Chalet Review: Jade Rabbit

Whether you’re new to powder chasing or an avid skier, everyone appreciates having the perfect accommodation tailored to their winter adventures. Ski chalets in Hokkaido are a top choice, especially for families and groups of friends travelling together in Niseko. Nestled in the quiet woodlands of the Pavilions Estate in Ginto Village, Jade Rabbit enjoys the perfect balance of calm and comfort.

Named after the rabbit of East Asian folklore who resides on the moon, Jade Rabbit feels both tranquil and luminous. The 432sqm chalet is just a 5-minute drive from the ski lifts, restaurants and shops in Hirafu Village. It features five spacious bedrooms that can accommodate up to 10 guests, with a modern, minimalist design that captures the essence of modern alpine living. 

Read on to learn more about this beautiful property.

The Location: Peaceful and Connected

Jade Rabbit’s home is the Pavilions Estate, situated next to a forest; close enough for easy access to restaurants and shops in Hirafu, but tucked away for serenity after skiing. The Ace Family Lift and Hirafu Gondola are a 6-minute drive away, making it effortless to hit the powder in the mornings.

It is a chalet that invites groups of friends and families to savour slow mornings with forest views, to enjoy lively evenings around the eight-seater dining table, and to take restorative soaks in the Japanese-style soaking tub.

The chalet’s prime position also opens doors to Niseko’s renowned dining scene, from the freshest seafood at Ezo Seafoods Oyster Bar (2.2km, 5-minute drive) and Michelin-starred modern Japanese at Kamimura (2.5km, 6-minute drive), to local yakitori favourite Bang Bang (2.4km, 5-minute drive) and a modern European menu at The Barn by Odin (2.3km, 5-minute drive).

For après-ski drinks, head to Bar Gyu+ (2.6km, 6-minute drive), and Niseko’s speakeasy-style bar hidden behind a vintage Coke machine door. Coffee lovers can drop by Green Farm Café (2.1km, 5-minute drive) for brunch and speciality coffee before heading out on the slopes.

This combination of privacy and proximity means Jade Rabbit’s guests can dip into Hirafu’s buzzing dining scene whenever they want. Or simply stay in, and enjoy the stillness of the forest.

The Design: Minimalist Warmth

Jade Rabbit was designed to be both calming and contemporary, using natural materials and clean lines to frame Niseko’s alpine beauty. Its three-level layout is well-organised: the ground level has a ski room and spacious entryway, while the second storey houses the open-plan living room, dining area and kitchen. The bedrooms are located on the upper levels, providing peace after a fun day outdoors.

The chalet comfortably sleeps up to 10 across five ensuite bedrooms. Two of the largest bedrooms each feature a king bed, an ensuite bathroom, and picture windows that face the forest; lush greenery during the green season and a pure white landscape in winter. Three other bedrooms maintain a sense of privacy and space, while the Japanese-inspired soaking tub provides a serene focal point for evening relaxation.

Every element of Jade Rabbit’s design is about balancing minimalism with warmth, and privacy with togetherness. Communal spaces are open, light-filled, and crafted for connection. The kitchen, dining, and living areas sit seamlessly together, making it easy for families and groups to flow between meals, conversation, and evenings by the fire. A separate media room offers another place together; an ideal spot for movie nights or curling up with a book away from the main social areas.

The chalet’s prime position also opens doors to Niseko’s renowned dining scene, from the freshest seafood at Ezo Seafoods Oyster Bar (2.2km, 5-minute drive) and Michelin-starred modern Japanese at Kamimura (2.5km, 6-minute drive), to local yakitori favourite Bang Bang (2.4km, 5-minute drive) and a modern European menu at The Barn by Odin (2.3km, 5-minute drive).

For après-ski drinks, head to Bar Gyu+ (2.6km, 6-minute drive), and Niseko’s speakeasy-style bar hidden behind a vintage Coke machine door. Coffee lovers can drop by Green Farm Café (2.1km, 5-minute drive) for brunch and speciality coffee before heading out on the slopes.

This combination of privacy and proximity means Jade Rabbit’s guests can dip into Hirafu’s buzzing dining scene whenever they want. Or simply stay in and enjoy the stillness of the forest.

The Amenities: Thoughtful and Practical

Jade Rabbit makes alpine life effortless, with details that blend comfort and practicality. Underfloor heating keeps every corner cosy through the snow season, while climate control ensures year-round comfort. High-speed Wi-Fi, ski lockers, and ski gear-drying areas support the needs of snowsport lovers. The chalet also features laundry facilities, a double car garage with a heated driveway, and a fully-equipped modern kitchen that makes cooking for groups both easy and enjoyable.

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While Jade Rabbit doesn’t have an onsen on site, its Japanese-inspired soaking tub provides a deeply relaxing alternative. Guests also have access to The Vale Niseko’s onsen facilities (available for a fee) that are just a short 5-minute drive away.

The Service: Seamless Stays

Guests at Jade Rabbit benefit from Nisade’s concierge and housekeeping services. Mid-stay cleaning (every three days) keeps the chalet fresh, while luggage delivery and transfers make arrivals smooth. Ski rentals, lessons, and restaurant bookings can all be coordinated before or during your stay, ensuring every detail is handled.

A dedicated concierge team is available to recommend and arrange local experiences, whether it’s snowmobiling in winter or rafting and cycling in the green season. Transport support includes airport transfers (available at additional cost) and assistance with ski area logistics.

The Experience: A Forested Sanctuary

Jade Rabbit is designed as a place to linger and live in the moment. Every detail is designed to encourage the slow life, savouring quiet moments while holidaying with your loved ones. Watch snowflakes drift past floor-to-ceiling glass, gather for meals around the dining area, or enjoy a soak in the bathtub after a day of powder runs.