HIROSHIMA & HOKKIADO
THE ASIAN SERIES PT17
From the haunting history of Hiroshima to the legendary powder snow of Niseko, this leg of the Asian Series covers two very different sides of Japan. After a few days exploring one of the country’s most significant cities, I headed north to meet the family for some of the best skiing and snowmobiling in Niseko, Japan’s Hokkaido island. Two destinations, one unforgettable trip.
A Stop in Hiroshima: History, Food, and the Peace Memorial
I arrived in Hiroshima and was due to spend a few days here before heading up north to meet the family. This city interested me for two reasons: the food and the history.
YOU HEAR EVERYTHING BUT SEE NO FURTHER THAN A FEW METRES
In 1945 two Atomic bombs were dropped in Japan, one in Nagasaki and the other here in Hiroshima killing almost 400,000 people. Until now they remain the only nuclear weapons used in armed conflict.
WHERE IS NISEKO?
Skiing & Snowmobiles in Niseko
Hardly Believed Hiroshima Peace Memorial Survived the Atomic Bomb
One of the few buildings to remain was the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, which has since been renamed the Peace Memorial, and is a clear reminder of where Japan came from. The bombs all but ended the war, and Japan agreed to sign a surrender. Without the memorial, I wouldn’t have known there was ever a bomb dropped here.
Heading to Hokkaido to Reunite with Family and Travel to Niseko
The best skiing in Asia is without doubt in Hokkaido, Japan’s northern island. The powder here is like none other and the secret that has so far been kept from Europe is slowly getting out. I surprised my parents and sister in Tokyo when they arrived in Tokyo airport and then made our way to our flight in Sapporo where we would stay a night before getting the bus to Niseko.
Staying at the Hilton Turned Out to Be the Best Decision
We decided to stay at the Hilton, purely because it allowed for ski in, sky out and didn’t want to waste anytime in catching a bus. The hotel was perfect and the facilities were great. Anytime I’ve gone skiing I’ve always chosen a cheap hotel with a good location, there’s never any need to pay over the odds for somewhere you are really only using for a sleep. However, as the parties here are not yet at the level of the ones in Europe we knew investing in a better hotel was a good call.
Download the SkiJapan.com App
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First things first, download the app, available on Android or iOS.It’s very handy to have and has all the information you will need, including updates on current conditions, ski lifts, maps, and transport. It’s very typical of the Japanese!
My Time in Niseko Was All About Power and Ramen
When it comes to powder, there are few places that rival Niseko in the world, let alone in Asia. Niseko is famous for it’s fresh snow and is the only thing you can guarantee, besides Ramen of course!
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Skiing & Snowmobiles in Niseko
A Peaceful End-of-Season Atmosphere in Niseko
We arrived at the end of March which is near the end of their season so it was very quiet. In fact so quiet that the longest queue at a ski lift I had in the 5 days was only 5 people. This obviously has it’s benefits but it does have it’s downfalls. The Après Ski was nearly none existent at times but we just put that down to a mix of things. The fact it was end of season and that a drinking culture doesn’t exist here in the same way it does at home.
ACTIVITIES:
The joy of Niseko is the opportunity to do so manty other activities than just skiing.
- Snowshoe tour
- Spa
- Snowmobiling
- Tobaganing
- Rafting
- Climb Mt Yotei
Five Days of Quiet Slopes with Views of Mt Yotei
We had 5 days skiing here and as we had the slopes to ourselves we managed to fit in more skiing than anyother trip I’ve been on. It was almost as if it wasn’t real at time, like it was your own private ski resort. What made it extra special was the constant view of Mt Yotei, what many people think resembles Mt Fiji!
Skiing & Snowmobiles in Niseko
Snowmobiling Adventure Begins!!
To break up the skiing we signed up to a snowmobile tour at out hotel. None of us have been on these machines before so were keen to give it a go.
Anyone is capable to do the tour as we only go as fast as the slowest person (I’ll not mention any names). At times it was a little timid but once we reaches an open area we were able to have a proper go. The guide was also happy to switch machines and after getting used to my own, his was a completely different level! I didn’t think it was possible for something to be so powerful on snow! If you are here for any longer than 4 days, I recommend this as a good way to spilt your week up.
Skiing & Snowmobiles in Niseko
Skiing & Snowmobiles in Niseko
FINAL THOUGHTS
Are you tired of the same old skiing and atmosphere in Europe or America then be sure to think about Niseko. It doesn’t have the insane Après Ski of the former but it tops the bill with great good, epic off-piste adventures and friendly locals to boot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Niseko considered one of the best ski destinations in the world?
From my experience, Niseko stands out because of its unbelievable powder snow. The fresh snow conditions were some of the best I’ve ever skied on, and combined with the scenery and quiet slopes, it felt completely different from skiing in Europe.
Is Niseko good for beginners and families?
Yes, I found Niseko great for all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner, an experienced skier, or travelling with family, there are plenty of runs, activities, and relaxed areas to enjoy together.
What was it like staying at the Hilton Niseko Village?
Staying at the Hilton turned out to be one of the best decisions of the trip for me. The ski-in, ski-out access made everything much easier, and the hotel facilities were perfect after long days on the slopes.
What activities can you do in Niseko besides skiing?
During my time in Niseko, I also tried snowmobiling, which turned out to be of of the trip’s highlights. There are also activities like snowshoeing, rafting, spas, tobogganing, and climbing Mount Yotei.
Is snowmobiling in Niseko worth trying?
I would definitely recommend it, especially if you are staying for several days. None of us had tried snowmobiling before, but once we got comfortable on the machines, it became an unforgettable experience.
When is the best time to visit Niseko for skiing?
I visited at the end of March, which was quieter because it was close to the end of the season. The slopes were almost empty, which made skiing incredible, although the après-ski atmosphere was much calmer.
What is Hiroshima known for besides its history?
While Hiroshima is deeply connected to the history of the atomic bomb, I was also surprised by how much I enjoyed the food scene there. Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki quickly became one of my favourite meals in Japan.
NEXT UP
After another few days eating and skiing we made our way back to Tokyo to continue our Japanese adventure! Click to read.
SAFE TRAVELS, DS x
33/229
This episode is part of The Asian Series. Click to view episode1.
Question Time
- Have you been to Niseko?
- Did you enjoy the skiing?
- Was it busy?
- Where is your favourite ski destination?
Let me know in the comments below . . .
