Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a bespoke ski-in ski-out sanctuary tucked in the vast wilderness of alpine peaks and open expanses where riding deep, dry powder at low-altitude is a luxury not to be missed. Glide on white carpeted adventures this winter with exclusive mountain orientation programmes curated by the resort’s team of Higashiyama Reservists.
Niseko Village, the award-winning powder mecca in Hokkaido, is characterised by deep champagne snow, varied ski terrains and the quintessential Japanese mountain lifestyle. Incredible off-piste powder skiing and trails with groomed slopes for all levels, including some of the steepest courses and ski runs up to five kilometres long, dominate the Niseko Village trail map. Well-served by state-of-the-art ski lifts and gondolas for all-season connectivity, the integrated alpine destination sits at the base of Mount Niseko Annupuri within the Niseko United ski area that accesses inter-linked ski resorts boasting a combined 2,191 acres of skiable terrain and extensive backcountry skiing.
Through three tailored mountain orientation programmes, along with their Niseko accommodation, guests can enjoy exclusive ski experiences curated by Higashiyama Reservists, the resort’s team of experts, to seek the best secret powder stash and groomed runs while discovering nature’s fleeting beauty. Be thrilled with the privileged access to the first tracks down Mizuno no Sawa, a long, steep and deep terrain that sits atop Niseko Village’s sprawling groomers to make turns on fresh powder before the mountain opens. The Higashiyama Reservist is also able to guide you to where the fresh lines in bottomless powder are located for the ultimate ski experience.
Immersed in the locale, terrain and natural wonders, the Higashiyama Reservists are inspiring curators who are passionate about piquing guests’ curiosity and imparting enriching insights for independent discoveries. Leading these dynamic experts is Satoshi Maeda who originally hails from Fukuoka. Having skied for 24 years with 18 white seasons spent in Japan, Canada and New Zealand honing his skills, Satoshi possesses a wealth of invaluable local knowledge of the mountain and Niseko itself, offering a unique perspective of the destination, further elevating the guests’ experience. A certified CSIA Level 3 ski instructor, Satoshi looks forward to each winter in Niseko where the remarkable snow conditions and vibrant après-ski lifestyle make for unforgettable memories each year.
Snow enthusiasts will be thrilled by the full-day Ultimate Niseko Ski Adventure with a dedicated Higashiyama Reservist that encompasses personalised ski gear fitting and exclusive guided access to the early morning gondola with first lift access to the mountain. The pursuit for the best runs and deep powder skiing continues until the evening at Niseko United’s inter-linked ski resorts with an All Mountain lift pass. Reminisce the day’s adventures with a curated collection of GoPro photographs while savouring signature locally inspired après ski snacks and refreshments at the resort’s stylishly designed Ume Lounge.
For a more relaxed pace, guests can opt for the half-day Niseko Ski Adventure guided by a Higashiyama Reservist. Get personally kitted out in ski gear before being whisked up the slopes of Niseko Village to seek the freshest powder and groomed runs. The four-hour experience includes exclusive guided access to the early morning gondola, a Niseko Village lift pass and a personal collection of photographs to treasure. Guests can also access Niseko United’s inter-linked ski resorts for an additional fee.
As dusk falls, discover a different world with the silent beauty of Niseko Village’s slopes cast in light and shadows as techniques are refined under the guidance of a personal Higashiyama Reservist during The Starlight Sushi On The Slopes experience. The postlude to the one-of-a-kind twilight adventure unfolds as delectable sushi is served on a handcrafted snow table amid the mystical landscape dusted with fresh snow beneath starry skies. A collection of photographs captured with a GoPro will be presented as a memento for treasured memories.
By developing genuine relationships, Higashiyama Reservists aim to create inspiring moments for guests through these handcrafted experiences by sharing insider tips and their love for the sport in this magical powder capital of Niseko.
For more information on Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve and reservation enquiries, please visit www.ritzcarlton.com/higashiyamanisekovillage or email reservation.higashiyama@ritzcarlton.com.
