Niseko Hakuunso

The shuttle to the base of the mountain ran regularly and made getting there in the morning much easier. Breakfast was a real surprise, especially the scrambled eggs, which honestly deserve a Michelin star ⭐. It was much better than what you get at a lot of big hotel chains. Our room was bigger than we expected from a ski hotel, with space to take off our gear and stretch out after skiing. The bed was sooo comfortable, and we fell asleep as soon as we got into it. Everything was very clean, and the staff were always nice and helpful, making us feel welcome throughout our stay. We had a really nice time at Niseko Hakuunso and would definitely come back when we’re next in Niseko.

The location made getting around easy. The ski hill was close, shops including smaller grocery stores were nearby, and there were lots of food trucks and restaurants within walking distance. We also appreciated the ride to the ski hill and welcome center. The staff were wonderful, and everything was done well and promptly from beginning to end. Our room had two little beds, two pillows each, and an excellent view. Breakfast was excellent too, and the hot tub was a nice extra. The only changes I’d suggest are thicker robes or pajama sets, and some lotion. Skiing followed by hot water really dries out your skin.

Mount Yotei looked mesmerizing from the breakfast room, and from our room in the C part the view felt magical. The room was large, with a small desk, two little chairs, and a coffee table by the window for tea or reading. A Japanese-style sliding door closes off the bathroom area, with the sink, shower, and toilet separated. There was also a mini fridge and two large built-in cabinets for our jackets and suitcases. We had a lovely sense of privacy up in Niseko Hirafu. Hakuunso sits near the King Gondola, and its small, calm atmosphere felt like a Japanese haven in internationally operated Niseko. Stepping inside brought us right back to Japan. The serene, almost suspended-in-time feeling suits the modern Japanese 70’s decor and the building’s architecture. The whole building was redone in 2016, and it feels thoughtfully put together. The ski room had good storage for our gear, with a drying room next to it. There’s an indoor onsen-style bath with a bay window where you can see the sky. Little touches made the stay comfortable: snacks, tea, and coffee were available after skiing from 3pm every day; there was a free laundry room, with detergent available to buy at reception for 100¥ a dose; and guests could use a fridge, a small oven, vending drink machines, and an ice bucket. Toys and games for children were available in the living room area. They also gave guests a free morning lift to the King gondola, and the walk back after skiing was under 5 minutes, downhill. The breakfast buffet had both western and eastern options and changed a bit each day. We’d definitely stay at Hakuunso again if we return to Niseko. Warm thanks for a lovely visit, and congratulations to Masahiro, Yosihiko and Yuka for their wonderful work. PS, I was very anxious about staying after seeing one comment mention bedbugs. The hotel was so close to the slopes that we decided to take our chance. We were glad we did, because that comment is a complete lie!

The breakfast selection was amazing each day, and the morning shuttle to King Gondola made the convenient location even better. We spent a week at Hakuunso and absolutely loved it. The staff were incredible. Definitely looking forward to coming back!