Hakuba Hospitality Group Announces Next Evolution of Hotel La Neige

Hakuba Hospitality Group (HHG) (Headquarters: 5090 Kitashiro, Hakuba Village, Kitaazumi District, Nagano Prefecture; CEO Marcus Bauder), which operates accommodation, dining, and tourism services in Hakuba Village, Nagano Prefecture, will temporarily close Hotel La Neige from June 16 to July 31, 2026, to carry out renovation work on its first-floor public spaces, including the lobby, restaurant, and bar.

This project is part of ongoing initiatives launched in 2025, aiming to enhance guest experiences by preserving the hotel’s architectural heritage while integrating modern design elements.

To realize this vision, HHG will collaborate with Design Studio Crow to deepen the harmony between architecture, interior spaces, and Hakuba’s majestic natural surroundings. Following the renovation, while introducing new furniture and interior elements, the hotel will continue to honor the tranquil, forest-enveloped atmosphere that defines Hotel La Neige, offering a more refined alpine luxury experience.

Marcus Bauder, CEO of Hakuba Hospitality Group, stated:

"Hotel La Neige holds a special place for Hakuba and for our group. This renovation is designed to further elevate the hotel’s unique qualities—its architectural beauty, serene ambiance, quietude, and connection to the forest. While respecting the hotel’s history and values, we aim to deliver a more immersive, contemporary alpine hospitality experience."

About Hotel La Neige

Hotel La Neige is a boutique hotel with 25 rooms nestled in the lush forests of Hakuba. It features 21 rooms in the main building and four standalone cottages, offering guests a peaceful and high-quality stay in harmony with the changing seasons.

Its one-of-a-kind space, where architecture and nature seamlessly blend, has long received high acclaim from domestic and international guests. Through this renovation, the hotel will evolve into a more sophisticated alpine luxury destination.

New Leadership Structure

In preparation for the August reopening, Hotel La Neige is establishing a new leadership team. David Snowball will assume the role of Managing Director (Operations Lead), and William Mahi will become Culinary Director (Head of Culinary Operations).

### William Mahi – Culinary Director, Hotel La Neige

William Mahi is a chef with over 30 years of experience at renowned restaurants across France, Lebanon, Luxembourg, Turkey, the Philippines, Greece, and China. He has led kitchens at Michelin-starred restaurants, including one-star and two-star establishments. Most recently, he served as Executive Chef at Jing, the signature restaurant of The Peninsula Beijing. During his tenure, the restaurant received a Michelin one-star rating for five consecutive years.

As Culinary Director, Mahi will oversee all food and beverage operations at the hotel, including the new dining concept "Sève," breakfast, in-room dining, banquets, amenities, and culinary supervision for the newly opening bar, Frank's Bar. His appointment marks a significant step toward delivering a consistent, refined dining experience across the entire property.

### David Snowball – Managing Director, Hotel La Neige

David Snowball brings over 15 years of experience in Japan’s alpine resort hospitality industry. Prior to joining Hotel La Neige, he served as Hotel Manager at evo Hotel Hakuba and held multiple leadership roles at MnK Niseko. Leveraging his deep expertise in operations, guest experience, and resort management, he will drive the hotel’s continued growth and development.

### Tomohiro Mabe – General Manager, Hotel La Neige

Tomohiro Mabe will continue in his role as General Manager. As a central figure in the hotel’s leadership team, he will bridge the hotel’s long-standing identity with its new direction. Rooted in Japan’s unique spirit of omotenashi (hospitality), he will ensure meticulous attention to detail and consistent service quality, delivering a distinctive guest experience at Hotel La Neige.

Reopening in August

Coinciding with the August reopening, Hotel La Neige will introduce two new hospitality concepts: "Sève by William Mahi" and "Frank's Bar."

"Sève" is a new restaurant curated by Culinary Director William Mahi. Beyond restaurant service, it will oversee breakfast, in-room dining, banquets, and amenities, ensuring a cohesive and elevated dining experience across the entire hotel.

"Frank's Bar" will launch as a new social hub within the hotel. With its refined cocktail offerings and inviting ambiance, it aims to enhance the resort’s seasonal alpine charm.

Frank's Bar will feature 19 food and beverage items centered around cocktails, positioning itself as a new destination that enriches Hakuba’s nightlife.

Details about "Sève" and "Frank's Bar," including menus, operating hours, and reservation availability, will be announced progressively upon reopening.

About Hakuba Hospitality Group

Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Hakuba Village, Nagano Prefecture, Hakuba Hospitality Group (HHG) operates across a wide range of hospitality sectors, including hotels, apartment hotels, vacation rentals, travel agencies, restaurants, bars, and event management.

Starting as a small hotel operator, HHG has grown into one of the largest hospitality companies in the Hakuba Valley. It is committed to delivering diverse hospitality experiences and connecting guests with the local community through heartfelt service.

Media Contact

COLOURS. Inc. (Japan PR Agency for Hakuba Hospitality Group) Haruka Nakaura [email protected]

Email: [email protected] Tel: +81-3-5403-5942