The Vale Niseko by The Luxe Nomad included in Forbes Travel Guide's 2026 Star Awards

One of only three hotels in Hokkaido to earn the distinction, The Vale Niseko by The Luxe Nomad is recognised for consistently strong service and facilities

August 2026: The Vale Niseko by The Luxe Nomad is delighted to announce that Forbes Travel Guide (FTG), the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas and cruise ships, has named the property a Recommended accommodation in Hokkaido — one of just three hotels in the region to receive the distinction this year. FTG's inspectors visit every property anonymously and at their own expense, evaluating against up to 900 objective criteria.

As a Recommended property, The Vale Niseko was praised for its consistently strong service and well-kept facilities. The accolade adds to a run of recognition for the property, which was named the World's Best Ski Boutique Hotel four years running, from 2014 to 2017, by the World Ski Awards.

Ski-In, Ski-Out, Sorted

The Vale Niseko was Niseko's first condotel, and its arrival in 2009 helped shape this Hokkaido town into the world-class luxury alpine destination it is today. Its convenient location in Upper Hirafu, Niseko's largest ski resort, puts restaurants, shops, and gear rentals within easy walking distance, on top of the ski-in ski-out access at the property's doorstep. More than just an easy base for winter adventures, however, guests also enjoy an on-site restaurant, an onsen, a spa, and ski storage and rental facilities — everything you need for a relaxing Niseko stay. 

Beyond the shared amenities, select rooms come with their own private balconies, in-room onsens, fireplaces, BBQ grills for the summer months, and espresso machines — the kind of details that turn a usual stay into a proper home away from home.

"We are honoured for The Vale Niseko to be recognised as a Recommended property by Forbes Travel Guide," says Patrick Ohtani, Chief Operating Officer at The Luxe Nomad Japan. "This ski-in ski-out property is a favourite among our returning guests, who love how near it is to the slopes, its amenities, and the service they receive from our team. We aim to keep raising the level of service and the quality of our facilities, so we stay deserving of this commendation."

Forbes Travel Guide's inspectors also noted the property's contemporary aesthetic and the range of activities on offer beyond skiing, from horseback-riding trips to a quiet afternoon by the heated pool. Each property of The Luxe Nomad has dedicated concierge staff on hand to arrange activities, experiences, and restaurant reservations, so guests can focus on their holiday rather than sorting out logistics.

Setting the Standard

Established in 1958 as the Mobil Travel Guide, Forbes Travel Guide created the original Five-Star rating system for hospitality. Its ratings are awarded by anonymous professional inspectors who evaluate properties against hundreds of exacting standards, with particular emphasis on service. A Five-Star, Four-Star or Recommended rating can only be earned through this independent inspection process, and there is no other way in.

Likewise, The Luxe Nomad is selective about which properties carry its name, and The Vale Niseko's Recommended rating is a reminder of why. Discerning guests expect discerning choices, and Forbes Travel Guide's inspectors have confirmed what returning guests already knew: ski-in ski-out convenience, well-appointed rooms, and service that holds up season after season. It's a standard Luxe Nomad holds across its portfolio, from Niseko to Bali and Koh Samui.

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