Even More Blue *5.1cm of fresh snow has fallen since yesterday morning and at 7:15am today the temperature was -13°C.A beautiful morning here in Niseko and the clear conditions look set to continue through the day. Useful information from other … Continue reading →

Steady Snowfall *28.3cm of fresh snow has fallen since yesterday morning and at 7:20am today the temperature was -8°C. Conditions will again be fantastic anywhere on the mountain this morning. Useful information from other places Snow depth at the peak, … Continue reading →

It just keeps coming *8.4cm of fresh snow has fallen since yesterday morning and at 8:30am today the temperature was -2°c. Today’s snow is about three times lighter than yesterday! Check what lifts are operating in real time on the … Continue reading →

Perfect Conditions *16.2cm of fresh snow has fallen since yesterday morning and at 7:30am today the temperature was -10° It looks like there will be blue sky’s all morning and the riding conditions should be great. Check what lifts are … Continue reading →

Hello December *25.5cm of fresh snow has fallen since yesterday morning and at 7:20am today the temperature was -6°C. The snow was a little wetter than we would have liked but the slopes will offer face shots today! Check what … Continue reading →

Snow now rain. *0cm of fresh snow has fallen since yesterday morning and at 8:30am today the temperature was 2°C. Annupuri has all it’s lifts running this morning but Hirafu only has one. Take a look at what lifts are … Continue reading →

The wait is over. Niseko’s Grand Hirafu resort is set to open November 26th! What better way to celebrate the occasion than a highlight from Pep Fuja’s K2 SKEEZE, to remind us what we have in store for this season.

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If you think there’s not much going on in Niseko in March, think again! The International Airline Ski Federation (IASF) have just announced Niseko as the location for this year’s World Airline Ski Championships (WASC). The annual event will take place March 4-8, and is expected to draw over 600 visitors. The Federation chose Niseko, touting the amazing snow and “world famous powder” that the resort has to offer. Just check out our blog post from the same time last year to see for yourself!

If you are looking to join the fun, why not take advantage of one of the amazing deals throughout the month of March. Huge discounts available on luxury Niseko accommodation – but book early! Get in touch with us if you’d like to find out more.

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Bright and sunny… *3.5cm of fresh snow has fallen since yesterday morning and at 7:40am today the temperature was 2°C, the sun was shinning but it might rain later. See more detailed charts on snow-forecast.com   The 360niseko snow fall … Continue reading →

As a resident of Niseko there’s always some new development to see, but there hasn’t been much change to basic infrastructure on the mountain lately. This summer, however, we’ve watched as construction workers drove cranes and tractors up the mountain to install shiny silver poles for a new, improved gondola, but up until recently there hasn’t been much else to look at, since cloths and scaffolds covered all the construction.

Well, the covers have come off the buildings! Both the gondola base and summit stations are bigger and renewed, there is a new mountain center right near the gondola, and the new cars for the gondola have arrived. I took a trip up the mountain to take a few pictures. They fit 8 people and offer fantastic views, as you can probably see in the pictures below.

On our way down, we had to take a short detour, so I snapped a shot of the new gondola station with all its little cabins lined up. If you look behind the station, the trail up to Miharashi is visible. Since it used to be an immediate right to start climbing that trail, you can really tell how much larger the station is.

From the mountain, you can see the Grand Hirafu Mountain Center below, which really looks great from the slopes. I’m sure that it will make a fantastic focal point and can’t wait to see it lit up at night. The bigger triangular windows are designed to frame in Mt. Yotei on one side and Mt. Niseko-Annupuri on the other. Looks good!

Now this isn’t something we’ll really see the results of for a couple of years, but it’s still pretty exciting. These holes at the top of Hirafu’s main street are the first step in a plan to bury all of the power lines and install road heating along the entire length of the road. We won’t see the results until the very end (they’ll dig holes and install all the conduits before starting to pull replacement cable), but it’s something to look forward to. It will make a huge difference in the feel of Hirafu in the years to come.

Less than a month until skiing starts! Subscribe to the comments for this post?Share this on FacebookShare this on LinkedinShare this on TechnoratiShare this on del.icio.usPost this to MySpaceBuzz up!Submit this to Script & StyleShare this on BlinklistDigg this!Post this on DiigoShare this on RedditStumble upon something good? Share it on StumbleUponShare this on MixxSubmit this to DesignFloatTweet This!Seed this on NewsvineShare this on DevmarksAdd this to Google BookmarksAdd this to Mister WongAdd this to IzebyShare this on TipdShare this on PFBuzzShare this on FriendFeedMark this on BlogMarksSubmit this to TwittleyShare this on FwispMoo this on DesignMoo!Share this on BobrDobrAdd this to Yandex.BookmarksAdd this to Memory.ruAdd this to 100 bookmarksAdd this to MyPlace

Earlier this month, we had the pleasure of hosting a group of terrific cyclists from Hong Kong for a cycling tour in Japan. Despite snow the day everyone arrived and a very cold next day, they were a delight to have around and all smiles as we visited Lake Toya and some other spots around Niseko. Here are a couple of photos from the trip. Enjoy!

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Thanks to international relief efforts and a lot of hard work, Japan is on the road to recovery after the devastating earthquake and tsunami which rocked the country earlier this year. U.S. Eases Travel Alert Around Nuclear Plant The U.S. has downgraded their travel alert for U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in the area around the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant. The new advisory has diminished the recommended restriction zone for visitors from 50 miles down to 12 miles of the Fukushima plant. The advisory falls in-line with Japan’s own recommendation. In a statement released, the U.S. government believes that “the health and safety risk to temporary visitors [within 80 km within the Fukushima Plant] are low and exposure does not pose significant risks to U.S. citizens making visits of less than one year”. Immense Progress for Japan Tourism The travel advisory lift has come on the heels of a lot of positive press about Japan’s tourism industry, including a recent report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) stating that Japan’s tourism is showing a strong recovery. Data from the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) confirmed that numbers are in line with the WTTC’s “low impact scenario”, and predict that international tourist arrivals numbers will recover by early 2012. WTTC president and CEO David Scowsill confirmed that the Council plans to bring the industry’s leaders to Sendai and Tokyo during the Global Summit in April 2012. Scowsill stated that the move “sends a clear message [that Japan and the Tohoku region] have recovered from the tragic events of March 11 and are ready to rediscover their position among the world’s premier tourism destinations”. Japan Still Hugely Popular Tourist Destination Despite the tragic events of early this year, Japan is viewed more than ever as a sought-after holiday destination. In a recent survey conducted by Visa, the country is still a top destination for tourists from across Asia. The survey results found that travelers from Hong Kong, Taiwan and Thailand want to visit Japan more than any other Asian destination.
Japan also excelled in the Guardian, Observer and guardian.co.uk 2011 Travel Awards, picking up two distinct wins, including Favourite Long-Haul Country, and Favourite Overseas City (Tokyo).

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When will the snow return? No new snow to report this morning in Hirafu village but looking at the snow line on Mt. Yotei there was a dusting above 1600m elevation. Mt Youtei early morning near Hanazono 4 October 2011 Still managed to find some on our morning walk around Hanazono Woodley the dog in Hanazono 4 October 2011 Fungi down low. Hanazono Stairway to Heaven macro 4 October 2011 Walked up the Stairway to Heaven course  and made our way back down through the Hanazono winter park area and out onto Silver Dream. The runs are looking ready to go with the undergrowth trimmed back nicely. Hanazono Silver Dream 4 October 2011 Hanazono Silver Dream Downhill 4 October 2011 This afternoon Mt. Yotei has emerged from the clouds a few times and you can clearly make out the Hirafu hiking course switch backing its way up. Mt.Yotei Autumn 4 October 2011      

The NisEco Markets are a wonderful community event that has been organized by a group of locals.  The markets showcase a range of local handicrafts, as well as Niseko organic veggies from from a variety of local farmers as well as some other stalls including the likes of J-Sekka Deli selling some home-made delights including our jams and mueslis, green curry from Tuk Tuk, grilled local seafoods and more…..

There is also music as well as yoga demonstrations.  The markets are on today in Niseko Village and will also be on again September 24th. Get on down and support this wonderful local event!

1.Nature and habits of hornets ○Active in August and September In Hokkaido most incidents caused by hornets are reported in August and September. Based on the number of hornets and the size of nests, hornets tend to be more aggressive in these months than usual. ○Whites are not necessarily safe Although it is said that hornets tend to be more aggressive toward the color black, there is no guarantee that white is safe. Hornets may tend not to approach the color white as easily as black.

○Certain kinds of smells attract hornets Not only sweet smells of juice and candies, but also the scent of perfume and hair spray attracts hornets. ○Sensitive to rapid movements and loud sound

Even though they may not want to attack people, hornets can become agitated and aggressive when encountering rapid movements, such as trying to wave them off or loud sounds. 2.When you are approached by hornets… ○Stay still As mentioned above, hornets are very sensitive to rapid movements. In most cases, they are only looking for food or nesting material when they approach you. Unless there is a nest nearby, duck slowly when approached and stay still, and they will leave you alone. 3.You may not realize that you are approaching a nest. ○Hornet’s nests can be located well out of sight. You may be approaching one without realizing it. When you are in mountains and fields, stay on established courses. ○Hornets may attempt to warn you as you are approaching their nest. They will hover closely around you at first, and, if you ignore them and continue approaching, they would clap their mandibles and make noise to give you a final warning, saying, “Stop proceeding or you will be attacked.” If you hear them clacking, you are already in serious danger. Try to stay quiet, move slowly, and leave the area.

4.Are hornets pests or beneficial insects? ○One benefit of hornets is that they will eat bugs which may destroy trees or crops. Hornets generally do not attack people unless agitated (such as a person approaching their nest). Understanding their nature and habits will help prevent any unnecessary accidents. 5.If you are stung by a hornet… ① Leave the area immediately. Move at least 50m away. ② Attempt to suck the venom out of the body. Insect poison removers can be purchased at stores, but mouth suction on the bite is said to be the most effective way to remove the venom. Make sure you spit out the venom. ③ Repeat step ② to get all the venom out of your body. ④ Ice the bite if possible and do not move around more than necessary. ⑤ If you experience general symptoms such as palpitations, trouble breathing, dry mouth, cold sweats, dizziness, decreased blood pressure, numbness, nausea, or hives, see a doctor as soon as possible.

※If you have been stung by a hornet before or have an allergy, you may experience sudden hives and/or breathing difficulties within 15-30 minutes after being stung. If this is the case, a delay in treatment can be fatal. Please see a doctor immediately.

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This summer many local companies and individuals came together to try and make a difference in the lives of people living in the earthquake and tsunami affected regions on the main island of Honshu. Owners of condominiums and management companies generously donated accommodation, the Japanese government offered subsidized travel assistance, local business donated services and local people volunteered time to help out. The Niseko Tsunami Relief Program looked after the group and offered a large range of activities for participants from english lessons, games, all kinds to sports and hiking, weekly BBQ’s were also held drawing large numbers.

It was really good meeting some of participants and i went ‘hiking’ a few times catching the summer gondola and checking out the mountain. A lot to the kids from down south haven’t been able to get outdoors as much as usual so they were having lot’s of fun running around which was good to see.

I had never really taken much notice of the mini waterfall and pond in the park just below the J First hotel and was refreashing to see the kids catching tadpoles and cooling down there during the hot weather.

Wishing all the participants the best back home.

-Active in August and September In Hokkaido most incidents caused by hornets are reported in August and September. Based on the number of hornets and the size of nests, hornets tend to be more aggressive in these months than usual.

-White is not necessarily safe Although it is said that hornets tend to be more aggressive toward the color black, there is no guarantee that white is safe. Hornets may tend to not approach the color white as easily as black.

-Sweets attract hornets Not only juice and candies, but also the scent of perfume and hair spray attracts hornets.

-Sensitive to rapid movements and loud sound Even though they may not want to attack people, hornets can become agitated and aggressive when encountering rapid movements, such as trying to wave them off or loud sounds.

When you are approached by hornets…

-Stay still As mentioned above, hornets are very sensitive to rapid movements. In most cases, they are only looking for food or nesting material when they approach you. Unless there is a nest nearby, duck slowly when approached and stay still, and they will leave you alone.

You may not realize that you are approaching a nest

-Hornet’s nests can be located well out of sight. You may be approaching one without realizing it. When you are in mountains and fields, stay on established courses.

-Hornets may attempt to warn you as you are approaching their nest. They will hover closely around you at first, and, if you ignore them and continue approaching, they would clap their mandibles and make noise to give you a final warning, saying, “Stop proceeding or you will be attacked.” If you hear them clacking, you are already in serious danger. Try to stay quiet, move slowly, and leave the area. Are hornets pests or beneficial insects?

-One benefit of hornets is that they will eat bugs which may destroy trees. Hornets generally do not attack people unless agitated (such as a person approaching their nest). Understanding their nature and habits will help prevent any unnecessary accidents.

If you are stung by a hornet…

① Leave the area immediately. Move at least 50m away. ② Suck the venom out of your blood. Even though venom removers can be purchased at stores, sucking on the bite is said to be the most effective way to remove the venom from your body. Make sure you spit out the venom. ③ Repeat step ② to get all the venom out of your body. ④ Ice the bite if possible. Do not move around more than necessary. ⑤ If you experience symptoms such as palpitations, trouble breathing, dry mouth, cold sweats, dizziness, decreased blood pressure, numbness, nausea, or hives, see a doctor as soon as possible.

※If you have been stung by a hornet before or have an allergy, you may experience sudden hives and/or breathing difficulties within 15-30 minutes after being stung. If this is the case, a delay in treatment can be fatal. Please see a doctor immediately. Subscribe to the comments for this post?Share this on FacebookShare this on LinkedinShare this on TechnoratiShare this on del.icio.usPost this to MySpaceBuzz up!Submit this to Script & StyleShare this on BlinklistDigg this!Post this on DiigoShare this on RedditStumble upon something good? Share it on StumbleUponShare this on MixxSubmit this to DesignFloatTweet This!Seed this on NewsvineShare this on DevmarksAdd this to Google BookmarksAdd this to Mister WongAdd this to IzebyShare this on TipdShare this on PFBuzzShare this on FriendFeedMark this on BlogMarksSubmit this to TwittleyShare this on FwispMoo this on DesignMoo!Share this on BobrDobrAdd this to Yandex.BookmarksAdd this to Memory.ruAdd this to 100 bookmarksAdd this to MyPlace

We are now serving a range of soft cream & parfaits at J-Sekka Cafe & Delicatessen.  Soft cream is available in a cone, or cup, and is just ¥250.  We have a range of flavors available, including green tea, vanilla, cookies & cream and our delicious limited Summer flavors including pineapple & sakura. We can also add a shot of vanilla soft cream to any iced drink, to make a delectable soda float, or decadant iced coffee or chocolate.

Back in July we hosted Dennis and a group of 11 including Kaoru Ohsumi from Herb & Natural Room KINA.  The group first enjoyed a tour of the Niseko Green Farm, before arriving at J-Sekka to enjoy a 6 course lunch prepared with a whole range of the Farm’s Summer vegetables.

Lunch started out with some yellow & green zucchinis, that were lightly grilled and then marinated with olive oil, lemon zest, sea salt & pepper and served on a slice of toasted baguette with smashed edamame.

Next up, a Summer salad with local watermelon, a range of mini heirloom tomatoes, celery, hidaka mozzarella & fresh herbs.  This dish went down so well on the day, that we had to put it on the Summer menu at in the Cafe.

Carpaccio…. of zucchini.  The beautiful colors of green and yellow, sliced super thin and dressed with a little olive oil & lemon and topped with roasted pine nuts and very finely shaved Shin Sapporo blue cheese.

Niseko Green Farm is growing some really interesting lettuces this year, including the usual romaine, or cos lettuce, but also a stunning red variety of the romaine family.  We used both red & green lettuce and made a ceasar salad.  A house-made dressing with parmesan, lemon & anchovies lightly coated each leaf and there were crispy croutons, fried bacon, an onsen egg & parmesan cheese wafer.

The Omega3 for the day was found in the form of beautiful flaked Hokkaido salmon.  The salmon flakes were dressed with a spicy soy dressing with NGF herbs and green & red onion.  Nestled on top, a couple of pieces of soft tofu pillows from the Makkari spring water tofu shop, dusted in a salt & szechaun pepper and crispy fried.

The last dish for the day was a hand-made Niseko Green Farm Danshyaku potato gnocchi, with cured lamb bacon, dried mini tomatoes, edamame & mint.  Another dish so good it featured on a Summer menu for a few weeks..

A great day was had by all, and it was a pleasure having you all at J-Sekka!  See you again soon ….

A nice shot of the group, just a shame Dennis didn’t manage to keep his eyes open for the shot;)

This past weekend marked the second annual Hirafu Matsuri. Though there was a bit of ominous weather in the morning, the skies cleared by the time the festival started.

For me, a major highlight of the day was seeing many local restaurants come out and offer their expert cooking skills for the rest of town. As much as I love typical Japanese matsuri fare, there’s something special about being able to have craft sandwiches, beef stew, or smoked salmon and a beer (or wine!) in sight of Mt. Yotei with the rest of the community. Events included junior Yosakoi dancing and flag tiggy, but the real excitement came after the sun set. First, there was a candy toss, with heaps of people cramming together to catch treats tossed from the top of a tower (photo credit: Glen Claydon).

After that, with bonfire in full flame, a local Taiko drumming group performed. It was quite the long set, and really got the blood moving – good, because it’s already getting a bit chilly in the evenings!

The evening ended with a fireworks show, and a large number of people stood around chatting by the bonfire later into the evening. All-in-all, a well-done event with all the hoped-for flavors of Niseko. See you there next year! Subscribe to the comments for this post?Share this on FacebookShare this on LinkedinShare this on TechnoratiShare this on del.icio.usPost this to MySpaceBuzz up!Submit this to Script & StyleShare this on BlinklistDigg this!Post this on DiigoShare this on RedditStumble upon something good? Share it on StumbleUponShare this on MixxSubmit this to DesignFloatTweet This!Seed this on NewsvineShare this on DevmarksAdd this to Google BookmarksAdd this to Mister WongAdd this to IzebyShare this on TipdShare this on PFBuzzShare this on FriendFeedMark this on BlogMarksSubmit this to TwittleyShare this on FwispMoo this on DesignMoo!Share this on BobrDobrAdd this to Yandex.BookmarksAdd this to Memory.ruAdd this to 100 bookmarksAdd this to MyPlace