Niseko, JapanHirafu
Kimamaya by Odin
Alpine timber chalet
Alpine timber chalet
Nine rooms give this Swiss-roofed lodge the intimacy of a private home, designed for quiet evenings after cold days outdoors.
What it’s good at
Listed
Guests gather around the fireplace over Burgundy wine from the co-founder's family vineyard.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
With just nine rooms, this wood-framed mountain retreat is ideal for those wanting somewhere homely, cozy and snug.
In a lively part of town
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Momiji Street runs right outside, putting Hirafu's village izakayas, bars, and ski lifts within an easy walk.
The rooms
Mezzanine lofts and bedrooms pair dark elm floors with chocolate timber joinery, keeping interiors warm and quiet.
The baths
The Moku and Ishi bath rooms host private soaks, each centered on a deep oak or stone tub.
The spa
Therapists practice shiatsu and Japanese back massage inside a quiet treatment room finished with dark timber floors.
Restaurant
The Barn by Odin
The bistro sits in an adjacent timber barn inspired by Hokkaido farm buildings, serving French alpine fare.
At the table
A wooden bar sits under exposed timber beams, pouring hot coffee and evening drinks beside snowbound windows.
How it began
The name translates to 'be yourself' in Japanese, inherited from the 1985 family ski pension that originally occupied the building.
Niseko
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.