TORIFITO HOTEL & POD NISEKO — Hotel in Kutchan

A pod hotel was a totally new experience for myself - but really on my list of things I had to try.

I really appreciate the idea of a small space sharing with other people for the experience of living closer to each other on this planet with a set of clear rules, sharing common areas but still maintaining a small, private space, made possible by showing proper respect for each other.

The resulting lower environmental impact of using less concrete and other resources to build, using less land space, less energy for air conditioning or heating, hot water system, etc.

In short, it is an study of how to live in a smaller space, using less resources and not living alone, since loneliness is one of our biggest mental challenges, especially with our fast ageing population.

Torifito Pods were an absolutely amazing experience. Very well managed. Checking in you feel like in a 5star hotel - dealing with friendly and competent staff in uniforms even wearing a tie!

The place is very tidy, comfortable pods with TV, aircon and dimmable lighting.

Other travelers were mostly respectful in regards to noise (some still don't know how to put their phones on silent and alarms going off at odd times) and keeping common areas tidy.

The onsen (more like oversized hot tub- regular water no sulfur / minerals ) felt really clean and accessible at all times.

Lawson is right next door so snacks and drinks readily available.

I even met some people working in the ski areas staying long term and all seem to enjoy the place.

Definitely a great experience and my compliments to...

This is a newer pod style hotel / hostel near the heart of Kutchan. Presents very well in the lobby and common areas. There are the private room areas and then the pod areas. These pod areas are large open rooms painted all black, but without a lot of sound deadening surfaces. The pods themselves, while visually appealing, also are mostly plastic, so echo a fair bit. Any nearby snoring / neighbour noise carries to surrounding areas. This is not as bad as shared room hostel, but something to consider. The bathroom is outside of the sleep area and can be a bit of a walk. These areas on site onsen is key, and well worth all of the cons of staying here. There is a Lawson right outside the front door for snacks and a giant grocery store a 2 minute walk away. Ski lockers are a nice touch, but seem to lack hangers for jackets, pants, gloves. They have a great shuttle system, makes things easy. You can ship luggage from the front counter which is very key for those traveling to other places in Japan. Staff are very courteous and helpful. Thank you!

Overall, a great place to stay if you want a budget pod sleeper stay near Niseko...

I recently stayed at the TORIFITO HOTEL & POD NISEKO in Kutchan and was pleasantly surprised by the experience. Despite booking less than a week in advance—during peak season in the end of January—I secured a great rate, which made the value even more impressive. The free breakfast was a delightful bonus that exceeded my expectations and helped fuel my ski days.

One of the hotel's best features was the reliable shuttle service to Grand Hirafu, running every 30 minutes starting at 7 AM - I must give a special shout-out to the driver, Kazumasa, whose friendly service and punctuality made the commute to and from the slopes an absolute breeze!

After long days of skiing, the hotel's onsen proved to be the perfect remedy for tired legs. For skiers looking for a well-located accommodation in Niseko without breaking the bank, TORIFITO offers an excellent balance of...