5 Last-Minute Easter Getaway Ideas for an Unforgettable Holiday With only a month to go, there is still time to plan an Easter holiday getaway. Fancy a snow-sure destination for some goggle tan, or a picturesque island where the freshest fish is always on the grill? Here are 5 that will fill your holiday with [...]

At Japan’s premier ski resorts, we believe that exceptional experiences deserve exceptional wines. That’s why we’re excited to introduce Wine Solution, a premium wine delivery service designed to make your après-ski moments as unforgettable as your time on the slopes. Wine Solution delivers to three of Japan’s top ski destinations: Niseko, Rusutsu, Hakuba and Furano. [...]

Discover the Magic of Onsen: Nature's Healing Hot Springs Have you ever wondered why hot springs have been a go-to for relaxation and rejuvenation since forever? It's not just about a soak – there's real magic in those bubbling waters. Imagine this: billions of years ago, Earth was a wild place, with no protective ozone [...]

Every year, Japan stays true to being a skier’s dream destination. The huge volume and dry quality of the Japanese snow urge families from around the world to visit popular skiing destinations, like Niseko. Due to the immense popularity of Niseko, we are always on the lookout for new destinations before they become too crowded, [...]

If you were wondering where to spend your time in Furano for the food, here is a guide that should give you a fair selection to work with. There are plenty of great options scattered throughout the region, but here are our picks of the best restaurants in Furano. From legendary local eateries, to fine [...]

REST, RELAX & REJUVENATE WITH A NISEKO ONSEN Onsen bathing in Japan can be just as enjoyable in the summer, especially in a beautiful destination like Niseko. After outdoor activities like rafting and cycling, a dip into onsen waters can be therapeutic and incredibly relaxing. You can even time your onsen visit to coincide with [...]

Tailored to your individual interests and preferences, Niseko Summer Package is the perfect way to experience the best of Niseko! Family moments are precious, and Niseko summer provides the perfect backdrop for creating memories that will be cherished for generations. Whether you're bonding over shared adventures, exploring new cultures together, or simply enjoying each other's [...]

Discovering the most delectable dining experiences in Niseko winter paradise Niseko is not only renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding but also for its culinary scene that attracts food lovers from all over the world. From authentic Japanese cuisines like sushi, ramen, and yakitori to international fare, Niseko has an extensive range of dining [...]

TREAT YOURSELF TO ONE OF THE TOP SUMMER DESTINATIONS IN JAPAN Whether it’s the serene landscapes, beautiful coastline or lip-smacking seafood, Hokkaido certainly tops the wish list for travel, whatever time of year. Just the thought of the iconic flower fields has us eager to jet to Furano and get an aromatic taste of summer, [...]

Where is perfect for your vaccinated travel? Can't Wait to Take As Soon As We Can Travel Again. Zekkei has a ready answer: THAILAND!   Thailand is finally open for Fully-Vaccinated tourists! The news you’ve all been waiting for is here. After the successful Phuket Sandbox Program, Thailand reopens the country for fully-vaccinated travelers without quarantine. [...]

The most exciting opening in town is no doubt Intuition Niseko, which is the first exclusive Onsen Estate in the Center of Hirafu Village, Niseko. The new hotel scheduled to open in December 2022, brings new dining establishments to town, the restaurant will head by Naniwatei high-profile chef. The head-chef and CEO, Murai Koj, was born [...]

Niseko first caught the eye of International tourists as a destination unrivalled for the quality and quantity of its snowfall. However, as visitors returned to their own countries their tales of bottomless powder runs were also sprinkled with stories of the almost as endless après ski dining options and slowly, but very rightfully so, the [...]

From seaside scapes dotted with horses grazing by the coast of Hidaka to the wildlife-rich and rugged beauty of Shiretoko, Hokkaido is an incredibly photogenic prefecture. It is no surprise that Furano in central Hokkaido would host an abundance of hotspots perfect for daytrips. Find out why Furano is considered a summer eden. Let your [...]

The beautiful area of Furano is home to many large-scale activities that make use of its expansive spaces. Diversify your days in Furano by choosing from these activities on offer in scenic Furano.  Make sure to connect with Zekkei Concierge specialists to book any of these activities for your during your stay with us. From [...]

Featuring exciting newcomers and a few gems that are returning for the second season to Niseko's vibrant dining scene. Park Hyatt NisekoHanazono The most exciting opening in town is no doubt the massive Park Hyatt Hanazono, which includes a ski-in-ski-out hotel and residences that overlook the Annupuri ranges and Mount Yotei, with an array of [...]

here is a guide that should give you a fair selection to work with. Whether for a special occasion or a regular treat-yourself Tuesday, splurge at the best fine dining restaurants in Niseko, Japan's #1 snow resort. DETAILED GUIDE TO EATING OUT IN NISEKO, HOKKAIDO, JAPAN SOMOZAHanazonoOpen 1200-1600, 1800-2200 daily Lovers of Japanese crafts, artistic [...]

Niseko Hanazono Resort is all set to welcome guests with beefed-up infrastructure and brand-new experience beginning Dec 4, 2021 As Japan has started to ease border restrictions for visitors such as vaccinated business travellers shortening quarantine from 10 days to three and to reissue visas for long and short-term stays that mainly affect international students [...]

Japan possesses magnificent geographical and natural resources for nature lovers. Mountains, beautiful seas, national parks, thermal baths (onsen) offer a great opportunity for travellers to see the country from a richer perspective.   Located in Nagano Prefecture, in the Northern Alps of Japan, Hakuba is known as one of the popular and frequently visited ski [...]

Damian “Hippy” Keyte is a local craftsman, metalworker, custom furniture builder, and designer living in the Hanazono area of Niseko.   Damian “Hippy” Keyte has created numerous custom pieces for private collections throughout the area. One of his most recent commissioned projects was for Intuition Niseko, Niseko’s newest luxury onsen estate. He custom built two [...]

There are a wide range of Hakuba restaurants and bars in Happo and Wadano. No doubt you may have heard good things about the food scene in Japan. The country is home to some of the pickiest eaters in the world. Our favorite destination in the Japanese Alps Hakuba produces an impressive array of cuisines [...]

If you were wondering where to spend your time in Niseko for the food, here is a guide that should give you a fair selection to work with. Whether you are craving sushi of the very traditional kind, or entertaining guests for an exclusive experience off the beaten track, Japan's #1 snow resort of Niseko [...]

ZEKKEI’S NEW FLAGSHIP DEVELOPMENT IS SCHEDULED TO OPEN IN DEC 2022 Encounter a kaleidoscope of wonder at Intuition, Niseko's premier mixed luxury condo-hotel and villa concept, where carefully curated luxury furnishings coexist with the latest technology to create a hotel experience unlike any other. Nestled in a tranquil forest overlooking the magnificent Mount Yotei, Intuition [...]

With an epic season of endless snowfall coming to a close, now is the time to book your next JAPOW winter vacation.   True powderhounds know that early birds get first tracks. Right now Zekkei Collection members can enjoy up to 30% off Early Bird specials toward an unforgettable luxury stay in powder paradise. Book your [...]

Less than two hours from Hakuba is Matsumoto City, a prominent castle town with rich history dating back to the 16th century.  Here are some of our recommended sights and experiences to make the most of your day in the city. Matsumoto Castle (AKA Matsumoto-jo or Crow Castle) Considered one of Japan’s National Treasures, Matsumoto [...]

Hakuba area (Ushiro-Tateyama mountain range) is one of the most famous backcountry destinations in Japan. Located on the western end of Japan’s main island of Honshu, Hakuba is a picturesque valley in the heart of the Japanese Alps. Its close proximity to the Sea of Japan means the area is blessed with plenty of fresh [...]

The Ski Project embodies style, chic and comfort throughout their ski-set lifestyle brand which transitions seamlessly on and off the slopes. Their most popular ski-suits, the Cordova and Goldbergh, are slim fit and figure-flattering while providing warmth and comfort for you whole body. No worries of snow getting trapped under your jumper or inside your [...]

Season after season, Niseko is inundated by light and fluffy powder snow. The sheer volume of Niseko’s #japow is what separates one season from the last. It is safe to say that this season’s snowfall has been epic. The monthly-observed snowfall for December 2020 was 348 cm - over 11 feet!  Driving through streets in [...]

SOAK IN RUSTIC, HEALING HOT SPRINGS SURROUNDED BY NATURE: TOP 5 ONSEN ESCAPES IN THE GREATER NISEKO AREA The volcanic landscape of Hokkaido makes for incredible geo-thermal oases with hot springs dotting the island. Fortunately, large concentrations of mineral-rich hot springs are bountiful in Niseko and just beyond. Whether you are sore from a long day [...]

This winter is poised to be the most happening in Niseko yet. With a variety of new vacation rentals welcoming their first guests, exciting expansions of visitor facilities and recent enhancement of premium services, here we take a closer look at what to expect the next time you step foot on Hokkaido‘s alpine wonderland. Hirafu main street power lines gone [...]

Visitng Hokkaido this summer? The largest and northernmost prefecture in Japan offers a rich variety of landscapes. It takes time to get to these beautiful places — but the payoff is well worth it. Based in Furano Tokachi Millennium Forest If there is one place you really get to know in Hokkaido, it is the [...]

Summer is almost here, which means it is time to start planning our vacation. First on our wish list is to soak up the sum in Hokkaido, again (I know), because there is something about the access to nature and the irresistible food that being on the gorgeous wild northern island will bring. To families who [...]

Step outside the city and a different world unfolds. Cheers to Japan’s great outdoors. A morning’s commute (a 100-minute bullet train ride and another hour’s drive) leaves behind Tokyo’s overpacked humanity to the scenic resort town of Hakuba. It was the 1998 Winter Olympic Games in Nagano that put Hakuba Valley on the map as a [...]

Phuket is a little piece of paradise blessed with a good mix of developed beaches popular with visitors, and also a few hidden gems where you can almost, briefly, be alone. Since 2014 when the government closed down most businesses on the west coast - due to them unspoiled beaches, bays and coves being too [...]

There is no “perfect” or “the best” winter destination as such, while there are best ones for you. Though less known for skiing than Niseko, Furano is preferred by some seasoned Japan-bound skiers as there is more fresh powder minus the crowd. Some international skiers also believe Furano offers more Japanese culture while Niseko feels [...]

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Japan has a new emperor and a new imperial era, and do we look forward to those new colors and looks in the streets and dashi festival carts this year! One would imagine we have quite a travel bucket list, as we plan other people's vacations for a living, after all. We daydream and talk [...]

Ah, Niseko. There is no skiing like it. Hirafu is our favorite village in the ski town, a great jumping off point for exploring some of the world’s best powder, and the resort-esqe way of life that is synonymous with Niseko. When it comes to planning a ski trip to the popular destination, many like [...]

See how many you can cross out before school year begins. Sunny days, grilling out, s’mores bonfire at dusk... We want each summer with the kids to be more memorable than the last, and with that comes the need for a few new ideas every season. The kids helped us brainstorm (not before suggesting a [...]

Flakes fall around you. Steam drifts into the air. Try one of these onsen baths where you can bathe among Hokkaido’s nature. The heat of the mineral-rich, geothermal water is believed to cure aches and stimulateinitiate deep healing. Although the measurable effectiveness is not quite yet proven or understood, we don’t really need more reason [...]

If you were wondering where to spend your time in Niseko for the food, here is a guide that should give you a fair selection to work with. Whether you are craving sushi of the very traditional kind, or entertaining guests for an exclusive experience off the beaten track, Japan's #1 snow resort of Niseko [...]

This sobadokoro is already booked through the year. What separates a good restaurant from a great one? Attention to detail and fresh ingredients are the basic requirements; craftsmanship and technical skill, too, is paramount. We find that our favorite Japanese restaurants tend to be the smaller, more intimate settings that tick all these boxes, and [...]

There’s no place like home and there’s no place like Niseko. Even though the streets in Hirafu can get crowded, the addition of more unique and modern accommodations makes it a pleasure to visit. We found our new favorite in The Maples, a ski-in-ski-out condominium-hotel with a look so slick that that any design aficionado would appreciate. [...]

Come together once in a while and get to know each other. A memorable family vacation is many things. There is experience, always the best teacher that brings school lessons to life. There is fun. There are tantrums. You chat, you laugh, you share things and you bond on a family adventure. Well versed in [...]

POSTCARD-WORTHY SCENERY GUARANTEED. Yes, summer is the new boom season for ski towns! These destinations are best known as ski resorts, but they shine just as brightly through summer. Not only ideal for lazy retreats, they are also packed with more adventurous ways to unwind! So choose your mountain playground for that upcoming vacation you [...]

Families are often separated geographically and by hectic schedules. Planning a big reunion holiday, the need to fulfill a range of different criteria might be tricky to manage, while this is how extraordinary experiences come about. Whether to celebrate a special occasion or just to bond away from home, generations often have quite different ideas [...]

From little city dwellers to outdoor adventurers! Our city kids know all the best places to visit and can navigate the streets with ease, but we bet they will be happy to toss their screens aside when given a chance to engage the real outdoors in the company of new friends. RELATED: SUMMER HOLIDAY IN [...]

In need of destination inspiration? Instagram is a fantastic resource for travelers, and these passionate wanderlusters know how to make good eye candy. Jake and Dannie @jakeanddannie New parents and photographer duo Jake and Dannie are creating the ultimate family album with their daughter Lisa. All of their photos are mini works of art, and [...]

Japan’s autumn begins when momiji begins to show, first on the northern island of Hokkaido in September, slowly meandering down the length of the nation. Depending on where (and the altitude) you are, the foliage can last from September through late November. As fall colors adorn temples and shrines, and mountains and gorges across the [...]

Sometimes more is more. All-inclusive holidays can take many forms. Whether their own clifftop playgrounds, protected game reserves, private beaches, or exclusive part of larger resorts, these unique retreats share certain things: sublime privacy, top-notch staff and big-ticket amenities. Be sure to pack your designer luggage for these over-the-top (and some of the most expensive) [...]

With easy direct flights from major Asian hubs, Phuket is the perfect place for an indulgent getaway for urban dwellers. That being said, Phuket is full of difficult decisions. The west coast has some of the best tropical beaches while the east coast gathers swanky hang-outs where expats frequent. In the spirit of making the [...]

A summer holiday there easily involves BBQ parties by day, home-cooked meals made from fresh local produce at home by night. Niseko’s winter is fantastic, while summertime in Niseko is also made for outdoors-y people, as lush landscape emerges and farmers get their crops into the ground. There are trails and rivers nestled in the mountains opening to [...]