Ski Japan: Skiing 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 from Whistler to Chamonix. Ultimately the 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 much much more!

Ski Resorts are scattered all over Hokkaido and many offer world class facilities, terrain and conditions. Resort areas such as Niseko have recently found popularity with some of the worlds most discerning powder hounds and lesser known areas such as Furano and Rusutsu are also making their mark on the world powder map. These resorts are also increasingly catering to the needs of the traveling powder fiend, providing accommodation for all budgets from low end backpackers to high end rooms in 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. It is Hokkaido's highest peak standing at 2290m and an active volcano with an incredible moonscape complete with gushing steam vents.Amongst the breathtaking scenery you will find 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 an experience not to be missed. Asahidake is approximately a one hour drive from Hokkaido's second largest city Asahikawa. 

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 bottomless 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 you'll never forget and a decision easily made.