Head into Sapporo and witness giant multi-story snow sculptures and intricate ice carvings of everything from cartoon characters to sacred temples, ice slides to giant animals. Japan's biggest and most famous annual snow festival takes over the centre of Sapporo at the beginning of February every year. Oh, and don't bring food – there are plenty of street stalls to sample.
Skybus runs day tours from Niseko for those who want a day off the slopes. For more details go to www.Skybus.co.jp.