Ritz Carlton Reserve Expands Portfolio With Ski-In/Ski-Out Resort in Japan

Ritz Carlton Reserve will welcome Higashiyama Niseko Village as the fifth property to its exclusive portfolio. In partnership with Malaysian hospitality company and resort owner, YTL Hotels, this will be the luxury brand’s first-ever property in Japan set in the northern Hokkaido island.

Marriott International’s President, Asia Pacific (excluding China) Rajeev Menon was excited to discuss this latest development:

“Marriott International’s luxury brand footprint continues to expand in Japan, and we are very excited to be opening the very first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the country, the latest property in our longstanding partnership with YTL Hotels.”

The 50-room hotel is set at the base of Mount Niseko Annupuri and centrally located in Niseko Village and the 2,191-acre Niseko United ski area. Guests will enjoy full days on the slopes and utilize nearby conveniences like an international ski school, chairlift and gondola access, dining, retail options, an outdoor activity park, and two golf courses during the warmer months.

Marriott International’s VP of Brand Marketing and Management, Asia Pacific Jennie Toh added:

“There are presently five Ritz-Carlton Reserve properties in the world, each one a rare destination in itself, set aside for those who appreciate a sanctuary of bespoke luxury in some of the most beautiful places on earth. The exceptional Higashiyama Niseko Village is one such place, where our guests are able to enjoy the beautiful alpine surroundings, and then come home to be pampered by the impeccable luxury, amenities and service that only the Ritz-Carlton Reserve can offer.”

The nature-inspired design and atmosphere of the property follow the ‘Kachou Fuugestsu’ philosophy which ‘encourages reverence for the transient beauty of nature and wellbeing through self-discoveries.’

The hotel is home to three eateries focused on local, seasonally produced goods. The Yukibana restaurant overlooks the breathtaking Hokkaido landscape, Sushi Nagi offers a more casual atmosphere, and the Ume Lounge is ideal for izakaya-style dishes with great custom cocktails. Additionally, the property also offers an impressive spa with custom treatment options for their guests and a traditional Japanese onsen that utilizes Niseko hot springs water.

YTL Hotels’ Executive Director Dato’ Mark Yeoh stated:

“YTL Hotels’ illustrious portfolio continues to expand in Japan and globally, and it is a pleasure to work with Marriott International on this exceptional property… Despite the challenges of the past year, we have seen a strong growth in demand from the luxury travel sector. With the opening of Higashiyama Niseko Village, we look forward to providing our guests a warm and familiar welcome, a luxurious home away from home when they travel to Niseko, Japan’s amazing winter wonderland.”

To learn more about Ritz Carlton and the Ritz Carlton Reserve portfolio, please visit their official website.