There are moments each day where I catch a glimpse of a still image in a magazine, on the net or even on the back of a bus, and wanderlust overwhelms me. I start to daydream about a spontaneous trip to that very destination….. Recently T suggested that I should create a “Places We Could Go” list to channel my energy. I have so many, many places I can’t wait to introduce you to. First on my list : Vacation Niseko in Japan.
Ever since I picked up Japanese as my LOTE choice way back in Year 7 I have harboured a strong desire to explore the country. For the past year I have been chipping away at T’s reluctance, hoping that eventually, he will relent. My research has uncovered numerous finds that I just know the kids will love. Niseko is one of those places, especially if we head over late next year.
In just under 10 days, the Hanazono Snow Season starts in Japan. As the snow hits Mt. Yotei, a feeling of excitement will wash over Niseko. From now right through to the first week of May, the ski lifts will run. It’s an awesome ski resort with an average temperature of an almost constant -8 C which creates dry champagne powder (to be honest, I have no idea what that means – but it sounds divine) with an average snowfall of 14 meters per winter. If you are a family of skiers, I bet that sounds wonderful.
We are yet to ever experience snow, sorry – ‘real’ snow, as a family. Luckily Niseko has 69 different runs with a good mixture of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs. Each run operates from 8:30 am through to 9:00 pm every single day without rest which also means we can ski when we want. Perfect!
I’m not sure how long we could reside in a ski resort with only the snow for entertainment. I think that’s why Niseko impressed me as they also have 15 different Onsens (that’s hot springs) in and around the resort. I don’t think I could think of anything more perfect.
But what about the kids? Nature Adventure Park is where you’ll want to head with dedicated areas for the kids to learn to ski, a snow tubing and sledding option and brilliant snow toys to explore. It’s a great place for chilling out in the snow and meeting other kids from around the world. I’m certain my two would be entertained the entire length of our trip when we finally hit the slopes.
Interested in heading to Niseko? My advice is to stalk Jetstar for cheap fares to Sapporo, Japan which is the closest airport to Niseko (You’ll remember Sapporo from the winter Olympics a few years back). You can book accommodation through Vacation Niseko with deals under my $300 a night budget for a family of four.
Big thanks to Vacation Niseko for sharing their images with us and supporting our coverage. Let’s hope we make it to Japan soon!