THIS is my first issue of Powderlife as Editor. In the two months that I’ve worked for Powderlife, I’ve managed to meet some incredible people that call Niseko home.
Some have lived here for years and others for only a few months.
The people that shape our community are important to Powderlife. It’s evident in each issue from the last three winter seasons. We’ve profiled everyone from local heroes and pioneering developers to those who are here only for a weeklong winter holiday. This issue I had the privilege of speaking to Niseko Town resident, café owner and founding member of the Jyuugobaa cooking group, Yuko Matsuda. She’s very much a part of the area and her insightful philosophy on preserving culture and Japanese food traditions can be found on p.19. Matsuda-san met her husband at Yamada Onsen (Hirafu) and moved here 27 years ago. Like a lot of people, it was skiing that brought her to Niseko.
Towards the end of November and start of December, the streets of Hirafu really started to liven with seasonal workers moving here to experience their own Niseko winter. It’s good to see fresh faces in awe of Mount Yotei, in love with the idiosyncrasies of Japanese culture and ready to take on the light and fluffy powder snow. As one of the snowiest resorts in the world, each one of us is sure to get a few perfect powder days. Most locals are predicting a busy season in terms of visitors to the area. A lot of companies are reporting that bookings are up and they have had to hire more staff. Speaking of staff – Kris, Chika, Bevan, Paul, Ross, Kisato and Kayoko – thanks for helping put together a great first issue for the 10/11 season. Here’s to the many powder days ahead!
Lizzy Hoo, Powderlife, Managing Editor, email [email protected]