The Ritz-Carlton’s stunning, new Higashiyama Niseko resort set to open in December

by James Wilkinson

YTL Hotels has revealed that Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, will make its highly-anticipated debut in Niseko, Hokkaido on December 15, 2020.

The first Ritz-Carlton Reserve to grace Japan, and the first in a ski destination worldwide, the 50-room resort resides at the base of Mount Niseko Annupuri in Niseko Village with panoramic views of Mount Yotei and the surrounding mountain ranges.

The resort will offer a world-class gateway to Niseko’s adventurous mountains with 2,191 acres of skiable terrain and access to extensive backcountry skiing, unique gastronomy, culture and traditions through its collection of authentic and affluent experiences all-year round. Luxury amenities include two distinctive restaurants and one lounge, a spa and onsen and a fitness centre.

Centrally located in the heart of Niseko Village, Higashiyama is the fifth and latest addition to join YTL Hotel’s prestigious Niseko Village.

The luxury resort will reside alongside Hinode Hills Niseko Village, The Green Leaf Niseko Village, Hilton Niseko Village, and Kasara Niseko Village Townhouse. The village itself is a dining and retail hub and a premier year-round destination – in winter, the village is renowned for its dry champagne powder at low-altitude, variety of ski terrains, the world-class Niseko Village Snow School and Niseko Kids programmes.

In spring, the snow melts and makes way for sunny garden paths, vibrant wildflowers, two lush golf courses, extensive green season infrastructure including an adventure activity park and smooth roads that turn Niseko into a world-class cycling destination.

X