AS we approach the middle of the season, it has become apparent that the shift towards growing numbers of Asian visitors to Niseko is a firm reality. Australians were the initial impetus for the globalisation of Niseko, but with the current weakness of the Australian dollar, Asian visitors are beginning to make their presence felt.
AS we approach the middle of the season, it has become apparent that the shift towards growing numbers of Asian visitors to Niseko is a firm reality. Australians were the initial impetus for the globalisation of Niseko, but with the current weakness of the Australian dollar, Asian visitors are beginning to make their presence felt. As the Chinese, Hong Kong, Singaporean and Malaysian currencies have not decreased in value to the same extent as the Australian dollar, the Asian visitors have more spending muscle, and have been flexing it on the streets of Niseko. Restaurants are generally still very well patronised, and lift ticket sales are on par with previous years.
As most Asian visitors are beginners in the skiing stakes, more advanced level skiers and boarders have been enjoying fresh tracks in their favourite powder stashes for longer than in previous seasons. Stories are circulating around town about skiers and boarders still getting fresh tracks just off the piste at four in the afternoon – which is generally unheard of – harking back to a Niseko of old. Freshies at last light and later, where else in the world can you get that?
In this issue we take a look at a true Hokkaido highlight, the Shiretoko ice floes, an experience so awe-inspiring we felt it needed a full feature just to do it justice. We also offer an education into how to survive if you are lost in Niseko’s backcountry, look forward to Sapporo’s world-famous snow festival, and also Kutchan’s own Yukitopia (snow festival). The increasingly popular Stirling Goldman has graced us with his presence again, and we’ve got another great selection of photos, plus all your favourite regulars.
We at Powderlife wish you yet another fortnight of long tracks and deep powder.
Kristian Lund, Powderlife Managing Editor [email protected]