So You Want Snow?

When you think of skiing or snowboarding supermassive hiking possibilities. Be sure to make your way
deep powder, most people think of AK, Canada orback to the gondola and do it all again.
the US. However in the last few years Japan has alsoIf first class kid facilities, luxury or a tropical island
entered the game, it is not as if they have justatmosphere is more your priority, make sure you
started to receive more snow, but more like thehead east to Club Med Sahoro Resort, situated just
word is starting to get out within the snowoutside of Obihiro. You will find all the facilities you
communities of the quantity and quality of snow thatwould normally find from a Club Med to keep you
the little Island receives.entertained off the hill and is without doubt the best
Japan has 100's of quality resorts around the country,resort for kids to enjoy.
but it is the northern Island of Hokkaido that hasHeading back to the Niseko area, between Sapporo
received the reputation as one of the greatestand Niseko you will find Rusutsu Resort. A great
powder destinations of the world, with a range ofescape from the Niseko crowds and easy access
resorts to please everyone.from Sapporo. With 3 ski-able areas there is plenty
In close proximity to Sapporo, Hokkaido's capital, youof terrain to keep you finding new and untouched
can find one very under rated resort such as Kokusai.lines of powder all day long. When night falls you can
Attracting a very family orientated crowd being somake your way over to the half pipe and take a
close to the city, you will find many don't explore offfew laps under lights if your legs are up to it!
the marked trails very often, this leaves a lot ofThe quickly developing town of Niseko is without
untouched powder lying in the gullies waiting to bedoubt the most well known resort by international
enjoyed.visitors in Japan after receiving rave reviews from ski
If you are staying in Sapporo also try Teine,and snowboarding publications around the world,
approximately 30 minutes from the entertainmentincluding being voted as the second snowiest resort
district of Susukino. Teine has something to offerin the world by Forbes Traveller.
everyone in the family, Olympia is perfect for theWithout doubt Niseko is truly a majestic and unique
beginners and Highland is great for those that are atravel destination. While in Niseko you will continually
little more experienced with steeper terrain and athink that it just does not stop snowing, if you are
park that keep you entertained for hours. Also trylucky you might not see the sun or a glimpse of blue
Kirror Ski Resort, just outside of Otaru for a day orsky for weeks on end. The resort is made up of 3
two.ski-able resorts linked under one lift pass, with some
On the other side of Sapparo you head into centralski-able areas open for your entertainment up to 9
Hokkaido and more quality resorts for all abilities,hours a day. With the awesome village atmosphere,
backcountry hounds and families are well catered for.fantastic locals, super relaxing onsens and great food
Furano is one of the more populated areas and ait is pretty obvious why Niseko has become a hot
favorite amongst tourists due to the incredibly drysopt for so many snow hungry travelers.
snow that the area receives. One drawback toWith such highly publicised snow conditions and
Furano is the lack off piste access due to the strictrecognition, Niseko is now home to many international
regulations that are enforced by ski patrol.snow junkies year round. However it is not only the
If you are after a truly unique experience, Asahidakesnow that is the attraction, such as investing in
is your dream come true. It features one gondola,Niseko real estate. This has been an outstanding
two massive runs surrounding a huge powderinvestment over the last 10 years with strong
catching bowl with awesome terrain. Be sure to takereturns and more expected to continue for years to
your avalanche gear for safety and to open up thecome.