Niseko, Japan’s renowned mountain wonderland, has long been a magnet for thrill-seekers and luxury aficionados alike. Amongst the region’s snow-covered peaks and bustling village life, a new development is taking luxury living to never-before-seen heights: Aki Niseko. This exclusive mountainside estate, conceived by the creative minds behind the HakuLife Collection, offers an unparalleled blend of exquisite design, award-winning service and unique amenities, all wrapped in the warmth of Japanese hospitality.
The word “Aki” has multiple meanings in Japanese, but most commonly, it encapsulates the spirit of hope. At Aki Niseko, hope manifests as the passionate belief that anything is possible and this ethos is embodied in every aspect of the development. It is a place where luxury and tranquillity co-exist, and every detail is meticulously crafted to exceed expectations.
Holding pride of place in Grand Hirafu, part of Niseko’s preeminent ski resort, Aki Niseko spans over 10,000 square metres of immaculate snow-dusted terrain, offering a secluded yet accessible retreat within the bustling village. Positioned just a stone’s throw from the Grand Hirafu Gondola and the new ten-seater gondola, residents have immediate access to Japan’s best skiing. Yet, the self-contained estate feels like a private sanctuary, worlds away from the noise and crowds. It’s also just an easy drive from New Chitose Airport and will soon be connected by the Hokkaido Shinkansen.
This prime location is complemented by a collection of just eleven ultra-luxury villas, each with a private rooftop onsen. These mineral-rich spring waters are sourced directly from the land below, offering a tonic for the muscles and mind after a day on the slopes. With a quiet space to disconnect, relax and recharge, residents can spend their evenings soaking under star-lit skies, surrounded by the beauty of nature — this is restorative luxury at its finest. A rare amenity, these private onsens are just one of the aspects that set Aki Niseko apart from other developments in the region.
Envisioned as a sanctuary for the senses, the villas are a masterpiece of design and comfort. Spread across four stories, each villa is over 400 square meters in size and features five ensuite bedrooms, multiple entertainment areas, custom-designed furniture, art-infused fixtures and high-end appliances. The architecture embodies a contemporary alpine aesthetic, with undulating Japanese-inspired louvres and elegant black stone exteriors, while the inviting interiors, created by NOMURA Co., Ltd., feature an abundance of natural wood, with expansive windows flooding the space with light and uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape. Design cues and patterns from the Ainu culture — Hokkaido’s indigenous peoples — are also infused through the decorative pieces in each villa, from the rugs to the scatter cushions and art around the living areas.
The design philosophy behind Aki Niseko prioritises optimising the guest experience, and the development’s commitment to creating a comfortable living environment is evident in its countless thoughtful details, from heated walkways and driveways to energy-efficient fixtures, soundproofing, mechanical window treatments, mood lighting controllers, universal outlets and an integrated speaker system. The villas cater for all seasons, with built-in air conditioning for warmer months and heating to create a cosy atmosphere during winter. The heated rooftop entertainment deck, with a bar, sauna, firepit and lounging area, provides the perfect setting for social gatherings or peaceful evenings under the stars.
Aki Niseko is also the sole estate in Hirafu with a members-only clubhouse, offering a 1,200-square-metre communal space that includes a heated swimming pool, café, yoga studio, fitness centre and kids club. This exclusive retreat provides residents with an opportunity to entertain and unwind in style, surrounded by like-minded individuals.
In 2023, Aki Niseko was bestowed with three prestigious awards, demonstrating its excellence in design and development within the competitive real estate market. The accolades, bestowed by Property Guru’s Asia Property Awards, include Best Housing / Landed Interior Design (Asia), Best Resort Housing Development (Greater Niseko), and Best Resort Housing Interior Design (Greater Niseko).
Aki Niseko’s partnership with HakuLife Collection, a brand known for its expertise in luxury accommodations, heralds an unprecedented standard of hospitality within the region. Upon arrival, guests receive a red carpet greeting with caviar and a glass of Dom Pérignon, setting the tone for the extraordinary experience ahead. Private chefs are on hand to prepare gourmet meals and bespoke après-ski snacks, while butlers and chauffeurs are available on demand to attend to every need. Whether it’s awaking to breakfast in bed, an impromptu afternoon drive to the ski lift or an evening dining experience that rivals the finest restaurants in the world, residents can expect nothing but the best.
With its world-class skiing and ceaseless powder snow, Niseko is particularly popular during the colder months. However, as winter transitions to spring, the landscape transforms into a lush paradise profuse with unspoilt trails, gleaming waterways and breathtaking vistas. From hiking and biking in the mountains to exploring the historic port town of Otaru, the possibilities for fun are endless — and to make the most of this, Aki Niseko has been specially designed as an all-season holiday home. Complete with Michelin starred dining, craft breweries and a lively nightlife scene, Niseko offers a vibrant atmosphere during winter, while the warmer months embrace a slower, more laidback pace. This fusion of East and West creates a unique cultural experience that adds to the allure of Aki Niseko.
With its superb, nature-steeped location, exceptional amenities, award-winning service team and easy access to all Niseko’s charms and mountainside activities, Aki Niseko brings together the best of alpine adventure and refined elegance, offering a truly immersive living experience where happiness takes precedence.
To find out more about Aki Niseko, visit the links below…
AKI NISEKO
Web: akiniseko.com
Email: sales@akiniseko.com
Instagram: @akiniseko | @hakulifeniseko | @h2realestatejapan