Irasshaimase (welcome)

One of the most popular sections of Powderlife is ‘Irasshaimase’, the cry meaning ‘welcome’ that staff in Japanese businesses greet their customers with.

In each issue of Powderlife, Irasshaimase took a look behind the scenes of great little local businesses – the origins of its owners, the motivations behind what they do, and most importantly, what makes their product so good. So often their incentive is not huge profit but a genuine desire to serve their customers as best as possible, even if it means turning business away.

With that spirit in mind we bring you the unsung heroes of Niseko… Irasshaimase!!

Rakuichi Soba, Annupuri

Rakuichi regulars might be a little disappointed we're exposing this hidden Annupuri gem, but it's just too good not to, and we wanted more foreign visitors to Niseko to experience this fantastic little piece of genuine Japan. Rakuichi is one of the best soba (buckwheat noodle) restaurants in the region. It's in a small unmarked wooden house set back on the block of land on the corner of the road up to Annupuri. Upon entry you'll be welcomed warmly by owners Tatsuru and Midori Rai, Midori in a beautiful Kimono and Tatsuru in traditional Japanese chef's attire.

You'll need to learn some basic Japanese - there's no English menu. If you're going without a Japanese speaker, stick to hot (atatakai) or cold (tsumetai). There are other slight variations but save it for when you're with someone who can read the menu. Tatsuru grinds the buckwheat in a big black stone bowl in front of you before mixing it into a dough, flattening it out and using a large blade to cut each individual noodle while you watch. A fantastic cultural experience. Open for lunch 11am-3pm. Dinner bookings 0136 58 3170.

Today

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Tomorrow

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Thursday

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Powderlife Magazine

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Upcoming Niseko Events

5 Jan Sunday Sessions with Christian

Sunday Sessions with Christian Live Music from 8pm Free Entry

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5 Jan Ladies Night at Java Bar

Ladies Night. 1/2 price drinks 9-11pm for the ladies.

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6 Jan Juicy-Fried-Cchicken Eating Comp

To see who can stomach the 6 peices the fastest chicken 1000 yen pot winner takes all The Game is one peice of chicken followed by a 375ml can of beer if you spew your out first finished wins

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6 Jan Chillout Resort Night for Staff

Chillout Resort Night 300yen Beer for resort staff 8-9pm every Tuesday

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7 Jan Midweek Madness Nomihodi.

Midweek Madness Nomihodi 9-11pm 2000yen Beer and Basic Spirits Every Wednesday.

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8-9 Jan DIRTY LAUNDRY @ The Northern Fox

Dirty Laundry - one of the biggest DJ acts in Australia comes to Niseko for one night through the form of head DJ - Dean Cherney. Tickets 1000Yen on the door Limited numbers so ghet there early not to miss out.

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9-10 Jan Red bar beats party

Red bar and restaurant is located middle hirafu free shutle bus stop#4.We have every friday dj party by national and international djs. Red bar and Restuarant every day open for deliciuse netive neplease food. Where you will get realy test of spice. Come and visit once you will love it. See ya at red bar and restaurant.You will enjoy with frindly staff herein.

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10 Jan The Annual Capricorn Congregation

Time has come again for the annual Capricorn Congregation. Capricorns and friends; lets unite for this annual event to celebrate our birthdays in style! Saturday the 10th of january. From open, till late.

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