural advantages, the area has remained a quiet haven compared to the bustling streets of Hirafu. All of this is changing as the area evolves into a destination in its own right. Following the success of 5 star luxury hotel, the Park Hyatt Hanazono, the arrival of Nikko Style Niseko HANAZONO, broadens the appeal of staying in this quiet part of the mountain.
The Nikko Style Niseko HANAZONO: The Perfect Balance
The Nikko Style Niseko HANAZONO brings an exciting combination of sophistication and comfort to Hanazono, making it a prime choice for travelers seeking a more affordable Hanazono in-resort property than has ever been available before.. With an impressive 234 rooms and suites just 2 minutes from the lifts, the Nikko Style will blend traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern design, promising a refined experience in every aspect. Guests can expect generously spaced rooms, stunning views of Mount Yotei and the surrounding snow-covered landscapes, and a serene setting to unwind after a day on the slopes. With all rooms on the top two floors having their own private hot-spring tub, as well as indoor and outdoor onsens, a sauna and fitness center available for all guests, there will be plenty for guests to do on and off the mountain!
The Appeal of Hanazono’s Quiet Charm
Staying in Hanazono presents a unique alternative to Niseko’s busier areas, providing a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere without compromising access to the resort’s amenities. For travelers who prefer a peaceful retreat after a day of adventure, Hanazono’s calmer setting is a significant draw. The area is ideal for families, couples, or anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle while still having the best of Niseko at their fingertips.
Despite its tranquil ambiance, Hanazono offers some of the best on-mountain facilities that Niseko has to offer. With new infrastructure developments, including the Symphony Gondola and a new 6-seater POMA chairlift, getting around the resort has never been quicker or more comfortable. The base is also home to Niseko’s largest ski school, the Resort Center Hanazono 308, which offers a wide range of services for the whole family. And with other resort bases accessible via Niseko United ski lifts and shuttle buses, those who wish to explore other areas can do so with ultimate ease.
Adventure Beckons: Why Hanazono is a Must-Visit
One of the most compelling reasons to stay in Hanazono is its access to some of the best terrain in the resort. The Hanazono terrain park is a highlight for freestyle enthusiasts, while the backcountry routes offer thrilling experiences for expert skiers. The Hanazono Backcountry Gate 5 is a gateway to Niseko’s most exhilarating off-piste adventures, featuring deep powder runs that return to the base lifts. For those who appreciate variety, Hanazono has it all—from well-groomed beginner slopes to challenging terrain for the advanced skier and snowboarder. The addition of new lifts has significantly improved the flow of skiers and snowboarders across the mountain, making it easier to explore the resort’s expansive offerings.
A New Era of Development for Niseko
The luxury developments cropping up across Hanazono and other parts of Niseko are bringing a balanced distribution of accommodation and services throughout the mountain. This transformation benefits not only travelers but also the local community, as more areas gain access to the economic opportunities generated by the influx of visitors. With a new wave of upscale properties like Nikko Style Niseko HANAZONO enhancing the lodging options, the Niseko experience becomes more diversified and accessible.
As Hanazono continues to grow in popularity, the question isn’t so much why development took this long, but rather, how quickly can you book your stay before the secret gets out?