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publisher’s note...The Powder. It’s the reason many of us have beendrawn here. Yet without access to the back countrywe would be unable to really enjoy it to the fullest.This issue we take a look at how Niseko opened up itsbackcountry and reaped the benefits on the way tobecoming the fastest growing ski resort in the world.Reader responses have started piling in and we haveSurfanic Stack of the Week winner, who will takehome a Surfanic snowboard jacket. We continue tobring you the latest news on the ever changing Nisekoreal estate market and we introduce you to anotherfew local staff and great little local businesses thathelp make this place so special. We love to get youremails with your best pictures and feedback so pleasekeep them coming! bevan@powderlife.co.jpパウダースノー。“ 粉 雪 ”が 人 をニセコに 引 きつけている 最大 の 魅 力 です。しかし、バックカントリーへのアクセスが無 ければ、パウダースノーを 十 分 に 満 喫 する 事 は 出 来 ません。この 号 では、ニセコがどのようにバックカントリーをオープンしたのか、そして 世 界 的 にも 有 名 なスキーリゾートとして 急 激 な 成 長 を 遂 げたのかに 焦 点 をあてております。 読 者 意 見 も 続 々といただいております。 雪 に 埋 もれているニセコらしいベストショットにはSurfanicのスノーボードジャケットをご 用 意 しております。ひきつづき、ニセコでの 最 新 ニュース、 不 動 産 情 報 、 個 人 ビジネスやこのエリアを 魅 力 的 にしてくれている 事 等 お 伝 えしていきます。あなたがお 持 ちの 写 真 やご 意 見 ご 感 想 などございましたら、bevan@powderlife.co.jpまでお 送 りください。Bevan CollessPublisherPhoto of the weekberry dericious!!by eriko mentzosin the loopTaken a great snap in Niseko? Get it published for the world tosee. Submit entries to ed@powderlife.co.jpwhat’s on in niseko this weekJanuary 19 - february 1Saturdays January 19 and 26Hanazono Saturday Entertainment12 - 2 at Hanazono Cafe. Live DJ and there are free giveawaysof Redbull and Soyjoy at the base of Hanazono #1.1 月 19 日 ( 土 )26( 土 )12:00〜14:00 花 園 カフェにDJ 参 上 !花 園 第 一 リフトエリアでは Redbull と Soyjoy を 無 料 配 布 。Sundays January 20 and 27Taiko Drum PerformancesFree traditional Japanese drum performances. 3.30pmSundays outside Hokkaido Tracks office (next to Seicomart).1 月 6 日 ( 日 )13 日 ( 日 )太 鼓 演 奏 会地 元 太 鼓 演 奏 グループによる 太 鼓 演 奏 会 。 場 所 はセイコーマート 横 、 北 海 道 トラックス 前 にて。15:30〜Mondays and Thursdays January 21, 24, 28, 31Higashiyama Prince Sushi Making ClassLearn how to make sushi the authentic way! 12pm-2pm1F Otaru Restaurant. Japanese and English. ¥2500. Call0136-44-1111 for reservations until 5pm the day before theclass.1 月 21, 28 日 ( 月 )24, 31 日 ( 木 )東 山 プリンスホテルにて お 寿 司 作 り 教 室海 にも 近 いニセコ、 新 鮮 なネタでお 寿 司 作 りを 体 験 してみませんか。 寿 司 の 作 り 方 がその 日 のうちに 習 得 できます。 日 本 語 と 英語 でのレッスン 参 加 費 ¥2,500 12:00〜14:00 すし 処小 樽 にて 予 約 はアクティビティカウンター tel: 0136-44-1111 前日 の17:00までTuesdays January 22, 29Higashiyama Prince hotelA Day in the Life of a Ski Patroller. Tuesday night 9pm to10pm. 1F Tea Lounge Hamanasu. Japanese and English.1 月 22, 29 日 ( 火 )スキーパトロールの 一 日ゲレンデや 早 朝 のアバランチコントロールの 様 子 など、ニセコ 東 山パトロールの 活 動 を、 映 像 や 写 真 とともにご 紹 介 。参 加 無 料 、21:00〜 新 館 1F ティーラウンジ はまなすTuesday and Friday January 22, 25, 29 and Feb 1Higashiyama Prince Imo Mochi Making Class.Learn how to make delicious traditional Japanese potato cakefrom Kutchan potatoes! 2pm-4pm. 3F Banquet hall. Japaneseand English. ¥1500. For reservations call 0136-44-1111.1 月 22, 29 日 ( 火 )25 日 ( 金 )2 月 1 日 ( 金 )東 山 プリンスホテルにて 料 理 教 室 (いも 餅 の 作 り 方 )この 地 域 のおいしいじゃがいもを 使 って、 伝 統 のいも 餅 を 作 ってみませんか。 日 本 語 と 英 語 でのレッスン 参 加 費 ¥1,50014:00〜16:00 3F 宴 会 場 にて 予 約 はアクティビティカウンター tel : 0136-44-1111 前 日 の17:00までSaturday January 26 Australia Day EventsGrand Hirafu Australia Day FestivalOne of the big events of the season. 5pm to 7pm nearthe Alpen hotel. ¥100 Hot pot with Australian beef andJapanese vegetables. Snow Flag game, Taiko drummingperformance. Firweorks display at 9.30pm.Bollywood meets Backyard Cricket BBQCelebrate Indian Indepedence Day and Australia Daywith a game of cricket at Blo Blo. Bangin’ Bangra Beatsmeets Aussie Hip Hop. BBQ ¥1000 From 7pm.1 月 26 日 ( 土 )オーストラリアデーイベントグランヒラフオーストラリアデーフェスティバル冬 のシーズン 中 で 大 きなイベントのひとつ。5pm ~7pm アルペンホテル 近 くにて。オージービーフと 日 本 の 野菜 をミックスした 鍋 を¥100で 販 売 。スノーフラッグゲームや太 鼓 のパフォーマンスもあります。 花 火 はナイター 終 了 後 の9:30pm。クリケットゲーム&BBQブロブロ にて インドの 独 立 記 念 日 とオーストラリアデーをクリケットゲームでお 祝 いします。インディアンミュージックとオージーヒップホップ!BBQ ¥ 1,000 7pm~powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jp 3

Tell us about your event!Email kris@powderlife.co.jp or fax 0136 222 011Niseko’s first periodical magazine - published every two weeksfrom December 22, 2007 to March 29, 2008.circulation 3000 copies per issue / 24,000 copies per seasonpublisher Bevan Colless managing editor Kristian Lundcontributors Kaori Yasuda, Vanessa Gibson, Greg Lund, TatsuoHayashida, Reg Dunlap, Magnus Alexander, Joel Westcotphotographers Eriko Mentzos (ideapark), Niseko Photography(Mathew Hollingsworth, Aaron Jamieson, Alex Lee), Hotshots(Randy Wieman, Dave Paull and Mark Tsukasov)editorial assistant Simone Nancelayout Metropolis Magazine Tokyo, Mojoworks, Aaron Jamiesonadvertising inquiries email ads@powderlife.co.jpsubscriptions email subscribe@powderlife.co.jporder past issues ¥1000 email info@powderlife.co.jppowderlife magazine170-5 Aza Yamada Kutchan-cho,Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0081tel 0136 22 2000 fax 0136 22 2011www.powderlife.co.jp©2007 V&B Colless KKContents of Powderlife are subject to copyright. Reproduction inwhole or in part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited.The publication of editorial does not necessarily constitutean endoresment of views or opinions expressed. The publisher doesnot accept responsibility for statements made by advertisers.cover shot Randy Wieman subject Akio ShinyaPROVIDED FREE IN ALL ACCOMMODATION MANAGED BY:Hokkaido Tracks, NGS, Nisade, The Niseko Company, AnnupuriVillage, Outdoor Travel Japan, Hokaido Travel, Hokkaido RealEstate, Scott Adventure Sports and more.PICK UP POINTSHirafu Australia House, Bang Bang, B's Café, A Bu Cha, Senchou1, Senchou 2, Hotel Niseko Alpen, Komekichi Onigiri Cafe, KingBell Restaurant, Hotel Niseko Scott, Hotel Snow Universe, NisekoKogen Hotel, Niseko Prince Hotel, Captain Hirafu, Grand PapaPension, J-Sekka, Barumba, Gentem Café, Welcome Center, WildBill's, Hurry Slowly, Java Bar, Woody Note Pension, Barunba,Dragon Wine Bar, Gentemstick Retail Store, NGS, Deep PowderTours, Ski Japan, Downtown Cafe, NAC, Nathan’s, Jo Jo’s, Yuki Bar,Fusion, 343, Apre Bar... and more Higashiyama HigashiyamaPrince Hotel, Black Diamond Lodge Annupuri Annupuri Village,Nikko Hotel, Ikoinomura Hotel, The Nook Annupuri,Mokumokutei BBQ House Moiwa Hotel Kanronomori KutchanKutchan Tourist Information Centre, Loaf Lounge, Be, Blue Cielo,Nami Chan Chi, Fuji Confectionary, Shunsai Sapporo SapporoTourist Information Centre, Sapporo Clock Tower InformationCentre Tokyo Paddy Foley's, Legend's, National AzabuInternational Supermarket, Nissin International Supermarket,Khaosan Asakusa Backpackers Hostel Hakuba Hakuba Real Estate,The Powderhouse030708091012161718192324252628303234353638Contentsin the loop what’s on in niseko this weekpage seven village news and happeningssnap faces and fashions on the mountainflash niseko’s social scenepowder tools essentials for niseko powderfeature niseko’s backcountry gate policycross country offbeat news from across japanshoukai introducing niseko localsrestaurant review kamimuranightlife the day really begins apresirasshaimase great little local businessesin focus village map creator tatsuo hayashidafour seasons hokkaido japan’s food bowlkutchan bleu cielo italian restaurantreal estate news the latest property newsreal estate views financing in nisekocourse map and mountain informationwalking map must-have village directorywhere to... eat, drink, stay, play, etclocal info essential tips and info on nisekothe last word... on health: posture4 powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jp

What’s your favourite restaurant? What’s your favourite Japanese food?FLASHby eriko mentzosfaces on the streetniseko social sceneby jimmy edwardsToo cool.. Hakodate’s reggae band Junichi and crew provided the tunes while giving gaijinpunters a lesson in counting and an elementary class straight from the school of cool..Yawaraya Reggae PartyWe’re loving it! Sapporo city slickers Teru, Takapero, Kotatsu, Kottan, Teppei,Tsukasa, Yokko, Eri, Mami. Fave restaurants Jyuu Okonomiyaki and Moiwa’s ramenjoint. Fave food Sushi!!Three (and a half!) year old Jasmin and nanny Blesilda onholidays from Singapore. Fave restaurant: Jojo’s!!Once a month the placid barbecuerestaurant is transformed into a hip reggaevenue with a selection of the areascoolest reggae acts. A list of Niseko’s finestwas assempled - sans dreadlocks - toenjoy the beats.Irie mon! Jen, birthday girl Emily and Jess Geldhart.Splash’s no-ganja policy may have turned some rastafarians awaybut the staff made sure there was plenty of drink sloshing about.Sharon and Roger Gibson from the sunny Gold Coast:restaurant Downtown Cafe / food Nabe (meat andvegetable hotpot).Ryo and Yumiko down from Sapporo. Like to dine at BangBang and love to eat soup curry and nabe (Japanese stylemeat and veg’ hotpot).All the way from Nagoya, between Tokyo and Osaka, Ayanoand Tatsu. Fave restaurants are Sencho and A Bu Cha.Ichiban (number one) food is... sushi!!Staff member Shinobu Tomonaga and fire dancer Keisuke Kishika.What else to do but chill out with a nice glass of wine?Miyuki and Yukiyo.Mountain StyleFire and Ice OpeningThe Fire and Ice bar outside Blo Blois a work of art. Guests were treatedto a fire show and cocktails speciallydesigned to keep them warm. Rugup and get youself there!Niseko Massage’s therapist Amy tellsHirohiko Takenaka his ice bar is very cool!The Hanabusa family from eastern Hokkaido in town on their Niseko ski trip.Fave restaurant B’s Cafe / fave food Soba (buckwheat noodles).Check this chick out! 16-year-old Aussieskier Alli Peacock from Adelaidebags this issue’s outfit of the week.We loved the check jacket with furlinedhood, complete with the zip tokeep out the cold and the old schoolclasp buttons to bring in the stylepoints. We wanted to know where shegot the funky checked goggles but shewasn’t telling. Respect sister! She cansure strike a cool pose to boot. Forbeing such a cool customer, Alli wins aNiseko fleece jumper from Fusion.8 powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jp powderlife issue #01 DECEMBER 22 – JANUARY 4 www.powderlife.co.jp 9

y bevan collessVector Glide Bold TelemarkVector Glide is a progressive Japanese ski and snowboardlabel who understands that skiing telemark islike swimming butterfly - it’s great fun if you’re goodat it, but you need to go a little slower and take regularbreaks. The Bold has an 85cm waist that makesparalleling a piece of cake and will keep you on top ofthe deep stuff, but also allow you to carve hard turnson the burns. They are handmade in Nagano by expertcraftsmen in a 90-year-old factory using only thestrongest wood with a unique sandwich constructionthat makes them extra solid. The Bold is for experttele-markers who want the highest performance skithey can get. Niseko store Toyru’s owner Yutaka Takanashiis one of the best telemark skiers in Japan andis a key tester for Vector Glide. He reckons with theBold they’ve just about reached perfection. Availablefrom Toyru, opposite the Gondola Chalets. ¥89,250.Shimano AccubladeLeaders in bicycle components and fishing, Shimanois one of the most successful Japanesecompanies because they make top quality gear.As of 2005 they announced they mean businessin the snowboard and binding boot marketwith the Accublade step in system. Ridden bymany of the best Japanese backcountry boarders,including Niseko pro Tomoki Takaku, this isa quality step-in system that provides top levelperformance in deep powder or speed carvingon the groomers. The boot integrated step insystem acts almost like a ski boot, but you canadjust how much foot-roll you want to makethem feel like strap bindings with the adjustablebase plate bushings. Available for testing atthe Moiwa Shimano Test centre, but you have totrek into Sapporo to buy them. Binding ¥32,000,and three boot styles at a reassuringly expensive¥45,000-¥105,000 for the Flake GoreTex.Burton MaloloThe Burton Malolo is a great choice for ripping up the Niseko backcountry. A cross be-www.nisekopowderboards.comph: in japan 0901 384 5772ph: outside japan +81 901 384 5772Java House Sakura St Hirafu Villagetween the Fish and the Custom it can do just about everything you’d want a snowboardto do. The 20mm of taper, set back stance andround tail will keep the nose up in the deepfluffy stuff without the rear leg burn,but the Malolo also flies on the groomersand can even spin and jib with ease.The core is solid where you need it alongthe effective edge, but flexible whereyou don’t. It’s no wonder Terje rides it. The2008 has improved graphics from the ill advised graffiti inspired 2007 model. Ina wide range of sizes from 149cm - 166cm. Available from Fusion. RRP ¥73,50010 powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jp powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jp 11

NisekogatepolicyHow Niseko opened up itsback country and reapedthe benefitsby kristian lund and joel westcotThere is a science to avalanches. And gravity, it has been said, is a bitch. Anyslope steeper than about 45 degrees sheds snow naturally and consistently.Few slopes in Niseko fit this category. Most fall between 20 and 45 degrees, arange that holds snow and allows it to build up, and with so much snowfall, it canreally, really… really build up. A number of factors can trigger the load to slide andwhile the risks can be assessed, there is one thing that cannot be calculated – whenit’s going to go.For those unfamiliar with the mountains, it’s hard to believe such light, fluffysnow can be so deadly. For an indication of just how heavy accumulated powdersnow can be, you only need to take a drive out and about the countryside surroundingNiseko – frequently you’ll see old houses and sheds collapsed in on themselves.Snow sliding off a roof onto a parked car can easily smash a windscreen or put avery nice dint in a roof or bonnet. Take a few thousands roof loads of snow anddrop them off the top of a mountain and you get a feeling for how serious even asmall avalanche can be.In 1999 two local mountain guides tooktwo seasonal workers, Yuko and Hitomi, on asnowshoe tour through the Harunotaki (summerwaterfall) bowl – the big, cliff-lined, out-ofboundsvalley to the left of Hirafu when lookingup at the mountain from the village. It was abeautiful, sunny, early spring day - so picturesqueit would have been hard to imagine anythingbad could come of it. Perhaps fooled into a falsesense of security, they made a fatal mistake. Theytrekked through the bottom of the gully and tooka break and the face slid. When snow slides itgoes in the direction of least resistance – down.Where the group was standing was the lowestpoint of the dip in Harunotaki meaning that, likea funnel, everything above them was headedtheir way. Through learned instinct, one guidescrambled as high as he could up the gully wall.As the avalanche reached him he got buried up tohis waist. The other three weren’t as lucky and asthe wall of snow hit them, they were swallowedup and buried.Australian Ross Carty, former ski patroller andnow owner of NOASC adventure company, hadjust got on the quad lift above the Alpen Hotel.He got a call on his mobile telling himthere had been a slide and could he go and havea look. Within 15 minutes he was on the sceneand found the hapless guide probing frantically.“He was pretty panicked and told me therewere three people down there,” says Ross. “Hewas working near where they were standing and Iwent and had a look around the base of the treesjust below because that’s where people will oftenend up. A little while later he found something.You know you’ve hit a body if the probe bouncesback after you push down – imagine poking yourselfwith a pen. So we started digging.”An hour and 20 minutes after the avalanchethey found the girls, Yuko on top of Hitomi, under2.5m of snow. Yuko was dead. But by landingFor those unfamiliar with themountains, it’s hard to believe suchlight, fluffy snow can be so deadly.on her friend, she had created an air pocket forHitomi and perhaps saved her life. They foundthe other guide about five metres further downthe hill. He was curled over on his side and wasalso lucky to be alive.What triggered the slide is not known but oneof the theories is that it was a skier or boarderwho had ventured into the out-of-bounds bowl.Unfortunately, riding untracked powder snow canbe an irresistibly seductive pursuit, and except forthe first half hour of any day, you’ll be lucky tofind such virgin canvas within Niseko. It doesn’ttake more than an hour or two for most ofHirafu’s off-piste powder to get cut up. It’s aboutthis time powder junkies are lured out of bounds.12 powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jp powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jp 13

cross country january 19 - february 1offbeat news from across japanshoukai < introducing >Snow goA 63-year-old ski resort employee inMaebashi died a day after falling 15meters from a gondola. The man, whosejob it was to help skiers out of the movinglift, got stuck in the door of the gondolawhile retrieving a glove left behind by apassenger.Four climbers on Mount Yarigatake inGifu were killed by an avalanche, butthree others in the group survived.A woman died and 11 others wereinjured when a Tokyo tour bus slid offthe road and rolled 5 meters down asnowy embankment in Aomori.Bright ideasAfter considering nearly 4200 designssubmitted by the public, thegovernment chose the logo for July’s G8summit in Hokkaido: a ‘green seedbursting to life surrounded by an earthlyblue.’The government declared it wants 30percent of Japanese homes powered bysolar panels by the year 2030. It alsoaims to increase the power capacity of thepanels by a factor of 30.Panasonic has unveiled a rear-viewcamera and monitor system for carsthat automatically switches on when thevehicle is put into reverse.NHK and Mitsubishi have collaboratedon an anti-piracy system that targetsmovie-goers who videotape films byadding a watermark containinginformation like the name of the cinemaand what time the screening was held.Holiday shoppingA customer at a supermarket in Sendaibit off more than he could chew afterdiscovering a series of 2cm-long nailsembedded in rice cakes he had justbought.A 68-year-old man was pushed to theground and killed by a motorcyclist hehad tried to warn away from a no-parkingzone in front of a grocery store in Osaka.A 32-year-old Coast Guard officer, upsetthat his request for holiday leave wasdenied, went AWOL by stealing a smallrescue boat from the vessel he wasstationed on.It was announced that a guard at adetention center in Nagoya killed himselfafter being accused of entering the cellsof women under solitary confinementand ‘fondling their bodies.’Two Japanese men were found dead inthe ashes of a hut in a remote region offorest on New Zealand’s North Island. Oneof the men was a tourist and the other aNew Zealand-based fishing guide.Tax dollars at workAbout 75 cops and firemen joined inthe search for a loaded shotgun thatwas lost by a pheasant hunter in a forestin Aichi Prefecture.A police superintendent in Yokohamaadmitted his involvement in a shamTokyo ‘healing salon’ that used highpressuresales techniques to get customersto pay for ‘spiritual purification.’The ruling LDP says it is set tointroduce legislation that willlegalize casino gambling.A ‘fuel shredder’ thatprocesses spent nuclearmaterial at a powerplant in AomoriPrefecture leakedsome 800 liters ofoil, which promptedofficials to declare a ‘grade-B’ emergency.About 100 elementary school studentsand teachers in Tochigi were hit withnorovirus after eating contaminated cakeduring a school lunch.The year in figuresThe National Police Agency reportedthat 5,743 people died in trafficaccidents on Japan’s roadways in 2007,the seventh consecutive annual decreaseand the first time in 54 years thatfatalities totaled fewer than 6,000.The agency also reported that just 78traffic deaths were reported over theNew Year holidays—the lowest figuresince it started keeping track in 1970.The Ministry of Health, Labor andWelfare reported that the number ofbirths in Japan in 2007 was 3,000fewer than 2006, the sixth time in sevenyears that the figure dropped.The Internal Affairs andCommunications Ministry announced thatfiscal 2006 was the worst year forofficial corruption in a decade. A totalof 191 local politicians were involved in159 criminal cases, includingembezzlementand bribery.Stats5Number of people in Kanto whochoked to death while eating mochirice cakes on New Year’s Day4Rank of Tokyo as the world’s ‘mostimportant city’, according to the UK’sIndependent newspaper. Japan’scapital trails only London, New Yorkand Paris-16,000Growth of Japan’s population in2007, the second straight year the figuredecreased, according to a surveyby the Ministry of Health, Labor andWelfare5Number of hospitals that turnedaway a critically injured accident victimin Osaka, who died shortly afterbeing admitted to the sixth1.8Meters of snow that fell from theroof of a house in Hakuba, Nagano,killing its 74-year-old ownerCompiled by Reg Dunlap fromreports by Japan Today, The JapanTimes, The International HeraldTribune/Asahi Shimbun, MainichiDaily News, AP, Kyodo and DigitalWorld Tokyo(www.digitalworldtokyo.com)LIFTIE Senseiname Shinya Ueharanickname sensei (teacher)age 30 hometown Naganotime in niseko about 7 yearsdo you like powder? yesski/board snowboardsince when? 9 years agowhy did you move toniseko? Niseko was the middleof my travel routewhat languages do youspeak? Japanesetrips overseas Guamwhere do you want to gonext? Somewhere with nicesceneryfavourite…colour black brand Shimanofood Genghis Khan restaurantLoft bar don’t likedrinking onsen Yukichichibucourse side of every coursewhere else in the worlddo you want to go skiing?Whistlerhow long will you be inniseko for? Don’t know yetwhat does niseko need? Acheap snowboard shopwhat’s something nobodyknows about niseko? Themush spot is awesome (whatthe??) and bread from Saitobread factory is deliciouswhat’s a must have item forniseko? Goggleswhat’s your life philosophy?Anything is ok if it’s fun!名 前 ウエハラ シンヤニックネーム 先 生年 齢 30 出 身 地 長 野ニセコ 来 てどのくらいですか?7 年 くらい パウダースノーは 好きですか? はい!スキーヤー?スノーボーダー?ボーダースキー/スノボード 歴 9 年なんでニセコに 来 たんですか?旅 の 途 中 で...話 す 言 語 は? 日 本 語海 外 に 行 った 事 はありますか? グアム次 はどこに 行 きたいですか?景 色 の 綺 麗 なところ好 き な・・・ 色 は? 黒 ブランドは? シマノ 食 べ 物 は? ジンギスカン レストランは? ロフト バーは? 酒 きらい 温 泉は? 雪 秩 父 コースは? 全コース 脇ニセコ 以 外 でどこのスキー 場に 行 きたいですか?: ウィスラーニセコにはどのくらいいる 予 定ですか?: 未 定ニセコに 必 要 なものは?: 格安 ボードショップニセコについて 自 分 だけが 知 っていると 思 う 事 は?: あの 場所 のマッシュは 楽 しいニセコであんまり 知 られていない 事 は?: 斉 藤 製 パンは 美 味ニセコで 絶 対 必 要 だと 思 うアイテム は?: ゴーグルあなたの 人 生 観 は?: 楽 しければOK!!TICKET BOOTH Hashiname Yumiko Hashimotonickname Hashihometown Nagasakitime in niseko 3 yearslike powder? Um, yes!ski/board snowboardwhen did you start? 6 yearsagowhy did you move to niseko?I came for the winter butI thought Niseko is a greatplace to live for a yearwhat languages do youspeak? Japanese. English inthe futuretrips overseas Canadawhere do you want to gonext? Maybe America?favourite…colour black and white brandpuma food sweets restaurantUtari bar Cafe Grove onsenYusenkaku course L course,Osawahow long will you be inniseko for? Hopefully forever!what does niseko need?Fast foodwhat’s something nobodyknows about niseko? There isan ostrich farm!what’s a must have item forniseko? Baba shirts (undershirtsfor old people usuallyvery warm...)what’s your life philosophy?:Thinking I am lucky to meetpeople!名 前 ハシモト ユミコニックネーム ハッシー 出 身 地長 崎 ニセコ 来 てどのくらいですか? 3 年 スキーヤー?スノーボーダー? スノーボーダースキー/スノボード 歴 6 年なんでニセコに 来 たんですか?冬 を 目 的 に 来 ましたが、 一 年 を通 してとても 過 ごし 易 いと 思 ったから。話 す 言 語 は? 日 本 語 。 英 語 は...これ から?海 外 に 行 った 事 はありますか?カナダ次 はどこに 行 きたいですか? アメリカかなあ...好 き な・・・色 は? 黒 ・ 白 ブランドは? プーマ 食 べ 物 は? お 菓 子 レストランは? うたり バーは? カフェ・フローブ 温 泉 は? 幽 泉 閣 コースは? L 字 コース、 大 沢ニセコ 以 外 でどこのスキー 場 に行 きたいですか?ニセコでいいニセコにはどのくらいいる 予 定ですか? 一 生 いれたらいいデス ネ ッ!!ニセコに 必 要 なものは? ファーストフードニセコについて 自 分 だけが 知 っていると 思 う 事 は? カフェ・グ ローブの 常 連 になると... 裏 メニューが 注 文 出 来 る 事 !ダチョウ 牧場 がある 事ニセコで 絶 対 必 要 だと 思 うアイテム は?: ばばシャツあなたの 人 生 観 は?: 人 との 出会 いに 幸 せだと 思 う 事SKI PATROL Toshiname Toshinori Ohashinickname Toshi age 37hometown Niseko Towntime in niseko I was bornhere!do you like powder? Yep, Ilove it!ski/board Bothwhen did you start? Skiing 30years ago, snowboarding 17years agowhat languages do youspeak? Only Japanesetrips overseas? Italy, France,Korea, Taiwanwhere do you want to gonext? A warm place likeHawaiifavourite…colour Red brand Patagoniafood Meat restaurant Utari(their hot pot giblet is great)bar Don’t know onsen HotelYotei course Osawahow long will you be inniseko for? Until I die!what does niseko need?More powder snow... andmore powder snow!!what’s something thatnobody knows aboutniseko? The fishing is greatin summerwhat’s a must have item forniseko? Very warm, warmclothes!what’s your life philosophy?Make a lot of friends!名 前 オオハシ トシノリニックネーム トッシー年 齢 37 出 身 地 ニセコ 町ニセコ 来 てどのくらいですか?生 まれた 時 からパウダースノーは 好 きですか?大 好 きスキーヤー?スノーボーダー?スキーとスノーボードスキー/スノボード 歴 スキー30 年 , スノーボード17 年話 す 言 語 は? 日 本 語海 外 に 行 った 事 はありますか?イタリア、フランス、 韓 国 、 台 湾次 はどこに 行 きたいですか? ハワイとか 暖 かいところ好 き な・・・色 は? 赤ブランドは? パタゴニア食 べ 物 は? 肉レストランは? うたりのもつ 鍋は 最 高 !バーは? 特 にない温 泉 は?ホテルようていコースは? 大 沢ニセコ 以 外 でどこのスキー 場 に行 きたいですか?テイネニセコにはどのくらいいる 予 定ですか? 死 ぬまでニセコに 必 要 なものは? もっともっとたくさんの 雪ニセコについて 自 分 だけが 知っていると 思 う 事 は? 夏 の 釣 りのスポットニセコで 絶 対 必 要 だと 思 うアイテム は?: 暖 かい 服あなたの 人 生 観 は? 友 達 をたくさん つくる16 powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jp powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jp 17

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in focustatsuo hayadashiThis issue we meet the creator of thelocal course map and the painstakinglycreated and immensely popularvillage map, both contained in every issueof Powderlife. For everyone who hasmarvelled at the intricate details in thevillage map, we meet its designer TatsuoHayashida. Tatsuo-san also develops theNiseko United course map and we find outhis story and get our regular three top tipson things to do in Niseko.How did you come to live in Niseko?I was born and raised in Kanagawa,where I was working as a ‘salaryman’, andI used to holiday in Niseko for snowboarding.I always felt a sense of freedom here that I never had in Honshu, so in 2002when I saw and advertisement for a river rafting guide with NAC I made the move.What did you do with your winters?Mostly I snowboarded! I also managed ‘Hokkaido Backpackers’ one year, whichis now Black Diamond Lodge. I did anything that didn’t take much of my time.How did you end up designing the course map?I did some design work for Ross Findlay (owner of NAC) and the owner of MountainsidePalace, who then introduced me to Tokyu (owners of Grand Hirafu). Theycommissioned me to do the course map and village map in the same year.How did you design the first course map?I used a combination of the previous course map, my own knowledge of themountain, the topographic map of the area and by physically checking.Everyone loves the village map! It’s now outside the police station and in the street in themiddle village. How did you design it?I first wanted to do a very simple design for the map, but I was ordered by Tokyuto draw a picture of each house. It was a lot of extra work!Did they pay you extra?No, but it ended up being very good for me.In what way?Well I’m able to sell it more easily now and many people say ‘Good job’ to me.How do you design the picture for a new building?I go there and take a picture or get a photo from the owner. I try to make thecolours and shape exactly the same as the building. It takes time and attention todetail.How do you decide what buildings go on the map and which don’t?Well initially I was contracted by the Kutchan Tourist Association, and I could onlyinclude members. But now I have various clients so it depends on who is using it.The new Niseko Promotion Board want everyone to be there. As a favour to myfriend I have had his green house down in lower Hirafu next to Yotei cottage fromthe first village map, even though he doesn’t do any accommodation or business!He is happy to see it there.With all the changes going on in the village, how do you keep up?These days many people contact me. I’m always driving around the area and if Isee a new restaurant, business or apartment I peek in to see what the business is.But to be honest I don’t like seeing the new businesses – because it means I needto draw a new house and more work! Even the roads have changed recently.Do you still snowboard regularly?Now my wife and I have a small daughter, so we don’t get out much. Just anoccasional tag team of minding duties vs skiing.What are your top three tips for visitors to Niseko?1 Try snow shoe trekking at Lake Hangetsu. It’s not difficult and everyone from childrento grandparents can do it together. It is beautiful out there beside a big frozen lake.2 Take a bath inYakushi onsen.It’s an old onsenbut very beautiful.It’s on theonsen bus route.3 Eat a meal atJyu Okonomiyaki,nearAnnupuri. It’sdelicious!Hokkaido’s Culinary Transformationfrom food bowl to gourmetby greg lundHokkaido is one of the world’s great undiscovered touristtreasures. As global warming increasingly impacts onpopular tourist destinations around the globe, Hokkaidois just starting to come into its own. The powder snowthat blankets the ski resorts in winter is one legacy ofits location off the coast of Siberia, but in addition, itis just far enough north of the equator to escape thehumidity which makes mainland Japan almost unbearablein summer. In short, it’s the ideal all-year roundholiday destination. As more foreign ski visitors cometo feel comfortable with Niseko, they might think aboutspreading their wings and taking in the best of the restof this magic island –‘The Garden of The Gods’.Kakiemon oysters and taraba crabfour seasons hokkaidoAnywhere outside Japan these days, mention the word Hokkaido, and images ofpowder snow immediately leap to mind.Mention Hokkaido to a Japanese, however, and the image has always been offood. Particularly seafood and dairy products.But just as the ski scene is undergoing a revolution in Hokkaido, so too the localfood industry is seeing its own dramatic transformation.In the past, Hokkaido was always seen by Japanese city dwellers as the ‘foodbowl’ of Japan - where, because of its wide open spaces, beef cattle had room togrow, dairy herds produced milk and butter and processed cheese, abundant fishand crab species - like the huge Taraba crab pictured - were popular in mainlandmarkets, and potatoes and corn were words synonymous with the northern island.Today, the food association is still strong, but the emphasis has shifted dramaticallyfrom that of a bulk provider to the masses, to the home of a thriving gourmetculture that is not only attracting the attention of Japanese epicureans, but alsostarting to make a name on the world stage.All over the island, creative visionaries are quietly downsizing all of the broadfood categories into stunning little pockets of award winning culinary excellence,and demand for their produce is soaring in the highest priced restaurants andhotels throughout Japan.Specialist Tokachi cheeses are now winning Gold Medals in European competitions;superb sausages and hams are being made from pigs fed on whey; beer-fed,massaged beef from Biratori, Mitsuishi and Shiraoi is now rivalling Kobe and Matsuzakaon the mainland; organic production of specialist vegetables has hit greatheights; and even shellfish have started, for the first time in Japan, to have ‘brand’names, like the much sought-after Kakiemon oysters from Akkeshi, near Kushiro.Even some Hokkaido wines are beginning to emerge as possibilities for the future,with a lot of work going into viticulture development, though it is probably safe tosay their time has not yet come.Closer to home in Niseko, observant visitors will have noticed that the town logofor Kutchan is a skiing potato. When the snow is not covering all of those broadacre fields around Kutchan, the whole countryside is wall-to-wall potato crops. Butnow, instead of the one standard product, growers have some 30 exotic varietiesof seeds to choose from, and demand for some - like the Inca no Mezame, a small,nutty flavoured potato said to resemble the original South American product -makes them hard to obtain locally.Ezoshika, the hardy Hokkaido deer, is also now being farmed for the first time inthe Hidaka region, and chefs are finding ways of turning the healthy, but difficultto use, meat into exquisite venison steaks, pates and terrines.Niseko visitors are fortunate to have culinary geniuses of the calibre of NorikoMasubuchi (Wine & Food Bar Dragon), Yuichi Kamimura (Kamimura) and Haradasan(Hidden Kitchen Kame), whose creations show the best of what Hokkaido hasto offer. No-one should leave Niseko without sampling Noriko-san’s venison.Greg Lund is a former diplomat who has lived and worked in Japan for much of thepast 30 years, the last five in Hokkaido.24 powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jp powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jp 25

kutchan < k-town >123Eki Mai Dori54 56They do a mean dessert too!Ads below correspond to the map in order from 1-6 from top to bottom.The master chef... Shinji Kawaguchigoing dutch in kutchanby magnus alexanderHokkaido people like their food strong. They use a lot of salt and flavouringto really make their dishes go zing. But Kutchan restaurant Bleu Cielo’schef Shinji Kawaguchi says there’s enough flavour in Hokkaido’s richingredients without needing to zoop them up with additives. He needs nothingmore than a camp oven, a few vegies and a bit of meat to create a full flavouredfeast. “I’m not the master here – the dutch oven is,” he says as he admires one ofthe heavy black pots that are prepared in the kitchen before being placed onto thetable for guests to dip into.Like many in the area, Shinji-san is a mad keen skier from the mainland whowas drawn to Hokkaido by its snow and mountains. His mother often worked insmall coffee shops and restaurants when he was growing up and he often helpedher cook. When he finished high school he trained to be a chef and 20 years laterhe can’t imagine doing anything else. He’s been in Niseko for 10 years now andworked for the past six years at popular restaurant JoJo’s, in the NAC adventurecentre. But with an ever-present hankering to do his own thing and take 100%control over his work, the self-proclaimed perfectionist moved on and opened BleuCielo midway through last year.It was actually one of his jobs at NAC that inspired Shinji-san’s house specialty.He used to take summer wilderness camping trips in central Hokkaido. He and hisguests would load their camping gear and provisions into kayaks, paddle downstream and camp overnight under a star-filled Hokkaido night sky. The guestsmust have given new meaning to the phrase ‘happy camper’ when Shinji-san liftedthe lid of their camp fire oven and they smelt the aroma of gourmet chicken andvegetables. Even more so when they awoke to the bread he had awoken beforedawn to make and bake.There’s plenty more on Bleu Cielo’s Italian-influenced menu but his hot pots(and his chocolate cakes for that matter) will give any Western grandmother’s adamn good run for their money.Blue Cielo is on the first street in from Route 5 in the Kutchan food and entertainmentdistrict – find the Loaf Lounge and you’re almost there.Buses to Kutchan leave from the main street near Seicomart. The bus stop is afew small signs on the roadside opposite PowPow. Buses leave every half houror so during the day and cost ¥380. The night bus is free and leaves every houror so from 5pm. Timetable on the back of the resort’s course map.26 powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jp

eal estate newsby bevan colless and kristian lundHakuba purchase boosts potentialHakuba’s dreams of emulating Niseko’s international success have received aboost with the purchase of one of its resorts by private equity fund giant WarburgPincus.Located in Nagano and host of many events of 1998’s Winter Olympics, Hakubais regarded as main island Honshu’s number one skiing region.Warburg Pincus have bought Hakuba 47, a trendy 15 year old resort nearHappo-one (roughly pronounced ha-po-ne), Hakuba’s premier resort.Second generation US/Japanese investment banker Kenta Takamori teamed upwith Warburg Pincus after working individually on acquiring a ski resort in Japanfor over a year.“I have conviction in the potential of Japan’s mountains and in the potential toturn around ski resorts in Japan”, Takamori said.“I worked with a couple of private equity firms over the past year, but finallyteamed up with Warburg Pincus to acquire Hakuba 47.”Citing the youth of the resort, Takamori said there was excellent basedevelopment potential, and they plan to work with the existing management tocreate an ‘international, environmentally friendly resort’There is talk that Happo-one and Hakuba 47 may be linked by gondola or cablecar in the future as well.Happo-one is an old favourite of skiers because of its steep, big mountainterrain, and Hakuba 47 has a bit more backcountry access.Hakuba Real Estate manager Mick Baker said there had been a definiteincrease in international tourists to Hakuba over the past two seasons.Chinese and Korean tourists are the largest in number, followed closely byAustralians.Plans for Hirafu skyscraperSeveral credible local sources believe a Tokyo-based development companyplans to build a 40-storey tower block in Hirafu, despite tough new buildingguidelines set to become legislation early next year.Such buildings are often found in Japanese ski resorts - nearby Rusutsu has a24-storey hotel and Tomamu has twin 36-storey towers.The area of interest is believed to be on the west side of middle Hirafu,possibly around the Sun Sports Centre, towards St Moritz.One high profile real estate figure who had also heard of the plans fromseveral sources, expressed concern over the development becoming a blot on thelandscape in the area.“It does make me wonder who would buy these apartments, but the investorsare obviously confident that they can sell them.”Until now developers have generally adhered to local guidelines, despite notbeing legally enforceable.Feature PropertyThe view from 502.The FreshwaterPenthouse 502¥120 millionThis brand new penthouse is one of thefew remaining apartments in the villageready for occupation this season. Featuringonly 11 apartments The Freshwaterdelivers boutique luxury in a superblocation. The views to Mt Yotei fromthe living/dining/kitchen and bedroomare unbeatable and unlikely ever to beblocked due to the zoning regulations.Featuring designer kitchens includingMiele appliances and DeLonghi espressomachine. This fully furnished apartmentincludes a Bose Lifestyle system with allthe luxury you could want in a homeaway from home.Upper VillageInterior 137.23sqmBalcony 26.46sqmIncluding car space3 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms includingspa bath2 key design allows conversion to a 2bedroom and studio for maximisedrental returnsWithin eyesight …shops, restaurants, Seicomart andLawson’sFlat walk to the Ace Family chair or thenearest shuttle bus to the gondolaInquiries to the developer Niseko AlpineDevelopments [Nisade]enquiries@nisade.com+81 (0) 136 22 0038The view from 50228 powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jp powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jp 29

eal estate viewsfinancing in Nisekohow to secure your piece of white goldby ruskin mclennanThe demand for property in Niseko continues to grow. 2007 saw the sale of anumber of large tracts of land not just in Hirafu Village but also Hanazono,Higashiyama and Annupuri. This demand was driven partly by developers lookingfor locations for larger style destination resorts and individuals looking for analternative to Hirafu Village. The apartment market continues to grow and rentalreturns have become less important as the demand for luxury apartmentsincreases.Obtaining finance for purchases in Japan is challenging, particularly for nonresidents.Many purchasers of property in Niseko have simply paid cash or havefinanced their purchase by drawing down on the equity on their home or otherassets. Paying Australian interest rates can be justified if your property is returning acapital growth rate greater than the effective interest rate.In Europe it is now common to travel throughout the property markets of Europeand purchase holiday or investment property. They may often borrow against theirexisting home equity and use part or all of the property they are purchasing ascollateral. They will be supported by their local pan European bank.This practice has been less common for Australians as holiday homes in placeslike Bali or Thailand are subject to an unstable government, title uncertainty, andcomplex ownership structures. Japan has a system of title that is similar in structureto Australia’s torrens title system and is certainly less complex than European titles.The big Australian banks have been looking closely at the Niseko market and weanticipate that they may offer part financing of property purchases in 2008. Thedemand and opportunity for the Australian banks is simply too good to ignore.Financing nowIt is still difficult for foreigners to obtain financing through a Japanese bank,particularly without permanent residency. So how do you finance your purchase inNiseko?Ideally a yen loan is the best way to purchase your property. Japanese interestrates are at historically low levels and many banks will provide a loan in Yen.However many people also finance their purchase in Niseko in their home countryusing their existing finance arrangements.When you obtain finance outside of Japan it is not possible to use the Japaneseproperty as collateral.AustraliaThe NAB appears to be the most progressive at providing loans in Japanese Yen atJapanese interest rates.The loan will be secured against a nominated asset in your country of residence.The asset should have a value of 120% of the amount of the loan and you shouldhave a good relationship with the bank and a good income history. There is nocentralised contact and we strongly suggest you discuss financing prior to coming toNiseko.Hong KongIn Hong Kong the Westpac and Commonwealth banks are the most progressiveand will provide yen loans with the appropriate collateral depending on yourfinancial situation. However they are not promoting these services and I haveencountered clients who have had some difficulty in obtaining these loans.The loan can be serviced in Japanese Yen through your Japanese income whichwill minimise your exposure to currency fluctuations.ANZ Japan Expat Mortgage SummaryThe Australian and New Zealand Banking Group Ltd (ANZ) have offices in Tokyoand Osaka, so are on the ground in Japan to assist with your requirements.Their standard Expat Dual Currency Mortgage requires the borrower’s mainsource of income to be in Japanese Yen. For certain clients who are investing inJapanese property they are able to seek an exception to that requirement enablingANZ to assist Australian (or other) tax residents. All clients need to provide anAustralian or New Zealand property as security to release equity which can be usedto purchase Japanese property.ANZ can:• Offer JPY finance secured against approved Australian or New Zealand property.• Offer JPY interest rates based on ANZ cost of funds plus 1-1.25% margin.• Apply standard Expat Mortgage terms for Japan based investors.• Consider Australian or New Zealand based applicants on a case by case basis.• Provide a loan structure that generally allows for trusts and companies.• Provide approval/pre-approval within 5-7 working days, followed by a 4-6 weeksettlement process.Ruskin McLennan is Managing Director of Niseko PropertyHOKKAIDO REAL ESTATEExpert property investment and sales advice in NisekoJapan - Asia’s hottest skiing destination.Hokkaido Real Estate is one of Niseko’s market leaders, extremely professional andwith a strong track record. Find out more about the lifestyle or investment opportunities ofour diverse range of properties - please call us on 0136 21 6211 or drop by our office at2F Mountain Side, 190-6 Aza Yamada (50 metres east of Seicomart - towards Kutchan).Contact JASON KING for further informationMobile: 080 5587 5052Email: jason@hokkaidorealestate.comWeb: www.hokkaidorealestate.com30 powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jp

Course Mapsponsored bystylish boardwear www.surfanic.comon piste and offA few good weeks of snow has finally coveredup most of the sasa grass and opened up a lotmore terrain. There’s now definitely enough snowout there for it to avalanche so we can’t stressenough how important it is to check the avalancheinformation EVERYDAY, at the backcountrygates or at http://niseko.nadare.info.All back country gates are now open so wethought it was worth reprinting NOASC ownerRoss Carty’s backcountry safety tips from thisissue’s cover story:Avalanche and back country travel comes downto common sense – don’t be gung ho and thinkyou know everything. A lot of people get intotrouble because of arrogance and inexperience.Always ski to a safe place - where you wouldn’texpect an avalanche to happen.Go with a buddy. If you’re not sure, don’t skidown the same slope at the same time – if itslides, who’s going to come and dig you out?Talk to experienced locals or people and findout which places you shouldn’t go. Look at themaps. The areas that are off limits are that wayfor a reason – they are avalanche prone andpeople have died there.Stay away from south facing slopes in thenorthern hemisphere because they get the mostsun. If they’re loaded and they get wet, that’swhen they’re going to slide. If you’re on themountain and you’re looking at Yotei, that’s east.If you’re skiing on a south face at 11 or 12 thenexercise caution. Don’t go into steep areas aroundthat time. Avoid areas where if something happensyou can’t get out.Have the right equipment – an avalanchebeacon, a probe and a shovel and know how touse them correctly. Companies here can teachyou how.Surfanic Stack of the WeekAussie Ben Gillespie is this week’s Surfanic Stackof the Week winner... while it’s not 100% obviousfrom this snap, Ben’s mates assure us this wasa killer wipe out! In fairness to Ben, he did alsoinclude some shots proving he can grab andspin with the best of them. For his modesty,Ben’s won himself a Surfanic jacket. Prove you’reworthy and be in the running to win some toughnew Surfanic gear. Submit your best stack pic atpowderlife.co.jp.32 powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jp powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jp 33

Where to... Eat & Drink Stay Play RelaxOutside HokkaidoJava Bar & Java MassageThe Java Bar has some of the bestcoffee & cocktails in Hirafu.A relaxing lounge bar that isperfect for enjoying a quiet drinkafter a long day’s skiing. Mix oflocal & overseas visitors. Livemusic, reggae and local DJ Maco.Open till late. Wireless Internet Hotspot during theday. Java Massage has qualified Australian massagetherapists for your essential massage. Open 10amto 9pm daily. Simultaneous massage available.Map ref: C 3 www.Niseko-Info.com T. 0136 23 0788Restaurant MaruWe are a traditional Japanese“Don Buri” restaurant with a greatatmosphere. Expect huge servingsof pork, tempura, sashimi,seafood and more on rice. Wehave set menu or ‘Izakaya’ styleto share dishes with your friends.11.30-15.00, 17.00-21.00ボリューム 満 点 の 丼 物 、 定 食 、 居 酒 屋 メニューヒラフ 近 郊 は 送 迎有 り( 要 予 約 )Map ref: E3www.NisekoMaru.web.fc2.com T. 0136-22-5020Paul’s Café NisekoThe only Belgium beer café inJapan owned by a Belgian, comesto Niseko. Specializing in Belgiumbeers and rotisserie chicken.More than 30 beers on tap andon bottles. Real Belgium wafflesand more…A full meal or just abeer, don’t hesitate and come in.Map ref: D 3www.paulscafe.jp T. 090-9524-4968Bang BangOwner Masa Saito chooses someof the best ingredients in Japanfor his extensive menu. Wagyubeef, Hokkaido crab, 5 typesof salmon and yakitori are thehighlights.アフタースキーの 楽 しいひと 時 を 厳選 食 材 で 創 る 料 理 と 飲 み 物 でお 過 ごしください。5.00-11.30pm. Closed Wednesdays.Map ref: C 1http://www.niseko.or.jp/bangbang T. 0136-22-4292Ichimura SobaIchimura soba serves top qualitysoba (buck wheat noodles)that are made fresh on thepremises. A beautiful woodenpremises looking out towardsMt Yotei is the perfect locationto enjoy some of the best sobayou will find anywhere in Japan. Tempura Soba ¥1,30011.00-15.00, 18.00-20.00 Closed TuesdaysMap ref: E 4www.Niseko-Ichimura.com T. 0136-23-0603SAS SnowsportsScott Adventure Sports (SAS)SCOTT ADVENTURE SPORTSprovides Ski and Snowboard Lessonsin English and Japanese. Kidssemi private lessons, MountainGuiding and Snowshoeing ToursHokkaido - Japanare favourites. SAS Hire provides arange of ski and snowboard gearfrom beginner to powder skis and boards. Summer activitesare exciting - rafting, ducky, canyoning and mountainbike tours. Our office is next to Hotel Snow Universe.Map ref: B 2www.sas-net.com T. 0136-21-3333Grand Hirafu Ski HireTry on Japan made skis!Japan made high performanceskis are available at Niseko AlpenRental corner and Niseko KogenSki Centre Rental. We select Ogasakaskis which arepopular in Japan. Ogasaka is availableonly in Japan. Let’s have a trial run to see difference.Map ref: C 1www.grand-hirafu.jp/en/mountain/rental.htmlT. 0136-22-0109Niseko Hirafu Ski & Snowboard SchoolSki & Snowboard school in Nisekomountain resort Grand HIRAFU.From beginner to expert.Our speciallytrained ski pros who speakEnglish help you to improve yourskiing or riding!Map ref: D 1www.grand-hirafu.jp/en/mountain/school.htmlT. 0136-22-0921Black Diamond ToursWe offer Hokkaido’s best ski andsnowboard trips period. Ourguides will take you straight tothe best lines, hidden zones andsecret stashes wherever we go.Choices range from resort tours,multi-day trips, backcountrytours, snowmobile adventures, lessons, backcountry gearrental and car rentals.BDのバックカントリーツアーは、 自 分 のレベルに 合 わせてツアーを 組 め、ツアー 後 は 五 色 温 泉 も 楽 しめますwww.blackdiamondtours.com T. 0902054TOUR(8687)Niseko AutoNiseko Auto is a licensed auto andauction dealer offering weeklyand monthly 4wd rentals, salesand repair as well as exportingoverseas. Add a vehicle toyour rental property or take theultimate souvenir home and savethousands of dollars by letting us locate and send youyour dream car.www.nisekoauto.com T. 090-2055-6074Bonbori Souvenirs & Foot MassageThe perfect souvenir shopalso does foot massage duringthe day! We specialise inoriginal Japanese charactercalligraphy based souvenirsincluding 3,500 T-Shirts andmuch more. We also offer footmassages from 1pm - 3pm.Souvenir shop opens from 3pm - 8pm.Map ref: B 2T. 0136 21 2366Niseko MassageSports and relaxation massage infive star luxury. Niseko Massagehas highly qualified Australianmassage therapists using a rangeof essential oils in beautifullyappointed rooms. Conveniently locatedin Australia house oppositeSeicomart. Amy and Carmen will assist your recovery fromskiing and revitalise your body and mind.Map ref: C 2www.NisekoMassage.com T. 0136 22 0399Captain Hirafu PensionCaptain Hirafu B&B is one of akind. Liam & Mika have createda beautiful “home in the heart ofHirafu” for their guests with theirgreat hospitality. Warm, cozy andcomfortable with outstandingJapanese service.Map ref: C 2www.CaptainHirafu.com T. 0 136 22 60 28Australian Alpine Club NisekoThe Australian snowsports clubwith its own Niseko lodge. Thelodge has eight western styleguest rooms (with ensuites),dining, bar and kitchen facilities.Membership is available (to all nationalities)for A$6,500 and membersalso enjoy reciprocal rights at five other AustralianAlpine Club lodges. Commercial bookings are available.Map ref: D3 www.aacniseko.com T. 0136 22 3006Niseko’s Black Diamond Lodgeand RestaurantLocated just a short 300m fromthe Higashiyama resort lift theBlack Diamond Lodge is a localfavourite. Ski to the lodge or takethe free shuttle bus and comeand check out our great Westernand Japanese menu or our privatesnow park. Meals from 900yen, rooms from 5500yen.www.bdlodge.com T. 0136-44-1144HAKUBA REAL ESTATEProperty sales and developmentin the Hakuba Valley andsurrounding area. Hakuba RealEstate provides a professionaland experienced service to ourvalued foreign clients. We offerthe best selection of local propertiesand guarantee you trouble free results.www.hakubarealestate.com T. 0261 75 3073mobile 090 13459636POWDERHOUSEPowderhouse is a boutique lodgeat the base of Hakuba 47 resort.Magnificent views of the HakubaValley and surrounding mountains.Fabulous food, personalizedservice, transfers to and fromNagano.www.powderhouse.jp T. 0261 75 3343mobile 090 88921224Khaosan Tokyo GuesthouseTokyo expensive? No way! Stay atNo.1 hostel group, Khaosan TokyoGuesthouse for just ¥2000/night!Located at a central part of Tokyo,Easy access to Narita Airport anda big bonus of FREE 24 hourinternet! Just one minute fromAsakusa station with great riverside view from the rooftop.If you come once, you’ll be hooked!”www.khaosan-tokyo.com T. 03-3842-8286powderlife issue #01 DECEMBER 22 – JANUARY 4 www.powderlife.co.jp 35

Local informationAIRPORTNew Chitose Airport 0123 23 0111www.new-chitose-airport.jp/language/englishNew Chitose was opened in 1991 and becameJapan’s first 24-hour airport in 1994. It servicesSapporo and Niseko with direct internationalflights from various Asian cities andAustralia. The Tokyo to Chitose route is thebusiest domestic route in the world. It is thelargest airport in Japan by land mass.Getting From New Chitose To NisekoOn arrival at Chitose international airport,visitors not on a full travel package have afew options to complete this last leg of theirjourney to Niseko and back. Although the tripis only 110kms, due to icy roads and no directtrain route, it takes two to three hours.BUSThe bus is the most convenient and commonlyused form of transport from the airport.Buses depart about every 30 minutesfrom the airport to Niseko. They take aboutthree hours, including a rest stop halfway anda dropoff at Rusutsu. ¥2,300 - one way and¥3,850 for a round trip.The buses disembark at six designated busstops within the greater Niseko United Resort.You will find two different points to get off ateach of the main ski areas.Whiteliner Buseswww.whitelinerbuses.com.........011-242-2040Chuo Buseswww.chuo-bus.co.jp/kikan/ski...011-231-0500Donan buseswww.donanbus.co.jp/ski............0123-46-5701Hokkaido Resort Linerwww.access-n.jp/ski_info.html..011-219-4411CAR RENTALIf you are comfortable driving in the snow,renting can be convenient as it allows you totake a trip to Kutchan to stock up the fridgebefore returning the car. One way hire fromChitose to Hirafu is about ¥7,000 for six - 24hours. Nippon Rentacar, Mazda and Orix haveoffices in the Niseko area. If you want a caronly in Niseko, you can contact Black DiamondLodge in Higashiyama.Mazda Rent a Car : Chitose airport0123-45-8756, Niseko 011-231-0118 (dropoff and pick up in Niseko only available onweekdays)Nippon Rent a Car : Chitose airport0123-26-0919, Niseko 0136-43-2929Orix Rent a Car : Chitose airport 0123-22-0543,Izumikyo (Hirafu) 0134-25-0543, BlackDiamond Lodge : 0136-44-1144TAXIA standard taxi from Chitose to Hirafu willcost about ¥30,000. Prai Taxi charges 20,000for a small taxi (3-4 people) or ¥33,000 for ajumbo (8-10 people). Call 011 207 5166 orwww.prai.co.jp.TRAINThis is the most scenic way to get to Niseko.Unfortunately there is no direct train fromChitose to Kutchan station (the closest majorstation). All trains run through Sapporo andOtaru. The journey takes about three hoursand the cost is about ¥2,600 for an unreservedseat. If you want a reserved seat, you can askat JR information desk, B1 Chitose airport.www2.jrhokkaido.co.jp/global/index.htmlThe train schedules are subject to change soit is best to call the numbers below or visit:www.japanrail.com.Airport.........................................0123-45-7011Sapporo.......................................011-222-7111Otaru...........................................0134-22-0771Kutchan station..........................0136-22-1310Niseko station.............................0135-44-2104INTER-RESORT TRANSPORTA shuttle bus connects the Grand Hirafu, Higashiyamaand Annupuri ski areas. There isa private company bus which costs ¥500 anda free shuttle bus which is included in yourall mountain pass. See the timetable on thecourse map for more information. If you havea 12-point ticket, one point per trip is needed.Others need ¥500 for adult and ¥300 for childper ride.Kutchan Night BusA free bus runs from Grand Hirafu ski area toKutchan station every night. Step out fromHirafu village and enjoy shopping, eating,and drinking in Kutchan.TaxisKutchan hire...............................0136 22 1212Misora hire.................................0136 22 1171Niseko hire.................................0136 44 2635AIRLINESANA.............................................0120 029 222British Airways............................03 3570 8657Cathay Pacific.............................03 5159 1700China Airlines.............................03 5520 0333JAL...............................................0120 255 971Korean Air...................................0088 21 2001Qantas.........................................0120 207 020Singapore Airlines......................03 3213 1174Thai Airways...............................03 3503 3311United Airlines............................0120 114 466BANKINGYes, we all know Hirafu needs an internationalATM! Until then, use the post office inKutchan open 8.45am to 7pm on weekdays,9am to 5pm on weekends and holidays. Youcan also withdraw from the 24-hour CitibankATM at 3F Chitose airport and the 7-Elevennear Kutchan station. Most of the cards withCirrus and PLUS marks are accepted at theseplaces, but round cornered cards are not.CREDIT CARDSJapan is still a predominantly cash society.Most small bars and restaurants in Niseko donot accept credit cards, but larger hotels, restaurantsand hotels often do.American Express.......................0120 020 120MasterCard..................................03 5728 5200Visa Card...................................00531 44 0022CURRENCYYou can exchange your money into Yen at thebank, post office, and most inbound traveloperators. Please bring your passport - itmay be more convenient to change with yourhotel. You can also exchange USD travellerscheques at banks or at Kutchan post office.DRIVINGWhen driving on icy roads the number onething to remember is to drive slowly. Makesure the windscreen and back and side windowsare thoroughly de-iced on the outsideand de-steamed on the inside before settingoff – don’t simply clear a ‘porthole’ to lookthrough. Maintain at least a five-second gapbetween you and the vehicle in front. Use ahigh gear to avoid wheel spin, but take carenot to let your speed creep up. Brake gently toavoid locking the wheels. Never brake if thevehicle skids, instead, ease off the acceleratorand steer slightly into the direction of the skiduntil you gain control.ELECTRICITYStandard voltage is 100v AC. You can usemany higher watt items without a problembut higher wattage devices such as hair dryersmay not run on full power. Plugs are the flattwo blades type. Many recent buildings have240v with Australian shaped plugs.EARTHQUAKESIn the event of an earthquake, stay out of elevators,stand in a door frame and watch forfalling objects. The safest places are in largeopen areas such as parking lots of ski areas,schools, parks etc. Your accommodation islikely to have an emergency earthquake pack.EMERGENCIES36 powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jpPolice .........................................................110Ambulance and Fire..................................119Emergency Interpretation.........03-5285-8185Japan English Helpline (nationwideemergency assistance)...............0570-000-911ETIQUETTEJapan is perhaps the most courteous countryin the world. Say excuse me (sumimasen)and thank you (arrigato) regularly. Do not eatwhile walking, or wear your shoes on tatamimats or in most indoor residences. A bow canbe used to say thank you, sorry, hello, goodbyeand excuse me. It is impolite not to returna bow. The deeper the bow, the more politeit becomes.EATINGAt most casual dining Japanese restaurants(Izakaya) meals are ordered for the table andshared. You will often receive a small snackwith your first drink which may or may not bebilled. Rest your chopsticks across the top ofthe bowl or plate – never leave them stickingout of the rice!DRINKINGIt is tradition in Japan to pour from a bottleinto your guest’s small glass regularly. Kampaiis the Japanese word for cheers – use itreadily! Also please remember to stay wellbehaved when under the influence. Poor behaviourby drunken Australians in Niseko hasreceived national media attention in Japan.Remember you are an ambassador for yourcountry at all times while you are abroad.TIPPINGAlthough tipping is not generally done in Japan,some restaurants and bars will include aservice fee for groups.GARBAGEHokkaido has some of the strictest garbageseparation rules in the world. Please try tofollow them, follow the signs on the bins tothe letter.Onsen (Hot Spring Bath)Buy a ticket, strip down – no swim suits allowed,keep your clothes in a basket, yourvaluables in a locker. Take a little towel onlyinto the onsen with you, wash and scrub yourbody well before you go in to the bath. Youcan fill your towel with cold water before youenter the onsen. Do not put your towel intothe onsen water – leave it on your head andsqueeze the cold water out when you get toohot (it’s best not to bring drinks into the onsen).After bathing rinse off under the shower.Finally dry your body well before you walkback into the changing room.MEDICAL SERVICESAlthough there are rumours of an Englishspeaking clinic opening in Hirafu in 2008/9season presently you will need to go to Kutchanfor most medical services. If you can’tspeak Japanese you will need to bring a translator,or one may be provided at the hospital.Kutchan Kousei HospitalThe major hospital servicing the area is located4 blocks from the main intersection ofKutchan. They have an X-ray, a slightly ageingMRI and medical dispensary. No appointmentnecessary, orthopaedics cases taken inthe morning only. It will take you most of theday. Address: North 4 East 1-2, Kutchan-choTel: 0136-22-1141Niseko PhysioLocated on the second floor of AustraliaHouse, staffed with Australian physiotherapygraduates from North Sydney Orthopaedicand Sports Medicine Centre (Australia’s leadingknee clinic). Primary care also available.Sports injuries, back and neck pain, bracesand taping. Appointments preferred but notessential. www.NisekoPhysio.com Telephone0136 22 0399.Ueda Orthopedic ClinicA privately run orthopaedic clinic providingmore time efficient service than the hospital.X-ray, medical dispensary. 1-4, South 3-joWest3, Kutchan 0136-22-1386INTERNETMost accommodation in Niseko will have internetaccess. If you have a laptop, you cantry finding the free wireless hotspots in cafesand bars around the village. Try Pow Pow, theJava Bar or B’s café.Mobile Phones3G phones only will work in Japan. You canhire a phone from IXSM travel 0136 21 5855or Go Mobile 03 4496 4344. For longer termstays the three big carriers have stores inKutchan:au................................................0136-21-5616Soft Bank....................................0136-21-2588NTT DoCoMo...............................0136-21-6868TELECOMMUNICATIONSDomestic CallsGreen and grey public phones take coins orpre paid telephone cards, available fromconvenience stores or at some phone carddispensers in some booths. Local calls don’trequire the “0136”, unless made from a mobilephone.Directory AssistanceDial 104 (toll call) and then ask for an Englishspeaker. You must know the location andname to get a number.International CallsInternational direct dial can be made usingany of the following prefixes, 001 (KDDI),0041 (ITJ) and 0061 (IDC). They will cost you.Calling CardsBrastel The most popular international callingcard service is available in Niseko. Knownfor its flat 24 hour rates as low ¥6 per minuteto Australia from any type of phone using anon-toll free access number. Brastel has excellentcustomer service available in over 20languages and the card is available at severallocations in Hirafu and can be recharged atIXSM travel or by your credit card. New subscribersget five free minutes. Toll-free: 0120659 534. www.brastel.comKazak Rates from ¥20 for one minute to Australia.The kazak card is the highest sellingcard in the Niseko area. Kazak card is availablefrom your hotel front desk, Piz Gloriaconvenience store and from most inboundtour operators.0123 36 4000POST OFFICESLook for the red “T” symbol. Stamps and thepost office box are at Piz Gloria conveniencestore. For other services you will need to go tothe post office in Kutchan.TOURIST INFORMATIONKutchan Tourism Information centreLocated on Eki-mae Dori opposite Best Denki,the newly opened tourist information centreprovides an excellent English speaking servicefor visitors. They dispense brochures and canhelp you book accommodation.0136 22 1121The Niseko Grand Hirafu Welcome CentreAt the main bus stop in Hirafu parking lotthe Welcome Centre has a wide range of brochuresand transport information. They canalso help with booking accommodation ifyou’ve arrived without a booking – you risktaker you. 0136 22 0109.WALKING ON ICY ROADSAbout 1/3 of all injuries in Hirafu are causedby people falling on the street. Wear shoeswith good grip, buy and attach rubber solecovers with metal studs. Take small steps, walkslowly and never run, keep both hands out ofyour pockets and free for balance. Walkingwith two ski stocks is a great idea and protectyourself instead of the objects being carried.

the last word…on Health: postureby Bevan CollessBevan CollessIs a physiotherapist exercisephysiologist who has spentsix years in Japan operatingTokyo Physio and as of2006, Niseko Physio.One can see all kindsof different ridingand skiing styleson the mountain. Thelow hunched flapper is asnowboarder that ridesat top speed over bumpsbent well forward at thewaist and with a curvedthoracic spine, armsoutstretched, flapping likean injured bird. The Quasimodoskier stands uprightat the waist but hunches forward from the mid backat high speeds. Sometimes it makes me wonder ifthese styles are created to increase performance orare just down to poor posture.As a physio working in Tokyo, most of my clientsare expatriate desk jockeys working long hours infront of computers. I often find myself talking aboutposture. But posture is a simple word that I fear hasbeen blighted as uncool, some might even say daggy.‘Deportment’ perhaps? Sheesh even daggier! While itmay not be cool, posture is important. I wish I couldpreface this article with a tale of my 4th class teacher,Mrs Kristovski warbling incessantly in a slightlyeastern European accent about the importance ofposture, while making us walk around the room withthick arithmetic books on our heads. Unfortunately itnever happened to me, and I want to know why not!We have all seen the grainy newsreels from the 30sand 40s when the school children seemed to spendmore time with their books on their heads than theydid with their heads in the books, but these daysposture hardly rates a mention.Posture is worth putting some effort into.We’ve only been walking on two legs for a fractionof our history, so from an evolutionarypoint we’re still kind of getting the hang of thisupright thing. There’s a lot of upside to havinggood posture. As well as preventing injuries andpain, having good posture makes you appearmore distinguished,more professional andeven more appealing tothe opposite sex. Asidefrom finding a lot of lostchange on the groundthere really isn’t muchupside to having poorposture.So what to do if youwant to improve yourposture? Certainly genetics and upbringing haveled us down one path by the time we are adults,however this is not to say this can’t be changedfor the worse or the better. To improve posture,the combination is as simple as awareness andexercises. Try to be aware of your own posturethroughout the day. If you dropped a plum-bobfrom the point of your shoulder where would theweight end up? If your answer is 10cm in front ofyour pelvis, you’ve got some work to do. The firststep is to ensure you have a good curve in yourlower back (called lordosis). Then try to arch backfrom the mid spine (thoracic spine) and pull yourshoulders back, down and together. Finally, as myfather was always fond of saying to me, ‘pull yourhead in!’ - or get your head back over your bodywhere it belongs, instead of having it poked outin front. Pulling your head back in will take a lotof strain from your muscles that are holding yourhead up against gravity.To help your postural awareness, try standingup straight and closing your eyes. Imagine youhave a chain coming from the top of your headand someone is pulling it upwards, so that you arebeing elongated just before your feet lift of theground. Hold this for around 10 seconds, and openyour eyes. You’ll be amazed that you are actuallytaller! You can also try it while sitting. Once you’vedone all that, you should have a spine shaped likea gentle ‘S’ not like a ‘C’, and you’ll be on your wayto better posture.If you were from a family which emphasisedposture, you should consider yourself lucky. If youhave children, don’t be afraid to give them regularfeedback on their posture, they won’t get it atschool and they will thank you for it in the future.A classicQuasimodoskier in action.To sum upPerforming regular postural exercises areessential for making and maintaining posturalimprovements. Performing these regularly willassist you in maintaining a better posture naturally,without needing to think about it. Although it isdifficult to recommend exercises that are suitablefor everyone, the following are a few basic posturalexercises which should help.Pec-pole stretch Stand with legs shoulder-widthapart and hold a pole or a long belt in front of yourbody. Lift it up and over your head, keeping yourelbows locked. If you need to bend your elbows youneed to move your hands wider apart. Once they’re asclose as possible, measure between the hands. 90cmis a good result. 15-20 reps one to two times daily area good amount. You’ll be surprised how good you feelafter a set and how quickly you improve.Cervical retractions The mother of all neckexercises. Especially good for people with aprotruded head. With your palm on your sternumand index finger on your chin, pull your neck backand away from the finger, keeping your face inthe same plane (imagine your body is like a filingcabinet and your head is the extended top drawer,which you pull back in). Pull back as far as possiblehold for a split second and repeat 10 times. Do thisregularly throughout the day, particularly if youhave a neck ache.Shoulder retractions Pull your shouldersback and down and squeeze for three seconds. Trynot to lead with your elbows but use the musclesbetween the bottom part of your shoulder blades.Try to do about 30 of these a day.38 powderlife issue #03 JANUARY 19 – February 01 www.powderlife.co.jp