Nozo Hotel

Nozo Hotel in Furano, Hokkaido, is the sort of place that, if you didn’t know better, you’d think had been dreamt up by a clever travel agent determined to sell you on the idea of pristine luxury nestled amid breathtaking natural beauty. This sparkling new gem of a hotel opened its doors in December 2023, and the location is nothing short of impeccable. Tucked near the base of the Furano Ski Resort, it’s an absolute magnet for winter sports aficionados who find themselves irresistibly drawn to the famous powder snow that makes this region legendary.

But don’t be fooled into thinking Nozo Hotel is a winter-only affair. No, this place is a year-round playground, offering everything from rafting and trekking to cycling and paragliding for the outdoor enthusiast who likes their adventure served up with a side of luxury. Whether you’re carving through snow or hiking through lush greenery, there’s always something to tempt you outside.

The accommodations? They’re nothing short of tranquil masterpieces. Nozo Hotel features eight room types, each designed with minimalist flair, combining natural wood and stone to echo the wild beauty of Hokkaido. Whether you’re in a standard room or a luxurious suite, the clean lines and organic materials create an atmosphere of calm that’s hard to resist. Guests love this about the hotel, often praising the way the interiors harmonize with the surrounding landscapes, making it the ideal place to unwind after a day of adventure.

Of course, a stay here isn’t complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Shirakaba Restaurant has taken the farm-to-table philosophy to heart, offering an array of dishes featuring Furano pork, Tokachi beef, and the freshest vegetables Hokkaido has to offer. The international preparation of these local ingredients is a hit with guests, who often find themselves returning for another taste of the regional delicacies. And for those who enjoy their beverages, Nozo’s got you covered. Guests rave about the local wines, craft beers, and artisanal spirits that round out the dining experience. Yes, you read that correctly: artisanal spirits. This place takes its beverages seriously.

When it’s time to relax, the Sugi Spa offers a peaceful retreat, even if it’s not a hot spring. The water bath and sauna are more than enough to soothe tired muscles, and travelers frequently mention the spa’s tranquil atmosphere as one of the highlights of their stay. For families, Nozo thoughtfully provides a kids’ room, keeping the little ones entertained while parents take full advantage of the spa or perhaps the well-equipped gym.

And we mustn’t forget the bakery—ah, the bakery. Each day, the scent of freshly baked bread wafts through the hotel, made from local ingredients that seem to capture the essence of Hokkaido itself. It’s no surprise that breakfast here leaves such a lasting impression on guests, many of whom can’t resist the temptation to indulge in the bakery’s offerings.

The hotel is also fully equipped with practical amenities like ski lockers, making it easy for skiers to hit the slopes and return without fuss. However, the convenience doesn’t stop at winter sports. Nozo’s strategic location makes it a fantastic base for exploring Furano’s other treasures, such as the famously beautiful lavender fields that bloom in the summer.

Guests consistently praise Nozo Hotel for its seamless blend of luxury and location. Whether they come for the world-class skiing or the lush summer landscapes, they leave remembering the thoughtful design, superb dining, and the sense of peace that seems to envelop everything here. It’s the kind of place where each season competes to be the favorite, and where guests—no matter when they visit—are reluctant to leave.

You’ll find this luxurious retreat at 18-6 Kitanomine-cho, Furano-shi, Hokkaido 076-0034, Japan, sitting so close to Furano Ski Resort that you could practically roll out of bed and onto the slopes.