The Most Unique & Family-Friendly Ski Chalets In Asia
Perfect Ski Chalets for Families and Children
With its diverse landscapes and unique cultures, Asia offers you and your family some of the world’s most exciting and varied skiing experiences. From the powdery slopes of Japan to the impressive peaks of the Himalayas, skiing in Asia combines stunning natural beauty, rich traditions, and world-class facilities.
Japan: The Powder Paradise
Japan is renowned for its incredible powder snow, known as “Japow.” The northern island of Hokkaido, particularly the resorts of Niseko, Furano, and Rusutsu, is famous for its consistent winter snowfall, providing skiers with deep, fluffy powder throughout the season. Niseko, often called the “Aspen of Asia,” offers luxurious accommodations, vibrant nightlife, and cultural experiences such as onsen (hot spring baths) and exquisite Japanese cuisine.
South Korea: High-Tech Slopes
South Korea has rapidly gained recognition in the skiing world, especially after hosting the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang. Resorts like Yongpyong and Alpensia offer modern facilities, well-groomed runs, and a variety of slopes suitable for all levels of skiers. The country’s advanced infrastructure, with high-speed lifts and comprehensive ski schools, ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience.
China: Emerging Giant
China is emerging as a significant player in the skiing industry, with ambitious projects and new resorts opening regularly. The country offers a mix of established resorts like Yabuli in Heilongjiang and newer destinations such as Chongli, which hosted events during the 2022 Winter Olympics. Skiing in China provides a unique opportunity to explore the country’s vast landscapes and historical sites, blending adventure with cultural exploration.
India: The Himalayan Adventure
India offers a different skiing experience, with the majestic Himalayas providing a stunning backdrop. Resorts like Gulmarg in Kashmir are gaining popularity for their off-piste opportunities and breathtaking views. Skiing in India is an adventure, often involving heli-skiing and exploring less-commercialized, pristine slopes. The challenging terrain and rich cultural heritage make it a unique destination for avid skiers.
Main image: Seasons Niseko
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Kimamaya By Odin, Hokkaido
Be Yourself In JapanKimamaya, meaning 'be yourself' in Japanese, is a luxurious boutique hotel in Niseko Hirafu village, Hokkaido. With only nine beautifully styled rooms, it offers an intimate retreat ideal for couples or families. Personalized service, such as swapping ski boots for Japanese slippers, and amenities like a private onsen, in-house massages, and breakfast at the acclaimed Barn by Odin restaurant, create a homely yet opulent experience. Designed by Andrew Bell, the rooms combine alpine charm with cosmopolitan touches, featuring premium bedding, rain showers, and various pillow options. Guests can unwind in the cozy lounge by the fireplace while children enjoy and run riot in the dedicated playroom. Kimamaya perfectly blends traditional and modern comforts, ensuring a memorable stay in one of Japan's premier ski destinations.
Kimamaya by Odin, 170-248 Yamada, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido, Japan, +81 (0) 136 23 2603, reservations@kimamaya.com, https://www.kimamaya.com/
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Seasons Residence, Niseko
The Epitome Of Alpine Luxury In JapanSeasons Residence is Niseko's premier ultra-luxurious alpine retreat, nestled in a private gated compound surrounded by towering Japanese pine trees. This expansive chalet, accommodating up to 15 guests in five bedrooms, promises absolute seclusion and is perfect for family gatherings. Private chefs and butlers indulge you and your guests with sleek, modern décor with an urban-industrial twist. Amenities include an indoor heated pool, eight-seat cinema, woodfired pizza oven, sauna, 1000-bottle wine cellar and bar, billiards table, and Pioneer DJ decks—all with stunning mountain views. The chalet offers a private chef, complimentary massages, in-home ski fittings, and dedicated concierge and chauffeur services. Strategically located in Annupuri National Park, it's a minute's drive to the Annupuri Gondola and within walking distance of gourmet restaurants and après-ski bars. You'll be treated to luxury airport transfers, daily gourmet meals, and an hour-long in-home massage per adult. The internationally renowned chef, Sean Mell, provides exquisite culinary experiences, making every meal rather special.
Seasons Residence, 432-51 Niseko, Abuta District, Hokkaido 048-1511, Japan, +852 9093 6840, info@seasons-niseko.com, https://www.seasons-niseko.com/residence
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Hakuchozan, Hokkaido
World's Best Ski Boutique Hotel 2023, JapanHakuchozan, meaning "Swan Mountain" in Japanese, was inspired by Bavaria's Neuschwanstein Castle and embodies a modern winter fairytale. Located in the heart of Grand Hirafu Village in Hokkaido, this multi-award-winning chalet offers a luxurious retreat designed for multiple generations to create lifelong memories. With seven spacious ensuite bedrooms, including one with bunk beds, Hakuchozan accommodates up to 16 guests. You'll be spoiled with freshly baked bread, gourmet breakfasts with views of Mount Yotei, chauffeured ski trips, and evenings by the fireplace with your favorite tipple. Amenities include a jacuzzi, a man cave, and a team of staff dedicated to catering to your every need. The chalet combines elegant architecture with personalized service, making it a haven for relaxation and indulgence in the Hokkaido mountains.
Hakuchozan, 163-41 Yamada, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0081, Japan, +81 (0) 136 21 5138, reservations@hakulife.com, https://hakulife.com/hakuchozan/
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Song Saa Chalet, Niseko
Epitome Of Quiet Living In Annupuri, JapanLocated in one of Niseko's most upscale neighborhoods, Song Saa Chalet epitomizes quiet luxury with its dark wood exterior reminiscent of Japanese shou sugi ban (burnt cedar) style and airy interiors featuring curated timber finishes. Close to the Annupuri ski area, this six-bedroom chalet is a serene holiday home accommodating up to 18 guests. The open-plan layout includes a modern kitchen, dining area, and living room with expansive windows offering panoramic views. Highlights include a Japanese tatami room, double-height ceilings with timber beams, and ensuite bathrooms for each bedroom. Situated in a peaceful community, Song Saa offers easy access to ski lifts and dining spots and is a 15-minute drive from Hirafu for more après-ski options. The chalet also provides a complimentary concierge service for airport transfers, ski lift tickets, lessons, gear rental, non-ski activities, car hire, and in-accommodation catering.
Song Saa Chalet, 432-47 Niseko, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido, Japan, +81 (0)136 23 1724, reservations@nisade.com, https://www.songsaaniseko.com/
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Nagaré House, Niseko
Traditional Charms In The Landscapes Of Niseko, JapanNagaré House is an exquisite century-old Japanese home, meticulously dismantled in Niigata and restored to its former glory, now nestled in the enchanting landscapes of Niseko. This unique retreat blends traditional charm with modern comfort, featuring preserved wooden beams and ancient Japanese joinery. You and your family can enjoy the soothing waters of nearby onsens, snowy evenings by the fire, and home-cooked meals in the open-plan kitchen-dining area. Accommodating up to 10 guests in four luxurious bedrooms, Nagaré House offers easy access to world-class ski resorts Moiwa and Niseko Annupuri and local Michelin-starred dining. Experience a serene, authentic Japanese stay with all modern comforts, just minutes from Niseko's best attractions and slopes.
Nagaré House, +81 50 5539 9434, info@stay-north.co, https://www.nagareniseko.com/
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One Chalets, Hakuba
Fantasy Chalets, JapanDescribed as a “James Bond fantasy” made real, One Chalets offers two of the most luxurious self-catering ski accommodations in Hakuba—One Happo and Phoenix One. One Happo, a modern wooden chalet with huge glass windows, sits just 100 meters from the slopes and features an infra-red viewing deck, a cozy sauna, an onsen wet zone, and a world-class gymnasium. Guests enjoy meals cooked by renowned chefs Yuki and Kazuyuki Shimamoto. Phoenix One, nestled in the Wadano Forest, is a three-story villa crafted from Japanese cedar, boasting hydronic floor heating, a modern kitchen, an infinity-edge granite bath, and a far-infrared sauna. Both chalets offer stunning panoramic views, sophisticated furnishings, and exclusive amenities, including private 4x4 vehicles and state-of-the-art gymnasiums.
One Chalets, One Happo, 4620-1 Oaza Hokujo, Kita-Azumi-Gun, Hakuba-Mura Nagano-ken, Japan. Phoenix One, 4693-10 Hokujo, Kita-Azumi-Gun, Hakuba-Mura Nagano-ken, Japan, +81 261 72 4060, info@phoenixhotel.jp, http://www.onechalets.com/
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Zaborin, Hokkaido
Contemporary Luxury Ryokan In Hanazono, JapanZaborin, a contemporary luxury ryokan in Hanazono, Hokkaido, offers a secluded woodland hideaway surrounded by meadows and ancient forests. This serene retreat features 15 impeccably designed villas, each with private indoor and outdoor onsens providing breathtaking views. Guests can experience authentic ryokan traditions, relax in natural spring baths, and indulge in award-winning kita kaiseki cuisine by chef Yoshihiro Seno. The ryokan also offers a library, a communal living space with lakeside views, a bar with Japanese whiskies, a boutique, and a massage room for private spa treatments. Zaborin embodies the essence of relaxation, inviting you to immerse yourself in nature's beauty while enjoying modern comforts.
Zaborin, 76-4 Hanazono Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido, Japan, +81 136 23 0003, info@zaborin.com, https://zaborin.com/en/
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Sekka Sekka, Hirafu Village
Breathtaking Views Of Mount Yotei, JapanA dream place for a family retreat, Sekka Sekka is a luxurious four-story, standalone holiday house in the heart of Hirafu village. This stunning home is just a short walk from ski lifts, restaurants, bars, ski rentals, convenience stores, and bus stops, making it incredibly convenient for guests. The house features five spacious bedrooms, each with an ensuite bathroom, ensuring privacy and comfort for all guests. The open-plan kitchen is fully equipped with high-quality appliances, including an oven, microwave, dishwasher, and coffee machine, catering to all culinary needs. The spacious dining area, which seats up to 12 guests, has a cozy living area offering breathtaking views of Mount Yotei, providing a perfect space for family and friends to gather and unwind after a long day on the slopes. Additional amenities include a ski storage room and covered parking.
Sekka Sekka, 3-chome-1-10 Nisekohirafu 2 Jo, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido, Japan, +81 (0) 136 21 5811, reservations@nisade.com, https://nisade.com/accommodation/sekka-sekka
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HakuVillas Super Penthouse, Hokkaido
Three Exclusive Floors Of Luxury Living, JapanHakuVillas Super Penthouse spans the top three floors of an exclusive building, offering breathtaking views, impeccable service, and cutting-edge design. Accommodating up to 16 guests with seven ensuite bedrooms and a nanny room, the penthouses feature a rooftop onsen with stunning views of Mount Yotei, a private ensuite onsen in the primary bedroom, a kids' game room, a man cave with premium wine and whisky selections, two massage rooms, a private sauna, and a 24-hour 10-seater vehicle. At almost 600 square meters, the penthouse boasts spacious entertaining areas, intelligent room layouts, and an emphasis on calm, seamless luxury. The penthouse includes private onsens with water from a volcanic source, elegantly designed to offer an authentic Japanese bathing experience. Guests enjoy five entertainment spaces: an outdoor Jacuzzi deck with a fire pit, a media/games room, an expansive living room with a massage chair and wood-burning fireplace, and a dining area with a Makore redwood bar and dining table for 17. Chef Luiz prepares gourmet meals, and the attentive staff provides 6-star service, ensuring a luxurious, unforgettable stay.
Setsu Penthouse, 6-9 1-jo 2-chome, Niseko Hirafu, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido, Japan, +81 (0) 136 55-5131, stay@setsuniseko.com, https://setsuniseko.com/en/accommodation/4-bedroom-penthouse
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The Director’s Villa, Solang Valley Resort
A Resort Chalet, IndiaSolang Director’s Villa, located in Solang Valley Resort, is a gorgeous two-story villa with an attic featuring three bedrooms, each with spacious balconies offering stunning glacier and valley views. The chalet includes a living room, dining area, functional kitchenette, and an attic with a sitting room, bar, and games area. Guests can enjoy private bonfires after a long day of skiing. The villa has a separate entrance and private parking for three to four cars and is 200 meters from the main block, where meals are served in the resort's restaurants. The resort, situated at 8,500 feet above sea level on the banks of the River Beas, offers breathtaking views of the Beas Kund glacier and the Dhauladhar range. It features 70 rooms across three blocks (River, Valley, and Glacier) constructed using local teak wood, blending seamlessly with the surroundings. The resort also boasts a spa using local ingredients and multiple dining options, including Dhaam for Himachali cuisine, the Italian restaurant Gazebo, Malana Bar, and the open-air Riverside Restaurant by the River Beas.
The Director’s Villa. Solang Valley Resort, Solang Valley, Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India, +91 981 003 6692, info@solangvalleyresorts.com, https://solangvalleyresorts.com/rooms/the-directors-villa/
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Snowball Chalet, Madarao Village
Yurt-Living In JapanSnowball Chalet is a boutique nine-room ski chalet in the heart of Madarao village, just 100 meters from the slopes and a two-hour trip from Tokyo. This retreat, built from stunning cedar wood, features plush new carpets, designer fireplaces, Japanese ofuro bathtubs, and cozy furnishings. You can relax in the lounge with après drinks by the fire, enjoying views of the Niseko Ski Resort and Mount Yotei. The chalet offers various room configurations, including deluxe ensuite rooms, family rooms, and a luxury suite with a private ofuro and designer fireplace. Amenities include a drying room, quality furniture, and Japanese art. Incredible ski runs surround Snowball Chalet, offering easy access to nearby resorts and hidden gems. Unique experiences include tours to see the Snow Monkeys and sake tastings. The founders, Dan and Andy Solo share their love of adventure and snow with guests from around the world.
Snowball Chalet, 11492-331 Madarao, Iiyama, Iiyama-Shi, Nagano-Ken, Japan, +81 90 4595 1999, dan@snowballchalet.com, https://www.snowballchalet.com/properties/snowball-chalet
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Park Hyatt Changbaishan
China’s Best Ski HotelLocated in China’s snowy northeast, Changbaishan is a premier winter sports destination featuring luxury resorts like the Park Hyatt Changbaishan, renowned as China's best ski hotel. This 5-star resort offers direct access to the slopes and boasts indoor and outdoor heated pools, a fitness area, luxury dining, and a traditional Chinese spa. The Park Hyatt has 164 spacious rooms across 10 villas, ideal for family gatherings or conferences, and is equipped with modern technology and amenities. The Ambassador Suite has traditional Chinese decor, two king bedrooms, a living room, a dining room, a kitchen, a massage room, and a luxurious bathroom. Guests enjoy personalized service, daily turndown, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel's secluded forest location offers stunning views and proximity to attractions like the Grand Canyon and Tianchi Lake. Dining options include the Living Room and Park Hyatt Dining Room, offering Western and Chinese comfort food in a serene environment with beautiful mountain views.
Park Hyatt Changbaishan, Changbaishan International Resort, Changbaishan, China, +86 439 698 1234, changbaishan.regency@hyatt.com, https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/china/park-hyatt-changbaishan/nbsph
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Alpinarc6, Hakuba
Olympic Ski Jump Views, JapanAlpinarc6, a luxurious six-bedroom retreat in Hakuba, is perfect for individuals, families, and groups of up to 16 guests. This 280 square meter chalet offers stunning panoramic views of Happo-One Resort, the Olympic ski jumps, and the Japanese Alps. The main living area features a cozy fireplace and can accommodate up to 12 guests, while a second smaller living area caters to groups of six. Alpinarc6 boasts a Japanese-style onsen bath, two kitchens, two dining areas, and underfloor heating. It is conveniently located in Echoland and provides easy access to resort shuttles, restaurants, bars, and major ski resorts. Amenities include a private ski dry room, heated sidewalks and parking, and modern kitchen and laundry facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Alpinarc6, 3020-834, Hokujo, Hakuba, Kitaazumi District, Nagano, Japan, +81 80 2188 9071, stay@hakubawhitefox.com, https://www.hakubawhitefox.com/ski-chalets/alpinarc-chalet/
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InterContinental Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort, Gangwon Province
European Style Resort In South KoreaAlpensia is a small ski resort in South Korea's Gangwon Province, just two hours from Seoul, known for hosting events at the PyeongChang Winter Olympics. It features the luxurious Intercontinental Alpensia, designed by the Cuningham Group in a classical European style, and was awarded South Korea's Best Ski Hotel in 2017. Perched 700 meters above sea level in the Taebaek Mountains, the resort offers stunning views, a forest spa, a fitness center, and exceptional dining at Flavours Restaurant, Oxy Lounge, and Oxy Deli. The resort provides access to celebrated ski slopes and an alpine coaster. The guest rooms include luxurious bedding, a pillow menu, smart lighting and temperature controls, rain showers, bathtubs, and complimentary high-speed internet. Little Steps loves the chalet-inspired Presidential Suite, which accommodates two adults and two children.
InterContinental Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort, 325 Solbong-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun Gangwon-do, South Korea, +82 33 339, icr.front@ihg.com, https://www.ihg.com/
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Jade Rabbit Chalet, Niseko
Perfect Niseko Vacations, JapanNestled among the trees in the exclusive Pavilions Estate in Hirafu, Jade Rabbit is a brand-new, five-bedroom chalet offering the perfect escape for families or groups. Spanning two floors, it features an open-plan kitchen and dining area, a spacious lounge, a separate media room, and floor-to-ceiling windows with tranquil nature views. Amenities include an oversized bath, a vast primary bedroom with a balcony, smart TVs, climate control, a double-car garage with a heated driveway, and proximity to restaurants and bars. Jade Rabbit provides Niseko vacations for the ski season, with airport transfers, lift tickets, ski and snowboard lessons, equipment hire, snowmobile rides, snowshoeing, private catering, and childcare at Niseko Kids Club.
Jade Rabbit Chalet, 10-34 Niseko Hirafu 4-jo 3-chome, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido, Japan, +81 (0) 136 23 1724, reservations@nisade.com, https://nisade.com/accommodation/jade-rabbit
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The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa
Overlooking The Pir Panjal Mountains, IndiaLocated at 8,825 feet in Gulmarg, India, The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa is a luxurious boutique ski resort with 85 rooms and cottages, offering breathtaking views of the Pir Panjal mountain range. This all-season sanctuary blends modern architecture with Kashmiri heritage, featuring Khatambandi ceilings, wood and stonework, and lush landscaping reminiscent of the region's fabled gardens. Guests can enjoy world-class dining, wellness experiences, and exceptional hospitality. The resort offers easy access to Gulmarg Ski Resort and the Gulmarg Gondola, the world's second-highest cable car.
The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, 29RP+R2, Hotel Khyber Rd, Forest Block, Jammu and Kashmir, India, +91 194 3503222, reservations.gulmarg@khyberhotels.com, https://www.khyberhotels.com/the-resort
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