IN what is a first for Japan, Hanazono ski resort this season opened its covered magic carpet lifts in a bid to cater for families and beginner skiers and boarders.

With three belt lifts in total, ranging from 60m to 125m in length, the magic carpets are pretty hard to miss – long, tunnel-like conveyor belt lifts that link

THE amazing snowfall Niseko receives attracts thousands of international tourists to the area, but when they arrive, they realise Niseko is so much more than just a ski hill.

There's a rich culture, warm hospitality, amazing cuisine, vibrant nightlife and an endless range of unique activities to experience. Whether you want

The Alpen Hotel has a pet penguin and a whole farm yard of exotic animals for kids to play with. If you’ve never seen an emu or a llama in the snow, head up to the Mate Kids Park behind the hotel. There’s also a goat, ducks and a mini-pig. You can touch and feed the animals and get your photo taken with them. Entry is ¥500 and kids