The 4 seasons of Niseko

Homemade Sushi

2011-11-22T21:09:00.001+09:00

Last week my girlfriend and I made some homemade sushi. Whilst it wasn't traditional sushi it was very delicious. It was great fun combining the ingredients and rolling them up to make customised sushi rolls. There is something to be said about preparing and making your food in a social and fun way. Here are some of the action shots!

Mt Youtei at its best!

2011-10-23T15:23:00.000+09:00

A fresh Thursday morning last week 3 of us decided to hike Mt Annupuri to watch the sunrise behind Mt Youtei. Starting at Goshiki it was a relatively easy hike to the top. The sky was clear and the moon shone bright allowing us to walk most of the way without torches. We arrived at the peak about 5:15, just in time to see the sky start to change. For the next hour we enjoyed watching the sunrise.

After hiking down I was in the office for my 9am start!

Lunch at Kamimura

2011-10-17T21:36:00.003+09:00

One of Niseko's finest restaurants, Kamimura shut for lunch on the 7th of October. Head chef and good friend Yuichi invited my girlfriend and I to enjoy the last lunch of the summer season. The lunch set like all of Kamimura's meals was made using local and seasonal produce. I will let the photos of the meal below say the rest.

Niseko pumpkin with seaseme cream

Soi fish, low-temperature cook, with "kaibashira" cream

Date chicken roast with "danshaku" puree and crispy mushrooms

BAGJUMP MANIA This Saturday!

2010-04-02T19:30:00.004+09:00

Don't forget it's the BAGJUMP MANIA event this Saturday! Make sure you go along and check it out!

Fun for the whole day and a dance party in the evening….it is free to enter the comp.

The categories are below and anyone can participate, lots of prizes and giveaways.

BAGJUMP MANIA

Hanazono – April 3rd
• Grommets (15 & under Snowboard or ski) – Guys
• Grommets (15 & under Snowboard or ski) – Girls
• Chicks (16 – 39) Ski
• Chicks (16 – 39) Snowboard
• Guys (16 – 39) Ski
• Guys (16 – 39) Snowboard
• Old School Guys (40+)
• Old School Girls (40+)

Please pass this on to make it a great day :)

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

NPC Now Taking Bookings for 2010/11 Season

2010-04-01T10:55:00.007+09:00

Accommodation rates have been finalised and we’re happy to announce that Niseko Powder Connection is now taking bookings for the 2010/11 Winter Season. Please visit the NPC website or contact us to get a quote for our unbeatable properties.

Get in touch with us today and take advantage of our fantastic Early Bird deals including up to 20% discount on accommodation rates*.

* Date restrictions apply

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

2009/10 Season Wrap

2010-03-31T18:08:00.005+09:00

It seems a little premature to review the season with many people getting their best lines in the last couple of weeks and more than a month of skiing still ahead of us. March this year has been truly epic with loads of fresh powder falling and plenty of sunny days.

Photo: Glen Claydon

The season looked to be getting off to a perfect start after snowfall on the 31st October and lifts turning as scheduled on 21st November. A couple of weeks of warmer weather followed but fears of a relatively snowless winter disappeared by mid-December when it started dumping and didn’t let up for the rest of the month. January and early February saw some crazy amounts of fresh snow with Mt. Yotei hiding from sight for much of the time!

Over the course of the season we’ve had snow falling on about 8 out of every 10 days and close to half of those days had 20cm or more*. And, as you might expect from a fantastic snow season, tourists flocked to Niseko and accommodation, restaurants, bars and shops saw a big increase in business in comparison with the previous season. * Source: Powderlife Magazine Issue 20

Photo: Glen Claydon

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

King of the Hill 2010

2010-03-20T17:09:00.007+09:00

Sunday 11th April will see the King of the Hill 2010 Snow Hill Climb descend on Niseko Moiwa resort. For those of you not aware of the event, King of the Hill involves racing by motorbike to the top of the mountain and is a crazy and fun experience for the spectators and riders. The Snow Hill Climb started 3 years ago and has grown since. This year will include ATV/Quadbikes to make this crazy event even more awesome!

Check below and go to http://www.bigtank.jp for more.

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

Hanazono BAGJUMP MANIA on 3rd April

2010-03-17T16:58:00.007+09:00

Fun for the whole day and a dance party in the evening….it is free to enter the comp.

The categories are below and anyone can participate, lots of prizes and giveaways.

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

New delight at J-Sekka

2010-03-11T15:22:00.005+09:00

Sakura Cheese, just released 　
さくらチーズ　新発売

The Sakura cheese is made by Kyodogakusha Cheese Fromagerie in Tokachi, located on the South Western side of Hokkaido. This special cheese has just been released, and is available for purchase at the J-Sekka Delicatessen for a limited time only. A 90g wheel will set you back just 840 yen and numbers are restricted, so be sure not to miss out!

『さくらチーズ』は、北海道の南西十勝にあるチーズ工房「共働学舎新得農場」で作られました。　この特別なチーズは、発売されたばかり。J-Sekka Delicatessenにて、季節限定で販売しています。　かわいいお花もついて、90g入り　840円。　お見逃しなく！

Delicately flavored with cherry blossom, the Sakura is a light and creamy soft white cheese with a nicely balanced mild sweet & salty flavor that works harmoniously with the delicate hint of the cherry blossom. The cheese is matured for only 2 weeks, but is still pleasantly robust. The outer rind is developed with molds & yeast so these flavors will only develop further over time. We suggest taking the cheese out of the fridge for 30 minutes before eating, to allow it to soften and for the flavors to deepen even further. This cheese is best enjoyed with fresh bread or crackers.

さくらチーズは、チーズと繊細な桜の風味がします。　この白くやわらかいチーズは、クリーミーで口当たりが軽いです。　ほどよい酸味、甘味と少し塩味がする、とてもバランスのとれた味と桜の風味が最高です。　　さくらチーズは２週間で成熟しますが、こくがありとてもおいしいです。外側はかびと酵母で形成されており、この味は時間をかける程成熟します。さくらチーズを食べる30分前に、冷蔵庫から出しておくとチーズがやわらかくなりすべての味がほどよくご賞味いただけます。　さくらチーズを焼きたてのパンやクラッカーなどと一緒にどうぞ。

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

Niseko Newsletter

2010-03-01T15:52:00.005+09:00

Catch up with what's happening in Niseko http://niseko-hirafu.com/newsletter/2010/02/

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

Hanazono: A Resort for All Seasons

2010-02-15T19:42:00.004+09:00

A STATE-OF-THE-ART bike and wakeboard park will be the centre piece for Hanazono's year-round sports, adventure and activity resort, set to open this summer.

Up to 5km of cross country mountain bike tracks, trails and jumps, plus freeride terrain, along with a BMX-style 'pump' arena and a skills development area, will be built at Hanazono to cater for beginner to advanced riders.

Hanazono says the currently unnamed park will be the only purpose-built bike park in Hokkaido, and one of few in the whole of Japan.

The bike park was designed by local mountain bike enthusiasts Martin Tse and Paul Butkovich.

“The park has real scope to expand, and the opening will be a milestone for mountain bike facilities in Niseko and Japan,” Tse said. “This is Stage 1 of a potential three stages if all goes well.”

A wakeboard park will also be built at the foot of the mountain in a lake near the Hanazono 308 clubhouse, boasting a hi-tech cable system with boxes to ride up on to.

Use this link to read the rest of the Powderlife article: http://bit.ly/9OvVwx

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

Japanese Cultural Tour tomorrow for Setsubun

2010-02-02T16:54:00.005+09:00

If you're in Niseko this week, it's highly recommended to go along and take part in the Japanese Cultural Tour in Kutchan tomorrow. Starting with a tea ceremony, the day includes other traditional activities such as martial arts, Taiko drum performance, Niseko Sake Brewey visit and ends with a beautiful, authentic Japanese dinner. Click on the image below for a larger view with more details:

In addition, tomorrow is 'Setsubun' in Japan, a spring festival accompanied by a special ritual to cleanse away all the evil of the former year and drive away disease-bringing evil spirits for the year to come. This special ritual is called Mamemaki (豆撒き). The main event of tomorrow's tour will be Mamimaki. Roasted soy beans are scattered inside and outside the house while people say – ‘devils out, good fortune in’ and wish for good health.

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

Australia Day at J-Sekka

2010-01-25T16:59:00.003+09:00

BEER AND SAUSAGE SANGER SET

As Aussies back home head to the beach for barbies and a cold one, J-Sekka Cafe and Delicatessen are offering an even better alternative this Australia Day - a day of skiing the best powder snow which is capped off with a chilled glass of Otaru draft beer and a thick-sausage sandwich served with tomato sauce and fried onions... The wee ones can of course switch the ale for a more appropriate beverage... and hot-drink alternatives will also be available for those keen.

Keeping it cheap and easy at 1000 yen per set all day (until sold out) from 11am this Tuesday, January 26h. Keep an ear out for their playlist, too... sure to be something nostalgic in there for the born-and-bred Australians, but the good food and thirst-quenching beer will sing on anybody's tastebuds.

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

Avalanche Safety

2010-01-20T16:44:00.003+09:00

The small amount of rainfall in Niseko this morning, likely to be followed by fresh snow tomorrow, serves to highlight the potential dangers of avalanches in the backcountry. Snow packs don't handle quick changes well so rapid changes in weather can have bad effects on the snow. If the bond between upper layers of the snow pack are weak, rain and changes in temperature can be factors that contribute to layers in a triggered area fracturing which could result in a slide.

If, as predicted, it snows overnight or tomorrow morning and you head up the mountain looking to find fresh tracks in the backcountry, be sure to first read the Niseko avalanche information produced daily:

http://niseko.nadare.info/

Make sure you know the Niseko Rules for backcountry riding:

http://www.niseko.ne.jp/en/rules.html

We would also recommend reading Powderlife's quick guide to backcountry safety:

http://www.powderlife.com/magazine/issue/19/backcountry-safety/10-tips-keep-you-safe-backcountry

As noted before, Powderlife also have a comprehensive weather and snow report page which is updated daily. Check it out:

http://www.powderlife.com/niseko-snow-report

Finally, I'd recommend reading this article by the Utah Avalance Center which ends with a fascinating first hand account of what it's like to be caught in an avalanche:

http://utahavalanchecenter.org/education/faq

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

61st Sapporo Snow Festival

2010-01-18T16:47:00.005+09:00

The 2010 Sapporo Snow Festival, held from 5th to 11th February, is still a couple of weeks from now but preparations are well underway. In Odori Park masses of snow have been brought in from sites around the city, built up and surrounded by scaffolding in preparation for the epic snow sculptures to be formed over the coming days.

More than 2 million people from around the world are expected to attend the Snow Festival and view some of the 244 snow & ice sculptures around the city. As well as the famous sculptures, there will be plenty of events put on during the week, including a large 'Big Air' style jump which skiers and snowboarders will be hitting each day in front of large crowds. To get a better idea of what's going on and where to go, check out this link:

http://www.snowfes.com/english/index.html

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

Predicting Snow

2010-01-14T16:03:00.005+09:00

What a morning! The snow gods were predicted to bring us at least 20cm overnight and they ended up giving us 40. It was very cold, with the wind chill taking the temperature down to around -25ºC, resulting in light, dry powder and lots of it. The sun came out for a while and everything looked perfect.

We are often asked how the snow is and what the forecast is for the coming days. I'd recommend the Powderlife weather page because it brings two of the great daily video diaries - The Daily Flake & Powder TV - together with, in my opinion, the best online weather forecast for ski resorts, snow-forecast.com, and adds in some other weather feeds and maps. Updated daily, check it out here:

http://www.powderlife.com/niseko-snow-report

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

Thursday Freshies?

2010-01-13T15:51:00.004+09:00

Weather reports are showing that there could be a fair amount of snow fall tonight which means resist the urge to stay at Wild Bill's all night, get yourself in bed a little earlier than usual and make sure you're on the lifts when they start turning tomorrow morning.

The season so far ...

2010-01-12T18:53:00.032+09:00

It's been an epic season so far in Niseko and we've decided to take a look back at the last 6 weeks through a selection of photos taken around town. Enjoy ...

http://niseko-hirafu.com/

http://www.facebook.com/nisekopowder

http://twitter.com/NisekoPowder

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http://twitter.com/NisekoPowder

Maki Lounge opens with 200yen beers!

2009-12-03T17:00:00.004+09:00

Maki Lounge Opens this Saturday
今週土曜日”薪ラウンジ”オープン
Maki lounge at J-Sekka will be open all winter from 2pm, starting this Saturday 5th December. And to kick it off, they are offering ¥500 drinks all afternoon and into the night. There will also be a limited 200 Otaru draft beers that will be almost given away at ¥200 each.
１２月５日、今週の土曜日の午後２時に薪ラウンジがオープンです。すべての飲み物が５００円プラス、小樽生ビール、２００名様限定で２００円です。

This year Maki lounge will also be offering Bottle Keep. We have a range of Sake, Sho-chu, Ume-shu and Japanese whiskeys that are available to purchase by the bottle. We will then keep it up on our shelf, with your name on it, for the entire season !! Pop in anytime and have a tipple from you bottle by the fire ..... prices start at ¥3,000 for a 720ml bottle of Sake and go up to the Hakushu 12year old pure malt whiskey - so there's bound to be something for everyone's taste ... and budget.
今年の巻きラウンジではなんとボトルキープ制をスタート、酒、焼酎、梅酒そしてウイスキーがボトル購入可能。あなたの名前が棚に並びますよ！！７２０mlのボトルを３０００円〜。
はくしゅ１２年ものピュアモルトウィスキーありますよ。

Maki will also be serving some of J-Sekka's signature a taste of Hokkaido tapas - including delicacies like pickled Hokkaido white asparagus, a selection of Hokkaido cheese, Hokkaido sausage plate and cherry-wood smoked buta kushi.
薪ラウンジではテイストオブ北海道タパスもー北海道産のホワイトアスパラガスやチーズ、ソーセージそして豚クシなどもおいてます！

Landmark Deli OPENS tomorrow
明日からランドマークデリオープン
The Landmark Deli also swings open its doors today. For the next week or so, hours will be limited, from about 10am ~ 4pm increasing mid-December to run throughout the day.
ランドマークのドアが明日からとうとうあきます。明日から来週くらいまでは朝の１０時から午後の４時までと限定された時間になっていますが、１２月の中旬には１日しっかりとあけています。

The Landmark Deli has indeed become the flagship Sekka Deli's little sister this year, with the range of Hokkaido produce increasing & piping hot Sekka coffees available all day. In a week or so, hot pies, croissants and pastries will also be available.
今年のランドマークはJ-Sekkaデリの姉妹店として北海道産の物もおく事に決めました。また、去年のように美味しいコーヒーも１日中楽しめます。もう少しでホットパイやクロワッサン、ペイストリーなども購入可能になります。

Don't forget to flash your local's card at Landmark as well, the same ¥300 coffee's and 10% discount still apply.
地元の方は”ローカルカード”をレジで見せるのをお忘れなく！飲み物は３００円、商品の購入にあたっては１０％オフです。

Open from 10am Thursday 3rd December.
１２月３日、木曜日の朝１０時オープンです。

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

Thai Sunday Lunch in Niseko

2009-11-06T15:23:00.000+09:00

This week's Sunday family lunch - doing it Thai style. Nice desu.
今週の日曜日ファミリーランチは”タイ”スタイル。ナイスです

The J-Sekka chefs are out to bring joy and happiness into locals' lives with a Sunday Thai banquet lunch - soup, salad, curry, stir-fry and a little something sweet to finish off, the flavors will be full, fresh and promise to bring some heat into the early winter. At just 2,500yen a head, with an option to partake in a 1,500yen Otaru draft beer nomihodai, the family style lunch will kick off at 1pm with numbers limited to just 14. Be sure to get in early and e-mail Kat to reserve your spot at kat@j-sekka.com or call the deli on 0136-21-3088 and get your name on the list.
J-Sekkaのシェフは今週の日曜日”

タイ式バンクエットランチ”をおこないます。スープ、サラダ、カレー、炒め物、そして最後にデザートです。ピリ辛の味を冬のスタートとして楽しみましょう。
２５００円のランチと１５００円を追加して小樽ビールの飲み放題も可能ですよ。ランチは１時スタート、そして１４名様限定です。kat@j-sekka.comでキャットに予約のメールか、０１３６−２１−３０８８に電話をして名前をリストに早めにのせてくださいね！

Hungry?

2009-10-07T09:41:00.005+09:00

In the news...

This week's sen-yen setto...
今週の１０００円セット
With snow finally atop Yotei and the autumn chill setting in they're heating things up here at Sekka with a piping hot, creamy three-cheese lasagna made with juicy beef, fresh autumn Hokkaido veges, and local cheeses. As always, this week's set is all yours to have in or take away (with a hot or cold drink of your choice) for just 1,000 yen - Wednesday through Sunday.

とうとう羊蹄山の頂上に雪が積もりましたね！こんな寒い日にはSekkaのあつあつのラザニアを食べて温まりませんか？クリーミーな三層チーズとジューシーなビーフを間にはさみ北海道の秋野菜と地元産のチーズで作り上げました。もちろんいつも通りソフトドリンク付き（ホット／アイス）で１０００円です。

水曜日から日曜日にかけてやっていますよ。

Breakfast Time!
朝食の時間です！

Chef Shaun is producing some morning magic with his breakfast sets - berry compote and Sekka-style granola with Milk Kobo Yoghurt, light fluffy blueberry pancakes topped with a red-berry meddley and Hokkaido syrup, or the winning combo of bacon, eggs, and thick-sliced toast. Serving from 9am.

J-sekkaのショーン君がおいしい朝食セットを作っちゃいます！Sekkaスタイルのグラノラにベリーコンポートをのせたミルク工房ヨーグルト付きセット、もしくはベリーがのっているパンケーキに北海道シロップをかけたセット、それとも定番のベーコン、エッグに厚切りトーストのコンボにしますか？朝の９時からやっています。

Locals lost in translation...

地元の方はどなたですか？

As winter approaches, new staff and increased visitor numbers will make it harder to identify our true local heroes, so in order to ensure you get your local discount and special set menu options, please show your 'Sekka' keyring when you come in and order. Thanks!

冬が来るとスタッフも多くなり、訪問者も増え、どの方が地元の方で、その方が旅行者なのかわからなくなってしまうため、皆さんには大変申し訳ございませんが、もう一度

J-Sekka特製のキーチェーンを会計時に確認させていただきたいと思います。地元の方は私たちの大切なメンバー！キーチェーンでディスカウントとスペシャルセットメニューをゲットしちゃいましょう！

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

September Newsletter, October News

2009-10-06T15:41:00.004+09:00

For those of you out there yet to read the NPC September newsletter, released last week, here's a summary of what you've missed so far:

Falling Leaf Autumn Specials
Featured Accommodation: Ezo Yuki (20% discount!)
Niseko Golf Week Review
Armada Skis Competition Winner
Niseko News & Events

READ IT NOW! http://niseko-hirafu.com/newsletter/2009/09/

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

初雪 Hatsu Yuki in Niseko!

2009-10-05T11:24:00.003+09:00

The first snow of the 2009/10 winter season has fallen in the Niseko area. Clouds hanging over the iconic Mt. Yotei parted briefly yesterday to reveal a light dusting of the white stuff on top of the volcano. Click on these links to see photos taken by local photographer Glen Claydon:

http://twitpic.com/k7yhm http://twitpic.com/k8084
http://twitpic.com/kc1iv http://twitpic.com/kc3sw

The question now is, when we the first snow fall in the village? If you think you know, can tell the future or simply fancy having a guess, please comment below.

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

3rd anniversary and a free onsen day at Popolo-no-yu!

2009-09-29T16:06:00.004+09:00

On 1 October the Niseko Hirafu Onsen Popolo-no-yu celebrates its 3rd anniversary and opens their onsen to everyone for free! There are special prices for food at the restaurant as well. Come enjoy a free onsen with a great view of Mt. Yotei!

http://www.scot.jp/popolo/

http://niseko-hirafu.com

This week at J-Sekka

2009-09-24T10:20:00.003+09:00

This Week's Lunch Set @ J-Sekka
今週のランチセット

This week's lunch set at J-Sekka - Spanish inspired saffron rice with chicken, clams and lamb sausage. A nice warm, comforting dish now that the weather is cooling down. Available with a soft drink or coffee for 1000yen.
今週のJ-sekkaのランチセットはsペインのサフロンライスとチキンそしてムール貝とラムのソーセージ入り！
だんだんと寒くなってきている季節にはもってこいの１０００円セットです。

We can do this one take-away, no problem! Even call ahead on 213 088 and we'll have it ready when you get here.
テイクアウトもOK! 事前に21-3088にお電話をいただければ用意しておきますね。

Good beer never goes unnoticed !!
大きすぎて、おいしすぎ！！

And so was the case with the new Otaru Fest Beer. This style of beer is traditionally drunk at Oktoberfest in Germany, but here we see Sayaka and Miho doing their best effort on a mammoth 1 litre stein at J-Sekka Deli over the weekend. Great job girls !!
写真に載っているさやかちゃんとみほちゃんがもっているのは、小樽ビールの季節限定”フェストビール！ドイツのオクトーバーフェストで有名なビールで、なんとJ-sekka では１リットルのグラスを用意！小さい女の子が大きなビールを持ってがんばっています！

You too can enjoy a 1000ml of Otaru's Fest Beer for 1000yen.
１リットルのフェストビールは１０００円ですよ！

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

Chipping Contest & Cocktail Party

2009-09-18T11:32:00.000+09:00

Win 50,000yen at Niseko Golf Week Chipping Contest! Today from 4 to 6pm, followed by Cocktail Party at Downtown Cafe. More details below:

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

Niseko Golf Week Golf Facts

2009-09-18T11:24:00.004+09:00

It's still Golf Week here in Niseko so here are some facts about the game of golf:

Golfers who claim they never cheat also lie.

A two-foot putt counts the same as a two-foot drive.

Never wash your ball on the tee of a water hole.

There is no such thing as a friendly wager.

The stages of golf are Sudden Collapse, Radical Change,
Complete Frustration, Slow Improvement, Brief Mastery,
and Sudden Collapse.

The only sure way to get a par is to leave a four-foot
birdie putt two inches short of the hole.

Don't play with anyone who would question a 7.

It's as easy to lower your handicap as it is to reduce
your hat size.

If you really want to be better at golf, go back and take it
up at a much earlier age.

If your driver is hot, your putter will be ice cold; if you
can hit your irons, you will top your woods; if you are keeping
your right elbow tucked in, your head will come up.

Progress in golf consists of two steps forward and 26.6 miles
backward.

One good shank deserves another.

It takes 17 holes to really get warmed up.

No golfer ever swung too slowly.

No golfer ever played too fast.

One birdie is a hot streak.

No matter how badly you are playing, it's always possible to
play worse.

Whatever you think you're doing wrong is the one thing you're
doing right.

Any change works for three holes.

The odds of hitting a duffed shot increase by the square of
the number of people watching.

Never take lessons from your father.

Never teach golf to your wife.

Never play your son for money.

Never try to keep more than 300 separate thoughts in your mind
during your swing.

The less skilled the player, the more likely he is to share his
ideas about the golf swing.

It's surprisingly easy to hole a 50-foot putt when you lie 10.

The statute of limitation on forgotten strokes is two holes.

Bets lengthen putts and shorten drives.

Confidence evaporates in the presence of fairway water.

It takes considerable pressure to make a penalty stroke adhere
to a scorecard.

It's not a gimme if you're still away.

The more your opponent quotes the rules, the greater the
certainty that he cheats.

Always limp with the same leg for the whole round.

The rake is always in the other trap.

The wind is in your face on 16 of the 18 holes.

Nothing straightens out a nasty slice quicker than a sharp
dogleg to the right.

The rough will be mown tomorrow.

The ball always lands where the pin was yesterday.

It always takes at least five holes to notice that a club is
missing.

The nearest sprinkler head will be blank.

Every time a golfer makes a birdie, he must subsequently make
two triple bogeys to restore the fundamental equilibrium of the
universe.

You can hit a 2-acre fairway 10 percent of the time and a 2 inch
branch 90%of the time.

Out of bounds is always on the right, for right handers.

The practice green is either half as fast or twice as fast as all
the other greens.

No one with funny head covers ever broke par.

The lowest numbered iron in your bag will always be impossible to
hit.

Your straightest iron shot of the day will be exactly one club
short.

No matter how far its shaft extends, a ball retriever is always a
foot too short to reach the ball.

If you seem to be hitting your shots straight on the driving
range, it's probably because you're not aiming at anything.

A ball you can see in the rough from 50 yards away is not yours.

The only thing you can learn from golf books is that you can't
learn anything from golf books, but you have to read an awful
lot of golf books to learn it.


Thanks to Terry Galan and Derek from Niseko Toursim for these.

http://www.nisekogolfweek.com

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

Niseko Golf Week updates

2009-09-17T15:43:00.004+09:00

The Niseko Internet Open

Play a round at any course/range etc. Log onto Niseko Golf Week website to have a chance to win prizes for: Lowest Score, Most rounds played, most partners/groups played with, most birdies/eagles.

Rusutsu Golf Nighta

sponsored by Niseko Property/Ski Japan/NorthBar / holiday niseko and many others

Prizes / Contests

Individual 9-hole score

1^st place: Ben Clark score: 39 prize:bottle of Captain Morgan

2^nd place: Dale Riva score: 40 prize: massage at Niseko Onsen

3^rd place: Papa Makabe score: 40 prize: Cycle Week TShirt

Most honest: Matt’Fatty’Hill prize: Niseko Golf Academy Golf Lesson

Birdies or Less: Ben Clark (#1), Dale Riva (#5), Papa Makabe (#8), Rhett Roylance (#9) prize: cold, hard cash from the bonus pot!

Best dressed: Ben Thorpe prize: bottle of classy wine (Niseko Property)

Team ‘Hero and Bum’ Score – add lowest and highest score from each group per hole, total for each hole, lowest team Hero and Bum wins

1^st place: BK Snakes (Dale Riva, Chris Lane, Matt Jones, Graeme Henry total: 101

prize: VIP tickets to Friday’s cocktail party

^2nd place: Makabe Team (Papa and Mrs Makabe, Russ Lefko, Derek Kennewell total: 104

prize: hats from Niseko Property

3^rd place: Rhett Roylance Team (Rhett Roylance, Ash Nicholls, Rod Hoy, Derek Begley total 106

prize: Niseko Cycle Week Tshirts

Hole Contests

Hole 1 – Long Drive Winner: Rhett Roylance

Prize: Bottle of MOET Champagne (holidayniseko, thanks to Ashley Nicholls and holiday niseko team, start off BIG!!)

Hole 2 –Ball Draw Winner: Derek Kennewell, Fatty

Prize: new sleeve of golf balls

Hole 3 – Closest to the Pin in 2 Winner: Papa Makabe (2^nd: Chris Lane)

Prize: cycle rentals from GrooveCycle Rentals, thanks Paul)

Hole 4 – Closest to the Pin Winner: Ben Clark

Prize: Cycle Week T-shirt, thanks NCW)

Hole 5 – Long Drive Winner: Dale Riva

Prize: VIP tickets to Friday’s cocktail party

Hole 6 – Bogey or Less Draw Winner: Ian Stutchbury

Prize: bottle of classy win from Niseko Property, thanks Peter and Ruskin

Hole 7 – Most Honest Score on #7 Winner: Derek Kennewell

Prize: Niseko Golf Academy Golf Lesson, thanks John

Hole 8 – Closest to the Pin Winner:Papa Makabe

Prize: stay at Casi67, luxury stay, from holidayniseko, thanks to Ash again – HUUGE PRIZE, go for the PIN!!)

Hole 9 – Longest Putt Winner: Ben Clark (2^nd: Matt Jones)

Prize: Cycle Week T-shirt, thanks NCW

Thanks for the support everyone! Get on the course/range this week and send your scores/details/pictures to Derek@nisekotourism.com

http://www.nisekogolfweek.com

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

This week at J-Sekka

2009-09-17T14:56:00.004+09:00

J-Sekka will now be open on Wednesday's from 9am ~. Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday we will also be open from 9am ~ and serving up some delicious breakfast options !
なんとJ-sekkaがこれから水曜日の９時からオープン！もちろん、木曜日、金曜日、土曜日、そして日曜日の９時からオープン。そしてこれからは朝食をはじめます。

J-Sekka will also be opening right through Silver week, including Monday 21st and Tuesday 22nd September.
また、来週の連休中、２１日（月）から２２日（火）も開いてますよ。

Madam who? Croque Madam ! クロケ　マダムの登場！

Toasted ham & cheese sandwich, smothered in delicious cheese sauce and topped with a fried egg. That's this week's sandwich offering at J-Sekka. Available Wednesday ~ Sunday and includes a coffee or drink for 1000yen.

今週のJ-sekkaのサンドウィッチはトーストしたハムとチーズ、そしてフライした卵をのせたものです。水曜日から日曜日まで１０００円でやっています。

OktoberFest beer from Otaru Brewery 小樽ビールの季節ビール”オクトーバーフェスト”

The new Autumn season beer has just arrived from Otaru brewery. Celebrate Autumn at J-Sekka and pop in a try a glass of Fest beer, available at the special rate of 350yen for 300ml or 600yen for 500ml, exclusively for friends of Sekka.

　小樽ビールの新しい季節のビールが登場です。秋を祝うビール”オクトーバーフェスト”を３００mlを３５０円、５００mlを６００円で！

Otaru Fest Beer is a light, tea-brown beer with a wonderful malty flavor and fruity hop aromas, very characteristic of the Märzen beer from Germany.

　小樽のフェストビールは紅茶色のモルツ、そしてフルーツアロマの香りがするドイツ、マルゼンのビールです

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

Niseko Golf Week

2009-09-16T10:05:00.006+09:00

Niseko Golf Week is back for its second year. The goal of this community based initiative is to bring together locals and visitors alike to enjoy the perfect summer conditions in Niseko's stunning surroundings while enjoying the great game of golf.

This year features include-Long Drive Contest, Pitching comp in the heart of town, Niseko`s first Web-based interactive golf tournament, Night Golf in Rusutsu under the lights, and a great ending party on the deck of the Downtown Cafe! The summer season in Niseko is short but sweet so take full advantage of the perfect golf conditions and win great prizes up for grabs all week long! For more information and a schedule of events go to http://nisekogolfweek.com/events

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

Niseko For Free campaign now on!

2009-09-15T13:51:00.003+09:00

The Niseko Promotion Board is pleased to announce a brand new campaign for winter 2009-2010 that includes some fantastic competitions!

Entry is simple! All you do is book and pay for your accommodation with Niseko Powder Connection or other selected accommodation providers, enter the competition at the Niseko Promotion Board website and wait for your prize!

Book your Niseko accommodation with Niseko Powder Connection and go into the draw to win 100,000 Yen back on your accommodation booking!

Competition 1: Win free accommodation!

Book your Niseko Management Company accommodation with Niseko Powder Connection and go into the draw to win 100,000 Yen back on your booking! Prizes will be drawn on 30th November 2009.

Conditions: *Bookings from overseas residents only. *Bookings made for 1 December, 2009 – 31 March, 2010 (check-in dates) *Block out dates include bookings for 24 December, 2009-3 January, 2010 and 13-16 February 2010. *Check with the accommodation directly for other block out dates.

Book your Niseko accommodation and 3 lucky winners will win 100,000 Yen cash on their arrival at check-in in Niseko!

Competition 2: Weekly lucky draw!

Book your Niseko accommodation and 3 lucky winners will win 100,000 Yen cash on their arrival at check-in in Niseko!

See the accommodation pages for a list of accommodation providers in Niseko.
Drawn once a month on the last day of every month from September - November 2009.

Conditions: *Bookings made for 1 December, 2009 – 31 March, 2010 (check-in dates) *Bookings made from 1 to 30 September are drawn on the last day of September. *Bookings made from 1 September to 31 October are drawn on the last day of October. *Bookings made from 1 September to 30 November drawn on the last day of November.

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

This week at J-Sekka

2009-09-10T11:20:00.003+09:00

This Week's Sandwich Set
今週のサンドウィッチセット
Roast lamb, spinach & beetroot on rye bun; available from Thursday ~ Sunday from 10am. Includes soft drink or coffee for 1000yen.
今週の木曜日から日曜日の朝１０時スタートのサンドウィッチセットはライバンの間にローストラム、ほうれん草、ビートルートがサンドされています。
ソフトドリンクかコーヒー付きで１０００円ですよ。

There's a few glasses of Schwarz that need to be cleared out before getting ready for the new Otaru Seasonal beer, the Fest Beer, which comes out next week. 300ml draft Schwarz beer will be offered at 250yen this weekend until we finish the keg.
来週新しい季節のビールがセッカにきますが、その前に。。。セッカではあと少しだけ残っている”シュワルツ”を早い者勝ちで３００mlを２５０円で飲みませんか！売り切れ終了なので無くなってしまったらごめんなさいね。

2 new faces join the J-Sekka team this week.
新しいスタッフが２名はいりました

Shaun worked with Kim at Sailor's Thai for 2 years before again working with both Kim & Kat at Parrot Cay in the Bahamas for a further 1.5 years. He comes over to Niseko after a nice little break in Mexico and after only seeing snow once before in Perisher, it is going to be an exciting season for him! Shaun will be captain of the ship in the Cafe kitchen.
ショーンはキムと一緒にセイラーズタイで２年間仕事をしており、パロットキーではキムとキャットと１年半仕事をしていました。メキシコで少しの間生活をしていたのですが、先週ニセコに移り住みました。彼はなんと今までに１度しか雪をみたことがないので、今回ニセコの雪にはびっくりしそう！ショーンはカフェ、キッチンのシェフとしてこれから仕事をします。

Michelle has been in Hokkaido for 5 years. In her previous job for the Hokkaido Government she was the co-ordinator for International Relations. She is at J-Sekka to try her co-ordinator skills on running the Cafe / Deli. A bit of a change in pace, with a massive influx of both staff and tourists in winter, but that's half the fun!
ミッシェルは５年間北海道におり、以前は北海道庁のインターナショナルリレーションのコーディネーターとして仕事をしていました。これからはカフェ/デリのコーディネターとして新しい仕事がまっています。以前とは違う仕事になりますが、冬には旅行者もくることですし、彼女の仕事も引きつがれる形になりそうですね！

A welcome addition to the team, keep an eye peeled for exciting upcoming events a J-Sekka and if you see them around, say "Konnichiwa" ...
もしもJ-Sekkaにきて彼らをみかけたらしっかりと”こんにちわ”と声をかけてあげてくださいね。

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

Film Nights at North Field Lodge

2009-09-10T11:10:00.004+09:00

North Field Lodge Film Nights are Thursday night. FREE desu! Movie starts at 8 pm.

Movie of the week is on the website http://www.north-field.jp/en

Here's a hint of what's on tonight ...

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

This week at J-Sekka

2009-09-03T14:52:00.004+09:00

This weeks sandwich set at J-Sekka, foccacia with eggplant pickle, sun-dried tomato, hummus and spinach. 1000yen with coffee or soft drink.

今週のJ-Sekkaのサンドウィッチはフォカッチャに茄子のピクルス、ドライトマトにハムとほうれん草をはさんだものです。１０００円でコーヒーかソフトドリンクがつきます。

Spag Bol is back ...　スパゲティーボロネーゼがもどってきた．．．

This week for Thursday night J-Sekka are bringing back the spaghetti bolognese !! Come and enjoy a big bowl of spag topped with Kim's home-made bolognese and parmesan cheese. All this for the unbeatable price of 600yen. Everyone is welcome ... They will also be offering pints of Otaru draft beer or a glass of red wine for 600yen.

　今週木曜日のスペシャルメニューはスパゲティーボロネーゼ！！キムがつくったハンドメイドのボロネーゼソースにパルメザンチーズをのせて召し上がれ。
　一杯６００円で食べれますよ。比羅夫、倶知安に住んでいる地元のみなさん、是非きてくださいね！また、小樽生ビールや赤ワインなど６００円ですよ。

J-Sekka's K-Series limited release cherries available now, and selling fast !!

J-Sekka’s signature K series cherry conserve is made in a process taking three days, using only Hokkaido’s finest ingredients; organic cherries from Nikki, beet sugar from Shibetsu and locally sourced lemons.
In a conserve the fruit stays in pieces suspended in syrup less thick but much richer than jam. Conserves are delicious to eat not only on toast or scones with butter, but as a topping on ice cream, yoghurt or over hot sponge or milk puddings, and of course as a filling for chiffon cakes or gateaux, they also make wonderful gifts.
Due to the care and effort involved only fifty numbered jars will be produced in August each year.
J -SekkaのKシリーズサクランボ砂糖漬けは北海道、仁木町の新鮮な有機栽培のさくらんぼを、士別のサトウキビや地元のレモンと一緒に三日間かけて作っています。
この砂糖漬けはフルーツがシロップにつけられており、そこまで重くなく、ジャムよりもリッチな食感が得られます。この商品はトーストやスコーンにつけてお召し上がりいただいてもおいしいのですが、アイスクリームやヨーグルト、また熱々のケーキスポンジやミルクプリンなどと一緒に召し上がっていただくとより一層お楽しみいただけます。

手作りのため、毎年８月に５０個限定販売とさせていただいています。

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

New NPC website!

2009-09-01T10:31:00.012+09:00

The new Niseko Powder Connection Website is now live! Take a look at http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

The NPC team have been working hard over the Niseko summer with web developer Katsuki and we're very proud of the finished product. The new website is full of useful information, beautiful images & brand new content and we've made it easier than ever for you to book your holidays to come skiing and snowboarding in Niseko.

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

We'd really like to get your feedback on the new website. Once you've had a good look, please leave a comment on this blog or on the NPC Facebook page at http://facebook.com/nisekopowder where you can also become a fan. If you like the website and want to get in touch with Katsuki, you can do so by sending an e-mail to info@katsuki.org or going to katsuki.org

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

We will be continually updating the content on the website and giving away free stuff over the coming months so make sure you keep coming back. To help celebrate the launch of the new site our friends at Armada skis and Rhythm Snowsports have shouted us a pair of Armada AR6 skis to give to one lucky NPC customer. Please visit the website for more details http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

Niseko Cycle Week 2009

2009-08-31T10:32:00.008+09:00

Niseko Cycle Week 2009 kicked off yesterday, August 30, and promises to be bigger and better than last year. This year the events schedule has been fine-tuned and will also see the introduction of more non-cycling events including live music, kids activities and so forth... all with the goal of increasing the level of participation and promoting the entire Niseko area as a whole.

Adding to the broader aims of last year's event to create awareness of Niseko as a cycling and green season destination, this year Niseko Cycle Week hopes to help improve the cycle infrastructure and services in Niseko, to promote clean, active lifestyle and health awareness, and contribute to the notion of environmental sustainability through the use of bicycles rather than automobiles.

As part of the week, local residents will be encouraged to participate in a ‘ride to work’ day.

This year's event schedule will see...

downhill events
cross country events
road riding events

There will be something for the whole family, all set upon the spectacular green summer backdrop of Niseko.

For a full schedule of events go to http://www.nisekocycleweek.com/events

http://www.niseko-hirafu.com

Niseko River Festival

2009-08-28T10:28:00.003+09:00

Don't forget the Niseko River Festival takes place today from 4pm under the St. Moritz Bridge. Have fun & support the local community! http://bit.ly/43wnoe

www.niseko-hirafu.com

This week at J-Sekka

2009-08-27T16:09:00.007+09:00

This weeks 1000yen Lunch Set 今週の１０００円ランチセット
Ham, cheese, tomato & mustard all on a fresh baguette. Get this with a coffee or soft drink available Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10am exclusively for friends of Sekka at ¥1000.

ハム、チーズ、トマトそしてマスタードが入った新鮮なバゲットと、コーヒーかソフトドリンク付きで１０００円！木曜日、金曜日、土曜日そして日曜日の朝１０時からスタート！

Thursday Night it's Ebi Burgers 木曜日の夜は”エビバーガー”
This Thursday from 6pm it's ebi, or shrimp, or prawn - whatever you like to call the sweet little crustacean ... and they're all fried up and in a soft white bun. Kim will be knocking up a little mango & chili salsa which will be keeping the little ebi company with a blanket of lettuce. They're 600yen a pop, and all night the Otaru draft beer will be flowing at 600yen a pint.

今週木曜日の６時からはエビ、エビ、エビが大集合！サクッと揚ったエビがソフトなホワイトパンに包まれています。キムが作ったマンゴとチリサルサソースをレタスと一緒にバーガーに加えれば言う事なし！！バーガーは６００円、そして小樽ビールも大きいサイズを６００円で提供！

Introducing J-Sekka's request-a-sandwich. Is there something you would like to see on a sandwich, something you haven't been able to find in Japan? To toast or not to toast? No mayo for Paul, lot's of veggies for Kal, beef cheek for CJ. Let the J-Sekka guys know how you like yours and it may feature as an upcoming sandwich of the week at J-Sekka. Please e-mail your thoughts / ideas to Kat at kat@j-sekka.com and she will do her best to try and make you the perfect sandwich !!

セッカでは”リクエストサンドウィッチ”を行います。今まで日本で探す事のできなかったサンドウィッチはありませんか？それとも食べてみたいサンドウィッチはありますか？ポールにはマヨネーズ抜き、キャルにはベジタブルをたっぷり、CJには牛のホホ肉サンドを．．．などなど、自分が食べてみたいなと思ったサンドウィッチをセッカにE-mailでリクエストをください。あなたの名前がサンドウィッチにつくかも！」たとえば、今週のランチは”ミチコサンドウィッチ”なんて感じに・・・！！

www.niseko-hirafu.com

Coming soon ...

2009-07-28T12:48:00.006+09:00

The new NPC website will be going live next week! Keep your eyes and ears peeled for updates.

In the meantime, check out the most recent NPC newsletter and let us know what you think:

http://niseko-hirafu.com/newsletter/2009/07/

All feedback welcomed.

www.niseko-hirafu.com

Robots coming to a ski hill near you

2009-07-22T10:27:00.007+09:00

Researchers in Japan have created a robot to explore the kinetic motions involved in skiing! Check out this article which includes some funky videos

http://www.botjunkie.com/2009/07/21/robot-to-help-humans-ski-better/

So give it a few years and robots might have taken the place of ski instructors! What else could robots do to improve your local ski resort? Can you envision skiing next to a robot in Niseko or Hakuba? Or would that be the beginning of the end?!

www.niseko-hirafu.com

New Suiboku Website

2009-07-16T16:23:00.010+09:00

Suiboku is the new benchmark in luxury property in Niseko, designed to be a destination that will be enjoyed by you and your family and friends. Brilliantly designed and sumptuously appointed. The new Suiboku website is now live. Take a look and immerse yourself in the world where industrial aesthetic is tempered throughout with warmth and character emanating from uncontrived materials and luxurious Japanese accents:

http://suibokuhirafu.com

http://suibokuhirafu.com

Now taking Suiboku bookings for Winter Season 2009/10
Enjoy your Niseko holiday
www.niseko-hirafu.com

J-Sekka food & drinks

2009-07-16T13:21:00.008+09:00

J-Sekka will be offering locals 500ml Otaru draft beers for ¥600 tonight after football (around 7pm onwards) and ¥600 kebabs filled with chicken, hummus, lettuce, tomato & either J-Sekka's BBQ sauce or their fiery chili sauce to go with the beer. They'll be open most of the night so if the lights are on, stop by.

Otaru Beers

Wide variety of foods

Here's a map

www.niseko-hirafu.com

Global Economic Growth?

2009-07-07T15:49:00.002+09:00

According to Australia's Reserve Bank Governor Glenn Stevens, “The global economy is stabilizing. Downside risks to the outlook have diminished, with conditions in global financial markets improving this year.” http://bit.ly/Lh76j

Lake Toya

2009-06-30T17:06:00.008+09:00

For those lucky enough to live or visit Hokkaido in the summer months, Lake Toya (Toyako) is a great place to visit as a day trip. Even better if you can stay a couple of nights. Lake Toya is part of the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Besides the lake itself, the Toyako region features hot springs and an active volcano, Mt. Usu, which most recently erupted in 2000. The area also offers fishing, hiking, and camping opportunities.

The picturesque lake was chosen as the location of the the G8 summit which Japan hosted in July, 2008. The leaders of the world's eight major industrialized democracies met at the Windsor Hotel Toya Resort & Spa.

The NPC team headed to Toyako last week for a break from the office. It was a great chance to get together away from work and go bowling, drink beer and eat great food whilst enjoying the stunning scenery all around.

After a relaxing onsen and a superb dinner we got to watch a very impressive firework display which is put on every night from the middle of the lake.
One of the sightseeing ferries gets all dressed up in lights and takes people out closer to the action.

And if that all sounds a bit too slow paced, there's always the option of drinking and singing through to the early hours in one of the town's many karaoke bars!

1st Annual Niseko Spring Charity Golf Classic

2009-06-11T14:41:00.003+09:00

The 1st Annual Niseko Spring Charity Golf Classic, held last weekend, was considered a great success, raising close to 300,000yen for good causes. Playing the Texas Scramble format of the game, 10 teams of 4 players competed for the best overall score with plenty of individual prizes also available on various holes for such heroic feats as longest drive or closest to the pin.
After the golf and a relaxing soak in the onsen the players were joined by family, friends and adoring fans for a barbeque in Niseko Village's Pure area. Many of those involved then had the strength and determination to carry on to Black Diamond Lodge were the party continued until the early hours of next day. Now that the hangovers have cleared I'm sure everyone who took part or helped out will look back on the day as a really fun way to raise money for worthy causes. Let's hope this is the first year of many that the Niseko Spring Charity Golf Classic is held.

For a more extensive write up of the day and lists of prizes and winners, check out the report in Powderlife: http://bit.ly/15ArIl

Grant from Gaijin Golfers came up from Tokyo for the event and played on the Niseko Village Golf Course for the first time. You can read what he thought here: http://bit.ly/soIob

www.niseko-hirafu.com

Niseko Accommodation Discount

2009-06-10T10:25:00.008+09:00

NPC is offering 10% discount on all Winter Season 09/10 accommodation in Niseko to all NisekoPowder followers on Twitter. To follow Niseko Powder Connection on Twitter go to www.twitter.com/nisekopowder and join the conversation.

Then simply make a quote online at http://www.niseko-hirafu.com and book your holiday before the end of June 2009.

Niseko Landmark View Apartments

Setsugetsu Terraces

J-Sekka

Suiboku

Shinrin Lodge

www.niseko-hirafu.com

Niseko Cuisine

2009-06-03T12:29:00.009+09:00

'Known for its pristine ski fields, Hokkaido is more than just a winter escape. Japan’s northernmost island is also home to renowned seafood, chic restaurants, casual ramen joints and lively bars.'

Check out this interesting and fairly comprehensive article on eating and drinking in Hokkaido from Australian Magazine Delicious including great reviews of restaurants & bars in Niseko & Sapporo http://bit.ly/z2s5e

I say fairly comprehensive in that the writers managed to leave out the lively Wild Bill's in Niseko, a favourite among visitor and locals alike, home of the best Tex Mex food and Mojitos in Hokkaido.

www.niseko-hirafu.com

Blizzard of Oz

2009-05-30T19:33:00.001+09:00

"Coming to Niseko is like Japan for beginners," one ski instructor tells me.

"You can get by here with no Japanese at all, but if you want, you can also try to speak Japanese, avoid Australians and have a cultural experience. It's up to the tourist here - in other places you're thrown in at the deep end."

Click this link to read more http://lru.jp/qx77

Jam

2009-05-29T11:09:00.002+09:00

Jam Cafe opens on June 1st with a fantastic looking menu. Hours 1100-1600. Jam Bar will be open again July, August, September 1900-2400

Northern Exposures

2009-05-26T14:58:00.002+09:00

Get a feel for Sapporo, Otaru, Noboribetsu & Aomori with these images http://ping.fm/l6h0M

Summer Activities

2009-05-19T12:08:00.005+09:00

Niseko is a great place to spend time in the summer and with the temperatures rising each day this week and expected to hit 25°C by Thursday, thoughts have rapidly been turning towards summer activities. Two of the most popular outdoor activities during the Niseko summer are rafting and golf.

There are many rafting companies to choose from including NAC, NOASC, SAS & Lion Adventures. Most rafting in this area takes place on the Shiribetsu river. In spring time the water level in the river is higher, due to the snow melting, which makes for a more exciting ride. Water levels are lower in the summer giving a more relaxing tour that is suitable for the whole family, allowing you to take in the beautiful views and scenery as you paddle by.

If you prefer to stay on dry land and enjoy playing golf then this part of Japan has plenty of fantastic courses to try out. Niseko Golf Course, Niseko Village Course and Niseko Tokyu Course are some of the most popular choices. There is even a season pass available this summer which gives you unlimited rounds on the Niseko Village Course and Niseko Golf Course:
http://lru.jp/37bm
See you in the clubhouse!

Below are a couple of recent photos to whet your appetite by local photographer Glen Claydon.

Spring rafting on the Shiribetsu river

Niseko Village Golf Course

For more GCP images check out http://glenclaydon.com/

Ski Industry Leaders told to 'keep the boomers happy'

2009-05-18T11:35:00.002+09:00

Warning that the ski industry is in for game-changing generational shifts in its marketplace:
http://lru.jp/myjm

Favourite restaurant in Niseko area closed

2009-05-18T11:18:00.002+09:00

Sad news. Le Cochon, arguably the best restaurant in the Niseko area, has closed down. Located in Kutchan's main restaurant area, Le Cochon was a favourite among Niseko locals and visitors alike.
http://lru.jp/wt37

Green Season

2009-05-12T17:05:00.002+09:00

Season changes from white to green in Niseko
http://lru.jp/gm38

Children's Day こどもの日

2009-05-06T17:14:00.010+09:00

The 5th May in Japan is Kodomo no Hi, or Children's Day. It is a national holiday that makes up part of the Golden Week holidays and is a day for celebrating children's happiness. In the weeks building up to this day, many people and businesses across the country hang koinobori - carp streamers - from houses and other buildings.

The hot spring town of Jozankei, between Niseko and Sapporo, has a large number of koinobori raised between many of the hotels in the resort area.

Many of the koinobori are raised on long wires that are secured to hotels on either side of the river

キロロ

2009-04-28T16:33:00.011+09:00

After recent snow in the area the word went out that best conditions were to be found at キロロ ski resort, a 45min drive from Niseko Hirafu, where over a foot of snow greeted drivers in the car park yesterday. So today, a day late(!), the NPC team threw the boards and boots in the back of the van, picked up local photographer Mike Pow and headed out to see what treats late April had in store.

It has to be said, conditions were pretty damn good. Snow may not have been premium peak season quality but there was plenty of fresh, enough that the trees were all white despite the warm sunshine, and we got fresh lines from first lifts until the time we left. A little grabby lower down but super soft up top with bottomless turns through the trees. Pretty good for the 28th April!

Oli and Jeff about to head down into the valley

Snow covered trees

Mike Pow setting up the camera

Jeff getting ready to launch off a cliff to the left

View of Mt. Yotei from the road back home

View of the Niseko resorts from the same spot

A closer view of the Niseko resorts with Weiss to the right and Mt. Iwao sticking up in between

Oxen pulling skiers uphill

2009-04-22T17:33:00.002+09:00

China's ski industry slows to take a breath http://lru.jp/txyd

Helmets required

2009-04-22T17:20:00.002+09:00

Vail Ski Resorts have decided to make it a requirement that all 6,500 employees wear helmets on its slopes http://lru.jp/sb76
Is this something you would like to see happen in and around Niseko?

Body of missing skier found

2009-04-16T10:34:00.000+09:00

Link to article in the Brisbane Times reporting that the body of the Australian skier Scott McKay, who disappeared in Niseko on February 20th, has been found:
http://lru.jp/75eo

Lunch at Hirafu Fleur

2009-03-23T10:29:00.005+09:00

Had lunch at Hirafu Fleur the other day with some friends. Next to us were two Shinto priests in full traditional dress, eating noodles. They were also watching the World Baseball Classic game between Japan and Korea - on a mobile telephone....

It was set up between them, the screen slid sideways to give it a landscape view, a small antenna poking out of the top.

Only in Japan..