Chalet Shirogane

Chalet Shirogane is a quiet, modern take on the mountain house. Clad in weathered dark timber, it sits among slender birch trees in Niseko-Hirafu, and in winter the snow drifts right up to its walls.

Inside, the mood is calm and minimal. The living room is wrapped in glass, so the forest feels close, and a big black leather sofa faces a stone-clad fireplace. The kitchen is warm oak with a long white island and bar stools, ideal for breakfast before the slopes. A floating timber staircase links the floors, and a second lounge with a TV and a chessboard gives everyone room to spread out. As a luxury chalet rental in Kutchan, it's clean, simple and cosy.

Chalet Shirogane has three bedrooms, all light and uncluttered, with oak wardrobes and windows onto the trees. One is set up with twin beds. The bathrooms are in soft grey tile and timber, and one has a bath beneath a window. There's also a proper ski room by the door with racks for boots and gear.

A covered timber deck runs along the glass walls, a lovely spot to watch the snow fall. Hirafu is the busy heart of Niseko, one of the best-known ski areas in Japan. The chalet suits couples, small families and friends who like a quiet base close to the action.