Destinations
Niseko
Powder hunters from all over the world flock to the northern island of Hokkaido each winter in search of spectacular deep powder, off-piste runs and challenging terrain. A large number of these skiers and snowboarders will find themselves in Niseko, probably the most famous of the resorts, which not only boasts fantastic powder snow, but can also lay claim to a real village atmosphere with plenty of bars and restaurants.
The reason Niseko has a reputation for such quantity and quality of powder snow is its location in Hokkaido. Located at the Western end, it receives the brunt of the Siberian desert storm systems that march across the Sea of Japan from Russia with amazing regularity from November through March. This is a ski and snow-board dream destination, offering spectacular skiing and snow boarding opportunities to the novice, intermediate or expert, all backed up by an English-speaking support team based at the resort.
The resort is made up of three main ski areas: Grand Hirafu, Higashiyama and Annapuri which are all linked together through the efficient ski-lifts and also by a free resort shuttle. Out of these, Hirafu has the most extensive array of runs and facilities as well as a great village with an abundance of hotels and nightlife. The resort is fast becoming well-known with skiers and snowboarders throughout the world and each year sees a larger percentage of non-Japanese on the slopes. With the infra-structure in town developing to cater for the new visitors, it means fewer language problems, the opportunity for some great night-skiing and an excellent après ski scene!
The fun doesn’t melt away with the snow however, with the summer months and settled temperate sunny days creating the perfect paradise for outdoor activities. Not sure what you want to do? How about mountain-biking, wake-boarding, horse-riding, kayaking, golf, trekking – the list goes on! The northern location offers a reprieve from the heat and humidity of Japan's main island and Hokkaido is also lucky enough to dodge the wet of the rainy season. Mid-summer temperatures peak around 27 degrees Celsius, and cool off to around 18 during the evening. During the day you have green open spaces and clean air, and at night the stars are simply breathtaking.
8 Nights: £1110
13 Nights: £2500
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