YTL Hotels has announced the launch of the KASARA brand, a collection of unique and luxurious hotels, resorts and residences in exotic locations in Asia and beyond, including Hokkaido, Japan; Koh Samui, Thailand and Pulau Tiga in Borneo.

The KASARA brand's addition to YTL Hotels' distinctive collection of 24 internationally recognised resorts, hotels, and Spa Villages has been highly anticipated. YTL Hotels, the hospitality arm of one of Malaysia's most dynamic conglomerates, YTL Corporation Berhad, has seen much expansion over the past decade with the acquisition of Niseko Village in Hokkaido, Japan, the Marriott hotels in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, Australia as well as the upcoming heritage-listed The Gainsborough Bath Spa in the United Kingdom.

"It is with great excitement that we now reveal KASARA. The privilege of early morning access to hidden powder stashes guided by a local Niseko Village expert, native fishermen in long-tailed boats serving up a sumptuous seafood feast in Koh Samui, holistic immersion into natural mud baths in Borneo and free-diving into the aquamarine waters of the Coral Triangle – these are some of the authentic experiences which await the KASARA guest, alongside stunning properties in exotic locations", said Luke Hurford, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at YTL Hotels.

KASARA promises an experience of luxury, authenticity and timelessness. With each destination – be it alpine, rainforest or beach, being the inspiration driving the design of the property, today's discerning travellers will enjoy an exclusive encounter where intuitive standards of service meet the modern perceptions of luxury. At KASARA, local influences, culture and traditions are interwoven with these luxuries to create compelling, standout experiences that resonate with the destination, embodying the balance of style and substance which affluent travellers are increasingly searching for.

Leading the launch of the new brand is KASARA Niseko Village Townhouse located within the group's award-winning ski resort, Niseko Village. Based at the foot of Mount Niseko Annupuri in Hokkaido, Japan, the internationally acclaimed Niseko Village has gained consistent recognition as a choice perennial leisure and adventure holiday destination. Come December each year, local and global winter enthusiasts flock to Niseko Village to experience the famous powder snow and explore not just the groomed runs, but also the back bowls of the mountain resort.

The fully integrated Niseko Village offers magnificent views of the majestic Mount Yotei, a vast selection of activities suitable for guests of all ages with varying interests, accommodations with ski-in ski-out facilities, onsens (natural hot springs) and exquisite dining and après ski options. In addition to the existing Hilton Niseko Village and The Green Leaf Niseko Village, the KASARA Niseko Village Townhouse will cater to affluent travellers and their families who desire an authentic and unforgettable getaway synonymous with the KASARA brand, all year round.

Scheduled to open on 1 December 2014, accommodation rates at KASARA Niseko Village Townhouse will begin at USD2,000 per night for a three-bedroom townhouse where uncompromising bespoke services and priority privileges will be provided exclusively for its guests. Part of a comprehensive master plan to further enhance the ski resort set to unfold over the next decade; these townhouses will herald a new era of luxury living in the integrated alpine resort of Niseko Village.
KASARA will make its mark in Koh Samui, Thailand and Pulau Tiga, Borneo in the near future. Experience the timeless appeal of KASARA by visiting www.kasara.com.

About KASARA

KASARA promises an experience of luxury, authenticity and timelessness. With each destination – be it alpine, rainforest or beach, being the inspiration driving the design of the property, today's discerning travellers will enjoy an exclusive encounter where intuitive standards of service meet the modern perceptions of luxury. At KASARA, local influences, culture and traditions are interwoven with these luxuries to create compelling, standout experiences that resonate with the destination, embodying the balance of style and substance which affluent travellers are increasingly searching for.

About Niseko Village

Nestled at the south base of the 1308m Mount Annupuri, Niseko Village is Japan's premier year-round integrated mountain resort. Often compared to other world-class ski resorts like Aspen in Colorado and Niseko's sister city, St. Moritz in Switzerland, Niseko Village comprises of the Hilton Niseko Village – voted 'Best Ski Resort Hotel in Japan' by World Ski Awards 2013, The Green Leaf Niseko Village, two resort golf courses including one designed by Arnold Palmer, and the Niseko Village skifield - known the world over for its fluffy, dry powder snow at low-altitude, variety of ski terrains, the world-class Niseko Village Snow Schools and the acclaimed Niseko Kids™ children's programmes.