A Private Four-Season Mountain Retreat · Furano, Hokkaido
Named fuyu hotaru — "winter firefly" — this newly renovated private home brings a quiet glow to Furano's snowy season. Set in peaceful Kitanomine, just 450 metres from the Kitanomine gondola, the three-storey retreat combines contemporary Japanese design, warm natural timber interiors, beautiful mountain views and thoughtful details to create a warm, elegant base for families and friends.
The top floor is the heart of the house: a generous open-plan kitchen, dining and living space, a powder room and a beautiful balcony where the peaks of the Kitanomine mountain range come clearly into view. The dining room's full-width bay window faces Mt. Tokachi directly, drawing in mountain light and sweeping views across Furano's valley. Around the solid oak dining table, guests gather for slow breakfasts and long dinners — the simple pleasure of an unhurried evening together.
Designed for eight guests, fuyu hotaru offers four flexible bedrooms: three twin rooms where beds may be joined to form king-size beds, plus a modern tatami room with futons on a raised platform — a favourite with children and equally suited to adults seeking a Japanese-style sleeping experience.
Comfort and privacy are built into the layout, with three well-appointed bathrooms each with a separate rain shower. Two also feature generous full-length bathtubs, including a spa-style bath in the master ensuite — an inviting way to unwind after a day on the mountain.
Winter days flow easily here. Step in from the snow to a dedicated ski and laundry room, where gear can be set aside and dried with ease before the next day on the mountain. In summer, fuyu hotaru becomes a quiet base for Furano's gentler season — lavender fields in bloom, open countryside, scenic drives and long northern evenings.
Everyday practicalities are quietly considered, with fast fibre Wi-Fi throughout the house, spacious parking for up to three cars, and local support for restaurant assistance and recommendations. The result is a stay that feels private and independent, yet reassuringly well looked after.
fuyu hotaru is for guests who value space, privacy and atmosphere — the quiet luxury of a home where every detail feels considered. In every season, it offers a different kind of beauty, and leaving already feels like a reason to return.