Staying at Kanro no mori didn’t really feel like being in Niseko and it was refreshing that it’s still possible to stay in a hotel so close to the hub of Niseko that was able to offer a lovely Japanese experience. It was uplifting that the majority of the guests were Japanese (plus a handful of Chinese) and that some of the staff spoke no English whilst those on the front desk spoke only a small amount of English. Hallelujah!! It wasn’t a full-on ryokan and most of the rooms have some western beds, but otherwise it was truly a Japanese hotel with onsen and Japanese cuisine.

The location wouldn’t suit some people, as it’s not within easy walking distance of Moiwa ski resort (or Niseko United slopes), and to get anywhere requires a car or use of the shuttle buses. Yet its remoteness is also one of its strengths because it’s not in crazy busy Hirafu, and looking across the snowy forest from the onsen and snowy landscapes from the restaurants is serenely blissful.

Our hotel room was a combo Japanese/western room with 2 large western single beds and tatami sitting area. There was plenty of space to spread out, and it was nice to have a bathroom, unlike most traditional ryokan, even though we didn’t use the shower because we bathed in the onsen. I’d rate the sleep quality as a 10/5 because it was soooo quiet.

The buffet breakfast was amazing and the huge windows that highlight the lovely setting were best appreciated during daylight hours. It was good that there was the option of a la carte fare at the bar for dinner, and we also walked up to Lodge Moiwa 834 (opposite Moiwa ski resort) for dinner one night.

We would highly recommend Hotel Kanro no mori if you want the skiing experience of Niseko along with a relaxing onsen and dinner, and to escape other gaijin. This is not for you if you want a westernised experience, kids’ activities or nightlife.
See our video here