50 Packages for 50 years in Japan

[Deleted member 29185]

I have not properly checked just yet, but for a fleeting moment I thought about another ski holiday, but this time in Japan!

The brief look at Hilton Niseko Village shows no dates in Dec/Jan.

Here's the web page for those who might be luckier than I.

 

[Fifa]

I've looked at the Hilton Niseko in the past but it always seems to be much cheaper booking through a TA than direct.
Earlier this year we stayed at the beautiful and recently refurbished Green Leaf Niseko Village Hotel which, I believe, used to be owned by Hilton. Both hotels are near each other and share a shuttle bus but they are still a little isolated.

After two visits to Niseko I wont be going back as it is becoming too expensive compared to other Japanese resorts.

 

[Cynicor]

Green Leaf is owned by YTL, as is the Hilton and some of the surrounding areas.

It is cheaper to book direct, but you need to wait until advance purchase fares come out, otherwise it's rack rate.

Thanks for the link, will have a look at rates!

 

[sergeyvzn]

I've just finalized booking a few hotel rooms for myself and partner for Dec-Jan, most Japanese sites including hotels' sites don't seem to be showing any availability beyond 6 moths out, so for Dec you'd need to book in June. Same thing with Japanican and the like so I gave up and booked through aggregators like booking.com and Expedia, they show availability

 

[Deleted member 29185]

Can you use specific promo codes through aggregaters though?

 

[Fifa]

Last year I booked 3 resorts through a Japanese based travel agency IxsmTravel.Com, | Japan Snow Holiday Packages - Best Price Guaranteed!

They were excellent to deal with - extremely competitive prices, replied to emails quickly, great English and very helpful.
And their prices are out for next year!
As an example they currently have a Super Early Bird special for the Hilton Niseko at 50% off.

I'm waiting for cheap flights then I'll be booking with them again for Feb 2014.

 

[Cynicor]

If you can book the hotel alone it may be worthwhile, but even with the 50% discount their rates are higher than advance purchase rates, especially for triple share rooms, in my experience. The other advantages of the AP rates are that you can book the dinner package if you are so inclined, get points and status benefits if you are HH gold/diamond.

 

[Cynicor]

Having said that, the site posted above has the best wholesaler rates I have seen, and about equal to what I would normally pay. An AP for a twin basic last year came in at ~21000JPY/night for 2 with breakfast.

If you don't have status and aren't chasing points then you could lock in early. Their rental rates are the same as the White Guide's so there is no discount to buying in advance. I can send the white guide to anyone interested- it is Niseko Village's price guide so you can see the on-mountain price.