Located just about 2 hours by car from Sapporo, Niseko is a region rich in nature, situated between Mt. Yotei and Mt. Niseko-Annupuri in the western part of Hokkaido. The name "Niseko" comes from the Ainu language, meaning "a cliff with a river flowing below." Thanks to its vast land and abundant natural resources, Niseko has gained recognition as one of Japan's most international destinations, offering a variety of tourist spots and ski resorts that make the most of its unique terrain and climate. Just 3 km south of Niseko's ski resort lies Gen-Myo, a villa providing a special sense of comfort amidst the picturesque natural surroundings and shimmering silver snowscape. Positioned on the eastern side of Gen-Myo, guests can enjoy views of Mt. Yotei, giving the villa a floating appearance amidst the forest on a gentle slope. This well-planned project, designed to incorporate the magnificent scenery, has received numerous awards, making renting the entire villa for a stay with close-knit family or friends an excellent choice.

The accommodation, a collaborative effort between Daida Design Studio, Taiga Niseko, and ReFineAct Co. Ltd., embodies the essence of Japan's celebrated design and craftsmanship, emphasizing meticulously thought-out details and consistency, hence named "Gen-Myo" (signifying exceptional craftsmanship). Comprising three single-story villas, the building incorporates natural wood from Hokkaido both inside and outside, creating a contemporary and modern atmosphere with a rich and warm ambiance, complemented by delicate metal trimmings. Each villa is strategically angled to embrace significant views, maximizing the breathtaking scenery of Mt. Yotei. From the entrance to the living spaces and bedrooms, guests can feel a seamless connection and depth with the surroundings, allowing them to sense Niseko's ever-changing landscape as if it were an open and boundary-less garden. Moreover, different roof orientations are alternately arranged, ensuring diverse perspectives from each room, with large panoramas for the living areas and lower windows for the bedrooms. Additionally, the design includes amenities such as a wood-burning fireplace, cozy reading spaces, and bedrooms with lofts, all intended to provide guests with the ultimate relaxation while fully enjoying the beauty of nature.

At Gen-Myo, guests can enjoy exquisite lunches and dinners with stunning snowscape views, prepared by renowned chefs from Hokkaido. The library offers a delightful and cozy reading experience, cleverly utilizing the triangular part of the building, providing a tranquil atmosphere. At the end of the day, soaking in the hiba wood-scented bath while gazing at Mt. Yotei is a truly exceptional experience. Depending on the season and weather, the reflection of Mt. Yotei covered in snow on the surface of the bathtub welcomes guests with a beauty reminiscent of a landscape painting. During the green season from early summer to autumn, guests can meditate on the wood deck, have a barbecue on the lawn, and observe the serene nature with children. In summer, activities such as rafting and trekking await, while winter offers skiing on the powdery snow at the ski resorts, as well as visits to hot springs and various tourist spots that make the most of Niseko's vast land and abundant natural resources. Each season offers different travel experiences, making a stay at Gen-Myo in Niseko an opportunity you should definitely try.

Edited by STAYFOLIO
Designed by Daida Design Studio
Image © Taiga Niseko