FOR Niseko, you’ll be wanting to eschew the American skateboard/park-designed cambered twins that the marketing guys thrust upon you, and get something directional with some rocker – like the 145cm Rocket Fish.

AN award-winning snow movie made predominantly in and around Niseko last year has been carving its signature identity into film circles around the world.

LIKE Gentemstick's Taro Tamai, Dupraz's Serge Dupraz started his company to wrench snowboarding away from the grip skateboarding currently has on it, and bring it back to its surfing roots. Like Gentem, Dupraz's tagline is 'snowsurfing'. And for good reason. Ripping a turn in pow on a Dupraz will make you feel like throwing both arms up just like

THE Speedmaster is the best snowboard in the world. All right, all right, if you weigh over 80kg, live for riding powder through trees, and are not into riding switch, it’s the best board in the world. If you live for the park, mount your bindings in the middle of your board, love rails, spinning and riding fakey then it’s not for you

EVER been chauffer-driven to your restaurant by the very same person who brings you your food? Then been dropped home once you’re done? If not, then perhaps the Gentem Café, commonly known as the ‘Mongolian Tent’, could be worth a try.

The traditional Asian restaurant – along Route 343 on the outskirts

Although the international community is only just beginning to discover Niseko, among Japanese it’s been well known for a long time that Niseko is the best resort in the country. It’s no surprise that many of the nation’s best winter sports athletes have been attracted to the area to refine their skills. Although you may

A recent poll listed experiencing the local food as the main drawcard for 71% of tourists to Japan. But what ends up leaving the most lasting impression for so many is the Japanese people themselves. They’re impressed by their courtesy, consideration for other people and space, and in particular their absolute commitment to excellence.