After the snow melts a whole new world is revealed. The mountains and forests retain their ancient forms but take on an entirely different persona. Buckle up and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
To make the most of the Niseko region in summer you are well advised to hire a car. You can rent a Toyota which will get you from A to B, but from ¥10,000 (US$100) you can rent a convertible Porsche, BMW or Volkswagen Beetle and do it in serious style!
A snowball’s throw from Hirafu at the foot of Mt Yotei, Lake Hangetsu (Half Moon Lake) is one of the local marvels year round. In winter, it’s a popular snowshoeing destination, and in autumn the colours reflecting off the water are nothing short of spectacular. Meanwhile in summer, local triathlete Jess Ripper uses the lake to prepare for the open water swim at the world’s premier Ironman triathlon event in Kona, Hawaii towards the end of every year.
In winter the weather from Siberia buffets the western coastline of Hokkaido before dropping perfect powder snow on the resorts. In summer the rocky coastline that stands at the front line of the winter assault provides picturesque ocean vistas of turquoise blue water and unique cliff faces for brave local climbers like Izumi Uno (pictured).