IT'S easy to get so wrapped up in the winter wonderment of Niseko that you forget all about common sense. Caution obviously needs to be considered while on the mountain, and certainly when outside the backcountry gates. However, tourists who visit Niseko from warmer, more familiar home climes often aren't aware that it’s worth considering

The Niseko United Ski Patrol is concerned about the number of people going out through the gates into the unpatrolled backcountry.

They say they would like to see about half as many people venturing outside the resort boundaries.

The Ski Patrol has asked Adam Streete, director of Shinsetsu Mountain Guides and former

A couple of chilly reminders to always exercise caution in the mountains, even inside ski resorts.

In two separate incidents at mainland resorts this month, two women died in an avalanche and seven snowboarders spent two nights lost before being found.

Police called the snowboarders discovery alive ‘a miracle’.

Not only is it stupidly dangerous, skiing on public roads could land you in trouble with the law.

“It’s an illegal act based on the road traffic regulations,” said Grand Hirafu public information manager Fumio Sato.

“If the police see you skiing on the road, they will stop you.”