SO, what do you do if you think that the quiet resort of Moiwa is too crowded? There is the single chairlift resort, Chisenupuri, 15-minutes past Moiwa – though to get the best out of this small resort, you really should hike to the peak as the resort area is a little flat.
The same problem exists at Niseko Weiss. If you aren’t fazed by the prospect of a long day snowshoeing/skinning up mountains, there are plenty of peaks in the immediate area available to hike.
The smart money is to go with a guide that is familiar with the area to make sure you get out safely. If you don’t mind spending the extra cash for the best experience, the prospect of cat skiing is hard to beat; fresh lines without the work.
Photo: Glen Claydon