Niseko, Japan’s legendary powder capital, is now easier than ever for U.S. travellers thanks to United Airlines’ new nonstop San Francisco–Hokkaido service launching December 11. Perfectly timed, Chalet Ivy Weiss — Niseko’s newest luxury mountain retreat — enters its first full winter season for 2026–27.

Set in the secluded Hanazono Weiss district, the 87‑room hotel offers uninterrupted views of Mt. Yotei and the Niseko peaks, with no neighbouring buildings or blocked sightlines. Guests enjoy a natural onsen drawn from the hotel’s own spring, including an infinity bath facing Mt. Yotei and private in‑room onsen baths in select suites.

Dining at Haruka highlights Hokkaido’s exceptional local ingredients through seasonal omakase menus, while the 8th‑floor Unkai sky lounge delivers 360‑degree mountain views. Bar 450 serves Hokkaido whiskies and craft beers by a wood‑burning fireplace. NIKUR Spa — the first in Hokkaido to feature Japanese botanical essential oils — anchors the wellness offering. A dedicated ski concierge manages rentals, fittings and slope logistics, with winter activities including snow cat tours, backcountry skiing, snowmobiling and ice fishing.

Rates start around USD $450 per night, rising to USD $694 during peak holiday periods. The Weiss Suite, with private onsen and full kitchen, reaches up to USD $5,000 per night. Winter 2026–27 is booking quickly; the sister Chalet Ivy in Hirafu is already 60% full for Christmas. Reservations: chaletivy.com.

Destination

  • Niseko’s powder is among the world’s best: dry, light and consistently deep thanks to its Siberia–Sea of Japan geography.
  • In winter, Niseko becomes an international resort town where English is widely spoken and rooms sell out fast.
  • United’s new nonstop SFO→Hokkaido route removes the Tokyo connection, opening Niseko to U.S. travellers at scale.

Property

  • 87 mountain‑view rooms with unobstructed vistas of Mt. Yotei and the Niseko peaks.
  • Debuted December 2025; winter 2026–27 is its first full season aligned with new U.S. air access.
  • Natural onsen, infinity bath, private in‑room onsen in select suites.
  • Rates: approx. USD $453–$3,719 (Dec 13) and USD $694–$5,000 (Dec 24 peak). No minimum stay.

Experience

  • Haruka restaurant showcasing Hokkaido seafood, wagyu, dairy and produce.
  • NIKUR Spa featuring Japanese botanical essential oils (Kaorito).
  • Ski concierge, gear rentals, drying lockers; snow cat tours, backcountry skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing.
  • Sister properties in Hirafu and Jozankei.

Urgency

  • Hirafu sister hotel already 60% booked for Christmas. Niseko sells out early — secure dates now.
  • Reservations: chaletivy.com.

About Chalet Ivy Weiss

Chalet Ivy Weiss is a luxury mountain hotel in Hanazono Weiss, Kutchan, Hokkaido, featuring 87 mountain‑view rooms and suites, natural onsen facilities, multiple dining venues, NIKUR Spa, a 7th‑floor fitness centre and a dedicated ski concierge. General Manager: Makoto Iwasa. Part of the Chalet Ivy collection with sister properties in Hirafu and Jozankei.