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Ski Japan's Northern Island, Hokkaido
Deciding where to go for the ultimate winter vacation is never easy, after all the Northern Hemisphere abounds with tantalizing destinations and resorts large and small. In essence the ultimate goal is to ski or ride the deepest driest powder one can find and making the decision to ski Japan's northern island of Hokkaido is one few are disappointed by. In terms of light dry powder Hokkaido can't be beaten for depth or consistency and there is more!
Ski Resorts are scattered all over Hokkaido and many offer world class facilities, terrain and conditions and resort areas such as Niseko have recently found popularity with some of the worlds most discerning powder hounds. Lesser known areas such as Furano and Rusutsu are also making their mark on the world powder map and resort areas such as these are increasingly catering to the needs of the traveling powder fiend, providing accommodation for all budgets from low end backpackers to high end rooms at Hotels such as the Prince located at the base of Furano's Cable Car.
Only a couple of hours North East of Furano stands the mighty Asahidake. Hokkaido's tallest mountain standing at 2290m and an active volcano with an incredible moonscape complete with gushing steam vents. It is not only uniquely picturesque it also has fantastic skiing and riding especially for those with a back country inclination. This area is also home to superb natural hot springs or Onsens which are another experience not to be missed. It is approximately one hours drive from Hokkaido's second largest city Asahikawa, incidentally possibly the coldest city one will ever experience!
Hokkaido's largest city Sapporo with a population of 1.8 million is also home to world class resorts from the rustic Mt Teine to the bustling resort of Sapporo Kokusai both of which are located less than an hour from the city center. This begs the opportunity to not only ski Japan's seemingly unlimited well of powder but also to experience a wealth of culture. Although Sapporo is a far cry from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo it is a city experience unique to its self. Sapporo's manageable size makes it easy to negotiate and it teams with Sushi and Ramen restaurants, Izakaya's, Bars and Nite Clubs. The extraordinary thing about this city is that it functions in constant snowfall and you will often find your self striding through perfect powder on the way to the bar or restaurant!
Hokkaido is undisputedly one the greatest ski destinations in the world, it is an experience like no other and this article barely scratches the surface of what's on offer. It is home to ski areas that arguably have the most consistent snowfalls of any resorts in the world, so for those with a nose for powder and adventure it promises to be a vacation not forgotten and maybe even a decision easily made.
By Joel Westcot nisekosnow.net