The Niseko Summer - Enjoying the great outdoors the Niseko way

Summer in Niseko is the outdoor enthusiasts dream. As the landscape changes and the local farmers get about sowing their crops, other people are getting ready for the summer ahead.

Niseko is world famous in Japan for the outdoors and is known for its milder summers where temperatures rarely make 30 degrees Celsius and sit comfortably around the mid-twenties during the day and high teens at night, making it a popular destination for Tokyoites, Osakians and the likes who have to live with temperatures in the mid-thirties.

Adventure companies offer a myriad of activities from rafting, duckying and kayaking tours on the Shirebetsu River to mountain biking and rock climbing while other activities include wake boarding, hand gliding, camping and fishing* to name just a few.

If taking to the river appeals and it is your first time then rafting is the way to go. A boat of eager first timers and even long time rafters accompanied by an experienced guide is a great way to test the water. Once you have your confidence up then a ducky or kayak allows you to take control adding a whole new dimension to the fun. There are many companies in the "Niseko" area that can get you on the water for around 6000yen, just turn up!

Mountain biking is also another great summer activity on offer and you can either take a tour or rent a bike to hit the trails. Both Annupuri and Hirafu now open there gondolas in the summer months for the down-hiller. But if riding cross-country is your thing then you won't be disappoint by just hitting the trails and and checking out the Hokkaido great outdoors, an amazing greenery you'll never forget.

Golfing is very accesible in the Niseko area and there are 5 course all pretty close to Hirafu with dozens more in close proximity. Golfing in Hokkaido is fairly inexpensive and those stories of old that it cost an arm and a leg for a round in Japan are unfounded in Niseko. Park golf, the Japanese mini putt equivalent, is a great game for all the family. The difference from mini putt lies in the fact you actually tee off with an over sizes wood and then putt on the green, a kind of real golf mini putt hibrid.

For the tennis lover tennis courts are almost as common as combini so do forget you rackets. Tennis courts range in price from 600yen or free if you are in the know.

Finally hiking should not be left out of the mix as Mt. Yotei stands beckoning to be hiked and is one hike that should be done in winter and summer as it gives commanding views of the surrounding area. Other shorter hikes include Mt. Annupuri, Mt. Iwaonupuri and Mt.Nitonupuri. The later two starting from Gosshiki Onsen on the backside of Mt. Annupuri.

So next time you think Niseko snow snow snow think again and think snow snow snow and green green green and you will have a better picture of what Niseko is. Just remember it only snows here for 6 months of the year!

*this list is not complete and it must be noted that nearly any summer activity can be found in the Niseko area or close by.