Hong Kong fashion stylist Justine Lee takes us inside her family’s annual ski trip in Niseko — from their slope-side stay at The Vale Niseko to tips for travelling with a toddler.
When surveying Hong Kong’s fashion scene, one name will inevitably come up: Justine Lee. A seasoned fashion stylist and consultant, Justine is known for her impeccable taste that shapes both her professional and personal life — including the holiday destinations she chooses.
The former fashion director of Tatler Asia now works as an independent stylist and is an in-demand creator who has worked with the likes of Chanel, Miu Miu, Ferragamo and more. Last January, she traded her polished city looks for sleek ski suits and headed to Niseko for some quality time in the snow. Read on to discover why Hokkaido’s premier ski town calls her back season after season.
Why did you choose to travel to Niseko?
I’ve been traveling to Niseko for a winter trip for the past six years, and ever since we’ve had my son, we started making it an annual family tradition. I love how it’s just a plane and car ride away from Hong Kong. Especially with a little one now, we look for destinations that are easy to get to and have minimal time difference.
Niseko is a great family-friendly destination. There are runs suitable for all levels, great kid camps and childcare, and most importantly, amazing accommodation and food options!
Read next: Niseko Dining Guide 2026: The Best Restaurants, Bars and Cafes to Try This Winter
What did you love most about your trip with The Luxe Nomad?
Planning a holiday can sometimes be such a headache — from searching for flights to sorting out accommodation and matching dates with family members and friends. I love how smooth the planning process was with The Luxe Nomad.
The properties on The Luxe Nomad are also all vetted, so you know you’ll have a comfortable stay. Everyone in the team is truly an expert in their field, and they’re always a step ahead. They were in touch with me regarding airport transfers, whether I would need a crib and a high chair for my son, all before I even asked. They just get it!
What was the most impressive element of The Vale Niseko?
The two-bedroom suite we stayed in at The Vale Niseko is ideal for families with small children. I loved how we were conveniently located right next to Hirafu’s Ace Family Lift.
Our living room had floor-to-ceiling windows that overlooked the slope, and my son loved waking up and going to the window to watch people ski and see how they prepared the lifts for each day.
I also loved how spacious the living area was. There’s plenty of space for kids to play, to lay out your ski gear and to relax. One thing definitely worth noting is that there is a private onsen tucked away off the balcony. Most places I’ve seen in Niseko only have private onsens in the penthouses or the four- or five- bedroom residences. To have one in a two-bedroom suite is such a treat!
Read also: Everything You Need To Know About Onsen in Japan
Can you share a few personal tips for those who are planning a trip to Niseko?
- Plan as early as you can. Accommodation, kids’ camps, and restaurants fill up quickly during peak season in Niseko. I started planning this trip with The Luxe Nomad three months before going. We were lucky to secure a great suite at The Vale Niseko. Last year, I looked a little later and almost everything was booked out in Niseko. The Luxe Nomad team was super helpful, suggested alternative resorts and locations, and we ended up having a super memorable stay at The Vale Rusutsu.
- Rent your own wheels. If you’re comfortable driving in snow and will be traveling as a family, renting a car to drive in Niseko gives you a lot more flexibility. Do make sure to check that your accommodation has parking beforehand.
- Consider a camp for your kids. We booked our son in at the EdVenture camp for a few days and he had the best time! The team took wonderful care of him and planned fun activities like building igloos, snow walks, baking brownies, and also ski lessons.
- Save space for PST Niseko. This is a great pizza spot we visited this season that I will be recommending to friends and family.
Planning your next family getaway? Read these next:
Non-Ski Winter Activities in Niseko: Snow Tubing, Snowshoeing & Ziplining
Family-Friendly Activities in Koh Samui: Elephant Sanctuary & Angthong National Marine Park
Georgina Wilson-Burnand on Family, Fitness and Finding Her Rhythm in Furano