RESORT GUIDE NEIL HARTMANN NIKKO - Powderlife

EDITOR’S NOTEメリIクリスマMerry Christmasスphotography // niseko photographyLAST year’s Christmas Powderlife boasted reports of the infamousNiseko Powder Express pulling into town. By the time this magazinehits the streets (Christmas Day), hopefully we will have experiencedthe same. For locals and those abroad, it’s been an anticipated andlong wait for snow.Despite Mother Nature doing things her own way that not even the bestweather reporters can explain, we’re not going to let her deter our hopes fora great season. Admittedly though, seasonal workers and guests have beendisappointed by the slow start. On the bright side of this, is the opportunity toexplore the other attractions around the area such as the onsens, snowshoeing,hiking, the many restaurants and bars, and other resorts in the area.Check out Powderlife’s Discover section on page 11.Our feature story this issue profiles film legend Neil Hartmann –no stranger to Hokkaido’s incredible snow. He moved to Hokkaido in 1991after working as a juggler and comedian in his hometown of San Diego.Since moving here, Neil has firmly planted his name in Japan’s film industrywith his amazing Car Danchi film series. For those of you who haven’t seenany of these films, they are a great insight into Hokkaido snow life.Moving away from Hokkaido is Powderlife’s travel story featuring Kutchan’spartnering tourism city Nikko – a two-hour train ride from Tokyo. This city issteeped in tradition and is a great side trip if you’re heading to this part ofJapan. We’ve also started our EyeSpy section featuring local and national artists.From all at Powderlife, enjoy your Christmas and time in Niseko.Lizzy Hoo, Powderlife, Managing Editor, email lizzy@powderlife.com昨 年 のクリスマスは、 待 ちに 待 った 積 雪 予 報 にパウダーライフ 一 同 、 喜 々としたクリスマスでした。そして、本 誌 が 街 に 並 ぶ 今 年 のクリスマスにも 同 じ 事 を 期 待 しています。 今 年 は“ 待 ち 時 間 ”がなんと 長 いことでしょう。 山 一 面 の 真 っ 白 な 雪 こそ、 皆 さんが 待 ち 望 むクリスマスプレゼントとなることでしょう。優 れた 気 象 予 報 士 でさえも 予 測 が 不 可 能 な“ 母 なる 自 然 ”ですが、 今 年 も 私 たちの 望 む 素 晴 らしいシーズンをきっと 届 けてくれるはずです。もっとも、 今 年 はシーズン 始 めの 雪 不 足 により、シーズナルワーカーや 観 光 客 は 失 望 し 始 めています。しかし、 温 泉 やスノーシューイング、ハイキングなど、ニセコではさまざまなアクティビティーを 楽 しむ 事 ができます。それらに 関 しては 本 誌 11ページをご 参 照 ください。今 号 の 特 集 記 事 では、ニセコで 映 画 伝 説 を 創 り 上 げたニール・ハートマン 氏 を 紹 介 しています。ハートマン 氏 は 北 海 道 の 素 晴 らしい 雪 の 大 ファンでもあります。 地 元 サンディエゴで 曲 芸 師 、コメディアンとして 働 いた 後 、1991 年 に 北 海 道 へ 移 って 来 られました。そして、 有 名 な“ 車 団 地 シリーズ”で 日 本 のスキー・スノーボード 映 画 業 界 にニール・ハートマンの 名 をはせられました。 北 海 道 のスノーライフを 知 るには 最 適 のこのフィルム( 全 4シリーズ)をまだ 見 てない 方 は 必 見 です。そのほか、”Travel”コーナーでは、 倶 知 安 町 と 日 光 市 の『 観 光 パートナー 都 市 協 定 』に 関 する 記 事 を掲 載 しています。 伝 統 と 文 化 にあふれる 日 光 は 東 京 から 電 車 で2 時 間 という 便 利 なロケーションにあるので、 東 京 方 面 に 行 く 際 の 小 旅 行 にいかがでしょうか。 最 後 に、 新 コーナー“EyeSpy”では 地 元 や 国 内 の芸 術 家 を 紹 介 しています。このコーナーで 紹 介 して 欲 しい 方 などおられましたら 本 誌 までご 連 絡 ください。パウダーライフ 一 同 より、 皆 さんがクリスマスを、そしてニセコで 過 ごされる 時 間 を 楽 しまれます 様に 願 っています。リズィー ・フー, パウダーライフ, 編 集 長 , lizzy@powderlife.com7powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

VILLAGE NEWSLocal VoicesRhythm RenovationsRHYTHM Snowsportsrelocated and renovated itsnew home last summer.THIS move saw Rhythm Snowsports movefrom a small premise underneath Sekka Caféto a giant, two-story megastore at the bottomof Hirafu-zaka. The renovation of Berg Plaza,the former location of Yukara Souvenir Shopand Tozanken Ramen, took several monthsand the sweat and tears of many local hands,but the results show.The store is split between two levels, withthe top level focussing on snowboarding gearand apparel, and the lower floor catering to theneeds of skiers. There is an extensive range ofhire equipment in store too, as well as somecheap ex-rental hardware.Popular brands stocked include Armada,Rossignol, Stepchild, Burton, Libtech, Bonfireand The North Face.To keep you going while shopping, there isGloorious Coffee, the newly installed café withinthe shop, serving up delicious Lavazza coffee.Don’t Mention The WeatherName Shaun Widger Age 25 HometownSydney, Australia Time in Niseko? SinceSeptember, 2009 Ski or board andfor how long? Board, twice FavouriteRestaurant? Campagna, SapporoFavourite Bar? Jam Bar FavouriteOnsen? Grand Hotel Favourite Course?Family Local Secret? Rakuichi SobaPlace to ski before you die? Niseko[honestly].名 前 ショーンウィッジャー 年 齢 25 歳 出 身 地シドニー、オーストラリア ニセコ 年 数 昨 年9 月 から スキー、スノーボード 歴 二 回 (スノーボード)お 気 に 入 りのレストラン カンパニャー 札 幌お 気 に 入 りのバー ジャムバー お 気 に 入 りの 温 泉グランドホテル お 気 に 入 りのゲレンデコースファミリーコース ニセコの 秘 密 楽 市 そば死 ぬ 前 に 行 きたいスキー 場ニセコ( 本 当 に)Coffee Better Than Beer?THE weather has been a sore point here, andno matter how many times veterans reassurenewcomers that, “the snow will come, it alwayscomes” there are still a few confused and disbelievingfaces. Recently, strong Southerly winds havebeen bringing up the warmth, instead of the usualnortherly winds pulling down the cold Siberian air.Niseko’s comparatively low elevation, coupled withits low latitude makes Niseko dependent on thegenerally reliable Siberian winds. But, just as thisissue went to print, a strong storm has hit townand things are looking very white outside.Name YukoHoriguchi Age 30 Hometown Chiba (nextto Tokyo) Time in Niseko 8 years Ski orboard and for how long? Snowboard, 12years Favourite restaurant? KumagorouCafé Favourite bar? SPLASH Favouriteonsen? Niseko Goshiki Favourite ski run?Super course Local secret? People hereare free and don’t have to act their agePlace to ski before you die? Whistler,Canada.THIS season, as with most seasons, sees a few newdrinking establishments opening for the first time.Cafes are in vogue this season and there are at leastthree new places to get your caffeine fix: Fresh, JavaLounge and Gloorious Coffee (inside Rhythm Snowsports).This year also sees a few watering holes thatdidn’t reopen including The Bunker, Yuki Bar andHerbie’s Umbrella Bar.名 前 ホリグチ ユウコ 年 齢 30 歳 出 身 地千 葉 県 ニセコ 年 数 8 年 スキー、スノーボード 暦12 年 (スノーボード)お 気 に 入 りのレストランくまごろう、ひらふーる お 気 に 入 りのバーSPLASHお 気 に 入 りの 温 泉 ニセコ 五 色 温 泉 好 きなゲレンデコース 2 壁 、スーパーコース ニセコの 秘 密年 齢 不 詳 の 大 人 がいっぱいいる 死 ぬ 前 に 行 きたいスキー 場 カナダのスキー 場9powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

DISCOVERExplore KutchanKUTCHAN is more than just Niseko’sgateway and service town. It’s an interestingplace to walk around, do somegeneral shopping and enjoy a change ofscenery from the ski-resort feelin Hirafu.Kutchan has a very lively entertainmentdistrict and there are dozens of restaurants,bars and other drinking establishments inhigh concentration near Miyako-dori. Busesfrequently run between Hirafu andKutchan Station.01GANBANYOKUGANBANYOKU, whichmeans ‘stone bath’ isvery vogue with healthconsciousJapanese.THIS detoxifying treatment involves lying onheated stones in the provided pyjamas for up toan hour. These heated stones raise your internalbody temperature and radiate about 40˚c ofsweat-inducing heat. It’s recommended that youlie for 20 minutes at a time on your back andINDOOR ROCK CLIMBINGthen your front. The sweat that this produces issaid to be one that is different to that producedduring exercise – it’s a cleaner sweat, andapparently if you lick it it won’t taste salty.Lying on a hard hot rock for up to an hourrequires mental as well as physical stamina.It’s a process that is very sensory devoid, givingyou plenty of time to stop, relax and think. Thereis a Ganbanyoku at the Alpen Hotel at the top ofHirafu Zaka. And after visiting the Ganbanyokumake sure you drink plenty of water.03020401) EATTRY Potato Udon: Kutchan is famous forits potatoes and Daiichi Kaikan Hotel hasudon made from local potatoes.02) DRINKSING Karaoke! It’s a must-do while in Japan.Hire a private room for you and your friendsand find out why Karaoke is so popular here.03) DOTAKE a Japanese Cultural Tour: Tea ceremony,saké-brewery tour, taiko drumminglaido sword demonstration and a Japanesedinner. See p.49.04) SHOPWANDER Walk around the small alleysaround Kutchan Station and find someunique souvenirs in interesting shops.SOUP CurrySAID to be a Hokkaido speciality (and we’re notbrave enough to dispute that), soup curry is a deliciousmeal that will warm you to your very core forquite some time afterwards. It has a base reminiscentof Japanese-style curry, though in a soup-mediumand with a few extra spices thrown in to makeit interesting. Variations and restaurants are plentiful,with most shops offering their own delicious flavour.Most places allow you to pick your level of spicetoo – often this ranges from 0 to 20. Highly recommendedfor a complete Hokkaido experience.ROCK climbing is a great activity that helps youbuild incredible muscle strength. The Niseko AdventureCentre (NAC) has the one and only indoorrock-climbing facility in the area, perfect if theweather is bad, or if you just feel like a break fromskiing or snowboarding. The two-story climbingwall has multiple routes to suit beginners or challengethe skilled. You will be completely harnessedand supervised should you make a mistake whileclimbing. A session costs ¥1200, and climbinggear can be rented for ¥500. Afterwards, you canhead upstairs for a healthy treat at JoJo’s Cafe.11powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

SNAP FLASHGRAND HIRAFUFIRST LIFTSLOCATION // GRAND HIRAFUAFTER only two solid days of snow in late November, the lifts opened for the first time ofthe 2010/2011 season at 8.30am December 1st. There were only two courses open, anun-groomed Center course and the Family course, both with plenty of powder. Visibilitywas quite poor at the top of Ace Pair Lift #3, but it didn’t dampen spirits too much, asevidenced Chewy (left picture) – the first one to make the lifts by two chair lengths.TAMASHIIBAROPENING NIGHT //THE worm, shimmy, sprinkler, runningman and other moves that can not bedescribed, were all present at TamashiiBar’s opening night thanks to sweetparty tunes by Murray and Chris.PHOTOS // niseko photographyFOR your chance to wina Hanazono PowderGuides First TracksTours for two,valued at ¥32,000,answer the following:WINENTER TO WIN AGUIDED TOUR“Skiing vs boarding – tellus why you prefer one over theother.”Entrants will be judged on their level ofhumour and brutality. Send your entry tolizzy@powderlife.comGet creative!Question // What do you love about Niseko?STACKWINENTER TO WIN AHELMET FROMINSKIELLIOT and Victoria Fong from Singapore love Niseko’sweather, food and, of course, skiing.KELLY Dyball and Mike Chapman from Melbourne andPerth, Australia love Niseko’s nightlife scene.PETER Wilson from Byron Bay, Australia loves Niseko’spowder snow and thinks it’s a great place for a family holiday.WAYNE and Sim Chang from Hong Kong love Niseko’scompact and convenient layout.ENTER TO WIN A HELMET FROM INSKI.SUBMIT your gnarly crash story and the reason why you weara helmet and/or need a new helmet to ross@powderlife.com.Entries are required to be 100 words or less and must beaccompanied with valid contact information. We will be pickinga winner every two weeks.WILDBILL’SOPENING PARTY //A TYPICALLY wild party at Wild Bill’s,fuelled by a three-hour all-you-candrinkand some fantastic music by3 Skins and DJ Chris Holmes. Theseguys had people up and dancing ontables and chairs long into the night.15powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com16powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

IRRASHAIMASSE // “welcome!” – great local businessesCHARCOAL YAKITORI DINING ENYA, Kutchan, Takeshi YamamotoMANY people are attracted to Niseko because of its year-round activities.Takeshi Yamamoto, owner of Charcoal Yakitori Dining Enya in Kutchan, is nodifferent. Takeshi is from Osaka originally and worked in real-estate managementbefore opening up his old restaurant Big Cliff (where Paddy’s is now) andhis current restaurant Enya in Kutchan. Enya literally translates to ‘fire house’– he loves playing with fire and experimenting with charcoal to make the bestsmoke for his delicious yakitori. On any night, people can be found enjoyingthemselves at Enya. In the future, this Kutchan entrepreneur wants to continueto provide great hospitality and make customers happy with his great yakitori.山 本 毅 さん 炭 火 串 焼 ダイニング 炎 や 倶 知 安多 くの 人 が 年 間 通 して 楽 しめるニセコの 魅 了 に 引 かれやってきます。 大 阪 出 身 のサーファー 山 本 毅 さんもその 一 人 でした。 大 阪 での 不 動 産 経 営 術 を 元 に1995 年 にビッククリフ( 現 在 のパディーズ)、バルンバNISEKO YUBOKUMIN, Hirafu, Kunihiro YoshikawaRUNNING a lodge in Niseko is what Kunihiro Yoshikawa decided to do afterworking as a salary man in Sapporo. Before settling here 24 years ago, Kunihirohad been to Niseko many times; he even met his wife at the youth hostel inNiseko. His love for the area is based on skiing and the interesting people herethat are connected through their love of the mountains. He also enjoys thecustomers who keep coming back to stay at his lodge every season. Kunihiroconsiders himself to be one of two types of people that live in Niseko: a businessperson or a true Niseko lover. He is, of course, the latter and will continueto live here, ski 120 days a year and make this a better place for his children.吉 川 邦 弘 さん ニセコ 遊 牧 民 ヒラフミドルビレッジ福 岡 県 出 身 の 吉 川 邦 弘 さんが 札 幌 でのサラリーマン 生 活 を 終 え、 遊 牧 民 を 始 めたのが24 年 前 。 初 めてニセコに 訪 れた 時 は 今 でいうバックパッカーの 走 りカニ 族 だった 吉 川 さん。 日 本 、 世 界 中 を 旅 してきたGetting to the airportjust got easierバー、ボールズイン(バックパッカーズ)をニセコにオープン。2008 年 にビッククリフを 閉 めるまでは、 冬のスノーボード、 夏 のサーフトリップを 銘 一 杯 楽 しんでいたと 話 す。 年 間 通 して 経 営 でき、またここニセコで 築 いてきた 人 脈 があるから 倶 知 安 に 炎 やの 開 店 を 決 めたという。 炎 が 好 きなんですとお 店 の 名 前結 果 、お 客 さんが 戻 ってこれるような 宿 をやりたい、 人 を 変 える 魅 力 がありたくさんの 興 味 深 い 人 々がいると、この 土 地 に 移 住 を 決 意 。ニセコには2 種 類 の 人 、ビジネスをしに 来 ている 人 、そして 本 当 にニセコを 愛 してやまない 人 がいると 話 す。 今 でも 年 間 120 日 間 はスキーをするという 吉 川 さんはもちろん 後 者ホテルから 空 港 までの 由 来 を 教 えてくれた 山 本 さん、そんな 炎 の 魔 術 師 が 作 る 焼 き 鳥 の 絶 妙 な 焼 き 加 減 、 炭 の 香 りがそれをであり、これから 先 もここに 住 み 続 けるでしょう。ニセコをもっと 多 くの 人 たちが 楽 しみ、 戻 って 来 たいと物 語 っています。 北 海 道 一 の 店 、 味 でもサービスでも 喜 んでもらえる 店 を 目 指 すと 話 す 山 本 さん。 店 内 に思 わせる 場 所 となってほしい。 地 域 に 暮 らす 子 供 たちがもっとニセコから 世 界 に 羽 ばたいていけるようあるカウンターやライトはビッククリフの 物 という、 懐 かしさと 山 本 さんの 笑 顔 に 会 話 も 弾 むでしょう。DVD RevIEWSな 教 育 環 境 を 作 って 行 きたいと、モーグルスキー 選 手 の 息 子 さんを 持 つ 父 親 の 顔 もみせてくれた。Private and ComfortableRide in style in a spacious, climatecontrolled luxury shuttle bus.車 内 は 広 くて 余 裕 の 快 適 空 間Affordable and EfficientLow price, with more room foryour bags.低 額 料 金 でしかも 荷 物 置 場 はたっぷりのスペースRatesNew ChitoseAirport - NisekoNiseko - NewChitose Airport1 person¥6,000one way¥10,000returnChild under 6¥4,000one way¥7,000returnPrivateTransfersfrom¥28,000one wayPersona – Ebis FilmsAS the title alludes, this film has a veryintimate and personal feel. It follows severalJapanese skiers and riders in both summerand winter, getting a feel for their passionfor snow. There are no flashy tricks, no slickediting, just people riding powder in Japanand loving every second of it. (Japanese only)It Began – Coeur Film FactoryIT Began feels very much like the home moviethat Japanese pro-snowboarders living inthe Niseko area would make. This movie wasmade for the love of it, not due to sponsorshippressure. Mostly shot within the Niseko Resortarea, this film may quickly turn into a competitionfor who can spot the locations first.No fuss. No hassle.No delays.No changing trains. No draggingyour bags through stations.No standing around.乗 換 え、 手 荷 物 運 搬 、 待 ち 時 間 にさようならDoor-to-DoorConvenienceWe pick you up from your hotel andtake you to the airport.札 幌 のホテルから 空 港 まで 直 行スピーディーにらくらく 移 動www.skybus.co.jpTel: 011-788-4994Email: info@skybus.co.jpNiseko Scheduled Transfer Services (Available 1 Dec thru 31 March)Niseko - New Chitose Airport New Chitose Airport – NisekoNiseko - Sapporo CityDeparts Niseko Arrives Airport Departs Airport Arrives NisekoDeparts NisekoArrives Sapporo08:00 10:30 12:00 14:3009:30 12:0009:00 11:30 14:00 16:30Sapporo City - Niseko10:00 12:30 16:30 19:00Departs SapporoArrives Niseko11:00 13:30 19:00 21:3012:30 15:0015:00 17:30 21:30 23:59If the timetables above do not suit your requirements, please consider our17:00 19:30Private Transfer Services. Services may depart/arrive at different times due toroad and/or weather conditions, flight delays and/or airport closures.Airport Service • Trips and Excursions • Ski ShuttleSecure VIP Transfer • Wedding Hire • Chauffeured CharterLicensed Travel Agency 2-589ONBOARD17powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com18powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

FEATURE // neil hartmann FEATURE // neil hartmannIF not for a plan that involvedmoving to Japan to save moneyso he could return to theUnited States for film school,Neil Hartmann may have nevercreated his legendary Car Danchifilm series or his recently releasedphotography book ‘Bluetiful’.His passion for the arts is somethinghe’s had since he was 12; he hasalways wanted to be a film director.His other passion was realised awhile later when he pointed a borrowedBurton Performer straightunder a lift into light and fluffy Hokkaidopowder at Rusutsu Resort in1985. Combining filmmaking andsnowboarding with persistence andambition, Neil created somethingmany wannabe film directors hopefor – a successful life in a foreigncountry, doing something he wholeheartedlyloves everyday.Describe a day in the life ofNeil Hartmann?If I am on location I will usually wakeup between 4 or 5am in my car.日 本 でお 金 をためて、アメリカに 帰 り 映 画学 校 に 行 く。この 計 画 がなければニール・ハートマン 氏 ( 以 下 ニール)の 有 名 な“ 車団 地 シリーズ”、または 最 近 出 された 写 真集 “Bluetiful”の 実 現 はなかったであろう。ニールは12 歳 のころから 芸 術 に 目 覚 め、いつの 日 か 映 画 監 督 になるのが 夢 だったという。そして、1985 年 、ルスツリゾートでもうひとつ 情 熱 を 傾 けられるものに出 会 った。 借 り 物 のバートンボードでふわふわの 北 海 道 の 雪 を 体 験 した、その 瞬 間だった。 映 画 監 督 への 夢 とスノーボードへの 情 熱 。どうにかこの 二 つを 結 びつけられないかと 試 行 錯 誤 した 結 果 、ニールは 映 画 監 督 への 夢 を 持 つ 誰 もがうらやむ人 生 を 勝 ち 取 った。 映 画 監 督 として、 外 国で 自 分 が 心 からやりたい 事 をする 日 々を送 っている。ニール・ハートマンとしての 一 日 とは?ロケ 中 ならたいてい 車 中 泊 。4 時 か5 時に 起 床 して、スープとコーヒーの 準 備 をしながらスノーギアに 着 替 えたりする。 日 中の 良 い 光 加 減 を 逃 したくないから 撮 影 は早 朝 からスタートするね。 日 によっては 夕暮 れまで 撮 影 することもあるよ。 一 日 中 、寒 い 外 で 撮 影 した 後 にはいつも 温 泉 で 体を 温 めるようにしてる。Heat up some soup and coffee whilegetting my gear on. We try to filmwhile the light is good in the earlymorning hours, but depending onthe situation a shoot can last untilsunset. After a long day in the coldweather I try to always find an onsento soak and warm up in.What made you come to Japan?I have half my family here in Japan.My father is a long-time expat living“I hope I havehelped some peopleloosen up a bit.”in Sapporo and he was the one thatencouraged me to come to Hokkaidoafter finishing high school.How has Japanese culturechanged you and what have youtaken from it?At the end of 2011, I will have beenin Japan for half of my life. I thinkthe biggest influence Japan has hadon me would be in how I feel aboutdesign in general: product design,store design, home design andclothing design. The brands I workwith like The North Face, Burton andNike all make the coolest productsexclusively for the Japanese market.I think in the next few years weare going to see another日 本 へ 来 たきっかけは?僕 の 家 族 の 半 分 は 日 本 に 住 んでいるんだ。 父 は 長 い 間 、 札 幌 に 駐 在 している。 高校 を 卒 業 した 僕 に 北 海 道 を 勧 めてくれたのは 父 だったんだ。日 本 文 化 からの 影 響 はある?2011 年 の 終 わりで、 僕 は 人 生 の 半 分 を 日本 で 過 ごしたことになるんだ。 日 本 に 住むことによって 一 番 影 響 されたのは 一 般的 なデザインに 関 する 考 え 方 かな。 例 えば 製 品 や 店 舗 、 家 屋 設 計 、 服 なんかのデザイン。ノースフェイスやバートン、ナイキと 一 緒 に 仕 事 をすることもあるけど、どの会 社 も 日 本 マーケットのみの 格 好 良 い 製品 を 作 っている。もしかすると、 日 本 のデザインが 世 界 を 制 覇 するってこともありえると 思 う!ニールが 日 本 文 化 へ 貢 献 したことは?少 しは 日 本 の 人 々をリラックスさせたと 思うよ。ラジオのDJをやっていたころ、 良 い音 楽 をかけて 少 しでも 人 を 楽 しませようとすごく 頑 張 ったよ。また、 車 団 地 シリーズのDVDを 作 ることで、スノーボードがどんなものなのか、それを 本 気 でやっている 人 々の 生 活 はどんなものなのかを 伝 えたかった。スノーボードに 対 しての 人 々の 理 解 が深 められたと 思 ってる。これからも 日 本 文化 とアメリカ 文 化 の 架 け 橋 となりたいな。創 造 力 を 持 続 させるためには?コーヒー、寒 い 日 に 食 べるラーメン。それに 僕 には 多くの 時 間 が 必 要 なんだ。 一 人 でいる 時 間 、自 分 がやっている 事 が 正 しいのかを 知 るために 人 と 接 する 時 間 。ビデオ 編 集 をする時 は 徹 底 的 にするから、 一 日 に18 時 間も 作 業 に 没 頭 するよ。 一 度 リズムをつかんだら、その 部 分 を 完 成 させるまで 止 めたくない。wave of Japanese design takingover the world.What do you think you’ve givento Japanese culture?I hope I have helped some peopleloosen up a little bit. During mydays as a radio DJ, I did my best toplay music and shake people up.Through the snowboard DVD’s andデジタル 写 真 、コンピューター、ウェブサイト。 多 くのものから 感 性 を 刺 激 されているね。どのような 物 ・ 事 に 刺 激 される?良 い 映 画 、 特 にドキュメンタリー。そのほか、雑 誌 を 読 むのも 好 きだし、 収 集 したアナログレコードを 聞 くのも 好 き。スノーボード、スケートボード、 山 登 りもね。 行 き 詰 まった 時はネットでやらしいサイトを 見 るのも( 笑 )。days when video editing and tend todevelop a rhythm. With digital photography,computers and the web –there is more than enough inspirationout there to push creativity.What stimulates you?Good films, especially documentarybased stuff. I like magazines a lot.Listening to my analog record collection.Snowboarding, skateboarding,Car Danchi, I hope I helped change「people’s perceptions about whatmountain hiking, and if I am desperatea little internet porn – ha ha!snowboarding and the lifestyle isこれからも 日 本 文 化really like. I hope I can continue to とアメリカ 文 化 の」You’re a self-confessed “modernbe a good gateway personality forsocial animal” – how has social架 け 橋 となりたいなboth cultures.media changed you and whatHow do you drive your creativity?Coffee helps and hot ramen on acold day works well too. For me,I need a lot of time and solitudecombined with short bursts of interactionwith other people to confirmthat I am doing the right thing. Thevideo-editing process is very intensivefor me. I tend to work 18-hour情 熱 をかけているものは?ひとつ 前 の 質 問 で 答 えたこと 全 て。やらしいサイトは 違 うよ( 笑 )。ソーシャルメディアが 大 好 きだとお 聞 きしましたが、それによっての 影 響 は?今 、 僕 はiPhoneでツイート、ブログ(neilhartmannlife.wordpress.com)をするのに 熱 中 してる。こういうソーシャルメディアyou do?I love all the social media and all thechanges that have come with it.Now that I have my iPhone, I amaddicted to sharing a large portionof my life – tweeting, blogging (neilhartmannlife.wordpress.com),photosharing whatever it takes. On thedown side, the media industryが 世 に 出 てきたたのは 楽 しい 事 だと 思 うけど、 欠 点 もあるよね。 例 えばメディア 業 界の 低 迷 。youtubeによってDVDのセールスは 大 幅 に 落 ちたそうだよ。日 常 から 逃 れたい 時 に 行 くのはどこ?山 奥 。それも 数 人 の 友 人 と 携 帯 電 波 が 届かない 所 へ 行 く。スノーシューで 歩 きながら、 靴 の 下 で 雪 がキュ、キュっと 鳴 る 音を 聞 く。人 生 の 中 での 一 番 達 成 感 を 得 たものは?二 人 の 娘 シエナとサフィアが 誕 生 したこと。これを 上 回 る 事 柄 はないね。人 生 の 中 での 一 番 のチャレンジは?創 造 力 をどうにかビジネスにして、それを持 続 すること。映 画 監 督 、 写 真 家 で 尊 敬 する 人 は?それはいないかな。でもプロの 写 真 家 として 頑 張 っている 人 は 誰 でも 尊 敬 する。 映 画監 督 も 同 じ。マイケル・ムーア、スパイク・ジョーンズ、スパイク・リー、デニス・ホッパー、タランティーノは 大 ファンだよ。自 身 をラッキーだと 思 う?それとも、 一 生 懸命 ゴ ールに 向 かっている?ラッキーって 本 当 に 一 生 懸 命 に 働 いていwords by // lizzy hoo // photography by // neil hartmann // translation by // yuri pangier19powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com20powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

continued from previous page FEATURE // neil hartmannis struggling to keep up with thechanging times. DVD sales havedropped dramatically since YouTubecame on the scene.Where do you take a breakfrom life?Deep in the mountains with just a fewfriends and no cell phone reception– just the sound of snow crunchingunderneath my snowshoes.What’s been your greatestachievement?The birth of my two daughters Sienaand Safia. Nothing can top that ever.What’s been your biggestchallenge?Trying to turn creativity into cashmoney and to keep it flowing.Do you have photographic/filmmakeridols?Basically I don’t have a photographicidol, I just have mad respectfor anybody that has chosen the lifeる 人 に 起 こるもの。だから 僕 はすごくラッキーだと 言 えるんじゃないかな。他 の 映 画 監 督 へのアドバイスは?とにかく 一 生 懸 命 働 くこと。 多 くの 人 が 夢を 持 ち、 成 功 を 願 うけど、 結 局 行 動 に 起 こさない。 日 本 で 成 功 したいのなら、そのための 準 備 を 怠 らないこと。 日 本 のグローバルポジション、 歴 史 を 考 えても、 競 争 相 手は 日 本 人 だけじゃないことが 分 かる。 日 本で 働 くすべての 欧 米 人 の 写 真 家 / 映 画 監督 と 比 較 される。 人 より 秀 でるためには 何か 違 うものを 持 ち、さまざまな 技 術 を 用 意しておくことが 大 切 だということだね。of a professional photographer. Andfor film makers, I have a few namesthat I would say I am a big fan of –Michael Moore, Spike Jonze, SpikeLee, Dennis Hopper and Tarantino.Do you think you’re lucky or haveyou worked hard?Luck only comes to those who haveworked their asses off. So yes I amvery lucky.What’s some advice you couldgive to other filmmakers orphotographers trying to ‘make it’?Work your f##king ass off. I see a lotof people wanting success but justnot putting in the hours needed. If youwant to succeed in Japan you hadbest be prepared to work. Due to Japan’sglobal position and history, everyonehere not only has to competewith the local Japanese competition,you will also get compared to everyother North American and Europeanphotographer/filmmaker out there.You have to step up your game andbe prepared to be the whole package.21powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

weEAT & DRINKBorn and raised in Kutchan, ERI Ashizawa, from JAVA LOUNGEshares her favourite things to eat and drink in the area.Coffee and Chai latte at Java lounge – Hirafu (shameless plug)Bacon & Egg roll and Paninis at Java Lounge – Hirafu (another one!)Hokke-fish at Yukiguni – KutchanPizza at Kaku cafe – KutchanTofu salad at A-bu-cha 2 – HirafuDashi Maki Tamago – Japanese omelet at Namichanchi – KutchanBlue Cheese & Walnut Rye Bread at Mugikaze – KutchanGreen Tea Roll Cake at Suetake Cake Shop – KutchanHanajizoh BakeryTHIS delicious bakery in the outskirtsof Izumikyo (map p.54, F5) is filled withthe nostalgic scent of impressive bakedgoods, which is somewhat of a rarityhere in Japan. Their baked white bread isauthentic in creation and induces homesicknesswhen you smell it. There is alsoimmaculate looking, and delicious tastingsweets, which are the perfect accompanimentto a mid-morning breakfast, or alate-afternoon pampering. The husband/wife team are constantly baking, so theirgoods are always fresh. But be warned,get in early or risk missing out.NISEKO CELLARSRECIPE // gyouza by kazuho ‘kaz’ furugoriIngedients – serves 4• 24 gyouza shells• Beef/pork mince 300g• 1/2 a cabbage• 2 cloves garlic• 1 thumb-size amount of Ginger• 5 shiso leaves (Japanese basil)• 1/2 tbs sesame oil• Pinch of saltSAUCE• 1/2 cup rice vinegar• 1/2 cup soy sauce• 1/2 tbs sesame oil• Some chilli flakesHeat soy sauce and vinegar, then addsesame oil and chilli flakes.GYOUZAMethodFinely chop the cabbage, garlic, gingerand shiso. Add a pinch of salt. Add minceand sesame oil and mix thoroughly. Put aspoonful of the mixture on to the centreof the gyouza shell. Dab water all roundthe edge and fold. Pinch and fold theopen side. Press two sides together so it’scompletely sealed. On a non stick pan, putsome oil and then the gyouzas next to eachother with minimum gap. Fry until the bottomis slightly brown. Pour hot water so itcovers 3/4 of the gyouzas and put a lid on.Keep on high heat until water evaporates,turn the heat down and dry the gyouzas.When they are dry – serve them!*Last issue’s recipe for Okonomiyaki was supplied by Cocoro Okonomiyaki – Kutchan.FRESH for this season, Niseko Cellars hasopened beneath J-Sekka to cater to thosewho prefer to sip on a big glass of red wineafter a day’s skiing within the comfort oftheir own accommodation. Inside the shopthere is a selection of hand-chosen winesstarting from ¥1000, all the way to Bordeauxfrom the 1980’s. Mick Nippard, who runsNiseko Cellars, has a soft spot for handcreatedboutique wines, and where possiblehe’s selected these to stock the shelves ofhis shop. Whether you’re into fine wines, orjust searching for something to go with dinner,Mick can find you something to suit.OTARU BEER DUNKEL BOCKTHE festive season definitely calls for afew extra drinks with family and friends.Some may enjoy egg nog and othersfancy mulled wine. Otaru Beer’s DunkelBock is a limited-edition Christmas beerand Niseko’s answer to a yuletide tipple.It’s refreshing but packs a surprise fullbodied8% alcohol punch for extra cheer.Available at J-Sekka Café and SekkaDining this Christmas (300mL ¥400,500mL ¥680), Dunkel Bock is served ina special ceramic stein and is the perfectaccompaniment to a hearty Christmasmeal or an après-ski session.23powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com24powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

RESTAURANT REVIEW // the barnWORDS BY // lizzy hoo PHOTOGRAPHY BY // niseko photographyHEAD Chef of The Barn Kazuhiko Kojima,aka ‘Kaz’, realised his passion 9 yearsago in France – a love and appreciation ofsimple and traditional French cooking.AFTER working in Lyon and Nice, Kazmoved back to the Niseko area andhas been here for the last six years;many locals witnessed Kaz’s talentsat his previous restaurant Le Cochonin Kutchan. In the summer, he joinedforces with Brett and Takayo (of WildBill’s fame) and the team at Odin tobring you outstanding classic Frenchfare in the heart of Niseko.The food is complemented by TheBarn’s striking building and is inspiredby colonial Dutch architecture. Fromthe street you can see right through tothe bar on the balcony level and to thecustomers enjoying what Kaz bringsto the table.In true bistro style, The Barn’smenu will change regularly (aboutonce a month at this stage) andguests can choose from three appetisers,mains and desserts for a setprice of ¥4,800 (not including drinks).There is also a special vegetarian setmenu featuring a Vegetable Presseewith Green Salad, Beans and CépeRavioli with Soy Milk and VegetableEssence Soup, and Fruits Sorbet fordessert. The set menu for childrenincludes a Chef’s Flan with GreenSalad, Cheese Hamburger Steak withTomato Sauce and Vegetables andIce cream.On this occasion the appetisersare Mugibuta (wheat fed) Pork Terrine,Marinated Salmon and White LiverPaté, each paired with a Green Salad.The Pork Terrine is full of flavour andperfect for those who like a meatytaste. The Marinated Salmon is comparativelylight and is cooked so thatthe skin is crispy and the flesh is onlyslightly cooked. Kaz’s own White LiverPate is a real treat and literally melts inyour mouth.There was a choice of two mainsat the time this review was undertaken.The Braised Beef Cheeks withRed Wine Sauce and Vegetablestake four to five days to cook and arequickly gaining a reputation.The Red Sea Bream with PoêléCream Sauce and Vegetables wasequally as impressive and is servedwith mashed potatoes and a creamyrich sauce. Look out for thesoon-to-be-released Duck Confitwith Vegetables.Even if you’re full after two courses,you can’t miss dessert. BananaTarte with Vanilla Ice Cream, WarmGateau au Chocolat with FramboiseIce Cream or the Crème Brulee withCamembert Cheese Ice Cream areall irresistible. Make sure your tableorders at least one of each so you canshare all of the desserts onthe menu.After dinner, you can head upstairsfor a drink at the bar. The Barn is alsoopen for après ski and will feature livemusic during the season with residentmusician KENJAH.25powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com26powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

TASTE THE REGION // kurabitoshu sakeCONTACT // Tourism and Industry Division, Hokkaido, Niseko Town,Aza Fujimi47 Japan. T. 0136 44 2121. Ask for Paul.THE plummeting price of rice duringthe 1990s forced Niseko ricefarmers to produce a higher-qualityproduct or risk losing theirlivelihood. Having only everreached a B in terms of rice quality,this posed a tough situationfor farmers.The local Niseko governmentthen assisted farmers in creating ahigher standard of rice. What alsoresulted from the high-quality rice isan exceptional sake made from localingredients, Kurabitoshu Sake.The sake maker, Tanaka Shuzo, isjust as committed to the productionof an excellent end product asthe farmers are to growing the rice.Shuzo-san has a long history with thegroup and uses 100% Niseko-grownrice for his sake.The growth of the rice is assistedusing natural alternatives such asthe organic duck-farming method(pictured), which supports the area’s‘Yes Clean’ scheme. Ducklings areused to keep the rice paddies freefrom pests and weeds during therice-growing season, and enhancethe quality of the soils naturally. Theducks reach maturity just before therice and are sold as meat locally overthe winter period.One sip of Kurabitoshu Sake ismuch more than having a warmingdrink on a chilly winter’s night.The people behind each cup of sakebelieve in every step of its production,from growing the rice to when it’s bottled.The farmers’ wishes are simple:to keep producing high-quality rice,which then translates to exceptionalsake. Available for purchase at NisekoCellars in the J-Sekka complex.27powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com28powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

Brought to you by POWDER POSTERLOCATION hirafu // RIDER kayle // PHOTOGRAPHY rory gardiner, niseko photography

EYE SPY // art and culture in japannational designJAPAN is known worldwidefor its uniquetake on modern design.PHOTOGRAPHY BY // shouya griggLocal photographyONE company earning attention for its uniquedesign is monacca. Residing in Umaji Villagein the mountainous Kochi Prefecture, thissmall company produces unique wood-grainbags and furniture made out of the cedar thatsurrounds the area.In order to obtain good cedar, the maintenanceof the forest is essential; if the trees aretoo dense, their growth will be stunted andresources damaged. Monacca utilises thethinned wood that would usually be left inthe forest.Stylish, eco-sensitive and functional, monaccabags are different to many briefcases,handbags and clutches on the market.There is also a zabuton (Japanese cushion),chair, Japanese-style coffee table, light fixturesand a calculator available online or in selectedTokyo retailers. See website for details.@ www.monacca.comHOKKAIDO is a photographer’s playground. The moundsof white snow create interesting lines, the flat winter lightis numbing and the geographic features of the area areas subtle as they are immense.THE area is and can be interpreted in a numberof ways. Local designer and creative directorbehind the Sekka Style label, Shouya Grigg, usesHokkaido’s natural elements to satisfy his loveof photography, after working for many years asa high-fashion and commercial photographer inSapporo. His photos of Hokkaido are instilled withhis trademark ‘Sekka Style’, which is revealed in allhis work: J-Sekka, Sekka Style, Sekka MaruyamaRestaurant in Sapporo and the Sekka Lodgein Annupuri.Raw, natural, visionary and eclectic are justsome words that describe Shouya’s approach todesign – something that has organically evolvedand he has inherently learned to trust over time. It’shis fresh approach and bespoke style that makehis home-design label Sekka Style distinctive.This flair is best understood when surroundedby it. Walking through his secluded HanazonoHouse, Shouya’s inspirations are obvious – hehas a penchant for antiques, old Japanese art,minimalist lines, uninterrupted perspectives andphotography. Collecting nic nacs and his uniquetaste is something he attributes partly to hisparents. They would take him along on reconnaissancemissions to antique shops for their ownhome-renovation projects.Finding interesting things, creating furniture,appropriating art to fit a certain room and workingwith a building’s existing structural elementsis a skill Shouya has refined. His ability to createhouses that encompass a ‘lifestyle’ approach canbe experienced at the Sekka Style showroom, inthe J-Sekka complex. Here you’ll find a sampleof his Hokkaido-based photographs, Japaneseantiques and the custom-designed furniture heuses to style the houses he designs.@ www.sekkastyle.commonacca cedar calculatormonacca cedar bag – kaku31powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

SNOW CAVES// zekkeiadvertising promotionzekkeiZEKKEI is undoubtedly one of the mostimpressive & luxurious chalets in Niseko,set over 3 floors & approximately 400sqm.FROM early morning the sun streamsinto the spacious interior, floodingthis fabulous chalet with warmth andlight. Vast picture windows revealunobstructed views of Mt. Yotei andthe rice terraces in the valley below.The open living/dining area ischaracterized by the traditional useof Canadian wooden beams blendedwith modern and sleek interior furnishingswith heated timber flooring.The oversized handmade Siberian elm-wood dining table, white-marble fireplace and huge lounges are perfectfor entertaining.Masterfully produced by WestCanada Homes, with unmatchedmanagement service provided by TheNiseko Company, Zekkei is truly aspecial property.»»5 en-suited bedrooms and1 en-suited kids’ room withdouble bunks bed»»3 Japanese hinoki bathtubs»»Spacious living/dining/kitchenarea; perfect for entertaining.»»Stunning viewsBooking InformationContact T. +81 (0)136 21 7272 T. +81 (0)136 21 3838Website www.thenisekocompany.com, www.westcanadahomes.comEmail reservations@thenisekocompany.com, info@westcanadahomes.com33powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com34powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

POWDER TOOLSAIRHOLE PARTY PANDA FACEMASKAVAILABLE @ RHYTHM SNOWSPORTS, HIRAFUwww.skihirejapan.com/niseko/QUICKSILVER TRAVIS RICE BACKPACKAVAILABLE @ PROSKI, HIRAFUwww.proski.comK2 HELLBENT SKISAVAILABLE @ NISEKO 343, HIRAFUwww.niseko343.comphoto // niseko photography // goshiki onsenphoto // niseko photography // hirafuphoto // niseko photography // hirafuK2 GYRATOR SNOWBOARDAVAILABLE @ FUSION SPORTS SHOP, HIRAFUwww.hanazononiseko.comHOTRONIC FOOT WARMERAVAILABLE @ RHYTHM SNOWSPORTS, HIRAFUwww.skihirejapan.com/niseko/RED REDPHONES PREMIUM DJAVAILABLE @ RHYTHM SNOWSPORTS, HIRAFUwww.skihirejapan.com/niseko/photographer// rider// locationWhat’s on your playlist?First IMpressionDEREK Begley, aka Digler, is a part-time toughguy, personal trainer, fighter and all-round gooddude. His playlist is self desribed as “Three catergories– hip hop, stuff from old-skool snowboardvideos that I pretend to be in and chicks yelling atme.” If you want to win a ski shot from YETI BAR,send your playlist toross@powderlife.com1// Old Dirty Bastard // Shimmy Shimmy Ya2// Le Tigre // Deceptacon3// Donovan // Season of the Witch4// Pennywise // Society5// Outkast // So Fresh and So Clean6// Verve/Jay Z // Dirt of Your Shoulders7// CSS/Diplo remix // Let’s Make Love8// Devo // Mongoloid9// Blondie // Dreaming10// The Gossip // Standing in the Way of ControlName: Ian Weavers. Nationality: Welsh.photo // niseko photography // hirafu 1000 WORDSIf a picture tells 1000 words, then here’s 8000 words to help you geta better understanding of this awesome place we call home.photo // niseko photography // hirafuDerek’s PlaylistSki or snowboard? Looks like I’ll start out withsnowboarding and maybe skiing at some point.Why Niseko? I wanted the best snow in theworld and I wanted the biggest challenge.First thoughts? I love this place and thepeople. Yotei made me just stop in my tracks.Something that made you look/think twice?The amazing car park in Sapporo that parkedour car for us with a special lift.Going anywhere else in Japan? I’ll haveto see how much spare time I have afterthe season.photo //glen claydon // hirafuphoto // niseko photography // hirafuphoto // niseko photography // hirafu35powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com36powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

193-7 Aza Yamada, Kutchan-cho,Hokkaido Japan 044-0081 REAL ESTATE NEWSby lizzy hooAlpen Ridge 104¥35,000,000 S 1 1Buying off the planBuying off-the-plan requires you to enter into a contractbefore seeing the finished product. It is anattractive option for those wanting to enter Niseko’sproperty market, but just what are the benefits?BUYING off the plan can be considered risky for sucha high-involvement purchase, but it’s also a buyingstrategy that can reap financial reward. Powderlifecaught up with a few local agents and asked them toexplain the benefits of off-the-plan purchases.Ruskin McLennan of Niseko Property says, “Buyingoff the plan is simple: you are the first owner ofthe property; you may be able to influence the designand make changes with the architect and developer.And you only need to pay a deposit to get yourselfinto the market, the balance is not due until completion,the risk is mostly with the developer.”In Niseko, there are many off-the-plan opportunitiesbecause of the area’s early development stage,in comparison to other international ski resorts. Themarket in the Niseko area is entering a new growthphase and is likely to see a rise in off-the-plan purchasesdue to the new major developments in thearea recently coming onto the market.This includes: Seseragi Residences – a selectionof 2 x 4 bedroom houses close to the village andwith views of Mount Yotei; The Rocks Edge andThe Rocks Strata; Shiki Niseko in the middle village;Akazora, which consists of 26 condominiums;Niseko Riverside – 8 boutique apartments comingonto the market this winter; The Escarpment in thelower village; and the anticipated Capella in Annupuri.All of these properties offer something different for thebuyer. This variety of developments will allow investorsto get an off-the-plan opportunity that suits them.Julian Bailey from Hokkaido Tracks Resort Developmenthas a lot of experience with off-the-planand explains that, “Properties can be designed anddeveloped to innovate and improve on those previouslydeveloped, delivering better properties at bettervalue.” Craig Meikle of Meikle & Associates takes intoaccount the inevitable weakening of the yen, “Worksare due for completion in two years time. This givespotential investors the opportunity to lock in an apartmentwith minimal deposit and wait for the yen toweaken over the next two years, which surely it will.”As with any property purchase there are things tobe mindful of when purchasing, particularly when youhaven’t seen the finished product. Here are somethings to consider:»»FIRSTLY you have to believe that what yousee on the plan is what you’re going to get.How big are the rooms going to be? Whatlevel of quality are the furnishings and fixtures?Buy from a reputable developer thathas other finished work to show you.»»ESTABLISH whether the asking price is fairand enquire about the price of property inthe area – is it rising? Question rental guarantees.With all of the options available inNiseko, shop around and make a purchasethat suits you.AGENT PROFILEName Brian Lysne Agency Niseko RealEstate How is business in Niseko? Thispast July and August were our best on record.What’s your forecast for 2011? Very busy!Exciting projects will be coming on the marketshortly, offering levels of design, quality andamenities not yet seen in this area. Whatprojects in Niseko are you excited about?The Rocks is a project which is currentlycreating quite a buzz. Comprised of two sisterdevelopments, The Rocks Edge and TheRocks Strata. From what countries areinterested buyers coming from?The single biggest market remains HongKong. The Australian market is still strong,and so are the Singaporean and Malaysianmarkets. Interest from mainland China isalso growing. What type of real-estateinvestment would you recommend tobuy in Niseko? Ski-in/ski-out propertiesare certainly a good choice. Also, lifestyleinvestment opportunities with spacious landestates and Mt Yotei vistas. What are yourwords of wisdom for potential buyers? Doyour homework and weigh up your options,location is really important and find somethingthat differentiates your property from thepack. What do you think will make morepeople come to Niseko? The Hirafu-Zakamasterplan is certainly a large step in the rightdirection. A new Hirafu gondola wouldalso be nice!(Image: The Rocks Edge Penthouse, Hirafu,291.82 sqm interior space ¥262,650,000)SKI-IN SKI-OUT LUXURY UNITS SKI SCHOOL SKI RENTAL REAL ESTATE OFFICEAlpen RidgeThe very best Western style, luxury, ski-in, ski-out accommodation in Hirafu Village.The apartments are within 2 minutes of the heart of the village, close to thesupermarket, bars, restaurants and onsens that make any visit to Niseko uniquein the skiing world.Luxury in design, developed with care free living in mind and thoughtfullyappointed with all modern appliances. For extra convenience, Alpen Ridgeincorporates a ski school, ski rental service, personal ski lockers, staff receptiondesk, Niseko Property real estate office, attached cafe and an on site managementteam.A selection of studio, 1, 3 and 4 bedroom apartments available for sale.For more information on these properties anda huge selection of other properties availablethroughout the Niseko regionCall into our office in theAlpen Ridge BuildingSALES ENQUIRIESRuskin Mclennan:PH 080 60987882Peter Murphy:PH 080 60818989Here’s your chance to buy into Ski-in ski-outunbeatable accommodation in NisekoAlpen RidgeACE FAMILY PAIR LIFTPark HotelHirafu-Zaka StSeicomartPrinceHirafuteiHotelAlpen HotelGondola-Zaka StROUTE 343Ski in, ski out luxury apartment with village viewsand fantastic occupancies. This is the only studioapartment in the building and rents very well.LOCATION: Upper Hirafu VillageFLOOR AREA: 45m²Alpen Ridge 202¥45,000,000 1 1 1Ski-in ski-out, luxury slope side, one bedroomapartment with spectacular views lookingdirectly down on the Ace Family chairlift.LOCATION: Upper Hirafu VillageFLOOR AREA: 59m²Alpen Ridge 504¥79,000,000 3 2 1Ski-in ski-out, luxury, three bedroom apartment.The views from apartment 504 capture both theski resort and Mt Yotei in all its glory.LOCATION: Upper Hirafu VillageFLOOR AREA: 120m²Alpen Ridge 403¥85,000,000 3 2 1Ski-in ski-out, luxury, three bedroom apartment.Huge apartment with uninterrupted views of MtYotei from 2 balconies and the finest finishes.LOCATION: Upper Hirafu VillageFLOOR AREA: 122m²www.NisekoProperty.com - sales@NisekoProperty.com - Ph:+81 136 21 506037powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

REAL ESTATE NEWSby lizzy hooHIRAFU ZAKA PARKNEW developer in Hirafu, Summit PropertiesLimited, has launched a new brandedoperation – The Rocks Niseko Resort andwill provide the financing for Hirafu Park.“THE Rocks Niseko Resort is the firstventure falling under this brand name.It consists of a large hotel (100 luxuryski-in ski-out residences) where theScot Hotel is, at the top of the village.This will be demolished and constructionwill take place there starting Aprilnext year. The second one is in themiddle village: four luxury residences– two town houses and two penthouses.”Says Riccardo Tossani, thearchitect behind the venture.Riccardo has been instrumental inassisting Hong Kong-based SummitProperties Limited in getting a permitfor the first time in Japan for a condominumhotel in a national-park zone.The ‘condo hotel’ model is a differentmodel to the conventional hotelmodel, where the risk is spread outand the revenue model is changed sothat it’s easier to find investment andmake money.The model also lends itself to highqualitypublic amenities without puttinga big burden on the operations.To complement this venture andthe Hirafu Zaka masterplan, SummitProperties Limited are providing financialbacking for Hirafu Zaka Park, onthe intersection of the main street andRoute 343. It’s in the best interest ofSummit Properties Limited, the governmentand the community to buildthis park. Director of the companyLucas Fuller, along with RiccardoTossani, officially met the Kutchan of an offer that I made, which is ifmayor last summer to announce his they [Summit Properties] pay for itintentions on behalf of his company [the Hirafu Zaka park], I will designto finance the design of Hirafu Park. the Hirafu Zaka Park plan, and begin“Summit Properties wants to the process of getting governmentbalance out the development of the money for its construction,”upper village – a place where they says Riccardo.have a very strong interest. They also This project may trigger other opportunitiesfor other developerswant to see that the bottom end ofHirafu Zaka is not neglected. And so to work in a synchronic way with theit’s natural for them to take advantage Hirafu Zaka masterplan.real-estate office new locationsIN response to an increase in listings, sales office across the road in theseveral real-estate offices in the area plush confines of The Vale Nisekohave relocated or added new sales where you can view a new model ofstations for the winter period. HokkaidoTracks Development (HTD) and Alpen Ridge just next to the FamilyCapella. Niseko Property is now inLJ Hooker have pop-up offices to run. Niseko Real Estate and Meikle &the right of Seicomart. LJ Hooker will Associates have opened up a showsuitenext to the Scot Hotel for theconcentrate on launching two of itsproperties Shiki Niseko and Akazora highly anticipated The Rocks Nisekoand HTD will present their exciting Resort. And Tracks Real Estate alsonew project The Vale Furano. Meikle has a new sales station in Australiaand Associates have an additional House, opposite Seicomart.39powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com40powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

BACK COUNTRYRESORT GUIDEName Adam Streete Company ShinsetsuMountain Guides Ski or board Telemark, 30years What’s your best backcountry experience?Any run when the client tells me that itwas the best run of their life Best tip for backcountryskiers/boarders visiting Niseko? Hire a guide, you’ll getmore from your time, and they’ll get you straight into the deep filth.FREE BACKCOUNTRY INFORMATION SEMINAR //Ever hiked the peak? Been through a gate in Niseko? Considered theconsequences? Know what you’re getting into with Black DiamondTours free information seminar.Location // Above Proski Demo shop, opposite The Vale NisekoTime // 6–7pm every Tuesday during winterTHE basic function of walkingdoesn’t usually involve muchthought of how it is that we areable to remain balanced.To see what it feels like to have yourbalance system fail, find a children’splayground with the piece of equipmentin which you sit and spin aroundas fast as you can turn the steeringwheel. Spin yourself around until youfeel the need to throw up, then jumpout and try to walk in a straight line withyour eyes closed. This is how it couldfeel for someone with a vestibulardysfunction.The vestibular system providesour sense of balance and spatialorientation. It consists of the inner earand its connection to our brain, eyesand muscles. In some ways it actslike a spirit level in our head. It allowsour bodies to remain upright as we’resnowboarding or skiing and preventsour eyes from bobbing up and downat the same time as our head when wehit some moguls.Some conditions that can affect thevestibular system include:Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo(BPPV): Characterized by vertigo(the room-spinning feeling), especiallywhen lying down or bending over.This occurs when crystals in the innerear are dislodged (eg. from hitting one’shead) and end up floating around inthe wrong spot. This can be easilycorrected with a manual technique thatredirects the crystals back to the correctlocation, resulting in an instant anddramatic improvement, which amazesme every time I perform it.Infection: When the inner ear isinfected, you should feel something likethe way you felt after that exercise atthe playground. Early steroids can helpminimise permanent damage.Hypofunction: This occurs whenthe receptors in the ‘spirit level’ areYOU have mastered thegroomers, been on ski holidaysseveral times all over the world, andyou want to escape the crowds– chances are you’re ready to gobackcountry. The satisfaction ofhiking peaks and then making yourway down in untracked, waste-deepsnow is exhilarating.In Japan, Niseko is renowned forits liberal stance toward backcountryskiing and snowboarding. With thatfreedom comes the responsibilityto respect the mountain. Niseko’spowder may look soft and friendly,but don’t let its light and fluffy appearancefool you.Powderlife has collected some tipsfrom local experts to keep you safeon the mountain.1. Obey the Niseko Rules: Listedon the course map (p.52)2. Check weather and avalanchereports – www.niseko.nadare.info3. Respect Niseko’s ski patrollers4. Use essential equipment:A beacon, probe and shovel aredamaged. This could be the result ofinfection or sometimes antibiotics(be wary of Gentamicin). Specificvestibular exercises can help recoverybut improvement tends to be slowerand more limited.Meniere’s (a pressure problem in theinner ear), some migraines, tumours,strokes and brain injuries can also affectthe vestibular system.the bare essentials. Make sure youknow how to use them.5. Let someone know when you’replanning to be back.6. If the gates are closed don’t riskentering them.7. No-go zones include Yu noSawa (between Annupuri andNiseko Village area), and Haru noTaki (cliff area west of Hirafu).8. Ducking ropes may result in youlosing your lift pass.9. Hire a guide if you’re not sureabout going off-piste.10. Explore the backcountry withexperienced riders and skiiers.AVALANCHE INFO //Shinya-san’s daily avalanchereport: www.niseko.nadare.infoPowderlife’s Backcountry Guide isonline – www.powderlife.com// ‘Backcountry basics’// ‘Inside a 2-day avalanche course’// ‘Lost in the backcountry’// ‘How to build a snowcave’HEALTH – dizziness balance and your vestibular system // by wennie tanSo the next time you are walkingdown an icy road in the dark andsomehow manage not to slip, sparesome thought for your vestibularsystem.• If you hit your head and there isany suspicion of brain injury (dizziness,headache, neurological changes) go to hospitaland get some imaging to rule out bleeding/ swelling/bruising on the brain or a fractured skull. Don’t go to bed!• If you suffer from dizziness or poor balance it could beworth consulting a specially trained physiotherapist, neurologistand maybe audiologist.•Training your balance is beneficial. A simple exercise athome is to stand on one leg with your eyes closed for 30seconds. If this is too easy try standing on a cushion.POWDERLIFE is your Niseko Travel Guide – in print and online. With www.powderlife.comand Powderlife Niseko magazine, you’ll discover the essential information for theperfect holiday.During your stay, experience Niseko’s restaurants, bars and cafes, where you can feast onanything – from the most authentic sushi to beautiful local sake. Make the most of your skiing andboarding with the specialist ski and snowboard stores and mountain guides around town.Inside you’ll also find Powderlife’s onsen guide, short history of the area and village maps.For everything else visit www.powderlife.com/niseko-resort-guide.Tourist InfoKutchan Information CentrePlenty of brochures and English-speaking staff.Location: Main Street, Kutchan (map p.53, A4)T: (0136) 22 1121.The Niseko Grand Hirafu Welcome CentreWide range of brochures from the area andtransport information.Location: Top of the main street (Hirafu Zaka)in Hirafu (map p.54, E1)T: (0136) 22 0109.Getting here & thereNew Chitose Airport.For departure and arrival times.T: (0123) 23 0111W: www.new-chitose-airport.jp/language/englishGetting from New Chitose to NisekoBus: This is a cheap and efficient option.Buses leave every 30 minutes from the airport toNiseko and take about three hours (includes reststop and drop off at Rusutsu). Companies providingthis service: Whiteliner Buses, Chuo Bus,Donan Bus and Hokkaido Resort Liner. Visit theWelcome Centre for bus bookings back to Chitose.¥2,300 approx. (one way) or ¥3850approx. (roundtrip).Door-to-Door Transfer Skybus offers a door-todoortransfer service to and from the airport toNiseko, or Sapporo. See p.18 for details.T: 011 788 4994W: www.skybus.co.jpTrain This is the most scenic route to Niseko.There is no direct train from Chitose to KutchanStation (closest major station to Hirafu), and alltrains run through Sapporo and Otaru. You will berequired to change platforms. ¥2600 approx.T: (0123) 45 7011 – Airport StationT: (0136) 22 1310 – Kutchan stationW: www.japanrail.comCAR RENTAL¥500 Adult and ¥300 for child.Grand Hirafu Village shuttle bus:Shuttle buses run throughout Hirafu every 15minutes, all day, every day, until the end of nightskiing.¥: FreeHanazono Shuttle Bus: Travels throughoutNiseko Auto RentalsHirafu Village and out to Hanazono from 7.50amSpecialising in large 4wd 7-8 passengerto 6pm. Look out for the blue buses.vehicles: Delica Space Gear and Toyota Hiace. ¥: FreeT: (0136) 44 1144W: www.bdlodge.comKutchan Night Go Bus: Runs to and from Hirafuto Kutchan Station every night.Toyota Rent-a-Car ShinSapporo¥: ¥200 for 1 week pass/¥500 for a season passOne-way hire from Chitose to Hirafu is about¥7000 for six people/24 hours. Pick up atMONEYChitose airport, Sapporo or KutchanT: (0118) 15 0100 (English ok!) ATM LocationsHokkaido Tracks Holiday’s Office, HirafuThe Powderlife website has some great tips on how Map: p.54, E2to drive on snow as well as good contacts if youAccepts: All major cardshave an accident.www.powderlife.com/niseko-travel-guideKutchan Main Post OfficeMap: p.53, E3Accepts: All major cardsTransport around niseko7 ElevenTaxis: Drivers probably won’t speak English so Map: p.53, C1you will need a business/place name and map for Accepts: Visa Plus, JCB, AMEX, Dinners Club,where you are going.Discover, China Union PayT: (0136) 22 1212 Kutchan Hire // (0136) 22 1171Misora Hire // (0136) 44 2635 Niseko Hire. Credit Cards Lift tickets, ski hire and ski lessonscan all be paid for by credit. Most large restaurantsoffer credit card facilities too, however someBussmall businesses are cash only. Check with yourNiseko United Shuttle: Connects Hirafu, Niseko retailer before purchasing.Village and Annapuri resorts. Pickup/drop-offpoints in Hirafu include Hirafu Gondola and the Currency Exchange Kutchan Post Office andbus stop near Hirafu intersection.Hokuyo Bank (Map p.53, B3)¥: Free if you have an all-mountain pass //1 point if you have a 12-point mountain pass //41powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com42powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

RESORT GUIDERESORT GUIDESHOPPINGFor everything from toothpaste to alcohol andlate-night snacks try:Seicomart – HirafuLocation: At the main intersection in HirafuLawson – Hirafu (24 hours)Location: 5 minutes from Seicomart in the directionof Kutchan.Piz Gloria and the Alpen Hotel offer a smallerrange of snacks and drinks, and Sekka Deliprovides gourmet items from Hokkaido.Kutchan ShoppingFor a big shopping trip, it’s worth venturing intoKutchan Town. Here is a list of the major storesstocking the basics, but if you explore a littlefurther you’ll find small local fruit and vegetableretailers and great souvenir shops.Try Best Denki for all your electrical andtechnical needs.Location: p.53, B4Rummage through M-Pocket for importedgroceries and alcohol.Location: p.53, B3Visit Homac, which shelves basically everyhousehold product. Afterwards head next door tomajor supermarket MaxValu for all your food suppliesas well as Tsuruha Drug (red signage)if you need a pharmacy.Location: Route 5 and Route 343. (p.53, G3)Take a trip to the ¥100 store if you’re on a budget.Location: p.53, B4SHOPPINGInternetJ-Sekka Deli and Downtown Café have freeInternet terminals.Mobile PhonesOnly 3G phones will work in Japan. Someaccommodation providers offer mobile phone hire.Domestic CallsGreen and grey public phones take coins or prepaidtelephone cards. Local calls don’t require the‘0136’, unless made from a public telephone.International CallsDial (010) and then the code of the country youwish to call. If the number starts with 0 – drop the0 and dial everything else.Post OfficesLook for the red ‘〒’ symbol. There are two postoffices in Kutchan. In Hirafu, post-office boxesand stamps are located at Piz Gloria andSeicomart.ELECTRICITYStandard voltage is 100v AC. You can use mostelectronic items without a problem, but some highwatt devices such as hairdryers may not run onfull power. Plugs are the international standard(flat, two-blade type).STAY SAFE AROUND TOWNNo skiing/boarding on roads or footpathsWhile it may seem much quicker and easier thanwalking, skiing and snowboarding home from thehill is dangerous and is frowned upon by locals.One third of all injuries in Hirafu are caused bypeople falling on the street. Wear shoes with agood grip or buy and attach rubber sole cleatswith metal studs.Be careful when walking or parking your carunder roofsHeavy snow slides from rooftops in Niseko. Thesnow slides can seriously damage your cars too.Drinking DangersMake sure you leave the bar with someone else.Also make sure you rug up and stay warm –people have been known to fall asleep in the snowon the way home. If you do notice someone who isintoxicated, report them to the police or the safetyhut located outside Seicomart.MEDICAL SERVICESKutchan Kousei HopsitalFor anything you think is broken. X-ray, MRI andmedical dispensary. No appointment necessary.Location: p.53, A3T: 0136 22 1141Niseko PhysioThe only acute sports injury specialist in the village.Location: p.54, B2T: 0136 22 0399LOCAL LINGOGREETINGSGood morningHelloGood eveningGoodnightGoodbyeSee you laterWhat’s your name?My name is ...(nice to meet you)How are you?I’m fineHow old are you?BASIC QUESTIONSWhere is ...?toiletAre you okay?RESTAURANT TIPSHow many people?two people(3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8)What would you liketo drink?One beer pleaseFood countersonetwothreefourBefore you eat sayAfter you eat sayCheersDeliciousOUT AND ABOUTGreat snowExcuse meI don’t understandJapaneseDo you speakEnglish?CuteJapan’s great!OhaiyogozaimasuKonichiwaKon ban waOyasuminasaiSayonaraMata neOnamae wa nandesu ka?Watashi no Namaewa (insert name) desuDozo yoroshikuGenki desu ka?Genki desuO toshi wa Ikutsudesu ka?... wa doko desu ka?toireDaijoubu desu ka?Nan mei samadesu ka?‘ni’ mai desu(san, yon, go, roku,shichi, hachi)Onomimono waokimari desu ka?biiru ‘hitotsu’kudasaihitotsufutatsumitsuyotsuItadakimasuGochisosamadeshtaKanpaiOiishiSugoi yukiSumimasenNihonga gawakarimasenEgo gahanasemasu ka?KawaiiNihon wa sugoionsen guideGOING to the onsen for the first time can bea little daunting. Powderlife’s guide and onsenetiquette tips will help you fall in love with thisquitessential Japanese experience.Yukoro OnsenT: 0136 23 3434 (Hirafu map p.54 B4)Hotel Niseko AlpenT: 0136 22 1105 (Hirafu map p.54 E1)Hot Spring PoporoT: 0136 23 3291 (Hirafu map p.54 F1)Yumoto Niseko Prince Hotel HirafuteiT: 0136-23-2239 (Hirafu map p.54 D1)Hilton Niseko VillageT: 0136 44 1111 (Higashiyama map p.53 G7)Green Leaf Hotel Niseko VillageT: 0136 44 3311 (Higashiyama map p.53 G7)Niseko Grand HotelT: 0136 58 2121 (Annupuri map p.53 A8)onsen etiquetteWhat to bring?Bath towel, modesty towel and toiletries. Mostonsens provide body soap and shampoo, and sellmodesty towels for about ¥200.How much?Most onsens range between ¥600 to ¥1000.What to do?1. Enter the changing room through the appropriatedoor: 女 for women, 男 for men.2. Remove your clothes and put them in the basketor locker provided.3. Have a shower before entering the onsen.Rinse yourself thoroughly and then your showercubicle before going into the onsen.4. Use the modesty towel when walking into theonsen then gracefully slide into the water– never jump.5. Don’t let your towel enter the onsen water – justrest it on your head or on a rock on the side ofthe onsen.6. Soak, contemplate and relieve your sore muscles.7. Dry yourself off before going back into thechange room, as best you can.Many onsen have rooms where you can relax,drink a cold beer or tea, or even sit in a massagechair.LOCAL HISTORYWHAT does Niseko mean?‘Niseko’ was the name originally given to thearea by the Ainu, Hokkaido’s indigenous people,and means ‘a cliff jutting over a riverbank deepin the mountains’. Meanwhile, Nupuri is a wordcommonly heard around these parts, namelybecause it’s the Ainu word for ‘mountain’. Put it alltogether and Mt Niseko Annupuri (the mountainthat is home to the Niseko United resorts) means‘a mountain which has sheer cliffs and a river below’.Other nearby mountains which have carriedtheir Ainu names until today include Chisenupuriand Iwaonupuri.SKI RESORT HISTORY1911 Theodore von Lerchascends Mount Yotei1949 Mount Yotei is designateda National Park1956 Rope tow installed atAsahigaoka ski area1961 First ski lift in GrandHirafu ski areacompleted1962 40th All Japan SkiChampionships(Alpine)1963 Niseko mountainrange is designated aQuasi-National Park1966 Taiheiyo Club NisekoMoiwa Internationalski area opens1970 Kutchan hosts the25th National SkiCompetition1972 Niseko Annupuri skiarea opens1982 Niseko Higashiyamaski area (currentlyNiseko Village) opens1993 Free Passport liftpass system valid at4 ski resortsintroduced2002 Niseko starts to receivea large numberof Australian touristsInformation courtesy of theNiseko Promotion BoardJagako: Jagata-kun’s snowboardinggirlfriendGOMI GUIDEJagata-kun: Little fat skiingpotato boyIF in doubt, don’t just throw it out!What is burnable rubbish? ( 燃 えるゴミmoeru-gomi)Contrary to what most of us are brought up tobelieve, burnable rubbish includes plastics, aswell as paper and food scraps.PET bottles and cans (ペット、 缶 )Plastic drink bottles (with lid/label removed) andaluminium/steel drink cansCompost ( 生 ゴミ nama-gomi)When available, compost bins are for foodscraps. Though be careful, tea bags are notconsidered compost.Non-burnable rubbish ( 燃 えないゴミ moenai-gomi)Non-burnable rubbish is for rubbish that doesn’tfit the other categories, including items such asbroken glass, ceramics and metals.What can you do to help keepNiseko beautiful?Take a second to be sure you’re throwingyour garbage in the correct binFor more information visitwww.town.kutchan.hokkaido.jp43powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com44powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

FOODRESTAURANTS & BARSFOODRESTAURANTS & BARSC2p54A-Bu-Cha 2UPPER HIRAFUD2p54Bang BangUPPER HIRAFUF5p54Hana JizohIZUMIKYO 2B3p54J-Sekka Café and DelicatessenMIDDLE HIRAFUTry our popular Japanese dishes or hot-pots. Choice of 400drinks! Japanese seating available. Families welcome. Lunchand Cafe: various lunch dishes, coffee, homemade dessert.www.abucha.netA wide variety of mealsand drinks – top marksLunch 11am – 4pmDinner 6pm 2am(LO 3pm/11.30pm) 0136 22 5620Ramen lunch at Bang 2 starting this season! We take greatpride in our fresh seafood and look forward to offering youmouthwatering dishes from our wide-ranging menus.www.niseko.or.jp/bangbangWe take great pride in ourfresh seafoodLunch 11am – 4pmDinner 5.30pm – 11.30 pmOccasionally closed 0136 22 4292Amazing sweet and savoury breads and pastries from afriendly local family baker. You must try this! Get the free HirafuVillage shuttle to bus stop 27, near Unitas Log Village.Eat in or takeaway.Creative and delicious breadsfrom a local baker8.00am – 4.30pmClosed Wednesdays 0136 23 0331For a hearty breakfast to get you ready for the slopes, or a lazyafternoon spent discovering the delicious Hokkaido produceused in our house-made delicacies.www.j-sekka.comA taste of Hokkaidoopen from 7am daily 0136 21 3088E7p53Black Diamond RestaurantHIGASHIYAMAC3p53Cocoro OkonomiyakiKUTCHAND4p54Java LoungeMIDDLE HIRAFUC3p54Kabuki 1 and 2MIDDLE HIRAFUOffering a wide variety of food and drink from around theworld. Japanese daily specials, Western, Mexican and Italiandishes! Billiards, darts, happy hour and drink specials daily!Free pickup from The Hilton and The Green Leaf for groups of6 or more.www.bdlodge.comFree pick-up from The Hilton andThe Green Leaf for 6 or more4pm–midnight(LO 11pm food //11.30pm drink) 0136 44 1144Real Osaka-style okonomiyaki and yakisoba cooked by you onyour teppan (hot plate). Try out takoyaki (octopus) and chickenballs. Japanese sweets also available.Great Food, Great Value!11am – 9pm 0136 22 1528 (Jap) 0136 23 0008 (Eng)Come and relax on the Java Lounge sofas, try our• Italian coffee • Assorted Panini• Home baked muffins and cakes • Hot soups• Iced-cold beer • Daily special lunches• Quiches or all day breakfastEarly morning breakfast, lunchand après drinksDaily7am to 8pmAt Kabuki 1 you can do make-it-yourself Okonomiyaki andTeppanyaki. Kabuki 2 (next door) is a full-service Teppan YakiRestaurant. Early bird 20% for all meals – in by 6pmout by 7pm.www.nisekokabuki.comOkonomiyaki and TeppanyakiRestaurantOpen 7 days5–11pmA1p54Country GrillCOUNTRY RESORTB3p54Downtown CaféMIDDLE HIRAFUE2p54KamimuraUPPER HIRAFUE8p53M’s Cafe (Saison Club)HIGASHIYAMAUnique flavours not found anywhere else in the area, with alllocal products by La Andy. From Hokkaido-grown beef, countryroast chicken, and our specialty Hokkaido Venison, try the newCountry Grill, just outside busy Hirafu in the quiet communityof Country Resort.www.nisekocountryresort.comGrilled favourites, relaxeddining, casual atmosphereBreakfast 7.30–10.30amDinner 17.00 to late 0136 55 5123Hugely popular with locals, this top-rated cafe-restaurantoffers all-day breakfast, bagels, daily blackboard specials andgreat coffee. Eat in or take out. Free high-speed internet.Hirafu’s finest cafe free internetterminal + Wi-FiOpen 7 days8am to 10.30pmBreakfast, lunch and dinner 0136 23 3354Trained by one of the world’s top chefs, Tetsuya Wakuda, chefKamimura uses the abundance of Hokkaido produce to createa memorable degustation dining experience.www.kamimura-niseko.comBlessed by land, sea and acreative chefDinner 6pm – 11pmOccasionally closed 0136 21 2288Try our huge traditional Japanese nabe hotpots with meat,seafood and vegetables. We have shabu shabu, sukiyaki andchanko hot pots.www.saison-club.comWarm your body with our bighearty hot-potsDay 10am–3pmEvening 5.30–7.30pmOpen daily 0136 44 3380A4p54EbisuteiLOWER HIRAFUC4p54Half NoteMIDDLE HIRAFUB3p54Maki LoungeMIDDLE HIRAFUD2p54Niseko PizzaUPPER HIRAFUFinished skiing? Drop in for great food and a good time!Laugh and drink at this lively izakaya inn. Enjoy our assortedJapanese hotchpotch.Enjoy live weekend jazz nights as well as Dancing and otherlive music on weekdays. With, jazz, billiards and table tennis,there’s always something going on at Half Note. Check out HalfNote’s regular jazz events at www.nisekohalfnote.com.With an open fire and sweeping views of the Hirafu ski hill, unwindon our leather lounges. Apres drinks include an array offine Japanese whiskey, sake, sho-chu and plum wine as wellas classic and house-blend cocktails, spirits and glass wine.Niseko Pizza is a family run restaurant offering a menuwith lots of love and the best quality ingredients. You will bedelighted by the smell, enticed by the flavours, pleased by theatmosphere and comforted by the staffwww.ebcbar.comHave fun with our genki andlaughing oden bar staffOpen daily5pm – midnight 0136 22 6544www.nisekohalfnote.comHirafu’s only jazz bar!6pm–midnightOpen daily 0136 23 2727www.j-sekka.comJapanese whiskey, sakeand shochu by the fireCoffee, snacks and gamesfrom 10am // bar 2pm–late7 days 0136 21 6133www.nisekopizza.jpDine in, Take-away and deliveryOpen 4–11pm weekdays11am to 11pm weekends,holidays, Chinese New year 0136 55 555345powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com46powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

FOOD RESTAURANTS & BARS FOOD RESTAURANTS & BARSD2p54Paddy McGinty’s Irish Pub& RestaurantEnjoy your perfect powder holiday at our popular pub andrestaurant with its welcoming fun atmosphere, imported andlocal beers, wines, spirits and great value meals.UPPER HIRAFUB2p54Sekka DiningMIDDLE HIRAFUExperience a taste of Hokkaido in style at Sekka Dining, withan impressive cellar and a menu that celebrates simplicity,innovation, and absolute delicacy in preparation.D2p54Tozanken Asahikawa RamenUPPER HIRAFUAsahikawa ramen is made from 100% Hokkaido wheatnoodles served in a smooth and rich soup. There is a wide selectionof dishes to choose from including Donburi rice bowls.From Asahikawa’s original ramen restaurant.E4p54Tsubara TsubaraIZUMIKYO 1Everyone falls in love with our carefully prepared soup madeform delicious ingredients. Restaurant recently renovated togive improved access and a larger seating area. Enjoy ourfamous Hokkaido soup curry.www.paddymcgintysirishpub.comValue Drinks, Hearty Meals, LiveSports and MusicOpen daily1pm till Late 0136 55 8020www.j-sekka.comShowcasing the bestof HokkaidoOpen dailyDinner from 6pmOccasionally closed 0136 21 5022New location this winter!Open daily10.30am–11pm(LO 11pm) 0136 23 4549www.tsubaratsubara.comSpicy, flavoursome and localHokkadio curry soupLunch 11.30am–3pmEvening 6–10pmClosed 2nd/4th Wednesdays0136 23 1116D1p54Senchou 2UPPER HIRAFUA5p53ShunsaiKUTCHANC2p54VBG – Vale Bar and GrillUPPER HIRAFUB2p54Wabi SabiMIDDLE HIRAFUFounded in 1996. While we have seen many changes, thequality of our fresh seafood remains as good as ever.Try us while you are here. The food is so fresh it will danceon your tongue.Having trained in various countries, our expert chef creates acolourful array of dishes. Bread freshly baked after ordering.Vegetarian menu available. Chilean wines from ¥2,000.Full breakfast available from 7am. Serving an eclectic fusionstylemenu all day. Daily Specials. Warm up with our VBGUltimate Hot Chocolate or something a little stronger in ourrelaxed après lounge. Shots and cocktails. Live music events.Quality prepared and cooked Yakitori (various skewered meats,seafood and vegetables barbecued). All food cooked intraditional Japanese style.www.senchou.comBest choice for gourmet seafoodWinter only5pm–midnightOpen daily 0136 22 5454Creative fusion cuisine fromland and seaLunch 11am–3pmDinner 5–9pmClosed Sundays 0136 23 1882www.nisekoalpineaccommodation.comSki-in ski-out bar and diningOpen 7 days7am to lateAll-day dining 0136 21 5833www.nisekowabisabi.comSpecialty Yakitori restaurantOpen 7 days5–10pmC3p54Souan Genghis Khan Lamb BBQMIDDLE HIRAFUC3p54Steak Rosso RossoMIDDLE HIRAFUD3p54WAGYU DINING SOUMIDDLE HIRAFUF3p54Yakitori YosakuMIDDLE HIRAFUGoes perfectly with beer and makes a great party menu. Bringyour family and friends for the ¥1700 all-you-can-eat for 60minutes offer (reservation only, minimum 4 persons).Casual steak house with a contemporary flavour. Juicy, tenderwagyu and Kobe beef and a variety of imported wines. Enjoyyourself to satiation with our stylish cuisine andrefined hospitality.Try our popular Japanese food nabe hotpot for your experienceof Japanese culture. We recommended Sukiyaki, Shabushabuand Kimuchi hotpot to get warm your body up in the coldNiseko winter.Hirafu locals’ favourite yakitori restaurant. Come in after a dayof powder and try some of our Japanese barbecque, sukyakiand hot sake.¥1700 all-you-can-eat barbecuefor 60 minutesOpen daily5pm–2am(LO 1am) 090 2059 6701www.rossorosso.netA must for steak lovers!Dinner 6pm–11pmOccasionally closed 0136 21 7100Carefully selected Japanesewagyu beef and special soupDinner 6–10pm7 days 0136 23 3048Serving yakitori every nightuntil 3amOpen daily6pm to 3am 0136 23 4390F3p54Taj MahalIZUMIKYO 1C4p54The BarnMIDDLE HIRAFUB3p54Yummy’sMIDDLE HIRAFUB4p54NICHII ShokudouMIDDLE HIRAFUExperience the best of authentic Indian cuisine and courteousservice. Enjoy an authentic Indian meal with Indian beer atour prestigious restaurant. 10% discount on takeaway orders.Vegetarian meals available. Free local delivery.Come and enjoy our alpine food and wine in Hokkaido’s warmestand authentic bistro atmosphere. Drop in on the way back fromthe slopes for a snack and hot wine in our friendly bar on theupper floor, or stay the evening for dinner in the main restaurant.Ceasar Salad, Avocado Salsa Salad, Chicken Wings, BaconPepper Steak, Baked Cream Potato, Cheese Fondue, winesand of course various styles of pizza. And more more!Specializing in Japanese food & Italian food cooked withwood-fired oven. Please enjoy our delicious food!www.tajmahalgroup.comVisit Inidia in Taj Mahal NisekoOpen all year, 7 days11.30am to 10.30pm 0136 22 4566www.nisekobarn.comHokkaido’s one and onlyalpine bistroOpen 7 days 6pm to late(LO 9.30pm food //drinks 11.30pm) 0136 23 0888www.yummyspizza.comYummy homemade crust pizzaand western foods restaurant5–11pm dailyDelivery availablein the Hirafu area 0136 21 2239http://nichii.pittore.jp/Japanese and Italian food Izakayawith wood-fired oven.Open daily4pm to midnight 0136 22 216147powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com48powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

TOURS & ACTIVITIESRETAIL & SHOPPINGC2p54Black Diamond ToursUPPER HIRAFUE2p54Deep Powder Tours Ski HolidaysUPPER HIRAFUB3p53CocoroyaKUTCHAND3p54Ezo SeafoodsMIDDLE HIRAFUCheck out Niseko’s incredible backcountryor visit Rusutsu, Sapporo Kokusai or Teine Highland. We alsohave a range of backcountry tours to suit your lung capacity.A licensed I.A.T.A international travel agent. Check out ourwebsite for a broad overview of the many ski resorts inJapan that we offer.Located on Kutchan high street, Cocoroya offers a widerange of Japanese antiques, furniture, Kimono and originalhandmade gifts.We also stock a selection of high-qualitypower stone jewellery.We stock seafood for takeout sourced daily from the coast –oysters, King Red Crab, salmon, and more. We also prepareseafood platters and fish and chips.www.blackdiamondtours.comNiseko’s backcountrypowder specialists8am–8pm dailyAbove Proski Demo ShopOpp. The Vale Niseko 090 2054 8687www.deeppowdertours.comThe ultimate ski andsnowboard experience7 days10am–6pm 0136 21 5827www.cocoroya.jpTake home a unique pieceof Japan11.00am–7.30pmOpen every day 0136 23 0008www.ezoseafoods.comNiseko’s seafood supplier7 daysOpen from 4pm 0136 22 3019B4p53Japanese Cultural ToursKUTCHAN/HIRAFUD1p54Niseko Photography ToursUPPER HIRAFUD1p54Fusion Sports ShopHIRAFU AND HANAZONOE3p54Momiji GalleryMIDDLE HIRAFUTours will take you to various cultural attractions in Kutchan:Tea ceremory, Iaido sword demo, Taiko drums, sake-brewerytour and Japanese dinner. ¥5000/¥3000. Departs SeicomartHirafu, ends in Kutchan.From the deepest powder pics to group tours and family shots– Niseko Photography are the local professionals. Book a privatetour and we will capture your priceless holiday memorieswhile you and your friends or family cruise the mountain.Great gear, good value, friendly staff. Fusion provides all youron mountain and après needs. Popular brands like Burton,Oakley, Dakine, The North Face, Volcom and more.Momiji Gallery offers an eclectic range of Art and Photographysourced from local and Hokkaido artistsas well as antiques, postcards and memorabilia.www.niseko.co.jp/plat/Special event – ‘Coming-of-AgeDay’ 9th Jan (Sunday)3–7.30pmDec 28/Jan 9,21/Feb 3,18Bookings essential 0136 23 0222www.nisekophotography.comNiseko’s professionalphotographersGallery: midday–8pmOn the mountain:all day, everyday 0136 22 5764www.hanazononiseko.comGear for the elements at twolocations in NisekoHirafu 8am-9pmHanazono 8.30am-5pm 0136 21 6633(Hirafu) 0136 23 0911(Hanazono)Something for everyoneOpen 7 days2–8pm 080 6098 7244E1p54Niseko FootUPPER HIRAFUB2p54Niseko MassageMIDDLE HIRAFUD1p54Niseko Photography GalleryUPPER HIRAFUD2p54SakuraUPPER HIRAFUVisit this popular relaxation salon and sample some of our manytreatments. All different styles of massage are avaliable for bodyand feet. 30-minute, 60-minute and 90- minute courses avaliable.Big groups welcome. Also osteopathy and sports injuries.Experienced massage therapists, specialising in oil massagefor recovery and relaxation. Early bird special offers discountedrates for massages before 2pm. From ¥6,000 per hour.Gift vouchers available.Stunning prints and fine art canvas works. Niseko Photography’sgallery is a showcase of beautiful photographyfrom Niseko’s stunning four seasons. We also stock t-shirts,handmade beanies and souvenirs as well.Tucked in behind Paddy McGinty’s, Sakura offers a wideseleciton of gifts including kimonos, geisha hairpins, pottery,paintings, traditional wooden furniture and more.www.grand-hirafu.jp/nisekofootClosest healing relaxationtherapy spot to Centre 4 liftOpen daily11am–10pmFree pickup available 0136 22 1224www.nisekomassage.comSports and relaxation massagein the middle of Hirafu7 Days8am to 8pm 0136 22 0399www.nisekophotography.comPhoto gallery – fine-art printsand souvenirs7 daysmidday–8pm 0136 22 5764www.sakura-niseko.comYour one-stop Japanesesouvenir shopDaily1–7pm in winter 0136 21 7007F1p54NISSHIRAFU AND HANAZONO 308E3p54NOASCMIDDLE HIRAFUB3p54SEKKA STYLE Shop & GalleryMIDDLE HIRAFUD2p54YukaraUPPER HIRAFUNiseko International Snowsports School is designed to assistyour Hanazono/Hirafu snow holiday. With two great locationsand a suite of programs we’ll help you learn new skills, gainconfidence and above all enjoy your time in the powderof Niseko.www.hanazononiseko.comKids are our specialityHirafu and Hanazono8.30am–4pmTicket sales/Kids CentreHirafu and Hanazono 308 0136 21 6688NOASC is Niseko’s premier winter adventure company.We offer ski school (skiing/snowboarding/telemarking) lessonsfor kids through to advanced skiers, powder lessons, mountainguiding, snowshoe tours, CAT skiing, Niseko Explorer Privatetours, kids adventure school, and backcountry tours.www.noasc.comJust Do It adventure tours – anexperience you won’t forget8:00am to 7:00pmAll year round 0136 23 1688A collection of unique photography, antiques and objects d’artselected by Shouya Grigg, the style-impresario behind theSEKKA projects.www.sekkastyle.comYou can never get enough SEKKSY1–7pmClosed Mondays 0908 274 4814Stocking a wide variety of souvenirs, original t-shirts, Hokkaidosweets and more. Remember your holiday and take home asouvenir with you.Reopen on 2nd floor of TozankenAsahikawa Ramen Restaurant7 days9am–10pm0136 23 454649powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com50powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

RENTAL & SERVICESD1p54Demo Equipment HireUPPER HIRAFU/HANAZONONAGCP PhotographyHIRAFUNew store at The Vale Niseko. Huge fleet of K2 and Salomonskis and boots, Burton snowboards and boots, helmetsand snow shoes for adults and kids. Deep powder, park,groomed,off-piste, back country – we have equipment to suitall conditions and all levels.www.hanazononiseko.comFree drop off at HirafuFree O’night Storage 308Hirafu 8am–9pmThe Vale 8–10am, 4–8.30pmHanazono 8.30am–5pm 0136 21 6677Complete photographic services including architectural,landscape, stock, prints and panoramic photography for onlinevirtual tours.www.glenclaydon.comCreatively capturing Niseko 080 6098 7244C3p54Hermosa Angel MassageMIDDLE HIRAFUNAJ-BuildHIRAFUOffering both traditional shiatsu and relaxing oil massageseither in your suite or at the J-Sekka massage space, InkaRebeza’s skilled practitioners provide truly exceptional service.Chida-sensei’s team have a course to suit you, with flexiblebookings and a variety of packages available.www.j-sekka.comRelax and rejuvenate in theheart of hirafuOpen 7 daysAppointments availablefrom 3pm–midnight 0136 21 6133• Consulting• Project Management• New Homes• Renovation• Building Supplieswww.jbuildniseko.com18 years’ experience in JapanWe never close 090 9380 5729F7p53Niseko Auto Rentals and SalesHIGASHIYAMAB2p54Niseko PhysioMIDDLE HIRAFUComplement your holiday or home with a 4WD vehicle.Locallicensed dealer offering affordable rentals and sales INENGLISH. Short and long-term rentals available.English navigation available.Australian trained physiotherapists, sports injuries, back andneck pain, rehabilitation, taping, braces, pain relief, managedby Tokyo Physio (est 2002). Massage service also available.Hakuba clinic now open in Phoenix Hotel.www.nisekoauto.com4WD vans from ¥46,200/weekor ¥135,000/month9am–9pm24hr Emergency EnglishRoadside Assistance 0136 44 1144www.nisekophysio.comNiseko’s sports injury centre inthe middle of Hirafu7 days8am–8pm 0136 22 0399E3p54Niseko Realty SalesUPPER HIRAFUD1p54TravelplanUPPER HIRAFUDealing in real-estate sales, property management, andholiday lettings. Our staff are native to the area and know theproperty market. For trustworthy advice, sales, accommodationcontact us at 0136-23-2221, info@nisekorealtysales.com, ordrop by our Hirafu office across from the SPLASH bar.www.nisekorealtysales.comSecure your future in Japan’spremier powder ski area8:00am to 7:00pmAll year round 0136 23 2221Australia’s #1 snow holiday specialist with 39 years’ experience,offering a wide selection of pensions, hotels and qualityapartments in Niseko and other resorts. CMH Heli Skiing inCanada – information night every Wednesday at J Sekka.For more information contact Travelplan.www.travelplan.com.auThe world’s best ski holidays7 days8am–8pm 0136 21 535451powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

53powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

AFTER THE MELTphoto // niseko photographyphoto // niseko photographyphoto // glen claydonPURE ACTIVITIES IN NATURE SURFING NISEKO VIEW PLAZA CLIMBING MT YOTEIDO you remember all those funactivities that you got to do as achild at school camp? Walkingthrough elevated boardwalks andropeways through trees, flying outof trees on a zip line, games of minigolf,beach volleyball, horse ridingand more. Niseko Village has theseactivities and more as a part of itsPure Activities in Nature, which issure to thrill adults and children alikeduring the summer months.WHILE not a surfing mecca,Hokkaido still has its fair share ofgreat surf locations, and when theweather conditions are right, surfinghere can be quite enjoyable.And, for those of you who think itmight be too cold to surf here insummer, spare a thought forNiseko’s diehard winter surferstrudging down through the kneedeepsnow before getting into thefrigid waters in a full-body wetsuit.THIS is Niseko’s michi-no-eki (meaningroad station), which is one ofmore than a thousand throughoutJapan generally used by towns tohelp promote tourism and commerceof the local area. Here you can findfreshly grown local vegetables andproduce direct from the farmers.By shopping here you can bypassthe delays and expense of shoppingin supermarkets and get the freshestpossible produce.THE most unmistakable natural landmarkin the vicinity, Mount Yotei criesout to be climbed in summer andwinter. While it’s only half the heightof Mt. Fuji, it’s a heck of a lot tougherto climb. The car park is at the base,and from there you climb, and climbcarrying your own food and drink, forclose to four hours. The hike doesn’thave to stop at the top, you can alsocircumnavigate the crater for full 360˚views before heading down.Summer // GOLFSURROUNDED by mountains, MountYotei and flowing creeks, the Niseko areais an ideal spot to hit a few golf balls.IMMENSELY popular in Japan,Niseko’s golf resorts not only letgolfers bask in the natural beauty ofthe area, but they also offera break from the oppressive heatand humidity found on greens onthe main island of Honshu.There are 172 golf coursesin Hokkaido – a third as manyas Scotland, the home of golf.Five of these courses are within15-minutes drive of Niseko. Localfavourites include Niseko VillageGolf Course, Niseko Golf Courseand Hanazono Tokyu.Weekends are prime time for golfespecially for business-men andwomen catching up with their golfingfriends.The Japanese love golf and takeit seriously, especially the groundskeepers. In the Niseko area, thegreens are immaculate and fairwaysare smooth and plush.Due to the lack of developmenton the outskirts of Niseko, eachgolf course makes you feel likeyou’re deep in the Hokkaido wilderness.Huge trees line the fairways,the grass is a deep green in colourand buildings can rarely be seen.As the Niseko summer seasongains popularity, there’s no doubtingthat the area will soon becomea popular golf hub in Asia.Comparatively, the rates aren’toverly expensive and the conditionsare excellent. There are many dealsand packages available duringsummer that cater to golfers, aswell as season passes, which are aviable option when used wellWhether it’s for a friendly or businessgolf holiday, keep Niseko inmind – it’s beautiful, not as hot asthe rest of Asia and quiet.photo // niseko photography55powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com56powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

TRAVEL FEATURE // nikkoPHOTOGRAPHY AND WORDS BY // ross cole-hunterSTEPPING into the ancient,forested sanctuaryof Nikko feels likestepping back in time400 years – before the Westerninfluence, before the steelreinforcedconcrete apartments,before the buzzing illuminatedsigns and back to a quieter andmore beautiful time.NIKKO is always the first place thatI recommend to friends that ask meabout travelling in Japan. Nikko is aUNSECO World Heritage site that isonly two-hours north of Tokyo.While it is possible to visit during aday trip from Tokyo, I feel that rushingthrough a place like this will ruin halfof what is special about Nikko – theserene, picturesque Japanese experiencethat everyone who visits Japancraves.The main attractions of Nikko are theold temples and shrines, most of whichwere built over 400 years ago. Granted,there are much older temples andshrines in Japan, but while they havesurvived, the area surrounding hasn’t;It’s a little hard to feel the connection toa 1300 year-old temple, when you’rehearing the industrial sounds of heavytraffic and seeing the visual pollution ofthe neighbouring concrete buildings,and their connected jungle of overheadpower cabling.In contrast, Nikko is set in a remoteand mountainous area, surroundedby giant trees, pristine rivers andmountains. While there is a city nearby,the actual location of the temples andshrines is enveloped within a fortress of“ancient pines, stretching up to dizzyingheights that even light has a hard timepenetrating. As you walk around thisancient site, you’re removed from allmodern stimuli and teleported back toan era of shogunates and samurais.If you’re lucky, you may even spotsome wild monkeys roaming around.The temples and shrines withinare the most spectacular that I haveseen in Japan. The colours are vivid,the wooden carvings are elaborateand the scale is unmatched. Thereare many famous carvings, includingthe ‘hear no evil, see no evil, speak noevil’ trio of monkeys and a carving ofan elephant based purely on a writtendescription. It’s far too easy to spendseveral hours looking at the details.There is more to Nikko than justold buildings. The area surrounding isalmost as popular with Japanese tourists,especially during the brief cherryThe serene, picturesque Japanese experiencethat everyone who visits Japan craves.”blossom period in spring, and theequally brief and stunning autumn coloursthat set the region ablaze in vividhues of red and yellow. One of Japan’smost famous waterfalls, the 97m-highKegon Falls, also happens to be high inthe hills surrounding Nikko.Travel is only half experienced iflocal food is ignored. Nikko is famousfor yuba, which is the skin that formson the surface of heated soymilk.It’s a versatile ingredient that can beeaten raw, added to soup or evenfried. There were several places to tryNikko yuba in all it’s variations, whichI did and recommend. Raw it’s alittle sweet, in soup it’s delicious andfried… just mmm. Apart from yuba,the other specialty of the area issoba noodles.In my mind, Nikko is the ultimateJapanese experience. It is a culminationof exquisitely preserved culturalheritage set amongst equally exquisiteand ancient natural surroundings.This truly sets Nikko apart from anyother location in Japan.Due to the special tourism partnershipbetween Nikko and Kutchan, theTourist Information Center in Kutchanhas a variety of brochures on the areashould you desire more information.Where: Nikko City, Tochigi PrefectureGetting there: Trains frequently leavefrom Shinjuku and Asakusa in Tokyo.When: Beautiful and popular in allseasons.Cost: ¥1000 for combination entry tothe temples/shrinessales@tracksrealestate.com57powderlife issue 29 // December 25 - January 7, 2010 www.powderlife.com

Big mountain.Big dream.Big picture.A property investment in Niseko offers tremendous potential for both lifestyle andfinancial returns. But the market is complex and dynamic. To invest wisely you needto 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 over60 exclusive listings, putting you ahead of the pack right from the start. Havingfocused on the Niseko market for over six years (a long time for this area), we havecomprehensive knowledge from both local and international perspectives. We donot trade in the market, so we remain impartial, allowing us to always keep yourbest interests at heart.In short, we’ll objectively present you with a wide range of options andconsiderations 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.comThis week’s feaTureTO LIFTS >HRE•SEICOMART•343