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Archive for the ‘Travel’ Category

Zao Ski Resort
Zao has a lot to offer and is often overlooked as a ski destination. But with less tourist traffic compared to the other popular resorts in Japan, it could be the next place to be. Zao is secluded with dramatic mountains and the added bonus of hot springs. Guests staying at the Zao Hot Springs Ski Resort can spend the day racing down the mountainside and return to soak in the hot springs. Anyone looking for a unique Japanese experience should definitely consider Zao.

Rusutsu Ski Resort
Besides the strange and on occasions creepy interior decorating that the resort is fitted out with, Rusutsu if the place to be on a powder day. Spread over 3 mountains (Mt. Isola, East Mt., West Mt.) it features 37 designated courses. The greatest feature of Rusutsu however, is the quality and number of tree lines that are accessed by very small traverses, if any, straight off a lift. You will also find that you will escape the trees straight on to a groomed run that will deliver you back to the list so you can do it all again.

Appi Kogen Ski Resort
Appi Kogen, or just Appi to the locals and regulars is home to 282 hectares of ski area and 21 ski trails with an average run of two kilometers, Japan’s longest average. Seasoned skiers and snowboarders can fly down the ungroomed steep slopes on Mount Nishi Mori as many of them are empty even during high season, and carpeted with fresh dry powder. Off-piste options are also in abundance at Appi, including snowmobile and sledding courses, and onsens.

Niseko Ski Resort
Niseko stormed onto the world stage as a major powder destination when it was named as the 2nd Snowiest Ski resort in the world by Forbes Traveller. Now it is probably the most well known ski resort in Japan by ski and snowboard enthusiasts outside of Japan. The terrain in the Niseko resort is moderate, but the massive snow falls and ridiculously light snow quality being the main draw card it makes it a perfect destination for the family and powder hungry junky. Some of the world’s best skiers and snowboarders have started to visit Niseko, including Shaun White, Tanner Hall and many others. Niseko accommodation options vary greatly, but if you are on holiday with your mates avoid staying in pensions with a curfew ‘ you do not want to be locked outside during a Niseko Winter.