Powderlife Magazine Issue No.28

Issue 28 // Dec 11 - Dec 24 // 2010
WINTER SPORTS
WINTER SPORTS 
 ENTERTAINMENT  REALESTATE
ENTERTAINMENT  REALESTATE www.powderlife.com
www.powderlife.com
YOKO MATSUDA
Keeping Japanese food culture alive
FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL

Insight into Asia’s premier rock festival FREE E K O ’
ER
S POWD E
N IS AZIN
LE MAG
LIFESTY EVERY
RESORT GUIDE FRESH
Your guide to Niseko – page 38 2 WEEKS
 CONTENTS// issue 29
winter print run 35,000 estimated readership 100,000+
14 編集長 managing editor Lizzy Hoo リズィー・フー
出版者 publisher Bevan Colless ベバン・コレス ,
Kris Lund クリス・ランド

SNOWCAVES // the green leaf hotel 副編集長 associate editor Ross Cole-Hunter ロス・コールハンター
企画運営アシスタント editorial assistant Kisato Kurihara 季里・栗原
デザイナー designer Paul Malandain ポール・マランデイン,
Shane Agard シャネ・アガrド (conceptual designer)
投稿者 contributors Chris Chan
写真撮影 photography Niseko Photography, Glen Claydon Photography,
Paul Malandain, Ross Cole-Hunter
19
広告掲載に関するお問い合わせ advertising inquiries
ads@powderlife.com
20
予約購読/既刊 subscriptions / past issues
info@powderlife.com
FEATURE // yuko matsuda TRAVEL // fuji rock festival Powderlife Niseko Magazine is a Niseko Media Publication
パウダーライフマガジンはニセコメディアが出版しています
170-5 Aza Yamada Kutchan-cho
IN THIS ISSUE Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0081

tel 0136 22 2000 fax 0136 22 2011
www.powderlife.com
07 Introduction 27 Snow Caves

©2010 Niseko Media KK
Contents of Powderlife are subject to copyright. Reproduction in whole or in
part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publication
Editor’s note The Green Leaf Hotel, Niseko Village of editorial does not necessarily constitute an endorsement of views or
09 Village News 31 On Piste

opinions expressed. The publisher does not accept responsibility for state-
ments made by advertisers.
Local Voices (p.29 Powder Poster) Niseko’s first English language periodical magazine – published every
Niseko local news Powdertools two weeks in Niseko between December and March, once a year as
11 Discover
a globally distributed Niseko promotional issue (Powderlife Global
1000 words
Edition).
Discover the Niseko area 33 Real Estate News ニセコ初の定期刊行雑誌。冬季期間（１２月～３月）は２週間に１回
発行、冬季期間外はサマーライフとして一回発行。
　Past issues available at the Powderlife office, Lower Ground Floor
13 In the loop

Real estate news and information
Australia House (opposite Seicomart).
Events around Niseko 37 Backcountry and Health

15 Social
Backcountry tips and health article
Snap and Flash 38 Resort Guide

17 Irrashaimasse
Food, restaurants and bars
Tours and activities
Shopping and retail
Green House and Gentem Café
Rental and services
DVD Review
Resort maps
19 Feature
Yoko Matsuda
51 After the melt
Niseko summer activities
23 Eat and Drink

Eat and drink news
58 Travel Fuji Rock Festival cover joey cocoran // photo yasu, niseko photography
Restaurant review – PIRKA
5 powderlife issue 28 // December 11 - December 24, 2010 www.powderlife.com

 EDITOR’S NOTE
移
り
往
く
季
節
Changing Seasons
photography // niseko photography
THIS is my first issue of Powderlife as Editor. In the two months that 今号は、パウダーライフ編集者として私が初めて携わった創刊号となります。本誌で働き始めたこの２ヶ月
I’ve worked for Powderlife, I’ve managed to meet some incredible 間で多くの素晴らしい人々に出会いました。ニセコに長年住んでいる人、住み始めて数ヶ月の人、皆ニセコ
people that call Niseko home. を故郷として愛してやまない人々です。
Some have lived here for years and others for only a few months. このニセココミュニティーを作り上げた彼・彼女等の存在が本誌にとって大切であることは言うまで
The people that shape our community are important to Powderlife. It’s evident もありません。本誌の過去３シーズンを振り返ってみてもそれは明らかです。本誌ではこれまで地域の
in each issue from the last three winter seasons. We’ve profiled everyone from 名士、開拓者、短期滞在者など様々な人々をページ上で紹介しました。今号では、ニセコ町でカフェを経
local heroes and pioneering developers to those who are here only for a week- 営し、料理グループ『１５婆』創設メンバーでもある松田裕子さんから光栄にもお話をうかがうことがで
long winter holiday. This issue I had the privilege of speaking to Niseko Town きました。松田さんは地域に密着し、様々な形で貢献しています。彼女の哲学を通して日本文化、
日本食
resident, café owner and founding member of the Jyuugobaa cooking group, 文化の保存を目的とする
『１５婆』の活動もそのひとつです。そして、ニセコに移り住む多くの人々のよう
Yuko Matsuda. She’s very much a part of the area and her insightful philoso- に松田さんもまたウィンタースポーツによってニセコに魅せられた人のひとりです。比羅夫・山田温泉で
phy on preserving culture and Japanese food traditions can be found on p.19. 現在のご主人に出会い、２７年前にニセコへ引っ越して来られました。
Matsuda-san met her husband at Yamada Onsen (Hirafu) and moved here 27
years ago. Like a lot of people, it was skiing that brought her to Niseko. 冬本番を迎える前のこの時期の１１月末から１２月始めにはニセコの冬を求めやってくるシーズナ
Towards the end of November and start of December, the streets of Hirafu ルワーカーが街にあふれ、比羅夫の街は賑わい始めます。新顔が羊蹄山に圧倒される様子、
日本文化へ
really started to liven with seasonal workers moving here to experience their own の愛着を深める様子、
またふかふかのパウダースノーに挑戦する様子を見るのは楽しいものです。ニセ
Niseko winter. It’s good to see fresh faces in awe of Mount Yotei, in love with the コは世界でも最も雪が多いリゾートのひとつです。皆さんが望んでいる完璧な“パウダースノーデー”を
idiosyncrasies of Japanese culture and ready to take on the light and fluffy pow- 迎えるのは確実でしょう。観光客の数からも今年は多忙なシーズンになると地元住民の多くは予測して
der snow. As one of the snowiest resorts in the world, each one of us is sure います。
また、予約数の上昇により、多くの企業が従来よりも多くのスタッフを雇用しなければなりません
to get a few perfect powder days. Most locals are predicting a busy season in でした。
スタッフの話が出てきましたので、
ここで本誌スタッフへの感謝の気持ちを書き記したいと思い
terms of visitors to the area. A lot of companies are reporting that bookings are ます。
クリス、千佳、ベバン、ポール、ロス、香容子そしてキサト。今シーズン創刊号のために労力を惜しま
up and they have had to hire more staff. Speaking of staff – Kris, Chika, Bevan, ず、サポートしてくれてありがとう。
Paul, Ross, Kisato and Kayoko – thanks for helping put together a great first そして、
この先やってくるパウダーデーに乾杯！
issue for the 10/11 season. Here’s to the many powder days ahead!
Lizzy Hoo, Powderlife, Managing Editor, email lizzy@powderlife.com リズィー・フー, パウダーライフ, 編集長, lizzy@powderlife.com

 VILLAGE NEWS
Local Voices
Name Sioned Owen Age 27

Company Hokkaido Tracks Development
Hometown Chester, England Time
in Niseko? Since March, 2010 Ski or
board and for how long? Board, 8
years Favourite Restaurant? Torimatsu
in Kutchan Favourite Bar? Jam Bar
Favourite Onsen? Yukichichibu Favourite
ski run? Miharashi Local secret? Jin
Bakery Place to ski before you die?
Kashmir in Northern India.
Niseko’s long autumn 名前ショニーオーウェン年齢27歳出身地チ
and moderate temperatures. While it wasn’t the ェスターイギリスニセコ年数 10ヶ月スキー、ス
ノーボード暦 8年目（スノーボード）お気に入りの
THE pre-season kicked off best for those wanting to play in the powder,
レストラン鳥松倶知安お気に入りのバー JAM
many locals were more than happy to be blessed
in a big way late October with a few extra weeks of beautiful pre-season
BAR お気に入りの温泉雪秩父好きなゲレンデコ
ース見晴らしコースニセコの秘密朝一のジンベ
with a sudden cold snap. weather to finalise preparations for the season. ーカリー真狩町人生の格言ルールをも恐れな
いこの気持ちの全てが３フィートもの新雪のた
This extended autumn wasn’t loved by all, as
THAT cold snap caught many locals unprepared. the lack of pre-season snowfall meant that the めにある。死ぬ前に行
きたいスキー場？
There was enough powder on the mountains to resort opening had to be delayed a few weeks.
カシミア
allow an enthusiastic crowd to get a few early Locals were not worried though, as sometimes インド。
runs in (see page 15). the pre-season is unpredictable. Eventually the
That weather didn’t last though. Instead, snow will come, and come, and everyone will
Niseko residents were treated to beautiful delayed have forgotten that it was a little late this year.
autumnal conditions, clear blue skies, sunshine Let’s see if we can top last year’s 10–15m!
niseko discovery HOlidays
FOR six years, Niseko Powder Holidays has been

a prominent winter tour provider. Its operation’s
team has seen Niseko transform from a quiet and
domestic resort, through to a thriving international Name
hub. Realising the potential of the area in both Mitsunori Okumura (Okkun) Age 36
summer and winter, the company has changed its Hometown Hyogo(next to Osaka) Time
name to Niseko Discovery Holidays (NDH) – see in Niseko? 3 years Ski or board and
page 11. WIth a new logo and philosophy, NDH for how long? Snowboard, 20 years
hopes to engage a year-round market and develop Favourite restaurant? Marukyu Shouten
tours that suit Niseko’s summer attractions. in Kutchan Favourite bar? Boroya in
Kutchan Favourite onsen? Niseko Goshiki
Favourite ski run? Higashi O-ne course
BOokings are up
Local secret? Most tasty natural spring
water in the world Place to ski before you
THE lifts have barely started spinning, and already tour die? Rusutsu.
operators are prepping for what is set to be the big-
名前オクムラミツノリ 年齢36歳 出身地兵庫
gest year yet, with initial bookings already comfortably
県 ニセコ年数3年スキー、スノーボード暦 20年（
surpassing last year’s pre-season. And to deal with スノーボード）お気に入りのレストランマルキュ
the anticipated influx of tourists, operators have had to ー商店 お気に入りのバー boroya 倶知安 お気に
drastically increase staff numbers for this season. All 入りの温泉ニセコ五色温泉 好きなゲレンデコー
ス東尾根 ニセコの秘密世界で一番おいしい水
this, even with the Japanese yen being comparatively
が飲める。人生の格言明日できることは今日しな
strong compared to the American and Canadian dollar.
い。死ぬ前に行きたいスキー場ルスツスキー場。
However, it seems that the atmosphere and quality of
snow continues to attract tourists to the area.

 DISCOVER
Explore Otaru
OTARU is the closest major city to

Niseko. It is a historic port city, where
many original buildings remain.
The canal district is beautiful in all seasons
and makes for a great day trip or a stopover
between Niseko and Sapporo. Otaru is a
¥1000, hour-long train ride from Kutchan.
There is a super friendly, English-speaking
tourist-information desk inside the main train
station. The major sights are within a short
walk from the station. If you’re around in
February, be sure to check out the niss Local instructors
Snow Light Festival. tor training and improvement. Locals that can work
TEACHERS wanted: in Japan and assist during the busy times will be
paid. It doesn’t matter how much spare time you
Share the joy of skiing by have, NISS will work out a schedule that suits you.
learning how to teach. Locals are invited to meet at the NISS Hirafu meet-
ing area from 11.00am to 3.00pm on these dates:
MARK Mc Donald aka ‘Macca’ is the new director December 14/15,16/17; January 6/7, 13/14,
of Niseko International Snowsports School (NISS) 20/21, 27/28; February 10/11 and 17/18. This is
and would like to involve the community by making the first small step in developing other community
a first step to enabling people to be involved in the programs and relationships. For more information
joy of teaching snow sports. NISS plans to do this please contact Ryan Watts at NISS@harmonyre-
01 by offering several days of professional ski-instruc- sorts.com. Get in quick as spaces are limited.
Snowshoeing
WHILE not the reason that most people visit
02 Niseko, snowshoeing is certainly an activity that is
03 worthy of people’s attention and time. Too often,

the only time we get to enjoy the nature of our
surroundings is as we are racing downhill through
it. Snowshoeing allows us to slow it down, and to
immerse ourselves within a silent and still winter
wonderland. It’s an incredible feeling to crunch
04 through the fresh snow and slowly wander through
the frozen landscape. There are plenty of places
photo // nicholas jones around town where you can rent snowshoes.
01) EAT
TRY Sushiya-dori aka Sushi Street.
GOSHIKI ONSEN
Port town = fresh seafood = great sushi.
02) DRINK
REST your feet at the Otaru Beer factory: GOSHIKI Onsen is a fantastic sulphurous onsen
Authentic German beer, created in a beau- with water that changes colour from milky white
tiful brewery, located on the canal. to deep green. The colour will depend on how
03) SEE volcanically active the source of the water is and
WANDER around the buildings and take in the current weather conditions. Situated between
the architecture along the historic canal. the base of the steaming Iwaonupuri and the
04) DO rear of Annupuri, Goshiki Onsen is probably the
MAKE your own hand-blown glass at one most remote onsen in the Niseko area. However,
of the many glass factories. it’s probably the most serene: simplistic tiling,
wooden baths, no distractions and an amazing
view out to the mountains beyond.

 IN THE LOOP
DEC 11 14
blo*blo Opening Festival Niseko Darts Competition
オープニングパーティニセコダーツコンペ
Free baked potato, warm gluhwein, belly The twice-weekly local darts competition
dancing, pole dancing, new cocktails and a starts tonight. There may still be a few spare
pie-throwing event for charity. spots on the night if you still need a team.
焼きたてポテト、あったかホットワイン毎年恒例のダーツコンペが今シーズ
2010
と共にベリー、ポールダンスをお楽しンも始まります。当日のみの飛び入り
みください。ニューカクテルや自由参参加も可能です。
加のパイ投げと盛りだくさん
Start // 7pm @ blo*blo Start // 7pm @ Tamashi Bar

Contact // 0136 22 1269 www.nisekodarts.com
www.blowhardallyear.com/japan/
15 16 17
Injury Prevention Seminar Pool Tournament ビリヤー Pizza Eating Competition
ウィンタースポーツ外傷ドトーナメント早食いピザコンペ　
予防セミナー Pool Tournament @ Bar Splash
Free seminar from Niseko Physio’s Bevan Col- – Bar Splash’s house rules. ¥1000 entry. Eat two large pizzas faster than anybody else.
less on how to prevent winter injuries, as well ¥2000 entry (includes two large pizzas), win-
as tips on how to assist friends or customers. ner receives ¥5000 and entry fee refunded.
参加無料のセミナー。ニセコフィジオビリヤードのトーナメントをスプラッ
のベブンコレスが雪山での怪我を予シュでやっちゃいます。腕前を披露でプライドと威厳、賞金を賭けて、早くピ
防するテクニックを教えます。友人やきるこの時をお見逃しなく。ザを食べ切りましょう。２０００円エン
顧客へのサポートにも役立ちます。トリー（Lサイズピザ２枚込み）　賞金
５０００円＋エントリー料返却
Start // 7pm @ SEKKA Kushi Start // 9pm @ Bar Splash Start // 9pm @ Niseko Pizza
Contact // 0136220399 Contact // 0136 55 8228 Contact // 0136 55 5552
www.nisekophysio.com www.nisekopizza.jp
18 19 21
Christmas Sale @ NAC Mini tour with Grand Hirafu Full Moon Party
クリスマスセール＠NAC blog maker @ Hirafu snow フルムーンパーティー　
The North Face, Columbia, feild ＠ blo*bloバー　
Smart Wool, Black Diamond Pack, MSR 名ブログ隊と滑ろう！グラン・ヒラフミ
snowshoes and more. Celebrate the first full-moon of the season
ニツアー @ ヒラフスキー場 with a huge Thai-style BBQ and fruity cock-
クリスマスセール　＠　NAC – 冬の Why not join the Grand Hirafu blog? They will tails. ¥1,500 for a huge BBQ plate + salad +
準備は出来ていますか？お買い得商 show you the mountain well. fruit-fuelled cocktail.
品たくさんあります。冬本番前に是非ブログでおなじみのメンバーとのミニ今シーズン最初のフルムーンをタイス
立ち寄ってください！ツアーに参加しませんか? あなたの滑タイルのBBQとトロピカルカクテルで
りがブログに登場するかも。祝いましょう。
Start // 8am-9pm 16th to 26th December Start // 8.30am @ Grand Hirafu Start // 7pm @ blo*blo
Contact // 0136 23 2092 Contact // 0136 22 0109 Contact // 0136 22 1269
www.nac-web.com grand-hirafu.jp/winter/mountain/event.html www.blowhardallyear.com/japan/
23
Grand Hirafu Christmas
Candles
XMAS
X`masキャンドル
Grand Hirafu Christmas candles streets fire-
EVENTS
works on 24th after night-skiing is finished.
グランヒラフX`masキャンドルストリ
ート グラン・ヒラフの夜をキャンドル
の灯りでロマンティックに照らしま
す。24日には打上花火が上がります。  
Start // 6pm @ Grand Hirafu

Contact // 0136 22 0109
grand-hirafu.jp/winter/mountain/event.html
24
Kate Acoustic Session
ケイトアコースティックセ
ッション
Kate from Australia will be performing Christ-
Christmas Sale @ Cocoroya
クリスマスセール＠ここ
ろ屋　
Up to 70% off a selection of
25 Christmas
Feasts
Family Christmas Lunch @ J-Sekka Cafe
Price: ¥2,800
Reservation: Same day OK (limit 30/day)
Call: 0136 23 2220
Taj Mahal Christmas Couples Set
mas and classic Aussie rock songs. Please wedding kimonos, prices start Date: from 11am December 25 Date: 11am-9:30pm December 22-25
come and sing along! from ¥31,500. Stunning decorative edition to Includes: Roast chicken with Niseko Green Includes: Curry, tandoori chicken, sheekh
you home, business or restaurant. Farm potatoes, butternut pumpkin & green kabab, salad, soup, nan, mango melba and a
オーストラリアからケイトがクリスマ
選りすぐりの内掛けを取り揃えてます。 peas with chicken gravy. glass of wine
スソングとなつかしいオーストラリア
おうちやお店に飾っておくだけでも高 Price: ¥1,800 Price: ¥4,000
ロックを歌います。みんなで一緒に歌
いましょう。貴な空間を作ります。 JoJo’s Christmas Dinner Call: 0136 22 4566
Start // 9pm @ Half Note Start // 16th December to 25th December Date: 5pm December 24-25 Downtown Cafe Christmas Presents
Contact // 0136 23 2727 Contact // 0136 23 0008 Includes: Appetizer, pumkin soup, beef ten- Date: December 24-25
www.nisekohalfnote.com www.cocoroya.jp derloin steak, garlic bread, dessert and coffee. Includes: Free drink with dinner meal order

 SNAP  FLASH
GRAND HIRAFU YETI

OPENING BAR
FACES //
LOCATION // GRAND HIRAFU WELCOME CENTRE 1) Kate Beecroft and James Thomas
IT was strange weather for the opening of a ski resort; blue skies, warm sunshine and no
2) Jason Toh and Antony Casey
snow to be seen. However, this year was not the first time that this has happened.
3) Yuka Abe, Yuki Kawamura
The official ceremony began in front of the Grand Hirafu Welcome Center with a Shinto
and Yuka Kerr
priest praying for the safety of all visitors to the mountain. The second stage of the FOR your chance to win a Hanazono
4) Sam Kerr
opening ceremony was held in front of the Hirafu Safety Information Center, which was Nature Adventure Park Snowmobiling
officially opened by 30 official guests simultaneously cutting a ribbon. 01 02 20km Ocean View Tour for two (value
¥32,000) answer the following:
“Out of all the people in the world

who would you invite to a private
ski/snowboard session at Hana-
zono’s Strawberry Fields?”
The winning answer won’t include your

Mum or best friend. Send your entry to
lizzy@powderlife.com
Get creative!
photo // glen claydon 03 04
FIRST TRACKS
IN OCTOBER
LOCATION // GRAND HIRAFU
NISEKO experienced some freakish snowfalls at the end of October, which urged some die-
hard skiiers and snowboarders to take on the mountain. On October 27, photographer Glen
Claydon (and co.) hiked up to the top of the Centre 4 lift and got in a few good powder turns
on the way down, as well as first-tracks bragging rights. Others waited until the following
weekend and were a little disappointed they had missed out. And some people went to the
unusually early opening at nearby Nakayama Toge on October 30. photo // stu cady photo // glen claydon 02 03
THE
BARN
FACES //
1) Kim Wejendorp
2) Takayo Bryan
3) KENJAH
4) Shaun Widger, Chelle Alford
and Stu Cady
photo // glen claydon photo // glen claydon 01 5) Yasu Shimanuki and Ran Akutsu 04 05
15 powderlife issue 28 // December 11 - December 24, 2010 www.powderlife.com 16 powderlife issue 28 // December 11 - December 24, 2010 www.powderlife.com
 IRRASHAIMASSE // “welcome!” – great local businesses
GENTEM CAFÉ NISEKO, Kabayama, Tetsuya Akimoto GREEN HOUSE, Izumikyo 1, Yuki Eguchi
AFTER moving to Tokyo post high school and playing in indie bands at clubs COOK, artist and keen snowboarder Yuki Eguchi moved to Niseko in 1998 (12
and pubs for 7 years, Tetsuya Akimoto realised everything he needed was seasons ago), after living in Tokyo for most of her life. She’s done winter seasons
in his home state of Hokkaido. Tetsuya has had many jobs whilst living in in New Zealand and Canada, but loves Niseko because it’s different from other
Niseko, from housekeeping and washing dishes to jobs as a raft guide and places in Japan. She believes that in Niseko people are doing the things they
a fishing guide. From this year, Tatsuya will be the owner of Gentem Café want to do, and that there are many interesting people who live here. Yuki owns
Niseko. He will offer a Japanese fusion style menu and use ingredients from and operates Green House, which offers lunch-box delivery to local businesses,
local farms and sometimes deer from a local hunter. He loves Niseko and massage and handmade clothes, in addition to great organic and vegetarian
hopes to leave the nature and Japanese culture to the next generations (he sit-down lunches. Yuki wants to be healthy and happy in the future and ac-
has three children) and for the people that come from overseas.
秋元哲也さん　玄天カフェニセコ　樺山　
knowledges the support of her friends in helping her run her small business.
江口由紀さん　Green House　泉卿
Getting to the airport
生まれ故郷である北海道室蘭を離れ、インディーズバンドとして東京進出をしてから７年、都会の生活東京出身のアーティストで料理上手、そしてスノーボード大好きな江口由紀さんが、ニュージーランド、 just got easier
ではなく北海道の大自然の中に自分の求めている全てがあると気がついた秋元哲也さんは１５年前カナダでの冬を経験し、大自然の中でスノーボードの出来る北海道にあこがれニセコにやってきたの
にニセコに移住。ペンションでの住み込みの仕事を初めさまざまな仕事を経験、多くの企業立ち上げにが1998年。その両親譲りの才能を生かし、現在ここGreenHouseで弁当デリバリー、マッサージ、手作り
マネージメントとして関わり、ついに今シーズンよりその経験を生かし玄天カフェニセコの新しいオーナの洋服の販売を切り盛りしている。地元の食材、オーガニックで作る安全安心にこだわったベジタリアン
ホテルから空港まで
ーとなった。夏にはラフティングガイド、魚釣りガイドなど自然と関わることが多く、デパートやコンビニ弁当、
アロマ好きが高じてオイルマッサージをバリまで行き勉強、
自分の好きな服、着たい服を作ること
ではなく山や川、湖や海といった自然と人が結びついているニセコにこそ次の世代へと繋げていくべき始まった洋服製作と由紀さんのこだわりが多くの人々の共感を呼び、特別な空間を作り上げている。ニ
全てが揃っていると話してくれた。地元の食材をふんだんに使った料理、哲さんの愛情溢れる接客を多セコには多くの自然と個性のある人々がいる、そんな中で由紀さんは周囲の友人の理解と協力に支え
くの海外からのお客に日本の自慢できる文化として感じてほしい。られ、友人や顧客との価値観の共有、共感が次へのエネルギーとなっていると満弁の笑みで語った。
Private and Comfortable Affordable and Efficient
Rates
DVD RevIEWS Ride in style in a spacious, climate Low price, with more room for
New Chitose
1 person Child under 6
Private
controlled luxury shuttle bus. your bags. ¥6,000 ¥4,000 Transfers
Airport - Niseko one way one way
車内は広くて余裕の快適空間低額料金でしかも荷物置場は
たっぷりのスペース Niseko - New ¥10,000 ¥7,000 from ¥28,000
Chitose Airport return return one way
No fuss. No hassle. Door-to-Door

No delays. Convenience Niseko Scheduled Transfer Services (Available 1 Dec thru 31 March)
No changing trains. No dragging We pick you up from your hotel and Niseko - New Chitose Airport New Chitose Airport – Niseko Niseko - Sapporo City
your bags through stations. take you to the airport. Departs Niseko Arrives Airport Departs Airport Arrives Niseko Departs Niseko Arrives Sapporo
No standing around. 札幌のホテルから空港まで直行 08:00 10:30 12:00 14:30 09:30 12:00
乗換え、手荷物運搬、待ち時間にスピーディーにらくらく移動 09:00 11:30 14:00 16:30 Sapporo City - Niseko
さようなら 10:00 12:30 16:30 19:00 Departs Sapporo Arrives Niseko
11:00 13:30 19:00 21:30 12:30 15:00
NowHere – Absinthe Films The Way I See It - MSP
15:00 17:30 21:30 23:59 If the timetables above do not suit your requirements, please consider our
THIS film offers some mellow no-boarding, MORE like a beautifully shot travel documen- 17:00 19:30
Private Transfer Services. Services may depart/arrive at different times due to
road and/or weather conditions, flight delays and/or airport closures.
some insane urban jibbing (the last scene is tary, mixing amazing ambient shots with epic
epic), and some huge backcountry riding, all skiing. Even the footage of the skiing is a class
www.skybus.co.jp Airport Service • Trips and Excursions • Ski Shuttle
accompanied by some grooving tunes. Yet, it above the rest. The amazing point-of-view Secure VIP Transfer • Wedding Hire • Chauffeured Charter
Tel: 011-788-4994
failed to impress. It just feels like any other cameras really give you a feeling of what it’s Email: info@skybus.co.jp Licensed Travel Agency 2-589 ONBOARD
snowboarding movie, and it’s not the riders like to be these guys. As an added bonus, the
that are to blame. Niseko section will make you proud to be here.
17 powderlife isssue 26 // October 6 - October 19, 2010 www.powderlife.com 18 powderlife issue 28 // December 11 - December 24, 2010 www.powderlife.com
 FEATURE // yoko matsuda  FEATURE // yoko matsuda
leave behind a part of the past and キーをするジャガイモ）、大豆は有名です 100-Mile Diet, the Slow Movement, セコ地元食材、地域コミュニティーに一直
what they believe shapes the country. よ。その上、大豆は味噌、
しょうゆ、豆乳、豆 and organic farming are all efforts 線に向かって懸命に働く松田さん。
The Jyuugobaa is for anyone able 腐など日頃よく使う食製品に加工しやすい designed to shorten lengthy supply 松田さんの経営するカフェはニセコ駅
to join – young, old, Japanese or ですね」
と、松田さんは話す。 chains, boost local economies and 舎内にあり、店内は夫妻が毎日使っている
foreign. This set of charismatic ladies ニセコが国際観光都市として成長する reignite the importance of community アンティークであふれている。常連客は足
gets together twice a month at the につれ、
日本食文化の希薄化が加速する farming. 踏みミシンを再利用した木造のテーブル
local citizen’s hall in Niseko Town to ように思える。
しかし松田さんの意見は違 The farms at the foothills of Mount によりかかり、
自家焙煎のコーヒーをおい
learn how to make food through prac- Yotei, although it might not be so しそうに楽しむ。
「
tice. The group started by cooking obvious under a layer of winter snow, 店内に置かれた多くの鉢植えからは松
at local council events that aimed to are a huge part of Niseko’s economic 田さんの植物への興味もうかがえる。植物
」
bring the community together. 日本社会が歪めた本来の日 existence.These farms are most の手入れをする時が忙しい１日から離れ
One of the group’s catering events 本食を学びたい、伝えたい。 famous for producing potatoes (hence ることができる休憩時間。夏期には、英国
was cooking for some of the world’s the skiing potato) as well as soybeans, 式ガーデニングを勉強した松田さんの育
most influential leaders at the G8 which Matsuda San says, “can be てた花々がニセコ町大通りに鮮やかな色
Summit in the summer of 2008. transformed easily into everyday
“In Japanese tradition, But Matsuda-san remembers the う。
「インスタント食品による健康への影 cooking items – miso, soy sauce, soy
を添える。地域コミュニティーへの貢献、
国の食文化を守り伝承する活動からは松
自
the food you eat is the Jyugobaa’s greatest achievement as 響を日本社会は見て、感じています。外国 milk and tofu.” 田さんの地域・住人に対する純粋な愛情
something far more humble. As Niseko becomes increasingly
person you are. If you “An event that encompassed the
人観光客の数が増え、
どんなに国際化が
進んでも関係ないでしょう。健康が一番で international, the dilution of Japanese
が感じられる。
故郷の九州・母親の手料理から随分遠
eat good food you are whole Yotei-zan area. And we made すから」。 food culture would also presumably い比羅夫・山田温泉で当時プロスキーヤ
food for 150 people – with just 10 of increase. Matsuda-s an expresses a
healthy and happy.” us – using all local ingredients.”
健康かつ、幸せでいることが松田さん
一生の望み。朝起きて裏庭の井戸水を汲 differing opinion when asked about
ーだった倶知安町出身の夫に出会いニセ
コへ引っ越して来たのが２７年前。以来、
words by // lizzy hoo // photography by // ross cole-hunter // translation by // yuri pangier and paul haggart Globally, the importance of ‘going む、
この瞬間から忙しいカフェの仕事を終 this: “Japan’s society saw a change in ニセコは松田さんの故郷である。
local’ is gaining momentum. The the way we processed food so it
S
えるまで、
自分が一番好きな物 − 食物、ニ現在、遠い故郷を離れニセコに住む若
OME people think of 食−ある人にとっては単なる栄養補 use in her family kitchen and the 前に日本食・家庭料理の伝承を目的とする
food as a fuel stop – an 給、多忙な１日の中での休憩にすぎない importance of cooking unprocessed 料理サークルを始めた。今では『１５婆』
interruption during a hec- かもしれない。他の人にとっては幼少期の and wholesome food. However, というニセコでも知られる料理グループと
tic day. For others, food 思い出、食欲をそそるもの、
または神聖な she alludes to a time during the なった。
日本、
日本人の源である日本食を
is evocative of childhood memo- ものかもしれない。ニセコで茶房ヌプリを 1960s when, “Things from overseas 伝承し、社会に何らかの形でつめあとを残
ries, a guilty pleasure, or is perhaps 経営し、
ガーデニングを趣味とする松田さ became very chic and fashionable in すことが同グループの最大の任務である。
even sacred. For long-time Niseko んにとって、食とは人生そのものだと言う。 Japan and at that stage, a lot of the 名前こそ『１５婆』
であるが、若年層、外
Town resident, keen gardener and 彼女は普通の５３歳とは違う。輝きを放 Japanese foods started to disappear. 国人、誰でも参加可能。
カリスマあふれる
Nupuri Café owner Yoko Matsuda, つ笑顔、
しなやかな肌、にじみでる温かな Daughters stopped learning from their 女性たちがニセコ町の公民館に月２回集
food is her life. 人柄からは彼女の寛大で正直な人生観が mothers, and what was passed down まり、実習を通して料理を学ぶ。
『１５婆』
“
Matsuda-san is no ordinary 53 year- うかがえる。それこそが食に対する真剣さは町おこしの一環としてニセコ町議会の
old woman. Her smile radiates, her であり、
『健康は食にあり』
という言葉を信イベントから始まった。２００８年には洞
eyes are vibrant and her skin is supple じる松田さん自身である。爺湖サミットでのケータリングを担うとい
and like that of a woman many years 松田さんの食に関する思い出は母親 Never underestimate う偉業も成し遂げるが、松田さんが一番誇
”
her junior. She emanates warmth and が毎朝作ってくれたお味噌汁から始まる。 the power of food. りに思っているのは地元・羊蹄山で行われ
expresses an open and honest out- 新鮮な有機野菜、鰹節と昆布でとっただしたイベントに参加した時だと言う。
「１０
look on life. These sought-after traits 汁。
この思い出が今の松田さんの家庭料人のメンバーで１５０人分の食事を作り
are a true reflection of her passion for 理への思いの原点だ。
「日本では食べ物がました。全て地元食材を使ってね」。
food and how she wholeheartedly その人を作る、体に良い物を食べる事で was not what used to be passed 現在、世界的に『地産地消』を支援する
believes you are what you eat 精神的・肉体的に健康になると言われて down.” This simple idea of making 傾向がある。100マイルダイエット
（自宅か
Matsuda-san can fondly remem- います」
と、松田さん。 home-cooked traditional recipes and ら半径100マイル、つまり約160km以内で
ber a time when her mother would 幼少時代、松田さんは家族のために忙 passing them on is what sparked a 生産された食材を食べる）、
スロームーブ
prepare fresh organic miso soup しく働く母親から自然と料理を学んだ。イ life-changing idea for Matsuda-san 17 メント
（利益や効率ばかりを優先せず人と
every morning with shavings of ンスタント食品を使わない健康に良い食 years ago: to create a situation where 自然との繋がりを結び直し、暮らし、仕事、
bonito and sea kelp. It’s this memory, 事作りの大切さもそのひとつだ。
「でもね、 she could learn about traditional Japa- 文化を丁寧に作る作業）、有機農法などは
amongst others, that helped shape １９６０年頃の日本では外国の食べ物が nese foods and the traditional Japa- 全て生産者から消費者へのルートを短く
Matsuda-san’s appreciation of good 粋でおしゃれでした。その頃から少しずつ nese way of doing things. “Things するため、そして地元の人達によって地元
homegrown food. She explains, “In 日本食が食卓から消えていったのではな I hadn’t been able to learn because of の景気を良くするために始まった。
Japanese tradition, the food you eat いでしょうか。母親から家庭料理を学ぶ機 the way society changed.” 羊蹄山ふもとは１年の半分が深く降り積
is the person you are. If you eat good 会も減り、
また教えてもらう料理の内容も This situation later transformed もった雪に覆われているが、その雪解け水
food you are healthy and happy.” 変わってきましたね」
と、松田さんは話す。 into a passionate Niseko cooking を利用して行われる農業がニセコにもた
As a child, Matsuda-san absorbed 「日本社会が歪めた本来の日本食を学 group – the Jyuugobaa (15 old ladies). らす経済効果は大きい。
「羊蹄山付近のジ
a lot of the skills her mother would びたい、伝えたい」。その思いから１７年 Together they make it their mission to ャガイモ（町のイメージキャラクターはス
continued from previous page
 FEATURE // yoko matsuda

doesn’t really matter how many 者達は多い。その中でも日本の家庭料理 in Kyushu, and a long way from her
foreigners are in the area or を学びたいと思っている若者へ、
「食物が mother’s home-cooked meals.
how international it becomes, 与えるパワーを過小評価しないこと。食べ For those young Japanese people
it’s more about being healthy.” 物が人、性格、感情をも作ります。体に良い who now live far away from their
Being healthy and surrounding her- 健康食を食べること、それによって人生の hometowns, and anyone else wanting
self with happiness is Matsuda-san’s 目的地が見え、不安・心配がない落ち着い to learn more about home cooking,
life-long ambition. From the moment た人生を送ることができます」
と、松田さ Matsuda-san has a few of wise words
she wakes and collects the water んは伝えたいと言う。 to share. “ Never underestimate the
from the spring in her backyard, to power of food. Food shapes the
when she finishes a day’s work at her flower gardens and in the summer, type of person you are, shapes your
busy café, Matsuda-san is working her vibrant flower creations and personality and your mood. By having
directly with the things of which she is designs line the main streets of Niseko good, healthy and wholesome food,
most fond. Town. Her involvement with the com- you can shape your destination. You
Her café is tucked away in the munity and the offering of her skills won’t suffer from anxiety and you’ll
entrance of Niseko Town’s railway to preserve her country’s traditions have a much more settled life.”
station and is filled with antiques that shows her genuine love of the district
she and her husband use in every- and the people in the district.
day life. Looking around the café, Matsuda-san has called Niseko
Matsuda-san’s passion for plants is home since moving here 27 years
also apparent. ago. She met her husband, then
Tending to her garden is where she a pro skier from Kutchan Town, at
takes a break from her busy life. She Shirakaba Lodge, Yamada Onsen (Hi-
has studied the art of making English rafu) – a long way from her hometown

we
 EAT & DRINK
Boroya
THIS friendly bar in Kutchan is steadily

becoming a local favourite. Boroya, mean-
TESS Stomski from NISEKO GOURMET (www.niseko-gourmet.
ing ‘broken-down house’, was created last
com) shares her favourite things to eat and drink in Niseko.
November by ex-Downtown Cafe employee
Coffee at Sprout Outdoor Espresso Cafe Hideki. He has meticulously handpicked
in Kutchan a delicious range of Japanese alcohol,
which he proudly serves alongside the
Hand made Soba Noodles with Duck or Tempura usual assortment of beer and western
Vegetables with Green Tea Salt at Raku Ichi in Annupuri alcohol. Hideki also makes his own freshly
made pizza, pasta and other delicious
Hot sake and yakitori at the authentic Torimatsu snacks in front of you. Your taste buds will
in Kutchan start working overtime with anticipation
from the amazing aromas that fill the
The traditional Japanese set course dinner at Yo small bar. And if sitting at a bar isn’t your
in Hirafu’s Lower Village thing, there is a special chill-out room to
relax with friends.
Beef cheeks or a drink at The Barn’s upstairs
bar in Hirafu
Dinner at Maccarina Restaurant in Makkari for a

royce’ chips
special occasion, or the lunch course is great value
PUT aside your initial reaction about the
Otaru beer on tap at Sekka in Hirafu combination of chocolate and potato chips
and open up your culinary mind. It’s sur-
Sushi Train lunch at Youtei Maru in Kutchan prisingly good. The crispy, slightly savoury
taste and texture of the potato chips mixed
RECIPE // japanese savoury pancake with the rich and smooth Royce chocolate
is brilliant. Whoever decided to bring
together these two instinctively separate
foods is a bit of a guru. Similar to when
some maverick decided to bring together
surfboards and snowy mountains, and we
all know how that ended. A white choco-
late and cheese, and a caramel version are
also available, all of which can be found in
souvenir shops around Hokkaido.
OKONOMIYAKI YETI BAR

Ingedients – serves 1 Method
• 50g Plain flour (mixed with 45ml of PUT all the ingredients (except pork) into YETI Bar is a cosy location on Yotei-zaka in
water beforehand) a bowl and mix together thoroughly. Lower Hirafu – a fresh renovation of the old
• 120g Diced cabbage Fry the sliced pork on the hot plate. Pour Tanuki Bar. It’s been opened up, extended
• 1 Egg the mixture onto the cooked pork. Shape and the sound-system has been pimped
• Tablespoon of sliced spring onion the batter into a circle and cook for 5 up, but fear not, the ever-popular nail game
• Tablespoon of sliced Chikuwa fish min. (or until cooked) then flip it. remains. Lounges that line the wall have
sausage (optional) Tip: Do not press down on okonomiyaki been added to allow you to chat along
• Teaspoon of red pickled ginger – this helps keep some air and fluffiness with a small group of friends. Sapporo
Toppings inside. Once both sides are cooked, beer is available on tap, as well as the
• Pieces of sliced pork (bacon will be OK) add a layer of okonomiyaki sauce, then usual wine and spirit options. Hot food will
• Okonomiyaki sauce and mayonnaise mayonnaise and a liberal sprinkling of also be available for late-night
• Dried bonito (fish flakes) and green laver bonito flakes and green laver. Enjoy! drinking accompaniments.
 RESTAURANT REVIEW // pirka
“Hokkaido ‘Nemuro’ scal-

lops are cooked for just
seconds on each side"
WORDS BY // lizzy hoo PHOTOGRAPHY BY // niseko photography
THE thought of Teppanyaki often conjures cooked for just seconds on each side
and then dressed with a rich creamy
up images of wild barbecue flames, rice sea urchin and seaweed sauce – a
flying through the air and a captivating definite highlight of the meal.
The Country Style Vegetable
chef practicing all the ‘tricks in their book’. Salad is a welcome palate cleanser
after the creaminess of the sea urchin
AT Pirka, the focus is not on an naturally intense flavours. Each dressing. It’s also the perfect prelude
extravagant performance but on ingredient is then only seasoned to grilled wagyu steak.
the simplicity of flavours and fresh slightly by a selection of salts (natural, Chef Yamamoto cuts the steak
seasonal ingredients. charcoal, seaweed, rosemary, garlic into bite-size cubes whilst on the grill
In the picturesque confines of The and chilli) and oils (Italian, Greek and and then serves the steak with three
Hilton Niseko Village, Chef Yamamo- Cypriot). kinds of sauce and a stir-fried
to, practices a refined and beautiful The first grilled dish is sautéed beansprout dish.
form of teppanyaki that stays true to herb tiger prawns with seasonal Our stomachs are nearly at ca-
the essence of Japanese cooking – vegetables. Each prawn is placed on pacity when the garlic fried rice and
simplicity. The décor and ambience the grill and meticulously deveined small bowl of miso soup arrive.
are also testament to this. There are and cooked to perfection. Chef After a day of exploring the slopes,
only 10 seats at Pirka, which are Yamamoto’s fluid movements and you shouldn’t have any trouble fitting
positioned next to the grill and look precision knife skills exude elegance this in. The same can be said for
out through wide glass windows. and efficiency. A dusting of chilli salt dessert – a selection of petit fours.
To start, Chef Yamamoto takes us brings out the flavour of the prawns. Dining at Pirka is an impressive
through the Tsuki Course – there are Next in line is a plate of juicy scal- experience. Taking up one of its ten
three courses to choose from as well lops and fleshy pieces of king crab. seats makes you feel pretty special.
as an a-la-carte menu. As the first The king crab is grilled first and looks The restaurant’s location is also
dish arrives (a small bowl of soybean plump and is coral red and white in stunning. Its interior is simply sleek
tofu), Chef Yamamoto explains the colour. Once cooked, it’s neatly lined and dark and allows you to focus
restaurant’s desire for using only up to the side while the succulent on what’s important – the wonderful
fresh seasonal produce to provide Hokkaido ‘Nemuro’ scallops are flavours of fresh ingredients.
 SNOW CAVES// the green leaf hotel
the green leaf hotel
RESTING at the base of the Mori no Chair slopes you could literally ski into a Your appetite for life’s little
spa treatment and onsen. luxuries is sure to be satisfied at the
sits The Green Leaf Hotel Niseko Village Upstairs at the Green Leaf is Green Leaf, with every service com-
– a long-time resident of the area that has Niseko’s first rooftop bar – Altitude. ing with a bonus ski-in ski-out of-
The bar will serve food and drinks fering. For those that visit, take the
recently been given a makeover. during the day and is the ideal spot time to notice the artwork strewn
for après cocktails. Connected via throughout the hotel. It’s these de-
ARTIST in resident Emi Shiratori’s its new direction. Unique to the footbridge to the bar, the 230-seat- tails that make this hotel a special
hand-painted murals line the en- paintings is Tomioka’s own blend er restaurant Goshiki will offer an place to stay for a winter holiday.
trance of the Green Leaf and are a of white – ‘Tomioka White’ – the a-la-carte menu for lunch and a
stylised depiction of what Emi natu- hotel lobby and signature cocktail’s comprehensive dinner buffet.
rally contemplates when she thinks namesake.
of Hokkaido – her home state. Her Tomioka-inspired wallpaper lines
graphics are on everything from the hallway as you walk through to
guestroom doors and ski lockers to the guest rooms. The rooms have
disposable laundry bags. not structurally changed, however,
The hotel’s lead designer An- the décor is remarkably different
thony Champalimaud based the and fuses the art of Tomioka
hotel’s redesign on two generations and Shiratori.
of Japanese artists. The lobby The Green Leaf spa is the perfect
and lounge is named after the late retreat for guests and visitors to the
Soichiro Tomioka (1922–1994); YTL hotel. The spa menu offers every- Booking Information
Hotels inherited genuine Tomioka thing from pedicures and manicures Contact T. 0136-44-3311 (Japan) T. +81-(0)136-44-3311 (outside Japan)
prints and used these as a way to 15-minute head and shoulder Website www.thegreenleafhotel.com
Email glh2@niseko-village.com
to link the history of the hotel to massages. After finishing up on the
 POWDER POSTER LOCATION hirafu // RIDER kayle // PHOTOGRAPHY yasuyuki shimanuki, niseko photography
 POWDER TOOLS
MoovBoots BURTON JOPLIN JACKET IN EMBER GRUNGE ERIC POLLARD PRO SKIS
AVAILABLE ONLINE AVAILABLE @ FUSION SPORTS STORE, HIRAFU AVAILABLE @ INSKI, HIRAFU ross cole-hunter // hirafu village
niseko photograph
www.moovculture.com www.hanazononiseko.com www.inski.com.au glen claydon// hirafu y // hirafu
BURTON MALOLO SNOWBOARD MSR LIGHTNING ASCENT ANON LENS VISUALISER IPHONE APP
AVAILABLE @ PROSKI, HIRAFU AVAILBLE @ NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE AVAILABLE ONLINE (FREE)
WWW.PROSKI.COM www.nac-web.com www. itunes.apple.com/us/app/anon-optics photographer//
rider// location
What’s on your playlist? First IMpression
ALISTAIR Shelley, an English teacher in

Kutchan, sent us his top-ten songs to snowboard
1// Kenny Loggins // Highway to the Danger Zone
2// The Chemical Brothers // Block Rockin’ Beats
 1000 WORDS
If a picture tells 1000 words, then here’s 8000 words to help you get a
to recently. We can understand the inclusion of 3// The Cranberries // Zombie
better understanding of this awesome place we call home.
‘Highway to the Danger Zone’ for a powder day 4// The Cure // A Forest
niseko photography // hirafu niseko photography // kutchan
and Pat Benatar for keeping you company on 5// Dead Prez // Hip Hop (Bass Version)
a ski lift. If you want to win a ‘prize’ (we’re not 6// Jimi Hendrix // All Along the Watchtower
completely sure what this is) 7// MuteMath // Goodbye
8// Pat Benatar // Love Is A Battlefield
send your playlist to
9// Red Hot Chili Peppers // The Zephyr Song
ross@powderlife.com
10// Ian Brown // Dolphins Were Monkeys (Single Version) Name: Zac Dawson.
Nationality: Australian.
Ski or snowboard? Snowboard.
e l l e y’s P l a ylist
air Sh
Why Niseko? Heard lots of good things from
Alist friends about the atmosphere and snowfall.
First thoughts? It’s big, lots of bars, restau-

rants and cafés.
Something that made you look/think twice?

All the buttons on the electronic toilets.
Going anywhere else in Japan? Everywhere!

My girlfriend and I are travelling to Okinawa by niseko photograp
hy// niseko area
car after the season.
glen claydon // hirafu niseko photography // hirafu
193-7 Aza Yamada, Kutchan-cho,
Hokkaido Japan 044-0081
 REAL ESTATE NEWS
Alpen Ridge 104

¥35,000,000 S 1 1
Ski in, ski out luxury apartment with village views

and fantastic occupancies. This is the only studio
apartment in the building and rents very well.
LOCATION: Upper Hirafu Village
FLOOR AREA: 45m²
Alpen Ridge 202

¥45,000,000 1 1 1
HTRP and NIsade joint venture in furano AGENT PROFILE
WITH fresh powder in the winter, cherry blossoms in are obviously committed to the area. It makes Name John Barton Agency MSM Realty
spring, rolling hills packed full of flowers in summer a lot of sense to bring our skills and knowledge How is business in Niseko? Good!
SKI-IN SKI-OUT LUXURY UNITS SKI SCHOOL SKI RENTAL REAL ESTATE OFFICE
and phenomenal warm hues in Autumn, Hokkaido’s together as partners instead of competitors. It is We completed several sales during the
Furano is a must-experience destination. The city’s an enjoyable collaboration.” Leveraging off each green season and have noticed an upswing Here’s your chance to buy into Ski-in ski-out
Ski-in ski-out, luxury slope side, one bedroom
proximity to national parks, cultural experiences company’s success – 399 combined total proper- in enquiry as we come into the winter. unbeatable accommodation in Niseko apartment with spectacular views looking
and the year-round activities on offer are sure ties – and the success of The Vale Niseko, TVF What’s your forecast for 2011? Niseko directly down on the Ace Family chairlift.
reasons why Hokkaido property developers
Nisade and Hokkaido Tracks Resort Develop-
will offer buyers boutique styling and lower price
points in an established tourism location that still
will continue to move steadily forward.
Large-scale developments will dominate
Alpen Ridge LOCATION: Upper Hirafu Village
FLOOR AREA: 59m²
ment (HTRD) teamed up to bring you an exciting has a lot of room for growth. the headlines and the strength of the yen The very best Western style, luxury, ski-in, ski-out accommodation in Hirafu Vil-
Alpen Ridge 504
project for Hokkaido’s alpine development The building will be designed with style and func- will continue and have some influence on lage. The apartments are within 2 minutes of the heart of the village, close to the
¥79,000,000 3 2 1
– The Vale Furano (TVF). tionality in mind and comes with a 5% guaranteed the market. What projects in Niseko are supermarket, bars, restaurants and onsens that make any visit to Niseko unique
HTRD’s Director Simon Robinson explains why he return for the first two years. TVF is the first of you excited about? The Rocks project is in the skiing world.
and Nisade Director Jonathan Martin collaborated Furano’s luxury boutique offerings and its incep- launching this winter off the plan. Its location
on the project. “It (Furano) is a new market place tion marks an exciting joint venture for two of presents an irresistible combination for buy- Luxury in design, developed with care free living in mind and thoughtfully
that requires a new approach. Jonathan and I Hokkaido’s established alpine developers. ers and visitors. From what countries are appointed with all modern appliances. For extra convenience, Alpen Ridge
interested buyers coming from? Mainly incorporates a ski school, ski rental service, personal ski lockers, staff reception
from Hong Kong and Singapore and to desk, Niseko Property real estate office, attached cafe and an on site manage-
Ski-in ski-out, luxury, three bedroom apartment.
yen hurting investment? a lesser extent Australia and Malaysia. ment team. The views from apartment 504 capture both the
ski resort and Mt Yotei in all its glory.
What type of real-estate investment LOCATION: Upper Hirafu Village
DESPITE the strength of the yen, Niseko’s property would you recommend to buy in A selection of studio, 1, 3 and 4 bedroom apartments available for sale. FLOOR AREA: 120m²
market is still strong. “Following a very active Niseko? Off the plan makes sense at the
summer sales period, the strong yen appears to moment as a relatively small deposit with For more information on these properties and Alpen Hotel
Alpen Ridge 403
be having little impact on sales. Investor confi- settlement later can help offset currency a huge selection of other properties available
LI
FT Prince ¥85,000,000 3 2 1
dence has risen and the growth potential of many risk. What are your words of wisdom for throughout the Niseko region PA
IR Hirafutei
Hotel
Y
IL
properties offsets the current exchange rate,” says potential buyers? Decide what you want Call into our office in the FA
M
Park Hotel
E
Alpen Ridge Building AC
Michael Davenport of Niseko Consulting. and why you want it and never underesti-
St
a
Agencies in town are eager to see what this win- mate the power of the offer. What do you -Z
ak
u
ter will bring. It’s a buyer’s market at the moment think will make more people come to SALES ENQUIRIES Hi
raf
St
so there are good deals all round. Couple this with Niseko? I think greater investment in many Ruskin Mclennan: ak
a
Alpen Ridge Seicomart -Z
Ski-in ski-out, luxury, three bedroom apartment.
booming Asia-Pacific economies (Australia, China of the ski lifts is overdue. Projects like Hirafu PH 080 60987882 d ol
a
on Huge apartment with uninterrupted views of Mt
G
and Singapore) and this suggests that Niseko’s Zaka are great and should be encouraged. Peter Murphy: ROUTE Yotei from 2 balconies and the finest finishes.
343
PH 080 60818989 LOCATION: Upper Hirafu Village
comparatively low price points are likely to remain FLOOR AREA: 122m²
attractive to foreign investors. Growth, opportunity ( Image: The Vale Niseko 402, Upper Hirafu,
and choice are perhaps other factors contributing 3-bedroom apartment, ¥136,000,000)
to positive real-estate sales.
www.NisekoProperty.com - sales@NisekoProperty.com - Ph:+81 136 21 5060
 REAL ESTATE NEWS
shiki niseko
AP Land sees great potential in Niseko’s comfort and exclusivity. Each apart-
ment is well appointed and each
four-season market, positioning the area comes with views of either Mount
as the “the ultimate world-class year- Yotei or the Grand Hirafu
ski field. Along with impressive fix-
round destination” in Asia. tures and furnishings, Shiki empha-
sizes its desire to upkeep five-star
AP LAND is already a pioneer player vestors and tourists from Hong Kong, hospitality services to ensure each
in the Malaysian property market Singapore, China and Malaysia.” property’s rental return is maximised.
and has recently started to develop She says that “they are interested in
Shiki in Niseko. The company is both summer and winter tourism”.
“Confident that Niseko will soon be Low is also predicting that “summer staff accommodation Demand
the new emerging ski resort of the tourism is the biggest growth area for
East. Niseko is already so popular at Niseko. Government initiatives are in IN a developing ski resort the accommodation. We have spent
what we see as early stage (10 years place and all of the natural elements availability of staff accommoda- months trying to source, secure and
old),” says Ms Low Su Ming, Joint are already there. It is stated in a local tion is something that needs to be then prepare affordable accom-
Managing Director AP Land Berhad. report by a local developer that the addressed sooner rather than later. modation for our staff. We have
“Niseko is clearly a world-class ski summer market will grow faster and With Niseko’s popularity expected invested money into the accommo-
location with its real estate still a become 45% as important as winter to continue, there is an opportunity dation to ensure comfortable living
fraction of the price of comparable in- by 2015-2016.” for the development of staff-specific conditions for our staff.” Noticing
ternational destinations. This is inline Located creekside in the middle accommodation on the outskirts of the potential problems Chook says,
with the group’s vision to create a village, Shiki offers luxury boutique Hirafu and possibly in Kutchan. “We are currently developing a staff
niche resort project in Niseko.” residences with a choice of 1,2 and Chook from Ski Japan/NBS says, housing strategy for the future – this
Low says that buyers of Shiki 3-bedroom layouts. The layouts are “With an increase of about 30 staff includes the possibility of having
apartments are “mainly wealthy in- flexible and spacious and emphasise this year, it was difficult to find staff staff live out of town.”
 BACK COUNTRY RESORT GUIDE
YOU have clocked in over 100 A beacon, probe and shovel are POWDERLIFE is your Niseko Travel Guide – in print and online. With www.powderlife.com
days on your lift pass, you’ve the bare essentials. Make sure you and Powderlife Niseko magazine, you’ll discover the essential information for the
been down every groomer count- know how to use them. perfect holiday.
less times and you want to escape 5. Let someone know when you’re During your stay, experience Niseko’s restaurants, bars and cafes, where you can feast on
the crowds during peak season planning to be back. anything – from the most authentic sushi to beautiful local sake. Make the most of your skiing and
– chances are you’re ready to go 6. If the gates are closed don’t risk boarding with the specialist ski and snowboard stores and mountain guides around town.
backcountry. The satisfaction of entering them. Inside you’ll also find Powderlife’s onsen guide, short history of the area and village maps.
hiking peaks and then making your 7. No-go zones include Yu no For everything else visit www.powderlife.com/niseko-resort-guide.
way down in untracked, waste-deep Sawa (between Annupuri and
snow is exhilarating. Niseko Village area), and Haru no
In Japan, Niseko is renowned for Taki (cliff area west of Hirafu).
its liberal stance toward backcountry 8. Ducking ropes may result in you
skiing and snowboarding. With that losing your lift pass.
Name Toshinari Ota Company Second freedom comes the responsibility 9. Hire a guide if you’re not sure trains run through Sapporo and Otaru. You will be ¥500 Adult and ¥300 for child.
season with Black Diamond Tours Ski or to respect the mountain. Niseko’s about going off-piste. Tourist Info required to change platforms. ¥2600 approx.
board? Board, 15 years Best backcountry powder may look soft and friendly, 10. Explore the backcountry with T: (0123) 45 7011 – Airport Station Grand Hirafu Village shuttle bus:
experience Steepest, deepest runs at a secret but don’t let its light and fluffy ap- experienced riders and skiiers. Kutchan Information Centre T: (0136) 22 1310 – Kutchan station Shuttle buses run throughout Hirafu every 15
location in Niseko Best backcountry tips in pearance fool you. Plenty of brochures and English-speaking staff. W: www.japanrail.com minutes, all day, every day, until the end of night-
Niseko Know your limits, and stay within them Why AVALANCHE INFO // Location: Main Street, Kutchan (map p.49, A4) skiing.
Niseko? Good nature, parties, people, fishing and powder. Powderlife has collected some tips Shinya-san’s daily avalanche T: (0136) 22 1121. ¥: Free
CAR RENTAL
from local experts to keep you safe report: www.niseko.nadare.info
FREE BACKCOUNTRY INFORMATION SEMINAR // on the mountain. Powderlife’s Backcountry Guide is The Niseko Grand Hirafu Welcome Centre Hanazono Shuttle Bus: Travels throughout
Ever hiked the peak? Been through a gate in Niseko? Considered the 1. Obey the Niseko Rules: Listed online – www.powderlife.com Wide range of brochures, transport information Niseko Auto Rentals Hirafu Village and out to Hanazono from 7.50am
consequences? Know what you’re getting into with Black Diamond on the course map (p.48) // ‘Backcountry basics’ and accommodation booking service. Specialising in large 4wd 7-8 passenger to 6pm. Look out for the blue buses.
Tours free information seminar. 2. Check weather and avalanche // ‘Inside a 2-day avalanche course’ Location: Top of the main street (Hirafu Zaka) vehicles: Delica Space Gear and Toyota Hiace. ¥: Free
Location // Above Proski Demo shop, opposite The Vale Niseko reports – www.niseko.nadare.info // ‘Lost in the backcountry’ in Hirafu (map p.50, E1) T: (0136) 44 1144
Time // 6-7pm every Tuesday during winter 3. Respect Niseko’s ski patrollers // ‘How to build a snowcave’ T: (0136) 22 0109. W: www.bdlodge.com Kutchan Night Go Bus: Runs to and from Hirafu
4. Use essential equipment: to Kutchan Station every night.
Toyota Rent-a-Car ShinSapporo ¥: ¥200 for 1 week pass/¥500 for a season pass
HEALTH – INjury prevention // by bevan colless Getting here & there One-way hire from Chitose to Hirafu is about
¥7000 for six people/24 hours. Pick up at MONEY
New Chitose Airport. Chitose airport, Sapporo or Kutchan
HAVING spent four seasons ing places on the body. a ball, moving object or uneven and with a degree of flexibility. For departure and arrival times. T: (0118) 15 0100 (English ok!) ATM Locations
working in Niseko Physio, I’ve Cycling is also a good way to training ground. This will make you For all skiers and boarders – ski T: (0123) 23 0111 Hokkaido Tracks Holiday’s Office, Hirafu
seen a wide cross section of snow- prepare for the winter. There is no more reactive when on your skis or within your capabilities and hopefully W: www.new-chitose-airport.jp/language/english The Powderlife website has some great tips on how Map: p.50, E2
sports injuries walk (or limp) through coincidence that Levi Leipheimer snowboard so you’ll be able to take I’ll only see you on the mountain, to drive on snow as well as good contacts if you Accepts: All major cards
have an accident.
our doors. It has been said that in a and many professional cyclists grew the strain in your thighs rather than not in the Getting from New Chitose to Niseko
www.powderlife.com/niseko-travel-guide
ski resort everyone using crutches is up in ski towns, and that Team your knees. clinic. Bus: This is a cheap and efficient option. Kutchan Main Post Office
a skier and everyone with their arm in Niseko quickly rose to become the For snowboarders the single Buses leave every 30 minutes from the airport to Map: p.49, E3
a sling is a snowboarder. There is a second strongest amateur-cycle most important preventative step Niseko and take about three hours (includes rest Accepts: All major cards
Transport around niseko
certain amount of truth to this. club in Hokkaido. Cycling places you can take is to wear a wrist stop and drop off at Rusutsu). Companies provid-
So how can you avoid getting injured very similar demands on the legs guard. Look for one that is longer ing this service: Whiteliner Buses, Chuo Bus, 7 Eleven
on your dream holiday? to skiing and snowboarding and Donan Bus and Hokkaido Resort Liner. Visit the Taxis: Drivers probably won’t speak English so Map: p.49, C1
One of the things I’ve noticed is muscle strength transfers very well Welcome Centre for bus bookings back to Chi- you will need a business/place name and map for Accepts: Visa Plus, JCB, AMEX, Dinners Club,
skiers who are physically strong, fit between the sports. When cycling • Sign up to Get Fit to Ski in tose. ¥2,300 approx. (one way) or ¥3850 where you are going. Discover, China Union Pay
and agile tend to get injured less than to get the legs stronger, lock in your hometown – interval approx. (roundtrip). T: (0136) 22 1212 Kutchan Hire // (0136) 22 1171
people who live a more sedentary the big ring at the front and the circuit classes are also a great way to prepare. Misora Hire // (0136) 44 2635 Niseko Hire. Credit Cards Lift tickets, ski hire and ski lessons
lifestyle. Strengthening the legs to small ring at the back (biggest gear Door-to-Door Transfer Skybus offers a door-to- can all be paid for by credit. Most large restau-
get them prepared for the rigours possible) so you’ll be riding with a • Cycling is also a good way to prepare for the winter. door transfer service to and from the airport to Bus rants offer credit card facilities too, however some
of a day on the mountain is one of low cadence, below 85 rpm. This Niseko, or Sapporo. See p.18 for details. small businesses are cash only. Check with your
the best preventative steps you can places the stress more on the legs • Make sure your bindings are adjusted well. T: (0136) 22 2108 Niseko United Shuttle: Connects Hirafu, Niseko retailer before purchasing.
take. Signing up to Get Fit to Ski or than the lungs (and you’ll look cooler W: www.skybus-jp.com Village and Annapuri resorts. Pickup/drop-off
interval/circuit classes is a great idea than the high-cadence spinner- • Attend the Winter Injury Prevention Seminar points in Hirafu include Hirafu Gondola and the Currency Exchange Kutchan Post Office and
as they are run by professionals with boys too). However, cycling does December 15. More information on page 13. Train This is the most scenic route to Niseko. bus stop near Hirafu intersection. Hokuyo Bank (Map p.49, B3)
a good understanding of the specific not train lateral movement, so it’s a There is no direct train from Chitose to Kutchan ¥: Free if you have an all-mountain pass //
demands that skiing and snowboard- great idea to play a sport involving Station (closest major station to Hirafu), and all 1 point if you have a 12-point mountain pass //
RESORT GUIDE RESORT GUIDE
SHOPPING 0 and dial everything else. LOCAL LINGO onsen guide LOCAL HISTORY
Post Offices
Look for the red ‘〒’ symbol. There are two post
For everything from toothpaste to alcohol and offices in Kutchan. In Hirafu, post-office boxes GOING to the onsen for the first time can be WHAT does Niseko mean?
late-night snacks try: and stamps are located at Piz Gloria and GREETINGS a little daunting. Powderlife’s guide and onsen ‘Niseko’ was the name originally given to the
Seicomart – Hirafu Seicomart. Good morning Ohaiyogozaimasu etiquette tips will help you fall in love with this area by the Ainu, Hokkaido’s indigenous people,
Location: At the main intersection in Hirafu Hello Konichiwa quitessential Japanese experience. and means ‘a cliff jutting over a riverbank deep
Lawson – Hirafu (24 hours) Good evening Kon ban wa in the mountains’. Meanwhile, Nupuri is a word
ELECTRICITY
Location: 5 minutes from Seicomart in the direc- Goodnight Oyasuminasai Yukoro Onsen commonly heard around these parts, namely
tion of Kutchan. Goodbye Sayonara T: 0136 23 3434 (Hirafu map p.50 B4) because it’s the Ainu word for ‘mountain’. Put it all Jagata-kun: Little fat skiing
Piz Gloria and the Alpen Hotel offer a smaller Standard voltage is 100v AC. You can use most See you later Matte ne Hotel Niseko Alpen together and Mt Niseko Annupuri (the mountain potato boy
range of snacks and drinks, and Sekka Deli electronic items without a problem, but some high What’s your name? Onamae wa nan T: 0136 22 1105 (Hirafu map p.50 E1) that is home to the Niseko United resorts) means
provides gourmet items from Hokkaido. watt devices such as hairdryers may not run on desu ka? Hot Spring Poporo ‘a mountain which has sheer cliffs and a river be-
full power. Plugs are the international standard My name is ... Watashi no Namae T: 0136 23 3291 (Hirafu map p.50 F1) low’. Other nearby mountains which have carried
Kutchan Shopping (flat, two-blade type). wa (insert name) desu Yumoto Niseko Prince Hotel Hirafutei their Ainu names until today include Chisenupuri
For a big shopping trip, it’s worth venturing into (nice to meet you) Dozo yoroshiku T: 0136-23-2239 (Hirafu map p.50 D1) and Iwaonupuri.
Kutchan Town. Here is a list of the major stores How are you? Genki desu ka? Hilton Niseko Village
STAY SAFE AROUND TOWN
stocking the basics, but if you explore a little I’m fine Genki desu T: 0136 44 1111 (Higashiyama map p.49 G7)
further you’ll find small local fruit and vegetable How old are you? O toshi wa Ikutsu Green Leaf Hotel Niseko Village SKI RESORT HISTORY
retailers and great souvenir shops. No skiing/boarding on roads or footpaths desu ka? T: 0136 44 3311 (Higashiyama map p.49 G7)
While it may seem much quicker and easier than BASIC QUESTIONS Niseko Grand Hotel 1911 Theodore von Lerch
Jagako: Jagata-kun’s snow-
Try Best Denki for all your electrical and walking, skiing and snowboarding home from the Where is ...? ... wa doko desu ka? T: 0136 58 2121 (Annupuri map p.49 A8) ascends Mount Yotei
boarding girlfriend
technical needs. hill is dangerous and is frowned upon by locals. toilet toire 1949 Mount Yotei is desig-
Location: p.49, B4 Are you Daijoubu desu ka? nated a National Park
onsen etiquette
One third of all injuries in Hirafu are caused by okay? 1956 Rope tow installed at
Rummage through M-Pocket for imported people falling on the street. Wear shoes with a Asahigaoka ski area GOMI GUIDE
groceries and alcohol. good grip or buy and attach rubber sole cleats RESTAURANT TIPS What to bring? 1961 First ski lift in Grand
IF in doubt, don’t just throw it out!
Location: p.49, B3 with metal studs. How many people? Nan mei sama Bath towel, modesty towel and toiletries. Most Hirafu ski area
desu ka? onsens provide body soap and shampoo, and sell completed
What is burnable rubbish? (燃えるゴミmoeru-gomi)
Visit Homac, which shelves basically every two people ‘ni’ mai desu modesty towels for about ¥200. 1962 40th All Japan Ski
Contrary to what most of us are brought up to
household product. Afterwards head next door to Be careful when walking or parking your car (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8) (san, yon, go, roku, How much? Championships believe, burnable rubbish includes plastics, as
major supermarket MaxValu for all your food sup- under roofs shichi, hachi) Most onsens range between ¥600 to ¥1000. (Alpine) well as paper and food scraps.
plies as well as Tsuruha Drug (red signage) Heavy snow slides from rooftops in Niseko. The What would you like Onomimono wa What to do? 1963 Niseko mountain
if you need a pharmacy. snow slides can seriously damage your cars too. to drink? okimari desu ka? 1. Enter the changing room through the appropri- range is designated a PET bottles and cans (ペット、缶)
Location: Route 5 and Route 343. (p.49, G3) One beer please beeru ‘hitotsu’ ate door: 女 for women, 男 for men. Quasi-National Park Plastic drink bottles (with lid/label removed) and
Drinking Dangers kudasai 2. Remove your clothes and put them in the bas- 1966 Taiheiyo Club Niseko aluminium/steel drink cans
Take a trip to the ¥100 store if you’re on a budget. Make sure you leave the bar with someone else. Food counters ket or locker provided. Moiwa International
Location: p.49, B4 Also make sure you rug up and stay warm – one hitotsu 3. Have a shower before entering the onsen. ski area opens Compost (生ゴミ nama-gomi)
When available, compost bins are for food
people have been known to fall asleep in the snow two futatsu Rinse yourself thoroughly and then your shower 1970 Kutchan hosts the
scraps. Though be careful, tea bags are not
SHOPPING on the way home. If you do notice someone who is three mitsu cubicle before going into the onsen. 25th National Ski
considered compost.
intoxicated, report them to the police or the safety four yotsu 4. Use the modesty towel when walking into the Competition
hut located outside Seicomart. Before you eat say Itadakimasu onsen then gracefully slide into the water 1972 Niseko Annupuri ski Non-burnable rubbish (燃えないゴミ moenai-gomi)
Internet After you eat say Gochisosamadeshta – never jump. area opens Non-burnable rubbish is for rubbish that doesn’t
J-Sekka Deli and Downtown Café have Cheers Kanpai 5. Don’t let your towel enter the onsen water – just 1982 Niseko Higashiyama fit the other categories, including items such as
MEDICAL SERVICES
Internet terminals. Delicious Oiishi rest it on your head or on a rock on the side of ski area (currently broken glass, ceramics and metals.
Mobile Phones the onsen. Niseko Village) opens
Only 3G phones will work in Japan. Some Kutchan Kousei Hopsital OUT AND ABOUT 6. Soak, contemplate and relieve your sore muscles. 1993 Free Passport lift
accommodation providers offer mobile phone hire. For anything you think is broken. X-ray, MRI and Great snow Sugoi yuki 7. Dry yourself off before going back into the pass system valid at What can you do to help keep
Domestic Calls medical dispensary. No appointment necessary. Excuse me Sumimasen change room, as best you can. 4 ski resorts Niseko beautiful?
Green and grey public phones take coins or pre- Location: p.49, A3 I don’t understand Nihonga ga introduced Take a second to be sure you’re throwing
paid telephone cards. Local calls don’t require the T: 0136 22 1141 Japanese wakarimasen Many onsen have rooms where you can relax, 2002 Niseko starts to re- your garbage in the correct bin
‘0136’, unless made from a public telephone. Niseko Physio Do you speak Ego ga drink a cold beer or tea, or even sit in a mas- ceive a large number For more information visit
International Calls The only acute sports injury specialist in the village. English? hanasemasu ka? sage chair. of Australian tourists www.town.kutchan.hokkaido.jp
Dial (010) and then the code of the country you Location: p.50, B2 Cute Kawaii Information courtesy of the
Niseko Promotion Board
wish to call. If the number starts with 0 – drop the T: 0136 22 0399 Japan’s great! Nihon wa sugoi
FOOD RESTAURANTS & BARS FOOD RESTAURANTS & BARS
C2 p50
A-Bu-Cha 2
UPPER HIRAFU
D2 p50
Bang Bang
UPPER HIRAFU
F5 p50
Hana Jizoh
IZUMIKYO 2
B3 p50
J-Sekka Café and Delicatessen
MIDDLE HIRAFU
Try our popular Japanese dishes or hot-pots. Choice of 400 Ramen lunch at Bang 2 starting this season! We take great Amazing sweet and savoury breads and pastries from a For a hearty breakfast to get you ready for the slopes, or a lazy
drinks! Japanese seating available. Families welcome. Lunch pride in our fresh seafood and look forward to offering you friendly local family baker. You must try this! Get the free Hirafu afternoon spent discovering the delicious Hokkaido produce
and Cafe: various lunch dishes, coffee, homemade dessert. mouthwatering dishes from our wide-ranging menus. Village shuttle to bus stop 27, near Unitas Log Village. used in our house-made delicacies.
Eat in or takeaway.
www.j-sekka.com
www.abucha.net www.niseko.or.jp/bangbang
Lunch 11am – 4pm Lunch 11am – 4pm 8.00am – 4.30pm open from 7am daily
A wide variety of meals Dinner 6pm 2am We take great pride in our Dinner 5.30pm – 11.30 pm Creative and delicious breads Closed Wednesdays A taste of Hokkaido
and drinks – top marks (LO 3pm/11.30pm) fresh seafood Occasionally closed from a local baker
 0136 22 5620  0136 22 4292  0136 23 0331  0136 21 3088
E7 p49
Black Diamond Restaurant
HIGASHIYAMA
C3 p49
Cocoro Okonomiyaki
KUTCHAN
D4 p50
Java Cafe
MIDDLE HIRAFU
C3 p50
Kabuki 1 and 2
MIDDLE HIRAFU
Offering a wide variety of food and drink from around the Real Osaka-style okonomiyaki and yakisoba cooked by you on Come and relax on the Java Lounge sofas, try our At Kabuki 1 you can do make-it-yourself Okonomiyaki and
world. Japanese daily specials, Western, Mexican and Italian your teppan (hot plate). Try out takoyaki (octopus) and chicken • Italian coffee • Assorted Panini Teppanyaki. Kabuki 2 (next door) is a full-service Teppan Yaki
dishes! Billiards, darts, happy hour and drink specials daily! balls. Japanese sweets also available. • Home baked muffins and cakes • Hot soups Restaurant. Early bird 20% for all meals – in by 6pm
Free pickup from The Hilton and The Green Leaf for groups of • Iced-cold beer • Daily special lunches out by 7pm.
6 or more. • Quiches or all day breakfast
www.bdlodge.com www.nisekokabuki.com
4pm–midnight 11am – 9pm Daily Open 7 days
Free pick-up from The Hilton and (LO 11pm food // Great Food, Great Value! Early morning breakfast, lunch 7am to 8pm Okonomiyaki and Teppanyaki 5–11pm
The Green Leaf for 6 or more 11.30pm drink)  0136 22 1528 (Jap) and après drinks Restaurant
 0136 44 1144  0136 23 0008 (Eng)
A1 p50
Country Grill
LOWER HIRAFU
B3 p50
Downtown Café
MIDDLE HIRAFU
E2 p50
Kamimura
UPPER HIRAFU
E8 p49
M’s Cafe (Saison Club)
HIGASHIYAMA
Unique flavours not found anywhere else in the area, with all Hugely popular with locals, this top-rated cafe-restaurant Trained by one of the world’s top chefs, Tetsuya Wakuda, chef Try our huge traditional Japanese nabe hotpots with meat,
local products by La Andy. From Hokkaido-grown beef, country offers all-day breakfast, bagels, daily blackboard specials and Kamimura uses the abundance of Hokkaido produce to create seafood and vegetables. We have shabu shabu, sukiyaki and
roast chicken, and our specialty Hokkaido Venison, try the new great coffee. Eat in or take out. Free high-speed internet. a memorable degustation dining experience. chanko hot pots.
Country Grill, just outside busy Hirafu in the quiet community
of Country Resort. www.saison-club.com
www.nisekocountryresort.com www.kamimura-niseko.com
Breakfast 7.30–10.30am Open 7 days Dinner 6pm – 11pm Day 10am–3pm
Grilled favourites, relaxed Dinner 17.00 to late Hirafu’s finest cafe free internet 8am to 10.30pm Blessed by land, sea and a Occasionally closed Warm your body with our big Evening 5.30–7.30pm
dining, casual atmosphere terminal + Wi-Fi Breakfast, lunch and dinner creative chef hearty hot-pots Open daily
 0136 55 5123  0136 23 3354  0136 21 2288  0136 44 3380
A4 p50
Ebisutei
LOWER HIRAFU
C4 p50
Half Note
MIDDLE HIRAFU
B3 p50
Maki Lounge
MIDDLE HIRAFU
D2 p50
Niseko Pizza
UPPER HIRAFU
Finished skiing? Drop in for great food and a good time! Enjoy live weekend jazz nights as well as Dancing and other With an open fire and sweeping views of the Hirafu ski hill, un- Niseko’s finest pizza offering a menu made with love and only
Laugh and drink at this lively izakaya inn. Enjoy our assorted live music on weekdays. With, jazz, billiards and table tennis, wind on our leather lounges. Apres drinks include an array of the finest ingredients. Gourmet Pizza, Antipasto, Lasagna,
Japanese hotchpotch. there’s always something going on at Half Note. Check out Half fine Japanese whiskey, sake, sho-chu and plum wine as well Pastas, Salads and more.
Note’s regular jazz events at www.nisekohalfnote.com. as classic and house-blend cocktails, spirits and glass wine.
www.ebcbar.com www.nisekohalfnote.com www.j-sekka.com www.nisekopizza.jp

Open daily 6pm–midnight Coffee, snacks and games Coffee, snacks and games
Have fun with our genki and 5pm – midnight Hirafu’s only jazz bar! Open daily Japanese whiskey, sake from 10am // bar 2pm–late Dine in, Take-away and delivery from 10am // bar 2pm–late
laughing oden bar staff and shochu by the fire 7 days 7 days
 0136 22 6544  0136 23 2727  0136 21 6133  0136 21 6133
FOOD RESTAURANTS & BARS FOOD RESTAURANTS & BARS
C1p50
Paddy McGinty’s
IZUMIKYO 2
B2 p50
Sekka Dining
MIDDLE HIRAFU
D2 p50
Tozanken Asahikawa Ramen
UPPER HIRAFU
E4 p50
Tsubara Tsubara
IZUMIKYO 1
Enjoy your perfect powder holiday at our popular pub and Experience a taste of Hokkaido in style at Sekka Dining, with Asahikawa ramen is made from 100% Hokkaido wheat Everyone falls in love with our carefully prepared soup made
restaurant with its welcoming fun atmosphere, imported and an impressive cellar and a menu that celebrates simplicity, noodles served in a smooth and rich soup. There is a wide se- form delicious ingredients. Restaurant recently renovated to
local beers, wines, spirits and great value meals. innovation, and absolute delicacy in preparation. lection of dishes to choose from including Donburi rice bowls. give improved access and a larger seating area. Enjoy our
From Asahikawa’s original ramen restaurant. famous Hokkaido soup curry.
www.paddymcgintysirishpub.com www.j-sekka.com www.tsubaratsubara.com

Open daily Open daily Open daily Lunch 11.30am–3pm
SValue Drinks, Hearty Meals, 1pm till Late Showcasing the best Dinner from 6pm New location this winter! 10.30am–11pm Spicy, flavoursome and local Evening 6–10pm
Live Sports and Music Closed 2nd/4th Wednesdays of Hokkaido Occasionally closed (LO 11pm) Hokkadio curry soup Closed 2nd/4th Wednesdays
0136 55 8020  0136 21 5022  0136 23 4549 0136 23 1116
D1 p50
Senchou 2
UPPER HIRAFU
A5 Shunsai C2 VBG – Vale Bar and Grill B2 Wabi Sabi
p49 KUTCHAN p50 MIDDLE HIRAFU p50 MIDDLE HIRAFU
Founded in 1996. While we have seen many changes, the Having trained in various countries, our expert chef creates a Full breakfast available from 7am. Serving an eclectic fusion- Quality prepared and cooked Yakitori (various skewered meats,
quality of our fresh seafood remains as good as ever. colourful array of dishes. Bread freshly baked after ordering. style menu all day. Daily Specials. Warm up with our VBG seafood and vegetables barbecued). All food cooked in
Try us while you are here. The food is so fresh it will dance Vegetarian menu available. Chilean wines from ¥2,000. Ultimate Hot Chocolate or something a little stronger in our traditional Japanese style.
on your tongue. relaxed après lounge. Shots and cocktails. Live music events.
www.nisekowabisabi.com
www.senchou.com www.nisekoalpineaccommodation.com
Winter only Lunch 11am–3pm Open 7 days Open 7 days
Best choice for gourmet seafood 5pm–midnight Dinner 5–9pm 7am to late 5–10pm
Creative fusion cuisine from Ski-in ski-out bar and dining Specialty Yakitori restaurant
Open daily Closed Sundays All-day dining
 0136 22 5454 land and sea
 0136 23 1882  0136 21 5833
C3p50
Souan Genghis Khan Lamb BBQ
MIDDLE HIRAFU
C3 p50
Steak Rosso Rosso
MIDDLE HIRAFU
D3 p50
WAGYU DINING SOU
MIDDLE HIRAFU
F3 p50
Yakitori Yosaku
MIDDLE HIRAFU
Goes perfectly with beer and makes a great party menu. Bring Casual steak house with a contemporary flavour. Juicy, tender Try our popular Japanese food nabe hotpot for your experience Hirafu locals’ favourite yakitori restaurant. Come in after a day
your family and friends for the ¥1700 all-you-can-eat for 60 wagyu and Kobe beef and a variety of imported wines. Enjoy of Japanese culture. We recommended Sukiyaki, Shabushabu of powder and try some of our Japanese barbecque, sukyaki
minutes offer (reservation only, minimum 4 persons). yourself to satiation with our stylish cuisine and and Kimuchi hotpot to get warm your body up in the cold and hot sake.
refined hospitality. Niseko winter.
www.rossorosso.net
Open daily Dinner 6pm–11pm Dinner 6–10pm Open daily
¥1700 all-you-can-eat barbecue 5pm–2am A must for steak lovers! Occasionally closed Carefully selected Japanese 7 days Serving yakitori every night 6pm to 3am
for 60 minutes (LO 1am) wagyu beef and special soup  0136 23 3048 until 3am
 090 2059 6701  0136 21 7100  0136 23 4390
F3 p50
Taj Mahal C4 p50
The Barn
MIDDLE HIRAFU
B3 p46
Yummy’s B2 p50
YOUR AD HERE
MIDDLE HIRAFU
IZUMIKYO 1 MIDDLE HIRAFU
Experience the best of authentic Indian cuisine and courteous Come and enjoy our alpine food and wine in Hokkaido’s warmest Ceasar Salad, Avocado Salsa Salad, Chicken Wings, Bacon Advertise with Powderlife! We are planning to include more
service. Enjoy an authentic Indian meal with Indian beer at and authentic bistro atmosphere. Drop in on the way back from Pepper Steak, Baked Cream Potato, Cheese Fondue, wines business directory pages for our upcoming issues in these
our prestigious restaurant. 10% discount on takeaway orders. the slopes for a snack and hot wine in our friendly bar on the and of course various styles of pizza. And more more! categories: Restaurants, Food and Bars.
Vegetarian meals available. Free local delivery. upper floor, or stay the evening for dinner in the main restaurant. Powderlifeに広告を出しませんか! 次回号よりさら
にフード、レストランとバーのカテゴリー増枠を計画
www.tajmahalgroup.com www.nisekobarn.com www.yummyspizza.com しております。
Open all year, 7 days Open 7 days 6pm to late 5–11pm daily Call us anytime
Visit Inidia in Taj Mahal Niseko 11.30am to 10.30pm Hokkaido’s one and only (LO 9.30pm food // Yummy homemade crust pizza Delivery available Contact sales@powderlife.com www.powderlife.com/
 0136 22 4566 alpine bistro drinks 11.30pm) in the Hirafu area for more information magazine/advertise
and western foods restaurant
 0136 23 0888  0136 21 2239  0136 22 2000
TOURS & ACTIVITIES RETAIL & SHOPPING
C2 p50
Black Diamond Tours
UPPER HIRAFU
E2 p50
Deep Powder Tours Ski Holidays
UPPER HIRAFU
B3 p49
Cocoroya
KUTCHAN
D3 p50
Ezo Seafoods
MIDDLE HIRAFU
Check out Niseko’s incredible backcountry A licensed I.A.T.A international travel agent. Check out our Located on Kutchan high street, Cocoroya offers a wide We stock seafood for takeout sourced daily from the coast –
or visit Rusutsu, Sapporo Kokusai or Teine Highland. We also website for a broad overview of the many ski resorts in range of Japanese antiques, furniture, Kimono and original oysters, King Red Crab, salmon, and more. We also prepare
have a range of backcountry tours to suit your lung capacity. Japan that we offer. handmade gifts.We also stock a selection of high-quality seafood platters and fish and chips.
power stone jewellery.
www.blackdiamondtours.com www.deeppowdertours.com www.cocoroya.jp www.ezoseafoods.com

8am–8pm daily 7 days 11.00am–7.30pm 7 days
Niseko’s backcountry Above Proski Demo Shop The ultimate ski and 10am–6pm Take home a unique piece Open every day Niseko’s seafood supplier Open from 4pm
powder specialists Opp. The Vale Niseko snowboard experience  0136 21 5827 of Japan
 090 2054 8687  0136 23 0008  0136 22 3019
B4 p49
Japanese Cultural Tours
KUTCHAN/HIRAFU
D1 p50
Niseko Photography Tours
UPPER HIRAFU
D1 p50
Fusion Sports Shop
HIRAFU AND HANAZONO
E3 p50
Momiji Gallery
MIDDLE HIRAFU
Tours will take you to various cultural attractions in Kutchan: From the deepest powder pics to group tours and family shots Great gear, good value, friendly staff. Fusion provides all your Momiji Gallery offers an eclectic range of Art and Photography
Tea ceremory, Iaido sword demo, Taiko drums, sake-brewery – Niseko Photography are the local professionals. Book a pri- on mountain and après needs. Popular brands like Burton, sourced from local and Hokkaido artists
tour and Japanese dinner. ¥5000/¥3000. Departs Seicomart vate tour and we will capture your priceless holiday memories Oakley, Dakine, The North Face, Volcom and more. as well as antiques, postcards and memorabilia.
Hirafu, ends in Kutchan. while you and your friends or family cruise the mountain.
www.niseko.co.jp/plat/ www.nisekophotography.com www.hanazononiseko.com

3–7.30pm Gallery: midday–8pm Hirafu 8am-9pm Open 7 days
Experience Japan’s cultural Dec 28/Jan 9,21/Feb 3,18 Niseko’s professional On the mountain: Gear for the elements at two Hanazono 8.30am-5pm Something for everyone 2–8pm
heritage Bookings essential photographers all day, everyday locations in Niseko  0136 21 6633(Hirafu)
 0136 23 0222  0136 22 5764  0136 23 0911(Hanazono)  080 6098 7244
E1 p50
Niseko Foot
UPPER HIRAFU
B2 p50
Niseko Massage
MIDDLE HIRAFU
D1 p50
Niseko Photography Gallery
UPPER HIRAFU
D2 p50
Sakura
UPPER HIRAFU
Visit this popular relaxation salon and sample some of our many Experienced massage therapists, specialising in oil massage Stunning prints and fine art canvas works. Niseko Pho- Tucked in behind Paddy McGinty’s, Sakura offers a wide
treatments. All different styles of massage are avaliable for body for recovery and relaxation. Early bird special offers discounted tography’s gallery is a showcase of beautiful photography seleciton of gifts including kimonos, geisha hairpins, pottery,
and feet. 30-minute, 60-minute and 90- minute courses avali- rates for massages before 2pm. From ¥6,000 per hour. from Niseko’s stunning four seasons. We also stock t-shirts, paintings, traditional wooden furniture and more.
able. Big groups welcome. Also osteopathy and sports injuries. Gift vouchers available. handmade beanies and souvenirs as well.
www.grand-hirafu.jp/nisekofoot www.nisekomassage.com www.nisekophotography.com www.sakura-niseko.com

Open daily 7 Days 7 days Lunch 11am - 4pm
Closest healing relaxation 11am–10pm Sports and relaxation massage 8am to 8pm Photo gallery – fine-art prints midday–8pm Your one-stop Japanese Dinner 6pm - 2am
therapy spot to Centre 4 lift Free pickup available in the middle of Hirafu and souvenirs souvenir shop (LO 3pm/11.30pm)
 0136 22 1224  0136 22 0399  0136 22 5764  0136 22 5620
F1 p50
NISS
HIRAFU AND HANAZONO 308
E3 p50
NOASC
MIDDLE HIRAFU
B3 p50
SEKKA STYLE Shop & Gallery
MIDDLE HIRAFU
D2 p50
Yukara
UPPER HIRAFU
Niseko International Snowsports School is designed to assist NOASC is Niseko’s premier winter adventure company. A collection of unique photography, antiques and objects d’art Stocking a wide variety of souvenirs, original t-shirts, Hokkaido
your Hanazono/Hirafu snow holiday. With two great locations We offer ski school (skiing/snowboarding/telemarking) lessons selected by Shouya Grigg, the style-impresario behind the sweets and more. Remember your holiday and take home a
and a suite of programs we’ll help you learn new skills, gain for kids through to advanced skiers, powder lessons, mountain SEKKA projects. souvenir with you.
confidence and above all enjoy your time in the powder guiding, snowshoe tours, CAT skiing, Niseko Explorer Private
of Niseko. tours, kids adventure school, and backcountry tours.
www.hanazononiseko.com www.noasc.com www.sekkastyle.com
8.30am–4pm 8:00am to 7:00pm 7 days
Kids are our speciality Ticket sales/Kids Centre Just Do It adventure tours – an All year round You can never get enough SEKKSY 1–7pm Reopen on 2nd floor of Tozanken 9am–10pm
Hirafu and Hanazono Hirafu and Hanazono 308 experience you won’t forget Closed Mondays Asahikawa Ramen Restaurant
 0136 21 6688  0136 23 1688  0908 274 4814 0136 23 4546
RENTAL & SERVICES
D1 p50
Demo Equipment Hire
UPPER HIRAFU/HANAZONO
NA GCP Photography
HIRAFU
New store at The Vale Niseko. Huge fleet of K2 and Salomon Complete photographic services including architectural,
skis and boots, Burton snowboards and boots, helmets landscape, stock, prints and panoramic photography for online
and snow shoes for adults and kids. Deep powder, park, virtual tours.
groomed,off-piste, back country – we have equipment to suit
all conditions and all levels.
www.hanazononiseko.com www.glenclaydon.com
Hirafu 8am–9pm
Free drop off at Hirafu The Vale 8–10am, 4–8.30pm Creatively capturing Niseko
Free O’night Storage 308 Hanazono 8.30am–5pm
 0136 21 6677  080 6098 7244
C3 p50
Hermosa Angel Massage
MIDDLE HIRAFU
NA J-Build
HIRAFU
Offering both traditional shiatsu and relaxing oil massages • Consulting

either in your suite or at the J-Sekka massage space, Inka • Project Management
Rebeza’s skilled practitioners provide truly exceptional service. • New Homes
Chida-sensei’s team have a course to suit you, with flexible • Renovation
bookings and a variety of packages available. • Building Supplies
www.j-sekka.com www.jbuildniseko.com
Open 7 days We never close
Relax and rejuvenate in the Appointments available 18 years’ experience in Japan
heart of hirafu from 3pm–midnight
 0136 21 6133  090 9380 5729
F7 p49
Niseko Auto Rentals and Sales
HIGASHIYAMA
B2 p50
Niseko Physio
MIDDLE HIRAFU
Complement your holiday or home with a 4WD vehicle. Australian trained physiotherapists, sports injuries, back and
Locallicensed dealer offering affordable rentals and sales IN neck pain, rehabilitation, taping, braces, pain relief, managed
ENGLISH. Short and long-term rentals available. by Tokyo Physio (est 2002). Massage service also available.
English navigation available. Hakuba clinic now open in Phoenix Hotel.
www.nisekoauto.com www.nisekophysio.com
9am–9pm 7 days
4WD vans from ¥46,200/week 24hr Emergency English Niseko’s sports injury centre in 8am–8pm
or ¥135,000/month Roadside Assistance the middle of Hirafu
 0136 44 1144  0136 22 0399
E3 p50
Niseko Realty Sales
UPPER HIRAFU
D1 p50
Travelplan
UPPER HIRAFU
Dealing in real-estate sales, property management, and Australia’s #1 snow holiday specialist with 39 years’ experi-
holiday lettings. Our staff are native to the area and know the ence, offering a wide selection of pensions, hotels and quality
property market. For trustworthy advice, sales, accommodation apartments in Niseko and other resorts. CMH Heli Skiing in
contact us at 0136-23-2221, info@nisekorealtysales.com, or Canada – information night every Wednesday at J Sekka.
drop by our Hirafu office across from the SPLASH bar. For more information contact Travelplan.
www.nisekorealtysales.com www.travelplan.com.au
8:00am to 7:00pm 7 days
Secure your future in Japan’s All year round The world’s best ski holidays 8am–8pm
premier powder ski area
 0136 23 2221  0136 21 5354

 AFTER THE MELT
photo // niseko photography photo // niseko photography

SAPPORO BEER FESTIVAL RAFTING CAMPING AT LAKE TOYA NISEKO CYCLE WEEK
ONE of the benefits of Sapporo and WHAT happens to the metres of WITH a beautiful mountain back- 2010 was the third iteration of the
Munich’s sister-city relationship is the snow that falls on the mountains in drop, clear waters and stillness, Lake popular (and successful) week-long
annual Sapporo Beer Festival. The Hokkaido come springtime? It melts, Toya is just one of the many scenic event that promotes Niseko as an
festival takes over seven enormous but it isn’t wasted, it turns the ordi- places to go camping near Niseko. internationally renowned cycling
blocks of Odori Park, with each block narily placid rivers into fast-flowing The beautiful lake is unmistakable destination. There are many organ-
dedicated to a different brewery: rapid-filled streams. Rafting is due to the oddly shaped islands in ised rides both on and off the road
Sapporo Beer, Kirin, Asahi, Otaru a huge attraction in Niseko during the centre. There is an abundance of throughout the week as well as a
Beer. People can buy their favourite summer. There are several local camping locations around the lake, few races thrown in to satisfy those
beer and enjoy drinking under the tour operators that can cater for an and just as many things to do in the competitive spirits. This year the
sun. Ordering one of the 4L towers of adrenaline-fuelled ride, though calmer area: canoeing, horse riding, hiking or Tour de Hokkaido event coincided
beer and sharing it with some friends options exist for those who would bathing in the onsens, and visiting the and included a leg starting and fin-
is highly recommended. rather just gently glide along. indoor heated waterpark, Sunpalace. ishing in at the top of Hirafu-zaka.
Summer // Hiking annupuri
HIKING to the Annupuri peak during

summer is very different. But, the satis-
faction after reaching the top is the same.
THERE are a few options when hiking shrubs. You might even be lucky and
Annupuri during summer: You can spot a Hokkaido Fox during
catch the Annupuri Gondola up and your travels.
walk from there, walk from the the top The view from the top of the moun-
of the Hirafu quad or set out from Go- tains (on a clear day) is breathtaking.
shiki Onsen. The latter option starts From the summits you can see the
near this popular onsen location Japan Sea coast, as well as the other
and travels around and over several mountains in the Niseko area.
mountains, including Iwaonupuri, The trail is reasonably well signed,
Nitonupuri and Chisenupuri. It’s not and there is an information centre
just mountain climbs on this day-long that sells a simple map near Goshiki
hike, the trail also traverses through Onsen, at the start of the trail. There
the beautiful wetlands of Cho-numa, are options while you hike; some
Shinsen-numa and Onuma as well of the mountains can be avoided
as the dense sasa bamboo plains (or added) to suit your time/level/
at Oyachi. This is definitely the most wants. At times the trails are quite
scenic way to the peak. difficult, especially climbing down
The scenery is constantly evolving from Nitonupuri, where you will have
and fantastically varied as you prog- to climb over rocks, duck under trees
ress through the 20km circuit. There and avoid slipping on mud, but it’s
are barren, hissing, rocky sulphuric nothing that a reasonably fit person
wastelands; natural wild-flowers; equipped with the appropriate gear
photo // glen claydon
grassy plains; boardwalks and dense couldn’t handle.
 TRAVEL FEATURE // fuji rock festival
PHOTOGRAPHY AND WORDS BY // ross cole-hunter
F
UJI Rock Festival (FRF) few) saw me whip out the credit card afternoon powernap. much of an attraction as the music
is one of Asia’s largest almost instantaneously. Like many large music festivals, it’s itself. Honestly. There are vendors
music festivals, attract- While the lineup up is usually spread out among several stages that selling any and every variation of food
ing well over 100,000 truly amazing (though, your mile- tend to cater for a certain genre of that you can imagine, from Russian
spectators and dozens of interna- age may vary), it’s the atmosphere music, from electronic beats through sausages through to Spanish paella,
tional and local performers. and the beautiful location that keeps to hippies with acoustic guitars and British fish-n-chips, Turkish kebabs,
FRF is officially a three-day event, the punters returning. Think giant percussion. To walk from one end to Italian pizzas, Thai curries and plenty
running from Friday morning until late mountains, surrounded by trees and the other requires you budget at least of Japanese cuisine. And at ¥600 for
on Sunday night, though for those fresh mountain air while watching 30 minutes. It’s forgiven because the a delicious Thai curry, I was in heaven.
who come early there is an opening Vampire Weekend entice people as commute between the stages are via While I appreciate that a ‘rock festi-
“
party held on the Thursday night. far as you can see to get out of their beautiful forest paths lined with art val’ isn’t to everybody’s taste,
Having the festival held in a ski-resort to those of you who are interested in
area during summer gives festival go- live music, because of its unmatch-
ers an abundance of accommodation Think giant mountains, surrounded by trees able ambience, beautiful setting and
options: from the pure-festival-expe- and fresh mountain air while watching Vampire the cultural differences of the specta-
rience option of camping, through to Weekend get 30,000 people up and dancing tors, FRF should be added to your
”
the VIP lodgings of the Naeba Prince ‘must-see festivals’ lists. At the top.
Hotel. The camping area is on the In bold.
lower slopes of the ski-resort, and camp chairs and jump around. It’s and the occasional hidden stage/bar/
those unlucky enough not to arrive sensory bliss. The spectators are also restaurant. Though, a word of warn- Details:
early will find themselves setting up a different breed to what is generally ing, the paths do turn to mud with Where: Naeba Ski Resort, Niigata.
their tent on seemingly impossible experienced in the West. People are the inevitable rain (so bring suitable Getting there: Echigo Yuzawa is the
gradients. happy to sit back, relax and take in footwear). nearest bullet train station. Shuttle
This year was my second FRF the music. And when I say sit back, The perfect accompaniment to buses run between the station and
experience. After the expense of last they do just that, bringing in camp great music and watching bizarre the festival frequently.
year’s festival I told myself that chairs, inflatable mattresses and festival fashion is always food, isn’t When: End of July
I wouldn’t be going again. However tarpaulins. Not even the deafening it? Unlike any other festival that I Cost: Weekend ticket – ¥40,000;
the 2010 lineup of artists (Massive metal of The Melvins is enough to have ever been to, the food here is Single day – ¥16,800;
Attack, MGMT, Muse; to name but a stop some people dozing off for an genuinely a highlight. It’s almost as Camping – ¥3,000 sales@tracksrealestate.com
Big mountain.
Big dream.
Big picture.
A property investment in Niseko offers tremendous potential for both lifestyle and
financial returns. But the market is complex and dynamic. To invest wisely you need
to consider many factors. In other words, you need to accurately see the big picture.
Led by long time realtor Jason King, the Hokkaido Real Estate team boasts over
60 exclusive listings, putting you ahead of the pack right from the start. Having
focused on the Niseko market for over six years (a long time for this area), we have
comprehensive knowledge from both local and international perspectives. We do
not trade in the market, so we remain impartial, allowing us to always keep your
best interests at heart.
In short, we’ll objectively present you with a wide range of options and
considerations so that you can make informed and intelligent investment decisions.
For a private discussion anytime, or to join a Wednesday evening ‘Big Picture’
seminar, call Jason on +(0136) 21 6211 or email jason@hokkaidorealestate.com
This week’s feaTure

TO LIFTS >
HRE
•
SEICOMART
•
343

Powderlife Magazine Issue No.28

Загружено:

Сведения о документе

Исходное описание:

Оригинальное название

Авторское право

Доступные форматы

Поделиться этим документом

Поделиться или встроить документ

Параметры публикации

Этот документ был вам полезен?

Это неприемлемый материал?

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

Powderlife Magazine Issue No.28

Загружено:

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

Issue 28 // Dec 11 - Dec 24 // 2010

FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL

winter print run 35,000 estimated readership 100,000+

14 編集長 managing editor Lizzy Hoo リズィー・フー

出版者 publisher Bevan Colless ベバン・コレス ,

Kris Lund クリス・ランド

企画運営アシスタント editorial assistant Kisato Kurihara 季里・栗原

デザイナー designer Paul Malandain ポール・マランデイン,

Shane Agard シャネ・アガrド (conceptual designer)

投稿者 contributors Chris Chan

写真撮影 photography Niseko Photography, Glen Claydon Photography,

Paul Malandain, Ross Cole-Hunter

170-5 Aza Yamada Kutchan-cho

IN THIS ISSUE Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0081

07 Introduction 27 Snow Caves

09 Village News 31 On Piste

Discover the Niseko area 33 Real Estate News ニセコ初の定期刊行雑誌。冬季期間（１２月～３月）は２週間に１回

Past issues available at the Powderlife office, Lower Ground Floor

13 In the loop

Events around Niseko 37 Backcountry and Health

Snap and Flash 38 Resort Guide

23 Eat and Drink

5 powderlife issue 28 // December 11 - December 24, 2010  www.powderlife.com

people that call Niseko home. を故郷として愛してやまない人々です。

7 powderlife issue 28 // December 11 - December 24, 2010  www.powderlife.com

Name Sioned Owen Age 27

niseko discovery HOlidays

FOR six years, Niseko Powder Holidays has been

9 powderlife issue 28 // December 11 - December 24, 2010  www.powderlife.com

OTARU is the closest major city to

02 Niseko, snowshoeing is certainly an activity that is

03 worthy of people’s attention and time. Too often,

11 powderlife issue 28 // December 11 - December 24, 2010  www.powderlife.com

Start // 7pm @ blo*blo Start // 7pm @ Tamashi Bar

Start // 6pm @ Grand Hirafu

13 powderlife issue 28 // December 11 - December 24, 2010  www.powderlife.com

GRAND HIRAFU YETI

“Out of all the people in the world

The winning answer won’t include your

photo // glen claydon 03 04

No fuss. No hassle. Door-to-Door

 FEATURE // yoko matsuda

21 powderlife issue 28 // December 11 - December 24, 2010  www.powderlife.com

THIS friendly bar in Kutchan is steadily

Dinner at Maccarina Restaurant in Makkari for a

OKONOMIYAKI YETI BAR

“Hokkaido ‘Nemuro’ scal-

WORDS BY // lizzy hoo PHOTOGRAPHY BY // niseko photography

the green leaf hotel

What’s on your playlist? First IMpression

ALISTAIR Shelley, an English teacher in

Ski or snowboard? Snowboard.

First thoughts? It’s big, lots of bars, restau-

Something that made you look/think twice?

Going anywhere else in Japan? Everywhere!

 REAL ESTATE NEWS

Alpen Ridge 104

Ski in, ski out luxury apartment with village views

Alpen Ridge 202

www.ebcbar.com www.nisekohalfnote.com www.j-sekka.com www.nisekopizza.jp

www.paddymcgintysirishpub.com www.j-sekka.com www.tsubaratsubara.com

www.blackdiamondtours.com www.deeppowdertours.com www.cocoroya.jp www.ezoseafoods.com

07 Introduction 27 Snow Caves

09 Village News 31 On Piste

Discover the Niseko area 33 Real Estate News ニセコ初の定期刊行雑誌。冬季期間（１２月～３月）は２週間に１回

　Past issues available at the Powderlife office, Lower Ground Floor

13 In the loop

Events around Niseko 37 Backcountry and Health

Snap and Flash 38 Resort Guide

23 Eat and Drink

5 powderlife issue 28 // December 11 - December 24, 2010 www.powderlife.com

7 powderlife issue 28 // December 11 - December 24, 2010 www.powderlife.com

9 powderlife issue 28 // December 11 - December 24, 2010 www.powderlife.com

11 powderlife issue 28 // December 11 - December 24, 2010 www.powderlife.com

13 powderlife issue 28 // December 11 - December 24, 2010 www.powderlife.com

21 powderlife issue 28 // December 11 - December 24, 2010 www.powderlife.com

“Hokkaido ‘Nemuro’ scal-

47 powderlife issue 28 // December 11 - December 24, 2010 www.powderlife.com