Master bedroom with a private Onsen in a 4 Bedroom Suite
Nestled in the heart of the renowned Grand Hirafu resort, Setsu Niseko stands as the epitome of luxury and convenience, offering a year-round haven from summer to spring and autumn to winter. With its prime position set between the awe-inspiring peaks of Mount Yotei and Mount Annupuri, the hotel grants guests ever-changing, breathtaking views that evolve with the vibrant hues of each passing season. Yet, it is in winter, when the hotel is blanketed in snow, that Setsu Niseko reveals its enchanting magic.
From the moment you arrive at this contemporary-meets-traditional gem, you already know you’re in good hands. Warm greetings from the staff, an effortlessly smooth check-in, and a knowledgeable concierge enable guests to relish every aspect of the hotel and easily explore the area’s noteworthy attractions. As you venture through its hallways, communal areas and rooms, you’ll quickly discover how Setsu Niseko flawlessly blends luxury with the natural beauty of its surroundings, which is evident in its meticulous interior design that pays homage to its locale. The hotel’s commitment to celebrating Hokkaido extends to its art collection, capturing the essence of the region’s landscapes and culture, from the Ainu community’s rich heritage to modern sculptures.
Dining and living area in 4 Bedroom Penthouse Suite
The 190 rooms and suites at Setsu Niseko are tastefully crafted, taking cues from Japanese aesthetics. Embracing the spirit of Japanese design, these accommodations feature tatami spaces, traditional futon bedding, and the indulgence of private Onsens in select suites. Elevating the guest experience, these sumptuous abodes are equipped with top-class amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi, a smart TV, air conditioning, underfloor heating, and a fully equipped kitchen. As if that’s not enough, expansive windows offer panoramic views of the snow-covered mountains, seamlessly merging the indoors with the beautiful natural environment, creating a truly immersive experience.
For the pinnacle of opulence, the exclusive Penthouses offer a handcrafted stay, complemented by a dedicated concierge team arranging every personalised detail, from a unique welcome gift to a private evening driver service, exclusive pillow selection, an in-suite tour, on-site reserved parking, return private airport transfers and wine selections hand-picked by the hotel’s Lead Sommelier. Complete with plush interior design and access to the full attention of the hotel’s concierge team, the Penthouses are perfect for those looking for an extra luxurious holiday.
Clockwise from top-left: entrance to Setsu Niseko; Christmas fun at Setsu Niseko; ramen at AFURI; interior of Lounge Bar by Park90
Beyond just offering a place to stay, Setsu Niseko curates experiences for families, couples, and children. Services like the Kids Playroom, Setsu Shuttle Services, and Personalised Concierge Services are designed to inspire, captivate and rejuvenate throughout the year. Guests can also enhance their visit with the Setsu App, offering digital concierge services, reservations, and check-out from the comfort of their suites.
Another one of Setsu Niseko’s standout features is its array of dining options, boasting one of the widest selections in Grand Hirafu. Featuring a fusion of global culinary traditions and spotlighting Hokkaido’s seasonal, high-quality produce, the hotel caters to every preference. Guests can look forward to savouring authentic Japanese ramen at AFURI, exquisite omakase sushi at Sushi Kato INORI, American classics at Luke’s Alpine Club and sipping on superb wines at Lounge Bar by Park90.
Dishes from Sushi Kato INORI
For those with a penchant for haute cuisine, méli mélo and Tempura Araki, both associated with acclaimed chefs, are a must-visit. Spearheaded by Michelin-starred Chef Hironori Sato, méli mélo is a collaborative venture with Masaya Ishii from ‘Baristart Coffee’, a renowned Hokkaido coffeehouse. The restaurant offers a diverse menu of Japanese and Western comfort foods for lunch and dinner, highlighting locally sourced seafood, beef and venison. Infusing Italian and French influences with unique Hokkaido flavours, the cuisine at méli mélo celebrates the area’s best produce.
Equally as enticing, Tempura Araki at Setsu Niseko, the sister establishment of Sapporo’s two-Michelin star Tempura Araki, offers an authentic Japanese omakase dining experience, focusing on exquisite tempura. The restaurant, adorned with a splendid hinoki cypress wooden counter and a cozy private dining room for six guests, reflects the chefs’ profound passion for Hokkaido produce. The seasonal tempura sensations showcase the finest and freshest seafood, vegetables and ingredients from the region.
Dining and living area in 2 Bedroom Suite
With the well-being of its guests a top priority, Setsu Niseko offers a comprehensive wellness experience that embraces the healing power of nature and the traditional practice of Onsen bathing. The hotel’s 750 sqm spa, one of the largest in Grand Hirafu, integrates hot spring baths with modern spa treatments and fitness facilities, providing a holistic approach to mind and body rejuvenation.
Outfitted with public indoor and outdoor Onsens with separate facilities for men and women, hotel guests can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of these mineral-rich hot springs in the utmost comfort and tranquillity. After a dip in these healing waters, continue the wellness journey in the Onsen Lounge, sauna, or cold splash pool to enhance circulation. Private Onsen rooms are also available for an exclusive and revitalising experience, requiring pre-reservations.
Clockwise from top-left: Rikka Spa offers bespoke nature-inspired treatments; interior of the treatment rooms at Rikka Spa; Studio En at Setsu Niseko is the only yoga studio in Niseko; Setsu Niseko’s wellness centre has both private and public Onsens
The hotel’s Rikka Spa offers an unparalleled wellness experience, with treatments curated in collaboration with acclaimed spa Lapidem Tokyo and managed in partnership with Conceptasia, a pioneer in the wellness and spa industry. Founded on the philosophy that “true beauty only comes from good health”, the spa’s therapies draw inspiration from oriental medicine and traditional remedies. Obeying the natural order to restore balance while taking cues from Niseko’s changing seasons, the spa aims to foster a lifestyle marked by physical and mental health. The name “Rikka”, meaning snow in Japanese, embodies the six key elements and the Yin Yang principle, symbolising the beauty of nature.
Honoured for the second year in a row as the Best Day Spa at The World Spa Awards 2023, Lapidem Tokyo consistently garners accolades for offering the ultimate spa experience. Their products utilised in Rikka Spa treatments focus on natural ingredients to enhance the skin’s health and well-being. Signature full-body treatments, designed to capture the tranquillity of mountain life, commence with a unique welcome ritual incorporating local seasonal herbs, spirits, salts, and essential oils. The spa’s experienced therapists can also tailor treatment programmes to meet individual wellness goals.
Located in the largest ski resort in Niseko, the hotel gives guests unlimited access to the region’s world-famous fine-quality powder snow
Exercise is integral to overall wellness, and that’s why Setsu Niseko ensures guests have access to the best fitness facilities. Home to a well-equipped gymnasium, guests can stretch sore muscles or engage with personal trainers to maintain stamina for upcoming adventures. Studio En, meanwhile, offers a calming space for exploring the mind-body connection through yoga practice. Its inclusive atmosphere welcomes both beginners and experienced guests with a variety of classes honouring the history of yoga and its evolving landscape.
For winter sports enthusiasts, Setsu Niseko’s location is unbeatable. The hotel provides convenient access to the slopes, making indulging in skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling activities an effortless affair. Not to mention that it’s located in the largest ski resort in Niseko, giving guests unlimited access to the region’s world-famous fine-quality powder snow. Winter services, such as a Ski Shuttle and Ski Lockers, complement the resort’s accessibility to the Grand Hirafu Gondola. In the warmer months, guests can look forward to golfing, hot air balloon rides and hiking, among myriad other activities.
Whether you’re an avid skier, a nature lover, or someone seeking a peaceful escape, this hotel provides an unforgettable experience. From its stunning location to its impeccable services, the resort promises to be a cherished part of any Niseko memories. As the hotel aptly states, “At Setsu Niseko, we believe that your holiday goes beyond the beauty of Niseko to encompass the special experiences and warm hospitality you enjoy along the way.
Onsen in 3 Bedroom Penthouse Suite with Mount Yotei view
To find out more about Setsu Niseko and book, visit the links below…
Setsu Niseko
6-9 1-jo 2-chome
Niseko Hirafu
Hokkaido
044-0080
Web: setsuniseko.com
Tel: +81(0)136-55-5131
Email: stay@setsuniseko.com
Instagram: @setsuniseko
Facebook: @setsuniseko