Postcard From Here: All About Giann Chan’s Alpine Retreat in Hokkaido

Travel and fashion influencer Giann Chan escaped to The Vale Rusutsu and Intuition Niseko for a luxurious stay in Hokkaido’s snowy peaks.

Giann Chan (@chan.tsz.ying) has carved out a global presence in the worlds of fashion, beauty, and travel, having collaborated with maisons like Dior and Chanel as well as luxury hospitality brands across Asia. A five-time ambassador for the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), her ties to Japan run deep — and so does her appreciation for places where design and stillness meet.

This past ski season, Giann checked into The Vale Rusutsu and Intuition Niseko, two modern retreats tucked into Hokkaido’s snow-covered landscape. Days were spent gliding down powdery slopes, while evenings brought time to unwind in warm, minimalist stays.

Read on to discover why Hokkaido is Giann’s latest go-to for refined, alpine escapes.

What inspired you to travel to Hokkaido?

It’s actually my second time visiting Niseko, but first time skiing. It’s so popular among people in Hong Kong and China. Everyone’s obsessed with the powder snow, and I wanted to experience its magic for myself!

What did you love most about your trip to Hokkaido?

Definitely the properties — they perfectly embody that “modern-meets-nature” aesthetic I’m drawn to. Intuition Niseko, in particular, felt immersed in the surrounding wild beauty. It’s instagrammable but also soulful.

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What was the most impressive aspect of your stay with The Luxe Nomad?

The Vale Rusutsu stood out because of how spacious the room was; it felt more like a modern apartment than a hotel room. It was perfect for a group of friends, with plenty of room to relax after a day on the slopes. The layout and amenities made it super comfortable and ideal for sharing great moments together.

Finally, can you share personal recommendations on how to best enjoy Hokkaido?

First, I highly recommend trying the in-room dining service at Intuition Niseko — it was truly a heavenly experience. After a long day of skiing, coming back to your chalet with a private chef preparing a warm, delicious meal right there is pure bliss.

Secondly, don’t miss out on visiting the local izakaya around Niseko. They offer an authentic, cosy atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding with great food and drinks. Just be sure to book in advance as many of them get quite busy and may not accept walk-ins.