Ritz-Carlton Reserve to Open in Niseko Village

Niseko boasts one of Japan’s largest ski resorts and is known for being a leading ski destination. The exclusive Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Niseko Village, to represent the countries fifth Ritz-Carlton property, will house only 50 guest rooms. The ski-in and ski-out Ritz-Carlton Reserve will mark a first for Japan and is scheduled for completion in 2020. The hotel will be YTL Hotels’ fourth property in Niseko.

Chief operating officer, The Ritz-Carlton, Herve Humler remarked: “Ritz-Carlton Reserves feature signature, one-of-a-kind boutique resorts positioned in unique settings, each with a distinctive personality and sense of place reflecting its history and culture. A refuge from the expected, Ritz-Carlton Reserve is for travelers seeking to discover a singular location and peerless resort that will offer guests’ exotic, hand-selected ‘hideaway’ destinations in a relaxed, casually elegant atmosphere. Niseko is a natural choice to complement our existing exclusive portfolio’.

Expected to be completed in the next five years, the new Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Niseko Village would be the first Ritz-Carlton hotel in Hokkaido and the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve not only in Japan but across North Asia. Well connected to the international airport New Chitose Airport, the hotel would be located at the heart of Niseko Village, which is highly lauded as one of the world’s best ski resorts, taking its place alongside St Moritz, Switzerland and Aspen, Colorado. With spectacular views of the famous Mount Yotei or Ezo Fuji due to its resemblance to the iconic Mount Fuji, the hotel would feature approximately 50 luxurious guest rooms with premium dining establishments, onsen and wellness facilities, and ski-in and ski-out access during the White Season. The property would also be in close vicinity to two highly-acclaimed golf courses, the PURE outdoor activity park and the dining cum retail village hub. Guests will indulge in unparalleled authentic experiences against the backdrop of the refined Japanese culture. In winter, they can conveniently access some of the best ski slopes in the world, famous for its dry champagne powder snow. In summer, the best of fresh harvest and wildlife await them with a diverse range of outdoor recreation to enjoy including golf, trekking and horse riding.

Commenting at the official signing ceremony, executive director, YTL Hotels, Dato’ Mark Yeoh said “We have had a long standing relationship with Marriott International since 1995. This expansion into Japan is a continuation of our shared success over the years."

Together with the Park Hyatt launch, the opening of these 2 luxury hotel brands in Niseko will work to elevate the stature this highly sought-after winter holiday destination.