HIYOKU

Hiyoku Niseko is an award winning, luxury Hirafu residence situated atop a bluff with impressive views of the Shiribetsu River, the neighbouring farm, and Mt. Yotei. Hiyoku’s minimalist design features a steel structure that permits large windows and open spaces. The protruding cantilever provides a sheltered area for chopping firewood and tuning equipment. The name Hiyoku, which means “flying wing,” is inspired by the roof’s light and floating design, giving the impression it is taking off. The triple-glazed, high-efficiency glass and the radiant heat of the stone-encased fireplace help keep interiors warm and cosy. The surrounding larch forest is incorporated into the house’s design, featuring a large bay window that serves as a reading nook.

Designed with winter sports in mind, Hiyoku’s gear room showcases bespoke furniture design featuring chunky larch stools and bench milled from a massive larch felled on-site. The house’s layout is adjustable, with the bunk room providing four sleep spaces, each with its privacy, and the tatami room accommodating one or two people. The media room, featuring three massive, sliding doors, can also be used as a fourth bedroom.  Hiyoku Niseko has won several esteemed awards, including the Architectural Masterprize 2018 in Architectural Design/Residential Architecture, IDA Design Awards 2017 Honorable Mention, and 2018 Hokkaido Steel Machinery Award.

Given Hiyoku’s more remote location, we recommend hiring a vehicle to make getting to and from the resort and exploring the local area a bit easier.