The Details
Joey, the Head of Concierge at The Luxe Nomad, stayed at The Maples Niseko in Upper Hirafu in March 2019.
The Maples Niseko was opened in December 2018 and is a ski-in-ski-out condominium hotel with 73 units that range in size from studio apartments to 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom penthouses.
For this review, Joey stayed in a 2-bedroom unit with ski views.
The Vibe
The Maples is a truly luxe ski-in-ski-out condominium hotel, with sleek modern design. And, if you think that Japanese accommodations are generally small, you have not seen the two-bedroom ski view units at The Maples. This condominium hotel was designed to have lots of large and liveable spaces with functional kitchens.
As the units are so large, The Maples is the perfect home away from home. The unit’s lighting is warm, exuding a cosy vibe which was much needed after a long day out in the cold.
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The Room
Our two bedroom unit had breathtaking views of the ski slopes – there was a lot of natural light because of the high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows.
The king sized bed was very comfortable, with large fluffy pillows. We ended each night by catching up on our favourite Netflix series in our room (all the TVs have Netflix). In addition to having Netflix, there is a safe box, an oven that doubles as a microwave, a dishwasher, a sleek refrigerator, and hairdryer within the unit.
We also loved the thoughtful touch of having mini tatamis by the windows. These tatamis gave us the opportunity to sit back comfortably, relax, munch on a bar of chocolate, and wash it down with plum wine while admiring the beautiful snow-capped landscape that we were surrounded by.
Additionally, there are dedicated lockers for each unit, vending machines on Level 2 which provide tidbits and drinks, and convenient equipment returns via The Maples concierge to the rental shops, Niseko Sports and Rhythm.
Read also: Beyond the Slopes: 7 things to do in Niseko even if you’re not skiing
The Location
The Maples is a few minutes down the street from Hirafu Welcome Centre. If you do not feel like walking, however, The Maples has a complimentary return transfer service to the Welcome Centre.
The best part about the location is that it is right by the slopes at the Ace Family Lift, so you can watch skiers zooming by.
It’s also in the middle of everything! There are plenty of restaurants within a quick walk, and there is a cute coffee truck just steps away so you can grab a quick cuppa before heading out for the day. Hirafu 188 is just two minutes away as well, and we picked up plenty of plum wine there.
The Food
The highly famed Roketto, by Chef Willin Low of Wild Rocket, is located within the premises of The Maples. The restaurant boasts great Japanese-Singaporean cuisine! The hearty food is just what you need after a long day out.
One evening, I decided to check out Roketto. They didn’t have any takeaway boxes but allowed me to borrow their ceramic bowls as long as I returned them after use. I got their recommended laksa udon and sui gyoza; these dishes made me feel warm and fuzzy. The laksa broth packed a real punch, was hearty and was everything I didn’t know I needed!
Read also: #Japow! HK Restaurateur Lindsay Jang on Niseko and its food!
The Service
The pickup service to Hirafu Welcome Centre was extremely convenient especially when we brought large items of luggage. The follow-ups throughout our stay regarding our transfers were consistent while not intrusive. The Maples team made sure that I had my arrival and departure transfers sorted.
Our Favourite Part
Since returning to the office, we have not stopped raving about the unbeatable views, the little window-side tatami beds, and the amount of space!
For the best rates and free concierge service, book your stay with The Luxe Nomad here!
