There’s skiing in Japan… and then there’s doing it in style. If you put a lot of thought into which Bogner ski suit to pack and the Perfect Moment sweater to wear at Niseko Confidential, you’ll appreciate the perks of staying in a chalet.

A private chalet in Hokkaido gives you front-row access to Japan’s legendary slopes — with all the après-ski luxuries built in. Think heated floors, crackling fireplaces, natural onsens, and oversized windows to admire Mount Yotei covered in snow. 

What’s the upside of booking a chalet? 

When the snow is as legendary as Japow in Niseko and Furano, it pays to have a base as memorable. Why should you book a ski chalet? The obvious reason is having plenty of space and privacy for yourself and your crew; plus, there are tons of other thoughtful extras, too. 

Ultra-luxury chalets such as Corniche and Tsubasa come with winter butler service; have cappuccinos or highballs prepared for you, depending on your mood. Then there’s the open-plan living areas for your families and friends to stretch out, heated ski lockers so you don’t have to brave the sub-zero temps while getting kitted out, and sleek kitchens where you can enjoy your haul from Ezo Seafood. Whether you’re carving turns or just here for the snow selfies, a chalet is your VIP pass to winter done right.

Here are the best ski chalets in Niseko and Furano, Hokkaido:

Where: Hanazono, Niseko

Why book? In 2024, this ultra-luxury chalet was distinguished as the best in Japan by the World Ski Awards; enough said!

What: Described by Departures as “angular and architecturally avant-garde”, this standout property was named Japan’s Best Ski Chalet 2024 by the World Ski Awards. Walk inside and you’ll understand why: massive windows with Yotei views, a 40sqm indoor-outdoor onsen, a gym, ski locker, and even a Yamaha grand piano anchoring the spacious living room. The chalet comfortably houses up to 12 guests across four luxurious ensuite bedrooms and a spacious children’s room with bunk beds. 

Need a little help with anything, from laundry to packing? Tsubasa’s in-house butler is happy to assist you with personal errands like grocery shopping — including picking up a bottle at Niseko Distillery. He can even help set up your mise en place in the well-equipped kitchen, if you feel like cooking for your family and friends.

Just five minutes from Niseko’s lifts and restaurants, everything is within easy reach, especially as the chalet comes with two chauffeured vehicles during the winter season. With all its bells and whistles, this 530sqm ultra-luxury chalet is made for stretching out, staying in, and living your best snow life.

Read more: These Properties Won Big At The World Ski Awards 2024

Where: Middle Hirafu, Niseko

Why book? Looking for next-level luxury? This designer chalet has all the plush amenities, including a natural onsen, fire pit and even a Tesla Powerwall

What: Unveiled in 2024, Corniche is a 580sqm designer chalet by architect Riccardo Tossani. The first property set along Hirafu’s coveted Millionaires’ Row, this 4-bedroom chalet offers the privacy you crave without sacrificing proximity, being only moments from the ski lifts and the buzz of Hirafu.

The soaring 6m-high ceilings and expansive windows frame Mount Yotei in a cinematic scale, while warm woods and stone finishes create a calming retreat. Wellness lovers are in for a treat with a private onsen with water from a natural hot spring, as well as a sauna, cold plunge pool, and rooftop sky terraces for quiet reflection. With an in-house elevator, ski room, and heated driveway, Corniche is the peak of Niseko luxury — not surprising that it’s been nominated for World’s Best New Ski Chalet 2025.

Where: Middle Hirafu, Niseko

Why book? Enjoy the privacy of a chalet with complete access to amenities within the nearby luxury condo hotel 

Part of the Intuition estate, Yuki Sugi is a 5-bedroom chalet with a sophisticated air. Newly unveiled in 2023, this stylish residence grants exclusive access to the full suite of Intuition’s luxury condotel amenities, while maintaining the intimacy of a standalone retreat.

Like most luxury chalets, Yuki Sugi capitalises on a great view of Mount Yotei, plus it also has a private onsen overlooking a tranquil forest, inviting deep restoration. Thanks to its privacy and spaciousness, Little Steps Asia described it as “perfect for larger groups”. The location is also pretty hard to beat: just moments from the Ace Family Lift and Hirafu’s apres-ski favourites like Bang Bang and Bar Gyu+. Thoughtful touches — from a heated ski locker and games room to a secure garage — ensure a seamless experience, season after season.

Where: Hanazono, Niseko

Why book? A minimalist chalet with Hinoki bathtubs and a room with bunk beds — designed for a luxe multi-generational ski trip 

Tucked within Hanaridge’s exclusive enclave, Kazahana is a 500sqm chalet designed by Riccardo Tossani. The property is made for those who seek style, space, and a little mountain magic. With sleek lines and timeless Japanese design touches, it features soaring ceilings, warm wood finishes, and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer views of Mount Yotei and the Hanazono forest. 

After a day at the slopes, enjoy a soothing soak in the private onsen, unwind in the media room, or pour a bottle from the wine cellar; or all three if you prefer. Kazahana sleeps up to 14 guests in its five bedrooms, which include two tranquil master suites with Hinoki bathtubs and two bunk rooms. It’s alpine living reimagined for families and groups who are looking for a contemporary yet cosy retreat.

Read also: 10 Best Summer Activities in Niseko, Furano and Rusutsu

Where: Ginto Village, Niseko

Why book? Best of both worlds — guests of Jade Rabbit can also enjoy the facilities of The Vale Niseko

If you’re looking for a chalet that could double as a backdrop to a Netflix Christmas rom-com, the 5-bedroom Jade Rabbit is it. Nestled within a forest, it’s a tranquil alpine escape and yet is effortlessly connected, being only a 5-minute drive from ski lifts, restaurants, and shops. 

Inside, the fully equipped kitchen and generous eight-seater dining area set the tone for lovely firelit evenings. The chalet also has a Japanese-style soaking tub — the best way to soothe tired muscles after a day on the slopes. With ski lockers, a private garage, and access to the luxurious amenities of The Vale Niseko, Jade Rabbit ticks all the boxes.

Where: Annupuri, Niseko

Why book? Quiet luxury up your alley? You’re guaranteed relaxed après-ski evenings in this streamlined, nature-ensconced chalet

Looking for a serene escape away from the ski lift crowds? Song Saa chalet, tucked into a cul-de-sac with views of Mount Annupuri, is the alpine sanctuary you’re looking for. Just a 3-minute drive from the ski slopes, this 6-bedroom residence features ensuite bedrooms flooded with natural light, a tranquil tatami room, and group-friendly bunk beds, too.

The pièce de résistance is the open-plan kitchen, dining, and living space, which is framed by exposed timber and double-height ceilings. With ski lockers, free parking, and easy access to nearby restaurants, this architecturally striking chalet is quiet luxury at its finest.

Where: Middle Hirafu, Niseko

Why book? A slice of serenity located right in the thick of buzzy Hirafu.

Perfectly positioned just a 5-minute stroll from the Ace Family Lift, Sekka Sekka offers elevated alpine living in the heart of Hirafu. This 5-bedroom chalet blends modern minimalism with warm natural textures, framing epic views of Mount Yotei. 

The chalet has a spacious open-plan living room made for après-ski relaxation. The outdoor terrace and bathtub are just lovely to enjoy in the summer. With an elevator for seamless access across all floors, a ski locker with dedicated gear racks, and full concierge service, Sekka Sekka balances thoughtful luxury with bold design. The icing on the cake? It’s only a stone’s throw away from Niseko’s slopes and the lively rhythm of Hirafu village.

Where: Furano

Why book? A stylish open-plan chalet with Hiba bathtub, just 2 minutes from the gondola

A sophisticated take on a countryside escape, Shiyuki chalet is just a 2-minute drive from the Kitanomine Gondola — close enough to the slopes for first tracks, yet tucked away for moments of peace. With 208sqm of space to stretch out, this 4‑bedroom retreat blends minimalist Japanese elegance with western modernity. 

Spread across two floors, it boasts an open-plan living, dining, and kitchen areas that look to majestic views of Furano Valley. One of its biggest draws is the spacious master room, with an ensuite equipped with a fragrant Hiba‑wood soaking tub. With dedicated ski lockers, a heated driveway garage, and floor heating and climate control in every room, Shiyuki is designed to keep you perfectly cosy, no matter the season.