When it comes to a skiing break, those located in the Pacific region can’t do much better than Japan for diversity, location and affordability. Niseko, on Japan’s north island, provides a plethora of powder possibilities, whether you’re a novice dabbling in the white stuff or an experienced snow hound. The region has four main ski resorts offering all the snowboarding and skiing action you could ask for, from gentle groomed powder and steep runs to terrain parks (jibs and jumps) and off-piste thrills.
When the sun goes down the lights come on and Niseko’s luscious curves invite after-dark exertions (we’re talking night-skiing here). The resort has the best-lit runs in Japan, and who could resist a moonlight meander on the mountain?
It’s about 100 kilometres from Sapporo to Niseko. Niseko Ground Service runs scheduled bus transfers from US$34 one-way.
nisekogroundservice.jp
Eight-hour lift passes cost about US$53, and seven days will set you back about US$370.
There are runs here for beginners and intermediates, but also great off-piste options for advanced riders.
Niseko
niseko.ne.jp