The three low-rise buildings comprising the 35 contemporary condos of SnowDog Village are nestled in a peaceful wooded setting in Higashiyama.
The Higashiyama area feels secluded yet the nearest ski lift – part of the Niseko Village resort – is a mere 200m through the trees; the famous Milk Kobo dairy farm is well within walking distance too; and downtown Hirafu, pulsing heart of Niseko, is just a 12-minute drive away.
Each apartment is furnished in an unfussy style, with all the modern amenities and comforts you would expect, backed by a concierge team to handle any spur-of-the-moment needs. That leaves you to focus on why you came: to have fun while exploring the area, and to share quality time with those that matter most to you.
Why SnowDog
For co-founder Nicolas Pulinx, those that matter most include his faithful Cocker Spaniels, Mint and Pepper. When they were younger, he would take them to play – snow or no snow – in a beautiful patch of woodland close to Niseko Village. He realized he’d found the perfect spot to build a resort, and that his fun-loving dogs were the perfect branding for it.
Mint and Pepper also inspired us to make our condos dog-friendly – the only ones of their kind in Niseko. We like to think that their character even shows in our special brand of service: friendly and dependable, but also highly sociable and fun-loving.
Young at Heart
Visit in the winter and we’ll help you make the most of the incredible snow that has made Niseko a world-famous winter hub. Wake up in SnowDog after a big fall overnight and you’ll feel the excitement for yourself as people rush out to get themselves some of that fabled powder. It’s moments like that you’ll be so happy to be just metres from the slopes.
But we find Hokkaido intoxicating all year round. Just suck in a deep lungful of that air – that’s what fresh air is supposed to taste like. In spring, you should literally stop and smell the flowers that paint the meadows. Summer is deliciously warm without too much humidity, perfect for outdoors pursuits. Autumn brings explosions of colour as the trees blaze red and gold, a phenomenon almost as precious to nature-loving Japanese as the more famous sakura blossom of spring.
Culture Vultures
Speaking of local cultural attractions, Hokkaido is riddled with onsen – hot spring baths – a favourite pastime of locals. The Niseko area is no exception, with several to choose from: indoor and outdoor, with Yugokorotei in Annupuri, Yukichichibu and Goshiki among our favourites for their views and peaceful atmosphere.
Hokkaido's food is a focus for many visitors too and we’ll be happy to point you towards the best places to sample farm-fresh fruit and vegetables – apples,
strawberries, cherries, potatoes, asparagus, sweetcorn and many more; dairy treats from milk and cheese to yoghurt and ice cream; and a legion of seafood delicacies almost straight off the boat.
All this is enough to inspire anyone to connect with Hokkaido’s nature, but we also know how to enjoy the bright lights of Hirafu and beyond. If you’re looking for tips on the hottest restaurants or most happening bars; where to shop for gifts, souvenirs or ski gear; or where you should head on a day trip, just ask our staff for a recommendation.
