three properties
powder, Niseko
Gora Kadan, Hakone
counter, Tokyo
Japan: Between Snow and the Counter
This journey begins in Niseko, where six nights allow time to make the most of Hokkaido's deep powder with expert local guides, while experiencing the region's food and onsen culture beyond the slopes.
From here, two nights in Hakone offer a very different side of Japan, with traditional ryokan stays featuring hot-spring bathing and seasonal kaiseki dining.
The journey ends with four nights in Tokyo, centred around access to some of the city's most sought-after restaurant counters and privately guided exploration of its neighbourhoods and food culture. With fewer places and more time in each, the itinerary brings together three distinctly different experiences of Japan in winter.
Niseko receives up to 15 metres of snow each year. With a private guide, each day is shaped around where the best snow has fallen overnight, from Grand Hirafu and Hanazono to Niseko Village and Annupuri.
Set in a former imperial family villa, Gora Kadan offers a glimpse into the rituals of ryokan life. Bathe in your private outdoor onsen before a seasonal kaiseki dinner, served with the quiet, precise hospitality Japan is known for.
Omakase means “I leave it to you.” At a counter of just 8 to 12 seats, the chef curates your meal course by course, based on the day's market and the season. Fish selected at dawn from Toyosu Market is prepared piece by piece and served directly across the counter.
The itinerary in full
Three Stays. Three Sides of Japan.
Six nights at the foot of Niseko's ski fields, two at one of Hakone's most respected ryokans and four above central Tokyo. Each property has been chosen for its location, character and the experience it offers within the journey.
Higashiyama Niseko Village, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Base of Niseko Village, Hokkaido
At the base of Niseko Village, Higashiyama offers direct access to the ski area alongside an onsen and spa for the end of the day. Rooms look towards Mount Yotei or the surrounding mountains, while restaurants draw heavily on produce from Hokkaido.
Suite
One Bedroom Yotei Suite. Separate living and sleeping areas, floor-to-ceiling windows, deep soaking tub and views towards Mount Yotei.
Gora Kadan
Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture
Set in the former summer villa of the imperial Kan-in-no-miya family, Gora Kadan is one of Japan's most respected ryokans. The experience centres on traditional Japanese hospitality, natural hot spring bathing and seasonal kaiseki, with meals served privately in your room.
Suite
Suite with Open-Air Bath. Tatami flooring, shoji screens and a private outdoor rotenburo fed by natural hot spring water.
Aman Tokyo
Otemachi Tower, Tokyo
Aman Tokyo occupies the upper floors of the Otemachi Tower, with views across the Imperial Palace gardens and the city. Japanese design influences run throughout the hotel, from washi paper and stone to the large furo-style baths, alongside an expansive spa and 30-metre pool.
Suite
Tokyo Suite. Separate living and sleeping areas, floor-to-ceiling windows and a deep furo-style bath, with views across Tokyo.
Helicopter Skiing in Hokkaido
Access more remote terrain by helicopter, opening up areas beyond Niseko's lift network. Routes and flying are determined by snow, visibility and wind conditions.
A Second Tokyo Counter
Add a second sought-after Tokyo reservation at restaurants such as Den, Narisawa or Kohaku. Reservations can require several months' notice and are best arranged when booking the journey.
Tokyo with a Specialist
Spend a day with a specialist guide focused on a particular interest, from architecture and contemporary art to ceramics, Japanese craft or food.
An Extra Night in Hakone
Add a third night at Gora Kadan for more time at the ryokan, with another day for the onsen, gardens and seasonal kaiseki.
Counter dining reservations
Tokyo's most respected sushi and kaiseki counters require reservations two to six months in advance, with some accepting bookings only through hotel concierge or established relationships. Availability cannot be guaranteed. Alternative venues of comparable quality will be secured if first-choice restaurants are fully committed. Confirm your counter preference at the time of booking the journey.
Best time to travel
January is the strongest month: peak powder, full terrain access and Tokyo's winter kaiseki menus at their most refined. February extends the powder season through mid-month, though Chinese New Year creates peak demand and significantly higher pricing. Late November and early December offer lighter crowds and lower pricing but snowpack is not guaranteed. Plan accordingly or target shoulder periods for better value.
Skiing ability
Moderate to advanced skiing ability is recommended for Niseko's terrain and side-country access. The itinerary includes significant physical activity followed by periods of stillness and cultural immersion. Travellers should be comfortable with contrasts in pace and intensity. Powder days often mean limited visibility. Your guide manages this, and trust in that guidance is part of the experience.
Cultural protocol
Japan maintains specific customs around bathing, dining and hospitality. Briefings are provided throughout the journey and guides assist with cultural navigation throughout. The most important practical note for counter dining: do not wear perfume, cologne or scented products on the day of your reservation. Some restaurants will refuse service if fragrance is detected. This is not a suggestion.
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