Exchange Japan's city noise for rural tranquillity
Experience traditional Japanese luxury at Shiguchi, a private villa escape in Hokkaido.
Location
Tucked into the peaceful Hanazono hills of Niseko, Shiguchi is a serene hideaway on Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido. Just a 15-minute drive from Niseko’s ski slopes, it offers easy access to year-round adventure while feeling wonderfully removed from the noise.
Rooms
There are five private villas, each converted from a 150-year-old kominka (traditional farmhouse). Every space blends natural materials, exposed timber, and clean Japanese aesthetics with modern comforts like underfloor heating, custom-made beds, and carefully curated art from the owners' personal collection.
Amenities
Each villa has its own indoor and outdoor onsen-style hot spring bath, a modern kitchen, and a fireplace. Daily breakfast is included, with seasonal Hokkaido ingredients delivered fresh to your door. Thoughtful touches—like meditation cushions and hand-thrown ceramics make the stay feel personal and immersive.
Activities
Shiguchi offers a slower pace that shifts with the seasons, powder-soft skiing in winter, forest walks and riverside picnics in summer. Art and nature are woven into the landscape, and days often unfold with yoga, private massage, or quiet moments by the fire. From guided hikes to calligraphy workshops, there’s plenty to discover at your own rhythm.
Sustainability
Shiguchi champions adaptive reuse and heritage preservation, breathing new life into historic buildings while supporting local artisans and producers. Every detail reflects a deep respect for Hokkaido’s culture, nature and craftsmanship.
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Best places to stay in Japan
Japan Trip Inspiration
When to go to Japan
A month-by-month guide of when to visit Japan
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is ideal for winter sports in Hokkaido and northern regions, with plenty of snow. Tokyo and Kyoto remain chilly but offer clear skies for sightseeing. Explore Sapporo's Snow Festival and soak in an onsen for the ultimate winter experience.
February
February is the best time for skiing and snowboarding in Nagano and Hokkaido. The Sapporo Snow Festival is a major attraction, featuring stunning ice sculptures. Other areas are generally cold and dry and good for sightseeing.
March
March marks the beginning of spring, with cherry blossoms starting to bloom in southern regions like Kyoto and Tokyo. Enjoy hanami picnics under the pink blossoms. It's a great time for hiking and outdoor adventures.
April
April is the peak of cherry blossom season. Witness Tokyo's Ueno Park and Kyoto's Maruyama Park come alive with vibrant sakura. Golden Week, late April to early May, offers festive parades and events.
May
May offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities and hiking. Explore Tokyo's International Food Festival and enjoy the comfortable climate for sightseeing in Kyoto.
June
June is the start of the rainy season, known as tsuyu, lasting until mid-July. Although it's wet, explore Kyoto's temples and gardens amid light crowds. Festivals like the Sanno Matsuri in Tokyo showcase Japanese traditions.
July
July continues the rainy season, but the Tanabata Star Festival brightens the skies. Hokkaido hosts the Lavender Festival with fields of purple blooms. Kyoto's Gion Matsuri features grand floats.
August
August offers festivals and fireworks. The Obon Festival celebrates ancestors with lanterns and dances. Enjoy the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival in Tokyo. Hokkaido's summer flower festivals are perfect for nature enthusiasts.
September
September brings comfortable weather and the iconic Kunchi Festival in Nagasaki. Explore the Sapporo Autumn Festival in Hokkaido. It's a great time for sightseeing with fewer tourists.
October
October features stunning autumn foliage in Kyoto and Nikko. Visit Tokyo's Meiji Shrine during the Meiji Jingu Festival and enjoy Oktoberfest celebrations. Ideal for hiking and outdoor adventures.
November
November showcases autumn foliage, with Kyoto's temples and parks ablaze in red and orange. Yoyogi Park in Tokyo hosts the International Food Festival, and Kyushu's hot spring resorts offer relaxation.
December
December marks the onset of winter, with holiday illuminations in cities and festive lights. Explore Hokkaido's Sapporo Snow Festival with breathtaking ice sculptures. Ski resorts open for winter sports enthusiasts.
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Nia
Japan Expert
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