Leaving Hiroshima, we flew north up to the island of Hokkaido for a week of skiing at Niseko and Rusutsu. These areas are known for their high snowfall and light powder, and they certainly didn’t disappoint.
Arriving into Sapporo, we rented a car and drove the few hours to Niseko. Driving on the left and on snow most of the time was a bit nerve wracking, but all worked out fine, though happy to drop it in one piece at the end. We rented a wonderful cabin through a family friend which gave us good space to decompress after long days of skiing. The prepared foods at the grocery store were so good (sushi, meat skewers, etc.) that it was nice to have an easy option to eat in several nights. That said, the kitchen table is clearly cursed as I lost to Henry in chess multiple times there…
We were fortunate to get a few sunny days at the beginning to get our legs under us, and see views of Mt. Yotei, and then the snow started and didn’t stop for essentially the rest of the time. Many amazing runs with the dudes through the woods, finding fresh powder tracks all day. Jack did a few days of ski school, which he really enjoyed, allowing Henry, Sam and me to explore a bit more of the mountain. Winds prohibited us from getting to the top areas as much as I would have liked, but we still found plenty of amazing spots.
Niseko in general is far more westernized than other spots in Japan – many, many Aussies who live and work there.
Our last day of skiing we went to the nearby mountain of Rusutsu. More laid back and plenty of good powder. The most memorable part for sure though was the hotel at the base of the mountain which had a singing tree in the lobby, a merry go round, a band setup playing American dixie tunes, the whole thing was a bit surreal.
From here we flew all the way down to Singapore…
Niseko:
Rusutsu:
Fosters on the Fly 