After many years of listening to friends visiting the various Club Meds, especially in Hokkaido, we decided to try out Club Med Kiroro Peak, where guests have to be above 12. For those with younger kids, the Kiroro Grand is just a little ways down the hill, accessible by gondola or shuttle buses.
We arrived around lunch time, and since the room was unavailable, went to our first buffet meal on the property. While we initially contemplated trying some of the restaurants at Kiroro Grand, we ultimately decided it was unnecessary as the buffet choices were fresh and scrumptious. From Hokkaido snow crab to oysters to a 50 kg tuna, we were spoilt for choice every night and indeed for every meal. However, for those that cannot tolerate eating at the same place every day, Kiroro Peak may not be the best option for you, as there are no other restaurants besides the buffet.
We had a problem with the initial room (which had a view of the slopes). There was a heavy musky/mildew type smell that greeted us the moment we entered. Despite sending housekeeping over for “treatment”, it didn’t work. To make a long story short, the GM, Miss Eva, eventually decided that a change of room was needed. However, that took several hours before the decision was made and thus our trip had a rather rocky start. We then had to switch lockers as well as move to the new room. Thankfully it was on the same floor and Darren made sure all went well. Also a big thank you to the housekeeping team.
By then, we had already gone out for a couple of runs to re-familiarize ourselves with skiing. Ski rental is at B1 and every room has its own locker that makes for easy retrieval and storage. And because Club Med staggers the various classes, the locker area never really felt super busy. The ski passes start on the day you check in and end on the day you check out. This means one can still ski on the day of arrival or departure, although do note that the rooms have to be returned at 10 am.
Our family room was more than adequate for the three of us, with an extra bed by the window. There’s an in-room safe and iron. Water is provided along with soft drinks, sparkling water, snacks, and even cup noodles. These can be replenished if needed. However, we ate and drank so much at the buffet that this was unnecessary. The bathroom has a bathtub with a separate toilet area. The laundry area is on level 3, if needed.
There is no onsen on the property, but there is a large bath over at the Annex, which also has a gym. This is also where the yoga classes are held. The annex also has a small entertainment area, where we had fun with the ping pong table and darts.
Registration for classes the next day is between 6-8 pm. Private lessons can also be arranged for an additional fee. There is also nightly entertainment at 9 pm, where most of the performances are provided by the many talented G.Os. Not to be missed.
There are many people that made our visit a hit, starting with Chief of Village, Eva. Akari took care of our check-in and spent time with us during a couple of dinners. Executive chef Gabriel and his amazing team outdid themselves each day. Maybe we are not picky foodies, but no complaints from us on the food and beverage front. We did not even have to look at the premium alcohol list. Liam, the restaurant manager, always ensured we were seated and taken care of along with his team which included the amazing Alex from down under.
The ski and snowboard instructors were friendly and helpful and ever patient. Shoutout to Ethan, Poppy and Gilbert and also not forgetting Monty, Boyan, Velko, David and Jonas. The evenings would have been less entertaining without Hatu the event organizer and his many talented colleagues.
There are just too many for us to acknowledge that have provided friendly service.
Will we return? Despite the rocky start, we will certainly consider the property if we return for another winter holiday in Hokkaido. With all the friendliness, it was also easy to make new friends with other guests during our stay.
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