EXPERIENCE NISEKO
VOL. 2 WINTER 2018-19 EXPERIENCENISEKO.COM
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Photo: Glen Claydon
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EXPERIENCE NISEKO
VOL. 2 WINTER 2018-19
Editor’s Note IF HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS, THEN NISEKO might just have a little hold on all of us. From the first powder pioneers of decades past to those just discovering the magic now for the very first time, Niseko quickly becomes not merely a place, but a feeling—one that stays with us long after we leave, and has the power to keep us coming back. The magnetism of Niseko brings hundreds of thousands of people from the world-over each year—some for a short while and for others, a lifetime. Niseko’s “pull” sees an ever-growing number of people living and working here year-round; owners building their dream holiday homes, for themselves just as much as for others; investors envisioning and creating world-class hotels, restaurants and facilities; and of course, the vacationers rejoicing in it all. And what was once Asia’s best-kept secret is now getting out. Summer in Niseko is just as glorious a playground to create lasting memories as the winter season. American news and current affairs giant, CNN, recently published their 9 Ski Resorts to Enjoy in Summer and Niseko made the cut, but not surprisingly though. As the only resort outside of North America or Europe to make the list, Niseko was praised for its onsens, thrill-filled water rafting and amazing Japanese cuisine. We welcome you to explore the allure of Niseko in our second issue of Experience Niseko Homes. We look inside Niseko’s buzzing property market, and take you on an “open house” to some of the area’s most magnificent dwellings and developments. Walk-through the resort’s uniqueness— with culture and architecture inspired by both Japan and the world. Experience Niseko Homes is a showcase of what is an incredible destination to connect with and contribute to—as a visitor, a resident, an investor, or perhaps a little mix of them all. SOFIE LAHTINEN
EXPERIENCE NISEKO HOMES Vol. 2, Winter 2018-19 www.experienceniseko.com Published by HTM KK, 91-1 Aza Yamada, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0081, Japan Cover Photo: Hakuchozan by Taiga Projects photographed by Glen Claydon
EXPERIENCE NISEKO HOMES 5
DEVELOPMENT NEWS With Japan’s population in decline, Niseko is one of the few regions in the country bucking the trend, continuing to attract domestic and international residents and investment.
THE COMING FEW YEARS WILL SEE MORE growth in Niseko, with many developments currently in the pipeline, and early building phases in work. We’ve compiled a round up of the most exciting projects you can expect to see in Niseko soon.
THE RITZ-CARLTON RESERVE The Ritz-Carlton Reserve is coming to Niseko Village in 2021. Featuring 50 deluxe rooms, the ski-in ski-out boutique resort will join the family of The Ritz-Carlton hotels in Japan with others already established in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Okinawa.
INTUITION NISEKO The Intuition Niseko development is scheduled for a 2020 opening opposite Aya Niseko adjacent to the foot of the Ace Family Quad chairlift. The site, which developer Zekkei describes as an “exclusive onsen hamlet”, will contain 10 custom homes, each with a private road, landscaping and onsen water supplied.
SANSUI NISEKO HOTEL Sansui Niseko Hotel, next door to the Hotel Niseko Alpen, two minutes-walk from the Ace Quad lift is under construction. With 60 rooms, ski-in skiout access, and a design by local firm Nakayama Architects, the upmarket, Japanese-style hotel is scheduled to open in 2020.
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PARK HYATT
Construction is well under way at Park Hyatt Hanazono, with opening scheduled for Winter 2019/20. Showcasing international architecture and interior design, accommodations, exquisite culinary offerings, sophisticated works of art, and the legendary service of the Park Hyatt brand, Park Hyatt Hanazono will offer a refined and sophisticated experience. The hotel will feature meeting spaces, spa and wellness facilities, swimming pool and priority access to Hanazono Golf.
ARUKU-ZAKA ST
One of the largest and most ambitious projects in planning is Hong Kong based Metropoly Holding’s Aruku-zaka Street. This project in central Hirafu will result in a thriving residential condominium, hotel and retail precinct, complete with community gathering spaces, cafés, restaurants and office spaces. Planning is underway for a construction start in April 2019, with the precinct scheduled to open in 2023.
SETSU NISEKO Setsu Niseko, by renowned Singapore developer SC Global Developments, is under way in Hirafu. Coined as a “luxury condominium hotel residence”, it has 190 freehold furnished apartments available for investment. Situated opposite the Lawson convenience store, the new property is within walking distance of the Hirafu Gondola. Completion is scheduled for 2021.
THE PAVILIONS NISEKO
Another major development due for completion in 2019/20 is The Pavilions Niseko Resort and Residences. The design of these 42 suites is inspired by the Japanese sukiya style of architecture, meaning “refined, well-cultivated, understated and tasteful.” Just five minutes by car from the ski slopes and with magnificent views of Mt Yotei, The Pavilions will feature a range of amenities such as indoor and outdoor onsens, a fitness centre and library.
AOZARA Aozara is a new hotel with commercial spaces and is due for completion in summer 2020. It is located at the Hirafu intersection, where Green Farm Café and Rhythm Summit were previously.
HAKUVILLAS The developers of the high-end Hakuchozan chalet are expanding their activity in Niseko with the HakuVillas project. Located steps away from the Hirafu Gondola, this seven-storey complex will house only four luxury villas, offering location, luxury, privacy and space to guests. The Haku offering will include white glove service from a dedicated, multi-lingual team and a range of high-end amenities such as private dining rooms, rooftop onsen and gym. Opening in 2019.
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Overlooking Hirafu-zaka Street, January 2018
Niseko: Then and Now WORDS: EVAN JOHNSON
R
eading a magazine of this nature, it’s hard not to cast your mind’s eye toward the future. To imagine how Niseko will look when this project is done, when that project is done and wonder to yourself, what’s next? And there certainly will be a significant change in how the resort looks, how the resort feels and who comes here to play over the coming decade. No one knows what it will look like exactly but it’s safe to say that inbound investment and visitation from Hong Kong, Singapore, China and Thailand, to name a few, will continue as the Niseko brand becomes more well known throughout Asia, and the world. The resort will grow upwards and outwards from Hirafu at an exciting pace. We will see the big names in global luxury travel accommodation putting a stamp on Niseko. In fact, with the Park Hyatt, The Ritz-Carlton and the W Hotel all on the way, that’s happening right now. But what’s equally rewarding is to look back on where the resort has come from. A once sleepy, little potato-farming town in Japan’s rural north, Niseko is now Asia’s premier, fastest growing year-round holiday destination and one of CNN’s 9 ‘must-visit’ summer resort destinations. Incredible, really. THE BEGINNING So, how and when did it all begin? Skiing was introduced to Niseko (then known as Kaributo) in 1912, and the resort itself was formally established in 1961. But it wasn’t until 1972, when Sapporo hosted the Winter Olympic Games, that skiing became a passion for Japanese people. This marked the very beginning of development in Hirafu, with passionate skiers and budding Japanese entrepreneurs coming to town. Development continued at a slow pace to service the market for domestic tourism which peaked again in 1987 when the Japanese film Watashi Wo Ski Ni Tsurutette (‘Take me to the snowland’) was released to mainstream popularity. Some of the businesses which opened around this time, such as Full Note, Graubunden and Grand Papa, still operate today.
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EXPERIENCE NISEKO HOMES 9
NISEKO STANDS NOT JUST AS JAPAN’S BEST SKI RESORT, BUT AS A GENUINE PLAYER ON THE GLOBAL SKI RESORT LANDSCAPE
A changing face of Hirafu: Inski in 2008, where Green Farm Cafe was until this year
Above: Kutchan villagers enjoy skiing around 1913 Below: Preparations for a competition, before ski lifts came to Hirafu around 1957
‘NISTRALIA’ In the late ’90s, legend had travelled as far as Australia. The promise of deep, untracked snow, short lift lines, incredible food and an amazing cultural experience available in Japan. The Australians, adventurous and entrepreneurial, yet deprived somewhat of consistent highquality skiing conditions at home, began visiting Japan in droves. And they chose to visit Niseko, as opposed to other resorts elsewhere in Japan. Thanks for this can be given to the foresight of the ski resorts operator, Tokyu Resort Service, who built a world-class chairlift network and allowed back and side country skiing when other Japanese resorts wouldn’t. This manifested in the first western investment in Niseko. Large apartment style accommodations, designed for budgetconscious Aussie skiers who favoured the shorter trip and cheaper airfare to Japan than the expensive pilgrimage to Europe or North America. Hotels, restaurants and ski schools with English-speaking instructors all appearing— Niseko’s first real estate “boom”. A DESTINATION FOR ALL SEASONS Niseko grew throughout the 2000’s, with annual visitor numbers rising year-on-year. The winter staff and business owners who serviced the mountain in winter soon began living in Niseko all-year-round. This was a necessity in some ways, to use the quieter summer months in preparation for the busy winters. And this led to another development, that of year-round activities in the ski resort.
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Facilities for golfing, whitewater rafting, mountain biking and hiking began to appear across the four resorts of Niseko United. Niseko quickly became a four-season destination, attracting domestic tourism, largely from Japan’s main island, Honshu. The annual growth of “green-season” tourism continues today, with the ever-reliable northern migration of Japanese visitors now being paired with a smaller-but-growing influx of international visitors coming to Niseko outside of winter. THE CHANGING FACE Fast forward 10 years, Niseko keeps growing but the investment dynamic has shifted. The Aussie owners are certainly still here, enjoying their annual ski trips to Japan and their early investments continue to yield. But the bulk of new investment is now coming from mainland Asia. Many holiday guests from Asia have been unable to leave Niseko without seeing the incredible investment growth opportunity here and deciding to become a part of it. Other savvy property buyers have seen the potential from afar and bought property off the plan. The future looks bright for these investors. With eight international direct flights from mainland China now entering Niseko’s nearest airport, New Chitose International, Niseko will undoubtedly continue to attract a larger, wealthier pool of holiday-makers. This trend has seen a rise in premium accommodations, full-service hotels, luxury chalets and high-end restaurants. Now, Niseko stands not just as Japan’s best ski resort, but as a genuine player on the global ski resort landscape, successfully competing with the most famous resorts of Europe and North America. BACK TO THE FUTURE So, having read this short retrospective, you’re now well equipped to dive in to the contents of Experience Niseko Homes, a look ahead to what the future holds for this incredible resort, with profiles of some of the best development partners in town, and plenty of information for you to become a part of Niseko’s future yourself.
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THE ULTIMATE LIVING REPUTED ACROSS ASIA FOR ITS EMBODIMENT OF LUXURY living, for the last 20 years Singapore developer, SC Global, has been creating beautifully crafted apartments recognised for their uncompromising style and prize attention to detail. The group’s highly anticipated first development in Niseko looks set to be anchored by the same meticulous design principles, with its new 190 apartment resort, Setsu Niseko, forming an arresting presence in Hirafu. SC Global Founder and Chairman, Simon Cheong says creating a new resort goes beyond architecture and design. “For us, it is about meditating the sense of space and ensuring the resort’s identity is rooted with deep respect and understanding of its spectacular natural environment. Our vision was to create architecture and luxurious living experiences that encapsulate the purity and understated elegance of the Japanese spirit,” he says. Nestled perfectly between Mount Yotei and Mount Annupuri, apartment interiors are carefully considered to
optimise the stunning views, whilst balancing the honest purity of traditional Japanese spaces with contemporary luxuries to create a space that feels reassuringly warm and inviting. Set within a 2.5 acre estate in one of Hirafu’s finest locations adjacent to the Gondola station, a series of restaurants and boutiques on the ground floor of this new Niseko landmark are expected to extend the vibrant street life of the main town. There is no doubt, that with its prominent location within Hirafu and SC Global’s expertise and experience, Setsu Niseko is well positioned to become one of the finest resorts in the region providing investors the respected assurance of quality that underpins every SC Global apartment. Setsu Niseko offers a range of apartments in studio, one, two, three and four-bedroom configurations starting from 40 sqm. More details can be found by visiting Niseko Real Estate Gallery. Call +81 (0) 136 21 7722 to make an appointment.
EXPERIENCE NISEKO HOMES 13
NISEKO REAL ESTATE CURRENT LISTINGS
AYA NISEKO 602
PANORAMA NISEKO
¥187,000,000 2 Bedrooms
Upper Hirafu 2 Bathrooms
84 sqm
KABAYAMA ESTATE
¥370,000,000 - ¥650,000,000 4 - 6 bedroom Luxury Villas
Hirafu Entrance 315-645 sqm (Land 464-1,446 sqm)
¥ Enquire
Kabayama
18,996 sqm (Land)
Ski-in ski-out, Yotei views
Gateway community, protected views
Rare site bordering golf course
Situated at the base of the Ace Family Lift, with immediate ski-in ski-out access, AYA Niseko 602 provides protected Mt Yotei views through wall-to-wall floor-to-ceiling glass in the living room and master bedroom. Features include full custom kitchen and master bathroom, top-end audio & visual, hardwood timber flooring, and contemporary built-in finishes. AYA Niseko is one of Niseko’s top performing hotels, providing condo owners with strong occupancy and excellent investment returns.
Located at the entrance to the Hirafu Resort, Panorama Niseko consists of twelve luxury Villas, positioned adjacent to the Shiribetsu River. Offering full concierge service, protected Mt. Yotei views, underground wiring, art park and with natural hot springs onsens in every Villa. Meticulously planned features include high-end furnishings, designer kitchens, hardwood timber floors, artwork by Hokkaido artists and more. Phase One now complete, with Phase Two finishing in 2019. Available for viewing today.
Expansive development site boasting Mt Yotei, Ski Resort, and Niseko Village Golf Course views. Two minutes by car to Hirafu ski lifts, the site enjoys dual road access from Route 343. Property is primed for a combined villa & condo hotel development, with commercial restaurant component. Transferable with onsen permit approval in place.
SEKKA LODGE ANNUPURI
YAMA SHIZEN EAST 403
LAKE TOYA WATERFRONT ESTATE
¥ Enquire 6 Bedrooms
Annupuri 326 sqm (Land 352 sqm)
¥87,000,000 3 Bedrooms
Upper Hirafu 2 Bathrooms
125 sqm
¥ Enquire
Lake Toya
944,475 sqm (Land)
Immediate proximity to the Annupuri Gondola
Village convenience and flexibility of use
Amazing natural beauty
Unique opportunity to secure an established lodge within close proximity to Annupuri Ski lifts. Configured with six large guest rooms, each with private en-suite bathroom, and spacious open plan living and dining area, the lodge is perfectly suited to continue operation as a commercial lodge, or as a private alpine chalet. With much of the market focus shifting to other resort areas, the Sekka Lodge Annupuri is primed for capital appreciation in the short-medium term.
Centrally situated in the Upper Hirafu village, this condo holds scenic Mt Yotei views and provides spacious resort living. The popular dual key configuration comprises a 2 bedroom unit, plus self-contained studio, providing flexible rental potential, comfortably accommodating up to 6 guests. Positioned on the south-west corner of the building enhances the unit’s exposure to natural sunlight. Close access to ski lifts and many of Hirafu’s best dining options.
Beautiful 94 hectare land site overlooking the spectacular Lake Toya. Only 15 meters from the waterfront, the southeastern aspect provides optimal sunlight exposure, and postcard panoramic vistas. Local planning zoning allows for an array of development options. One of Hokkaido’s most popular tourist locations, home to several renowned hotels, Michelin Star dining, onsens, and just a short drive from Niseko and Rusutsu ski resorts.
Visit our website nisekorealestate.com for more information: Email: info@nisekorealestate.com Tel: +81 (0)136 22 7722
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NORTH HILLS SERENITY ¥ Enquire
Hanazono
1,903 sqm (Land) Exclusive North Hills commercial zone plot Scenic plot in Hanazono’s North Hills neighbourhood – ideal for the quintessential luxury alpine home. Property benefits from being situated within the North Hills commercial zone, permitting for commercial operation of a future boutique condo hotel or luxe chalet. A stone’s throw from Hanazono ski lifts and Park Hyatt development, this property is poised to substantially appreciate in value.
luxurious. exclusive.
MOIWA SLOPESIDE LAND ¥ Enquire
Moiwa
3,157 sqm (Land) Rare ski-side location Located at the base of Moiwa ski lifts, block size and topography facilitate various development options, with solid potential for capital growth as the popular Moiwa Ski Resort develops. A future built property will hold stunning slopeside views.
www.panoramaniseko.com now available for viewing
email: info@nisekorealestate.com phone: +81 (0)136 21 7722 www.nisekorealestate.com
EXPERIENCE NISEKO HOMES 15
S I M P LY E X C E P T I O N A L Private onsen, full-floor villas, 200 ste ps to Hirafu gondola hakuvillas.com
C U R AT E D, B E S P O K E Full y dedicated butlers, chauf feurs, private chef. Nisek o’s most e xclusiv e chalet e xperience. hakuchozan.com
Soseki by Taiga Projects
Broad and Deep The state of the current Niseko property market by Keith Rodgers, Owner & Founder of Taiga
NISEKO HAS ENTERED A NEW STAGE OF development, driven by large offshore developers who are used to big budgets and longer horizons. Witness the ambitious new Aruku-zaka Street development in Hirafu. Or new developments by resort owners in Hanazono and Niseko Village. Summer lunch-time line-ups of construction workers at Hirafu convenience stores are longer than those for winter’s first chairlifts. Kutchan Town and Niseko Town have quietly seen an impressive number of developments in the past few years. The massive Shinkansen bullet train project, now connecting Hokkaido all the way to Tokyo, has driven new housing for workers. Year-round staff in the tourism segment, many with young families, are looking for more affordable housing closer to schools. Even hotter than property are daycare slots, which in a country with an aging population, makes Kutchan Town and Niseko Town the envy of rural Japan. One thing is for certain, the perception of distance in Niseko is rapidly shrinking. What used to be “far” is now walking distance. New, large condo hotels join the top of Hirafu to the middle. And property buyers are looking further outside the resort centers for their piece of paradise.
But in all the talk of real estate boom, Niseko needs to stay focused on what is driving all of this. Family, play, and creating memories. Predominantly based in bustling, urban Asia, many visitors dream of owning a place for their kids to experience the outdoors. To revel in a country paradise with clean air. For mum and dad to recharge the batteries after their breakneck work schedules. A place where family can connect, play games, and catch up together. Therein lies the ongoing challenge for Niseko—to expand and improve upon the visitor experience to be on pace with all these luxury properties. With more international hotel brands opening, the pressure is on them to sponsor new events. To use their global marketing reach to attract new visitors to Niseko’s vibrant green season. This, in turn, drives better year-round occupancy and rental returns, which supports a healthy ecosystem for resort real estate. Most of us long term locals came for the snow, and stayed for the summer. It feels just around the corner that the rest of the world will catch on to the treasure we already know. To speak with Taiga about property in Niseko, contact Keith and the team via info@taigaprojects.com
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Exclusive Full Floor Experience
HAKU VILLAS 588 ¥500,000,000 4 Bedrooms 297.5 sqm
Hirafu 5 Bathrooms
HakuVillas was conceived with the guest experience as the central guiding influence over every design decision. Consisting of only four luxury villas, this seven-storey masterpiece fully integrates Mt Yotei into its design, from volcanic stone and rich natural woods to the breathtaking views. Each villa has its own outside onsen hot spring located on a covered terrace, with unobstructed views to Mt Yotei. With four large ensuite bedrooms, media room, private bar and maid’s room, there is plenty of space to spread out and host guests. The limited number of villas also means a more intimate lobby, private dining room, gym, state-of-the-art golf simulator, and exclusive steakhouse restaurant.
LARGE KABAYAMA LAND ¥ Enquire
Kabayama
5,787 sqm (Land) A highly unusual larger site, conveniently located just five-minute drive from Hirafu Village, and yet boasting some true privacy. The first lot, 185-5 (1,449 sqm/438.3 Tsubo) is tucked into a stand of trees, and is surprisingly quiet and private. A small creek runs along the border of the site, providing an extra element of charm. The private road rises up to lot 185-11 (4,338 sqm/1,312.3 Tsubo), giving a sense of total privacy and seclusion. The site has views to Mt Yotei and into the forest.
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TAIGA CURRENT LISTINGS
YUKI NO SANSOU ¥100,000,000 3 Bedrooms
FOREST ESTATE ¥155,000,000
Lower Hirafu 2 Bathrooms
165 sqm (Land) 109 sqm (House)
3 Bedrooms
YAMADA 169-37 LAND Hirafu
2 Bathrooms
¥124,000,000 264 sqm (Land) 138.11 sqm (House)
Hirafu
396sqm (Land)
A rare stand-alone chalet in Hirafu Village, Yuki no Sansou is bright and cheery. On a quiet street in the lower village, it is conveniently located a short walking distance to restaurants and the village shuttle bus. Yuki no Sansou has an efficient layout that maximises the open living, dining and kitchen areas as well as bright, comfortably sized bedrooms.
Located on a quiet street in Hirafu middle village, Forest Estate offers comfortable, chalet style living, with easy access to all village amenities. Forest Estate 4 is a very comfortable, modern 3 bedroom and 2 bathroom chalet. From the secondfloor living/dining/kitchen area, one has nice views towards Mt Yotei looking down the street. The open concept benefits from high ceilings, floor to ceiling windows, and a gas fireplace. The layout is very rational, and the dual entry into the dry room makes for ease of use.
A rare, generously sized site in Middle Hirafu Village, this conveniently located corner lot gives you immediate access to nearby restaurants, and is walking distance to the village amenities. With two road access points and good dimensions, the site provides options for access and design. One can imagine a generous luxury chalet, or possibly a boutique condominium development, taking advantage of the Mt Yotei views.
ASAHI 306-4 LAND
KABAYAMA 63-9 HOUSE & LAND PACKAGE
POWDER TRACKS 9
¥ Enquire
St. Moritz, Kabayama
¥59,000,000
1,193 sqm (Land) 146.61 sqm (House)
2 Bedrooms
¥37,500,000
North Hills, Hanazono
1,722 sqm (Land) Beautiful forest views and partial views to Mt Yotei are the features of this private lot in North Hills, Hanazono. From the lower floor, enjoy the snow falling into the large trees below, and from the upper floor, look through the tree tops to the mountain in the distance. Located just a few minutes’ drive from the new Park Hyatt in Hanazono, this chalet site is on the cusp of realizing its full potential, and still at a reasonable price.
6 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
Located right on main route 343 in Kabayama, just a five-minute walk to Hirafu Village center, there are plenty of options for this large lot and house. Securing a lot of this size on the main route 343 is very rare indeed. With the highly visible location, one can imagine a commercial opportunity from this site. The land is mostly level, and wide along the road frontage. The house is a personal residence, and has pleasant views to Mt. Yotei and into the forest behind.
Hirafu 1 Bathroom
66 sqm
An affordable entry into the Niseko property market, this apartment is ideal for a small family or a couple. Powder Tracks 9 has a comfortable layout with high ceilings in the living room area. The loft space overlooks the living room, giving it a very open and airy feeling. Located smack in the middle of Upper Hirafu, there is immediate access to restaurants and shops, making the après ski experience more convenient and comfortable.
For more information contact info@taigaprojects.com Tel: +81 (0)136 55 8022 www.taigaprojects.com
EXPERIENCE NISEKO HOMES 21
NEW LANDMARK IN FURANO SKI IN / SKI OUT FULL-SERVICE APARTMENTS NOW SELLING
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Located in a peaceful forest, steps from AYA and the Ace Family Quad Lift, Intuition is the first full-service onsen estate in Grand Hirafu. Sold out within weeks of sales launch, phase I features 10 onsen villa sites, each benefiting from high-quality infrastructure including underground power, private road and hot-spring water access. Phase II of Intuition, releasing in winter 2018 - 2019, presents a 5000-square-meter luxurious apartment building with 32 condominium units, ranging from studios to 6-bedroom penthouses. It will also house dining, onsen and hotel
concierge
facilities
exclusive
to
the
Intuition
residences.
INQUIRY INFO@INTUITIONNISEKO.COM DETAILS INTUITIONNISEKO.COM
DEVELOPED BY EXPERIENCE NISEKO HOMES 23
NEW LANDMARK IN FURANO SKI IN / SKI OUT FULL-SERVICE APARTMENTS NOW SELLING
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SUMMER EDEN • WINTER HEAVEN
Home to the second largest ski resort in Hokkaido and host of 12 Ski and Snowboard World Cup events, Furano is a powder heaven that is equally famous for beautiful lavender fields in summer, drawing two million visitors each year from Japan and abroad. Accommodation in Furano is in peak demand during two high seasons, June to September and December to March. Fenix offers astute investors an attractive rental income, and the opportunity to be the first in to a growth market. Due for completion in 2020, Fenix is a coveted ski-in/ski-out address located opposite the Kitanomine Gondola, featuring full-service suites and apartments with immediate access to village amenities.
BY INQUIRY INFO@FENIXFURANO.COM
DETAILS FENIXFURANO.COM EXPERIENCE NISEKO HOMES 25
Left: Paul Butkovich, DIrector of Real Estate Sales and Simon Robinson, President, Hokkaido Tracks Resort Properties Below: Hideaway on Escarpment
MAKING TRACKS With a 16-year history developing property in Niseko, the team at Hokkaido Tracks Resort Properties (HTRP) are among the most well equipped to foresee the future of the resort. We asked HTRP Director of Real Estate Sales, Paul Butkovich, a few questions about the Niseko property market. Where do you see the resort headed? We see the resort moving in all directions outside of Hirafu. The investment in Hirafu has hit a tipping point and we are now seeing significant land acquisition in the under developed and, until recently, under-valued parts of the resort, particularly Higashiyama, Annupuri and Moiwa. With land values in Hirafu bubbling above expectations, it’s finally starting to make sense for buyers to start to look at what’s on offer in other areas. We are now spending time and energy to show the market the value in other parts of the resort. Hirafu will always be the heart-beat but the exclusive and more romantic spots are yet to be discovered. I suggest buyers spend time looking at the new zones. They will out-perform expectations and deliver a more balanced resort-home investment. What are the greatest challenges that the resort faces? On and off mountain, the region needs better transport year-round to prosper. The sooner we
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address this issue, the easier it will be for other sectors of the resort to develop, flourish and take pressure off the congested Hirafu market. Where does the value for money lie? Outside of Hirafu village in new product and in new areas of the resort. As they say, ‘the early bird catches the worm’ and the same goes for purchasing property in a resort market. Early movers who are pushing into new zones will be the ones who reap the capital gain rewards in the end. Value is found when you don’t necessarily follow the crowds! What do your investors find to be most important and has that changed over time? Interesting question, as the market is quite varied and what appeals to one buyer may not necessarily appeal to the next. There is a trend for the first-time buyer to focus on location first (often ski-in ski-out or in the central lower village) and then once they have a better understanding of the market dynamics and the resort, then invest in other areas that may offer more space, privacy, views, family convenience or long-term capital growth. Are you seeing more interest from Japanese investors? We are! We do know from discussion with our real estate colleagues that the Park Hyatt has sold very well into the Japanese market. We see this Japanese buying trend growing as more international hotel
brands such as Aman and The Ritz-Carlton take root in up and coming areas like Higashiyama and Moiwa. What does the future look like for HTRP? HTRP has grown rapidly over the last two years and we now have two offices in Hirafu, one in Furano and one in Hong Kong. We employ just under 50 full-time staff across three key divisions: real estate, project and development management, and asset management. Our next focus is the Furano property market where we see an excellent opportunity for the international market and a flourishing year-round resort town. To what extent do you work with local, Hokkaido-based companies versus international companies? We primarily work with local architects and builders but from time to time our clients wish to work with international design firms. Every project is a little different. We are delivering large scale resort developments through to single two-story homes, so we are dealing with an array of consultants. At the end of it though, local Japanese consultants are required to deliver the projects as there are strict Japanese compliance codes that design and construction must adhere to. Do your typical projects have an end date or are you involved even after ‘the keys are handed over’? If we do our job right there is no end to the relationship with the client. But in some cases, we are hired for only one specific part of the project, and after that is completed it gets handed over to the owner and new property manager. What developments are you most proud of? The Escarpment Estate is by far the jewel in the HTRP development crown. But we are equally proud of Foxwood Homes in Higashiyama where we are leading the market into a new area that had simply been overlooked.
Prime Development Site
MOIWA PREMIUM DEVELOPMENT SITE ¥1,147,939,393
Moiwa
18,941 sqm (Land) Rare opportunity to become a strategic stakeholder in the future development of Moiwa Ski Resort. This 18,941 sqm site offers road access on 3 sides, an easy walk to the ski lifts, and convenient ski-back access. A massing plan has already been created for a housing sub-division but a condominium or hotel with commercial facilities would also be a great option for this prime location. Now is the ideal time to invest in Moiwa.
Exclusive Address
KAWASEMI
ESCARPMENT ESTATE RESIDENCE ¥290,000,000
Escarpment Estate, Hirafu
4 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 397 sqm (Land) 193 sqm (House) A rare opportunity to come to market in one of the Escarpment Estate Residences. This contemporary resort property was designed by Hikohito Konishi Architects and provides owners the flexibility to either use for their own personal use or put in the short-term rental market. Limited properties for rent in the Escarpment makes it all the more desirable for investors. The property can easily be expanded with an addition for the new owner if they wish to extend or remodel to suit their own needs.
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HOKKAIDO TRACKS RESORT PROPERTIES CURRENT LISTINGS
ODILE & ODETTE HOUSE & LAND PACKAGE
KAIZOKU HOUSE
¥250,000,000
¥160,000,000
3 Bedrooms
St Moritz, Kabayama 3 Bathrooms
198 sqm (Land) 218 sqm (House)
3 Bedrooms
GINTO RESIDENCES HOUSE & LAND PACKAGE Hirafu
2 Bathrooms
330 sqm (Land) 125 sqm (House)
Newly Completed
Designed for Style
Continuing the quest to craft beautiful abodes in Niseko, 22ème once again teams up with acclaimed and celebrated architect, Makoto Nakayama, for Odile & Odette. Working also with Poliform Contract (Italy) in the development of the interior concept, the resultant body of work from this wonderful collaborative effort is delectably stylish and cosy. Situated on an elevated perch with a beautiful aspect towards Mt Yotei, it is the ideal setting for this stunning four-seasons home.
Kaizoku was designed for style and built to last, this is one of our favourite resort home designs from our Hirafu House line up. This property is extra special as it comes with 330sqm of land so for certain buyers this site will be appealing for potential extension to the property. The property is currently configured as a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, with a cozy open plan living/dining area and is a popular rental home in the lower village housing market.
PENSION BROOK LODGE
FUBUKI 1
¥200,000,000
Higashiyama
12 Bedrooms 2 Japanese Bath / 5 Toilets 1,650 sqm (Land) 466 sqm (House) Rare Opportunity A very well maintained three-storey Japanese bed and breakfast in the Higashiyama Pension Village (adjacent to Niseko Village). This large property has 12 guest rooms and can sleep up to 30 guests, plus staff. The property has a nice commercial kitchen with dining/lounge room. All the traditional elements for a great ski lodge exist in this property and should be an easy conversion to a private retreat, or the new owner could easily keep operating the B&B or give it a light facelift and operate a nice flashpacker and restaurant.
3-6 Bedrooms 4-7 Bathrooms 1,400 sqm (Land) 280 – 420sqm (House) New to Market This exclusive sanctuary surrounds a peaceful pond within a tranquil forest and offers stunning views of Mt Yotei. Located just minutes from Hirafu Village, the estate is easily accessible from Route 343 and across from the popular Izumikyo neighbourhood. Currently buyers have the option of buying land and building a custom house to suit or can consider buying one of the custom Ginto Residences recently completed. Show homes available for viewing.
YAMA SHIZEN
¥140,000,000 3 Bedrooms
From $950,000 USD (land only) Ginto, Hirafu House and Land from $3,450,000 USD – $5,685,000 USD
Middle Hirafu 3 Bathrooms
397 sqm (Land) 172 sqm (House)
From ¥78,000,000 2-3 Bedrooms
104 sqm (Floor Area)
Middle Village Opportunity
Upper Village Opportunity
This quality resort home ticks all the right boxes for a holiday home that also works extremely well for the rental market. Located in the middle village, The Fubuki Town homes are some of the most sought-after rental homes in the market today. Well positioned in Hirafu coupled with thoughtful design elements and functionality makes this one of our top picks for home buyers. The home has been very well maintained and very little is required on acquisition of this property to make it your own. There is also the possibility to convert the garage space to a fourth bedroom or another living space.
One of the most popular condominiums in Upper Hirafu has a number of units available from large 2 bedroom, 2 baths to top floor 3 bedroom units. Yama Shizen has seen consistent rental returns over the years and the sales prices are ideal for new buyers to the market who are looking for long term capital gain growth as the new build market drives prices to new heights. All units are tastefully finished and in good maintenance order with little required from the new owners to continue to drive rental returns. Get in touch to find out more about Yama Shizen opportunities in the market today.
Visit our website www.hokkaidotracksrealestate.com or contact Paul Butkovich for more information: Email: sales@hokkaidotracks.com Tel: +81 (0)136 21 6960
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Upper Hirafu 2 Bathrooms
Skye Niseko
THE REAL DEAL Niseko Realty are quickly establishing a reputation as Niseko’s premier real estate agency, combining a laser focus on customer service with a quickly growing record of high-end sales.
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One such accomplishment is the new Skye Niseko for which Niseko Realty were the exclusive agent. December 2018 marks the opening of the long-awaited hotel which sets a new benchmark in luxury alpine design and service in Niseko. Set at the top of Hirafu village, the hotel launches with 103 out of 105 units privately sold to investors. Thanks for this can be given to the hard work, local knowledge and professionalism of the team at Niseko Realty, who took on the responsibility of bringing all 105 units to market with the developer. “It’s exciting to get the opportunity to be involved in such monumental developments in the Niseko landscape,” says Niseko Realty Founder, Craig Meikle. “With such successful pre-opening sales, we have a happy developer, happy investors who will soon be turning strong profit, and hundreds of happy guests in the hotel for its first year of operation.”
As a specialist in real estate sales only, Niseko Realty is a unique proposition to partner with in the Niseko market. Many other real estate companies in Niseko offer real estate sales, project management, development, design and accommodation services, with few focusing wholly on just one. “We made a deliberate decision to specialise in representing buyers with a wide selection of high-end homes, condominiums, townhouses and land in Niseko,” says Meikle. “We also represent sellers and developers in marketing their properties in a professional manner that will help them achieve the best possible results. “Whether you are looking for your dream home, first home, rental income property or something to allow you to enjoy what Niseko has to offer with your family, we can assist.” To partner with Niseko Realty or to inquire about properties for sale, visit nisekorealty.com
TELLUS VILLAS From ¥265,000,000
Lower Hirafu
From 1,407 sqm Perched on a hillside with expansive views of dramatic Mt Yotei and overlooking idyllic rice fields, Tellus Villas is Niseko’s latest addition to the high-end subdivision market. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to own a unique land plot possessing the holy trinity; incredible location in Hirafu Village, protected and expansive Yotei views, with natural onsen water piped to each lot. This opportunity is limited to only 17 lots with seven already under contract.
SKYE NISEKO 553 ¥245,000,000 3 Bedrooms
Upper Hirafu 3 Bathrooms
129.92 sqm
Enjoy unparalleled living in this 3 bedroom/3 bathroom Skye Niseko corner unit, with commanding panoramic views to Hirafu ski field. Top ski-in ski-out location, with a full range of amenities including natural hot spring baths, ski valet, wellness spa, gym, 24hr concierge service, restaurant & bar, deli & coffee shop, as well as substantial retail.
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NISEKO REALTY CURRENT LISTINGS
MUSE 501
SEASONS 2
¥262,000,000 2 Bedrooms
Upper Hirafu 2 Bathrooms
114.93 sqm + 57.07 sqm deck
HANARIDGE CHALET
¥427,000,000 5 Bedrooms
5 Bathrooms
Annupuri
¥450,000,000
1,125 sqm (Land) 300 sqm (House)
5 Bedrooms
Hanazono 4 Bathrooms
1,003 sqm (Land) 380 sqm (House)
For the first time ever, Muse sub-penthouse 501 is available for purchase. The current owner has taken great pains to further upgrade what was already a true luxury-level finish, providing an opulent living space which stands above the rest. Views-wise Muse 501 provides truly panoramic aspects across the village, with protected views to Mt Yotei through its wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling glass as well as expansive terrace. Muse Niseko is designed for connoisseurs who appreciate Niseko’s beautiful scenery and unique rural culture, where design features emphasize and make accessible this wealth of natural beauty in every way.
Stunning 5 bedroom/5 bathroom chalet finished to a premium level, in an established subdivision in Annupuri. Designed with year-round luxury living in mind, there is no comparison in the current market for buyers looking to purchase a luxury chalet ready for the 2018/19 ski season.
Nestled in the picturesque Hanaridge master-planned subdivision, this alpine chalet will provide wonderful views with high-end custom architecture and design via Riccardo Tossani Architecture. The spacious floorplan flows with ample entertainment space, vaulted ceilings, expansive glass throughout, with a private indoor/outdoor onsen, perfect for soaking tired muscles after a hard day on the mountain. Location is less than a 2-minute drive to Hanazono ski resort and the new Park Hyatt Hotel & Residences.
LOFT NISEKO PENTHOUSE
LAKE TOYA LAND
ODILE
¥165,000,000 3 Bedrooms
Hirafu 3 Bathrooms
¥ Enquire
With arguably the best Mt Yotei view in the village, this 3 bedroom/3 bathroom penthouse offers a high-end designer finish coordinated by renowned Yoo Studios. Personalized concierge service and private roof top terrace are the icing on the cake.
Known as one of Japan’s most stunning lakes, Lake Toya is located within a short drive to both Rusutsu and Niseko resort areas. Niseko Realty are pleased to offer this large land parcel which has fantastic elevated topography showcasing some of the best lake views on offer in the area. Lake Toya is now starting to see significant interest from investors and lifestyle-focused buyers so now is the time to grab this prime opportunity.
For more information contact Craig Meikle (craig@nisekorealty.com) Brian Lysne (brian.lysne@nisekorealty.com) Tel: +81 (0)136 55 8776 www.nisekoreality.com
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Lake Toya
33,962 sqm
113 sqm
¥250,000,000 3 Bedrooms
St Moritz 3 Bathrooms
218 sqm (House) 198 sqm (Land)
22ème teams up with star architect Makoto Nakayama to bring the discerning buyer Odile, a stunning 3 bedroom/3 bathroom residence. Interiors from Poliform Contract (Italy) have brought forward a stylish and cozy concept, situated on an elevated perch with a beautiful aspect towards Mt Yotei. To be completed in November 2018, Odile is the ideal setting for your perfect Niseko vacation home.
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EYE OF THE STORM A chat with one of Niseko’s leading photographers, Glen Claydon WORDS: EVAN JOHNSON PHOTOS: GLEN CLAYDON
F
ew people in Niseko have seen the resort develop and change over the last 15 years with the same perspective as Glen Claydon. As Niseko’s most prominent snowsports and architectural photographer, he’s seen countless new homes and hotels pop up, and has been given the responsibility of bringing these new properties to life through the lens of his camera. We caught up with Glen to talk about his time in Niseko, what’s changed and what he foresees for the future.
So, how did it all begin and what brought you here from Australia? In 2003, at the age of 29, I decided three things: I wanted a change in career, to learn a new language and to have more time to ski and snowboard. So, there were few places in the world like Hokkaido to do each of those three things at once! I began as an assistant English teacher in Hakodate, visiting Niseko only for weekend ski trips. I bought a digital SLR camera, made some friends and photographed our days on the mountain and our evenings in the bar just for fun. When one of those new friends asked if he could pay me to use some of those photos on the website for his company, I thought maybe I could take this photography thing a little more seriously. I moved to Niseko the following winter and haven’t left since. Did you go straight into full-time photography? No, I didn’t have the network to go in to it full-time immediately so I found a year-round job working with Niseko Ground Services in the bookings department. I also started work as a freelance photographer. I was half in the office, half in photography.
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Ian McKenzie of Niseko Ground Services had connections with Niseko Real Estate, so introduced me and I was given the opportunity to shoot Gondola Chalets and the Landmark View for them in late 2006 and early 2007. That led to some more property opportunities and in December 2007, I decided to do photography year-round. So, the mountains came first, and architecture followed. Did your snow action photography skills translate easily to shooting architecture? They are very different disciplines so only to a small extent. If you’re good at one, you’re not definitely good at the other. When shooting a skier or snowboarder, I’m directing a person and instructing them to move in such a way that I can get the perfect shot I have imagined in my head. Architecture is different as you are dealing with a still environment, but that’s not to say it’s any easier. You have to manage lighting, time of day, weather and many other things to get the shot right. Patience is crucial, especially here when sunny winter ‘bluebird’ days can be few and far between. I’ve learnt more and more with experience, and now am equally comfortable in front of a brand-new ski chalet as I am on the mountain with a pro skier. What’s the perfect photography brief from a client with a new property? The more detail, the better. I like to make my commissions a collaborative effort where before I even pick up the camera, I know exactly what the client is wanting to achieve. I find that’s a better way to get the perfect shot that everybody is happy with. Open briefs can be fun, but if a client has something in their mind, I like to know about that first.
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A LOT OF THE ARCHITECTURAL STUFF I DO IS HIGHER END, NO ONE IS ABLE TO REPLICATE THOSE SORTS OF SHOTS WITH AN IPHONE
How much passion and creativity comes into taking a great shot versus pure technical knowledge and skill? Both are important. You can’t take a great photo if you don’t know how to use your equipment perfectly. Equally, you need to be able to visualise what you want to create and you need to be passionate and love your craft to do that. But there’s a third factor too. Good, old-fashioned hard work. Preparation and a willingness to go the extra mile is so important. You’re not going to get that perfect sunrise shot at the Annupuri peak if you’re not setting your alarm for 3am to hike up there. For architecture shots, I often spend hours with a property before shooting it, scoping out lighting, angles and the best time of day to capture it at its most beautiful. With affordable camera tech and drones enabling anyone to ‘give it a go’, do you have any concern for the future of professional photography? Hmmm, not really. The biggest game changer was when mobile phones started coming out with great cameras. But for me, it’s not really a hindrance. A lot of the architectural stuff I do is higher end, no one is able to replicate those sorts of shots with an iPhone. Stock photography is another option now which some brands use in place of professional, bespoke photography but I haven’t noticed a huge change. Speaking of change, what have you seen change, architecturally, over 15 years in Niseko? More houses are being built in discreet, private locations around Niseko, away from the central tourist areas. When I first arrived, most new places were built in Hirafu, with little development away from there. The properties are becoming more and more impressive— EXPERIENCE NISEKO HOMES 39
bigger, more daring designs. And far less expense spared by the investors and developers, that’s for sure. And culturally, the biggest change? It’s become far more multi-cultured in the central parts of the resort, certainly. There are people visiting from countries as far and wide as you can imagine. All over Asia, Australia, South America, Europe, North America, there are people from everywhere. It’s an amazing contrast being in Hirafu with the melting pot of different cultures, and then driving 10 minutes down the road to Kutchan which has largely retained its Japanese identity. Being so photogenic, Niseko is a heavily photographed location. Do you think it will get to a point when the ‘well will run dry’? Definitely not. The place changes so much not only from yearto-year, but from season-to-season and even from day-to-day. Even shooting the same angle of the same subject during different seasons, as I’ve been doing recently on a time-lapse project for the new Skye Niseko hotel, the place never looks quite the same in any two photos. With drones now available too, it’s easier these days to find unique angles and subjects. Do you have photographers you look up to and take inspiration from? I like to develop my own style and I think it’s important to be unique, unlike anyone else. But I definitely have
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photographers who I follow online and whose work I like and admire. Locally, people like Shouya Grigg (creative director of Sekka Group) is a great photographer. And Japanese photographer, Yoichi Watanabe is another. At the same time, as a commercial photographer, I need to have a versatile style and to some extent my style is dictated by what the client wants. You came here for the snow, would you describe yourself as a ‘winter person’ or have you learned to love summer like most people who live here year-round? I love all-four seasons here. I love skiing and snowboarding but I don’t dread the last day of winter. There’s so much to do here in green season, and so many beautiful places to photograph. It’s a slower pace of life in summer, but it’s relaxing. What are you looking forward to most this winter? Well, I couldn’t ski or board last season due to an ankle injury so I’m most looking forward to taking my brand new Gentem and Offshore snowboards out on the mountain for the first time. And taking some awesome photos too, of course! Finally, do you ever see yourself going back to Australia, where you were born and grew up? Maybe…but life’s pretty darn good here, isn’t it? To contact or book Glen, visit www.glenclaydon.com
Ace Pair Lift #1
Ace Family Quad Lift #1
NOW IN NISEKO!
Niseko Resort Grand Hirafu
Grand Hirafu Welcome Center
ALPEN HOTEL Niseko Prince Hotel
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HIRAFU-ZAKA
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HOKKAIDO TRACKS
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58
TOKYU
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HAKU VILLAS NISEKO VILLAGE
INTUITION HIRAFU VILLAGE KUTCHAN
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631
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Photo: Kuma
170-150 Yamada Kutchan Abuta-gun Hokkaido 044-0081 Tel: 0136-55-8086 EXPERIENCE NISEKO HOMES 45