Time To Relax in Niseko

Taking care of ones self and making a concerted effort towards being 'well' is a relatively contemporary trend in the Western world. In Japan, it's been built in to the national psyche for centuries. Here are the best ways to switch off and pamper yourself right here in Niseko. 

For the first time ever in Hokkaido, you can try weightlessness therapy in the new Float Tank at Ryko Spa in Niseko.

A Float Tank is a soundproof pod filled with salt water set at skin temperature, in which individuals float. The salt water ensures that no effort is required to float on the top of the water, which means you can completely relax and let go of all stress and strain on the body.

Perfect for exercise recovery, stress relief and meditation, this alternative relaxation technique has been around in various forms for some time, but is only now making its way in to the mainstream.

Supermodel Elle McPherson, basketballer Stephen Curry and comedian/activist Russell Brand swear by it. Does that suggest to you that floating is good for your looks, your athletic ability and your wit!? Best give it a try in Niseko this summer to find out.

The next level of relaxation has arrived in Niseko. Visit Ryko Spa, in Skye Niseko, and take advantage of a wide range of services designed to restore and refresh your mind, body and spirit.

Ryko Spa offers a range of soothing massages and has a plethora of incredible facial, skin and body treatments to relax and reinvigorate.

Treat yourself to a luxury age-defying facial, using world-class Sodashi skin-care products, to restore the skin’s luminosity and natural resilience, and leave your skin looking more clear, translucent, lifted and firmed.

Body care packages include an Organic Tea Salt Therapy and a Detoxification Therapy Mud Wrap. Full and half-day packages are available, as well as a wide range of skin-care products for purchase.

Perfect for those winding down after taking on one of Niseko’s many summer adventure activities, or for those just looking to be pampered, there are many massage options available in Niseko.

Arigato Massage, located in the J-Sekka building at the main Hirafu intersection, is a well-established clinic offering a range of massages including dry, foot and Thai massages. Their signature massage, however, is a full body massage using essential oils that release tension, heal tired muscles, improve blood circulation and metabolism, leaving a relaxing effect that reduces stress. Pure bliss!

Other great massage clinics available in summer are Ryko Spa and Hermosa Angel on Hirafu-Zaka St.

Whether you’re looking to keep your fitness levels up while on holiday, or you’re just after a few gentle laps to switch off and relax, swimming in Niseko is a popular pastime. The Hotel Niseko Alpen has a 25 metre lap-lane swimming pool available for the use of both hotel guests and the public. It’s location at the base of the mountain makes it perfect to walk in to from a long hike or mountain biking session.

Rental swim-wear, towels, swimming caps and goggles are available. 

Embrace Japanese tradition and experience the ultimate in relaxation this green season with an onsen.

For generations, the Japanese have been using onsen hot springs as a way to relax and rejuvenate tired muscles. In fact, they are famous for it. As a volcanically active country, Japan has thousands of onsens scattered throughout all of its major islands and one of the best places to enjoy an onsen is Niseko. Before skiing became its major draw, Niseko was an onsen town attracting tourists from near and far to its thermally-heated baths.

One of Niseko’s best is Yugokorotei in Annupuri. A 15-minute drive from Hirafu, this outdoor onsen is picturesque and comfortable. Relax in the onsen for as long as you like then take a seat in one of its unbelievably comfy massage chairs. 

Just try your best not to fall asleep!

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This article first appeared in the Summer 2019 edition of the Experience Niseko Magazine.