Hotels Niseko: Unwind in the Best Accommodations in Hokkaido

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is a haven for travellers looking for breath taking picturesque views of the mountains, rich cultural experiences, and a chance to unwind. Hokkaido offers a unique blend of natural wonders, vibrant city life, and warm hospitality of hotels in Niseko, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Exploring Hokkaido’s Natural Beauty

Hokkaido’s Stunning Landscapes

Hokkaido is renowned for its picturesque landscapes that vary with each season. From the lush green fields of Furano during summer to the vibrant hues of autumn foliage in Daisetsuzan National Park, Hokkaido offers a visual feast for nature enthusiasts. To fully appreciate the beauty of these landscapes, consider staying at one of the luxurious hotels in Niseko that offer panoramic views of the surrounding natural wonders.

Onsen Retreats: A Japanese Tradition

No trip to Hokkaido would be complete without experiencing the healing power of its hot springs, known as onsen. The island boasts numerous onsen retreats where visitors can soak in mineral-rich waters while enjoying serene surroundings. Immerse yourself in ultimate relaxation at one of the traditional ryokans or hotels in Niseko that offer private open-air baths and exquisite kaiseki cuisine, a multi-course meal showcasing the region’s finest ingredients.

Hokkaido’s Culinary Delights

Fresh Seafood and Gourmet Cuisine

Hokkaido is a paradise for food lovers, particularly seafood enthusiasts. Guests at several hotels in Niseko can indulge in the freshest catch of the day, including succulent crab, melt-in-your-mouth scallops, and flavoursome sea urchins. The coastal cities of Otaru and Hakodate are known for their bustling seafood markets, where you can savour the vibrant atmosphere and sample a variety of local delicacies. To enhance your gastronomic journey, stay at hotels in Niseko or an inn that prides itself on serving the finest regional dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers and fishermen.

Savouring Hokkaido’s Dairy Products

Hokkaido’s vast dairy farms produce some of Japan’s most delectable dairy products. From rich and creamy Hokkaido milk to velvety smooth ice cream, the island is a dairy lover’s paradise. Visit one of the charming dairy farms scattered across the region, where you can interact with adorable cows and learn about the meticulous process of dairy production. Many accommodations offer farm stays, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the rustic charm of Hokkaido’s countryside while enjoying freshly made dairy treats.

Cultural Immersion and City Exploration

Discovering Sapporo: Hokkaido’s Vibrant Capital

As Hokkaido’s capital city, Sapporo offers a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. Explore the city’s vibrant streets lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, or take a stroll through Odori Park, a spacious green oasis in the heart of the city. Sapporo is also famous for its annual Snow Festival, where magnificent ice sculptures attract visitors from around the world. Choose an accommodation located in the city centre to fully immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere and convenience of Sapporo.

Traditional Villages: Preserving Hokkaido’s Heritage

For a glimpse into Hokkaido’s rich cultural heritage, venture outside the cities and visit the region’s traditional villages. Places like Shiraoi and Biei offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life, with beautifully preserved farmhouses, serene landscapes, and local craft workshops. Stay at charming hotels in Niseko or Minshuku, a traditional Japanese inn, to experience the warmth and hospitality of the locals firsthand.

Hokkaido is a treasure trove of natural beauty, culinary delights, and cultural experiences. Whether you seek a serene onsen retreat, an exploration of stunning landscapes, or an immersion into Hokkaido’s vibrant city life, the island offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every preference.

If you are planning your next trip to northern Japan, visit the Luxe Nomad and explore their selection of boutique hotels in Niseko. From luxurious chalets with breathtaking views to cosy farm stays that allow you to connect with nature, their accommodations ensure a memorable and rejuvenating stay. Plan your trip with the Luxe Nomad today and embark on an unforgettable journey that will leave you with cherished memories for a lifetime.

 

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Exciting Things to Experience in Japan

Oh, the Land of the Rising Sun! I recently returned from my trip to Japan, and I’m still overflowing with emotions.

From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, Japan captured my heart with its fascinating culture and friendly people. I found myself constantly mesmerized by the blend of traditional and modern attractions, and each day offered a new adventure.

The thrill of trying new foods and exploring vibrant neighborhoods left me feeling excited and curious, while visiting historic sites filled me with a sense of awe and wonder. Japan truly is a captivating country, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for every visitor.

If you are visiting Japan, anytime soon, here are some activities that you must consider.

#1: GO AMUSEMENT PARK HOPPING

Discover the excitement of Tokyo’s amusement parks! Disneyland, DisneySea, Universal Studios Japan, Sanrio Puroland, and Tokyo Dome City offer rides and attractions for all ages.

I couldn’t contain my joy as I rode each thrilling attraction, watched the vibrant shows, and indulged in delicious treats. I highly recommend arriving early to avoid long queues and to maximize your time at each park. My personal favorites were the magical Harry Potter’s Forbidden Journey ride at Universal Studios Japan and the unforgettable Journey to the Center of the Earth at Tokyo DisneySea. Don’t forget to enjoy the delicious treats at every park.

#2: VISIT SHRINES & TEMPLES

As you search for things to do in Japan, you will undoubtedly come across pictures of tourists posing in front of the vibrant facades of Fushimi Inari Shrine. This shrine is renowned for its thousands of striking red torii gates, which symbolize vitality and protection against evil in Japanese culture. In addition to the shrine, be sure to visit the Kinkaku-ji temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

During my visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, my family and I had to seize the opportunity to capture the perfect pictures, even during the busy Golden Week period.

#3: EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF MT. FUJI

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Mount Fuji is a symbol of Japan. The magnificent mountain appeared before us in all its majestic beauty, and I couldn’t help but feel in awe. We were so lucky to see some of the Sakura trees there too.

A cable car ride to the summit of Mount Hakone provides breathtaking views, while the Chureito pagoda or any of the five surrounding lakes offer equally stunning panoramas. Visiting Mount Fuji is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s a must-see for any Singaporean traveler. From the picturesque views to the refreshing breeze, it’s an unforgettable destination.

#4: SHOP TILL YOU DROP

Japan is renowned for its exceptional shopping experience, with popular areas like Tokyo’s Ginza district, Shibuya Center Street, Osaka’s Shinsaibashi and Umeda areas, and Kyoto’s Shijo-dori and Teramachi shopping arcades.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

If you’re a shopping enthusiast, you’ll love exploring the discounted luxury items at Gotemba Premium Outlets and the second-hand luxury items at BOOKOFF. And to top it off, most of the shopping outlets offer tax-free shopping, making it a budget-friendly experience. From luxury brands to traditional Japanese crafts, electronics, and unique souvenirs, you’ll find a wide range of shopping options that will make you go crazy. We certainly did!

#5: FEED THE DEERS

Nara is a city renowned for its stunning parks and friendly deer population. The city’s centerpiece is Nara Park, which is home to over a thousand deer that roam freely. While there, be sure to visit the Todai-ji temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha. I was in awe of how huge it was up close!

Don’t forget to bow respectfully before feeding the deer, as they will often bow back in appreciation.

#6: INDULGE IN GOOD FOOD

Japan’s incredible food culture left me immensely satisfied. As a tourist, you can indulge in a wide variety of delicious dishes, including sushi, ramen, udon, tempura, wagyu, okonomiyaki, and yakitori. I couldn’t resist trying matcha in different forms every day, from matcha tiramisu cake to matcha ice cream.

Don’t forget to sample the delectable street food such as takoyaki, mochi, and Kobe beef skewer. Japan’s diverse and unique food culture is a must-try experience for any Singaporean foodie.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and book a flight to Japan!

Sources: 1 & 2

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Fly to Tokyo from S$261? Jetstar runs 4-day sale offering discounted tickets from 11 – 14 Oct 22

Hello Tokyo Sale is now on

Japan’s borders are finally reopening fully to tourists on October 11 and what better way to celebrate than to book a trip to the city of Tokyo?

From 11 – 14 October 22, Jetstar will be running a sale offering fares to Tokyo from S$261 all-inclusive one way.  This is incredibly cheap considering fares to Japan have gone through the roof. The only catch is you have to transit via Manila to enjoy this promo fare — not too bad if you are travelling alone.

The travel period is from 1 Feb to 15 March 2023, just in time for you to catch the cherry blossom season in mid-March.

Click here to book your tickets now.

Screenshot from Jetstar.com

Share this news with fellow travellers!

 

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40th Anniversary Mobile Suit Gundam Coffee, Kit Kat KOI Matcha and Ichiran Ramen Instant Pack at Cheers Japan Fair 2021!

Missing the Land of the Rising Sun? Here on the sunny island of Singapore, you will find a mini Japanese paradise at Cheers! From 2 to 29 March 2021, Cheers is hosting a Japan Fair, bringing you exciting items from Japan, from anime-themed coffee to adorable tea bag holders, ramen to Kit Kat and ice cream! With more than 160 Cheers outlets across Singapore, most operating 24/7, you can satisfy your Japanese hankerings anytime, anywhere!

This Japan Fair brings you treats from Japan you can get your hands on:

Georgia Coffee Mobile Suit Gundam Collection: Talk about the perfect mashup — to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Mobile Suit Gundam, Georgia Coffee has teamed up with animation studio Sunrise Inc to launch limited-edition merchandise and coffee-can collectibles! Each coffee can comes with a Gundam sketch, which bears the name of the pilot. Also, relish the unforgettable richness and aroma of the perk-me-up: Georgia’s Emerald Mountain Blend, enhanced with slightly sweetened milk. An offshoot of Coca Cola Company, Georgia Coffee is the world’s first ready-to-drink coffee brand first launched in Japan in 1975. Today, it is the world’s No. 1 ready-to-drink coffee brand.

Ichiran Hakata-style Thin Noodles: Missing Japan and the taste of its famous Ichiran ramen? Here is your chance to enjoy a delicious bowl of Ichiran ramen right in the comfort of your home. “Ichiran (一蘭)” is a popular Fukuoka-based ramen chain offering Hakata-style Tonkotsu ramen with pork bone broth soup, with many branches in and outside of Japan. The noodles are Hakata-style thin straight noodles, which are produced by experienced noodle artisans using special, rare wheat flour. These noodles have a pleasant chewy, slippery texture and the soup broth is characterized by its outstandingly rich umami taste, created through a process of trial and error. The secret of the success of Ichiran’s ramen lies in the secret red powder which is a mix of various kinds of spices in addition to  Ichimi Togarashi, resulting in an exquisite taste balance.

KitKat KOI Matcha: Made from the rich, high-quality matcha of Uji, Kyoto and with twice the Uji matcha than previous editions! In the product name, koi means ‘strong-flavoured’, if you love intense flavors, you definitely won’t want to miss this latest Japan-exclusive offering.

Life Japanese Green Tea: A healthier choice of Green Tea made in Japan with no sugar added.  Drinking green tea has been shown by studies to be beneficial to health because of the goodness in green tea catechins. Grab a bottle and enjoy its light yet refreshing taste!

Other than the above-mentioned products, Cheers also carries a wide selection of treats and snacks that will whisk you away to the heart of Japan. Quell hunger pangs with delicious Ajitsuke Tamago, Teriyaki Chicken Wrap and Teriyaki Chicken Sandwich!

Exclusive Tinos World Plushies to Collect

And from Japan to a fictional world of animals — Tinos World has teamed up with Cheers and FairPrice Xpress to create an exclusive line of plushies. There is a total of six plushies to collect: Tino the Curious, Bruce the Naughty One, Buddy the Relaxed One, Vicky the Brave One, Topsy the Shy One and Scott the Inventor.

Collect all 6 dinosaurs today! Simply spend S$5 in a single receipt and receive 1 Tinos sticker. To redeem 1 plushie, collect 1 Tinos Sticker and top up S$9.90, or collect 2 Tinos Stickers and top up S$7.90.

Cheers’ Tinos World campaign will run from 12 March to 3 May 2021.

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Save $50 on Japan Theme Parks and Still Have Fun during Winter

The winter holidays are approaching soon and the travel bug is here to bite us again. While many of us scramble to drop by Japan during the Spring time to catch the cherry blossoms in full bloom, those of us with children who are still schooling can opt to visit Japan in winter instead.

TIP: Merge your purchases together for a $50 discount for Japan attractions.

Promo codes for travellers to Hong Kong, Taiwan and South Korea are also available below.

Before you dismiss this suggestion, here are 5 places in Japan that you can visit, and still have tons of fun, in the wintry December.

For a family of 4, split your purchases to get the best bargain. For every $300 spent on Changi Recommends’ attractions, day tours or on transportation, you get to save $50!

Purchase them today on Changi Recommends’ website.

  1. Disneyland

Disneyland

No matter if you are traveling with a little one, your significant other, or with your friends, Disneyland is a destination that is not to be missed when in Japan. Catch Disneyland’s hot favourite thrill rides Space Mountain and Splash Mountain, or stop by the “It’s a small world” attraction if you prefer something mild, but equally magical.

  1. DisneySea

DisneySea

Where the world’s one and only DisneySea resides, revisit your childhood at the happiest place on earth at Tokyo DisneySea. Expect to get wet and wild at many of the underwater-themed rides, such as the Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Crystal Skull. Mermaid lovers are also in for a treat as there is a Mermaid Lagoon zone where you can find all things related to The Little Mermaid.

  1. Legoland Japan

Legoland

Challenge the limit of your child’s imagination at Legoland Japan, where they can see their favourite Lego toys, in a size that’s larger than life. With over 10,000 Lego models made with a whopping 17 million Lego bricks, and over 40 rides, shows and attractions to look out for, gear yourself up for a day of fun and games.

  1. Sanrio Puroland

Sanrio

Catch Hello Kitty, My Melody, Cinnamoroll, Pompompurin, and other beloved Sanrio characters as they come to life at Sanrio Puroland. As most attractions are indoors, a visit to Sanrio Puroland could be a good way to escape the cold during winter. Seize the chance to finally step inside these characters’ homes!

  1. Watch Snow Monkeys bathe in Hot Springs

Snow Monkey

When travelling to Japan in winter, watch out for the snow monkeys taking a casual dip in the hot spring, especially when you visit the Jigokudani Yaenkoen, in the Nagano Prefecture.

Japan_wonderbundle

Until 31st October, spend a minimum of $300 on Changi Recommends to get $50 off Japan-specific attractions, day tours and transport. Simply input “GTJP50” to qualify for this discount!

This promotion is only limited to first 500 redemptions, and these tickets are valid for travels by 28 February 2018.

For the promo codes in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Hong Kong:

Country Promo Code Discount
Japan GTJP50 $50 off with min. $300 spending
South Korea GTKR10
GTKR20
GTKR30
GTKR50
$10 off with min. $120 spending
$20 off with min. $220 spending
$30 off with min. $300 spending
$50 off with min. $400 spending
Taiwan GTTW10
GTTW20
GTTW30
GTTW50
$10 off with min. $120 spending
$20 off with min. $220 spending
$30 off with min. $300 spending
$50 off with min. $400 spending
Hong Kong GTHK10
GTHK20
GTHK30
GTHK50
$10 off with min. $120 spending
$20 off with min. $220 spending
$30 off with min. $300 spending
$50 off with min. $400 spending

Valid till 30 Nov, travels by 28 February 2018

Head to attractions.changirecommends.com/japan to check out the deals today!

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