JAPAN SKI & BOARD.

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1 SKI & BOARD JAPAN Ensure your expectations are always met. For Ski holidays to Japan, Canada, USA, Austria, France or Italy contact New Zealand s leading snow holiday experts!

2 What makes us different? Over 30 years of experience, exceptional resort knowledge, excellent value and a truly tailor made first class service are just a few reasons why so many clients choose repeatedly to use SKI TRAVEL SPECIALISTS. Only our experience helps us understand that every client is different so we ensure you get the best value from your holiday. Like you, we love skiing & boarding so we want to share our experiences and knowledge with you. We believe no other company in New Zealand can offer such a professional team of consultants who are solely dedicated to the sale of Snow Holidays. Each season we spend considerable time researching destinations around the world to discover the newest hotels and the latest resort developments. We make sure all our staff get firsthand experience skiing and boarding overseas every year so they can make sure you choose the best resort for your needs and get the best value from your ski holiday. In fact our Director takes her job very seriously, dedicating 4 weeks every January to update her knowledge on ski resorts and accommodation options. These are just some of the resorts we have visited and skied over the years... CANADA: Banff, Big White, Fernie, Kicking Horse, Kimberley, Lake Louise, Marmot Basin, Panorama, Revelstoke, Silver Star, Sun Peaks, Sunshine Village, Whistler / Blackcomb. USA: Alta, Aspen, Beaver Creek, Big Sky, Breckenridge, Canyons, Copper Mountain, Crested Butte, Deer Valley, Heavenly, Jackson Hole, Keystone, Mammoth Mountain, Moonlight Basin, Mt Hood, Mt Bachelor, Park City, Steamboat, Sun Valley, Snowbird, Solitude, Squaw Creek, Telluride, Vail, Winter Park. JAPAN: Furano, Niseko, Sahoro, Rusutsu, Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen & Shiga Kogen. KOREA: Yong Pyong. FRANCE: Avoriaz, Chamonix, Courchevel, La Rossiere, La Plagne, Le Graves, Les Arcs, Les Houches, Megeve, Meribel, Morzine, Peisey Vallandry, Serre Chevalier, St Foy, Tignes, Val d Isere, Valmorel, Val Thorens. ITALY: Arabba, Cervinia, Cortina, Courmeyeur, Dolomites, La Thuile. SWITZERLAND: Crans Montana, Les Gets, Morgins, St Moritz, Verbier, Zermatt. AUSTRIA: Igls, Innsbruck, Kitzbühel, Lech, St Anton, Seefeld, Solden, Zell am See. SOUTH AMERICA: Bariloche, Las Lenas, Ushuaia (Cerro Castor). FLEXIBLE PRICING: You ll find our pricing structure is flexible too as we provide a tailor made quote at the time of your enquiry, to ensure you reap all the rewards of the most accurate exchange rate and any special offers that may be available. The pricing guide in our supplement illustrates costs for 7 night packages with a 6 day ski pass, plus airport transfers, based on a set number of Adults travelling. This is purely to give you an indication of costs. Your own proposal will be based around your exact requirements and will allow for any children or senior rates. ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS: We offer a wide variety of accommodation including economy hotels, self contained apartments and condominiums through to 4 & 5 star luxury resort hotels. We have selected the most popular properties from some of our key ski resorts for this brochure. If you are unsure which property will best suit your holiday needs, our experienced team will be able to guide you through the options available. 2

3 Practical Information ACCOMMODATION Staying in Japan gives you the opportunity to experience some of the local culture and what better way than to stay in a traditional family run pension. At many of the hotels and pensions you may select a room with either Japanese or western style bedding. By Western standards most hotel rooms in Japan are very small and most bathrooms are simple capsule style as Japanese much prefer to use the hotel Onsen for bathing. PENSIONS certainly offer some of the cheapest accommodation options however please keep in mind these are small family run homes and often the owners speak very little English. Some have twin rooms with an en-suite bathroom but most only offer shared bathroom facilities down the hall. JAPANESE rooms are traditional rooms with tatami-mats on the floor. Shoes are taken off at the entrance hall and tatami mats are stepped on with bare feet. Bedding (Futons) are laid out and packed away by housekeeping on a daily basis and slippers are provided to be only worn inside the room. The number of mats on the floor measures the size of a Japanese style room. Each tatami-mat is around 2 sq. metres. WA YO rooms are a mixture of Japanese rooms with tatami mats but with western bedding. These are usually more spacious than standard western rooms so can suit families with small children. WESTERN STYLE The majority of Japanese ski resort hotels and lodges offer their rooms with single beds with only a few of the upper end hotels offering double beds. (Many of the double bed options are also located on the smoking floors). Rooms will vary in size depending on your budget and range from approximately 20sqm through to 50sqm with twin, triple and quad configurations with en-suite bathrooms. APARTMENTS We have a large range of modern self-contained apartments. WEATHER If you want the best snow in the world you need to be prepared - it can get cold. Take plenty of warm clothing and prepare for minus temperatures, thermals are a must, as is a warm neck gaiter to protect your face and a good pair of goggles. CREDIT CARDS In Japan, cash is mostly used but some credit cards are accepted such as VISA, MasterCard and American Express. You may use credit cards at locations such as department stores, hotels and some super markets, gas stations, JR Reserved seating ticket machines and some restaurants. There are some places however that do not take credit cards such as hot springs, Inns in the country, private businesses, public transportation ticket booths, fast food shops, convenience stores and most ordinary vending machines. ELECTRICITY Electric Voltage/100V Frequency/50HZ Plug Type/A type ONSENS Traditionally Onsen were used as public bathing places. Today they come in many forms but they still use geothermal waters rich in minerals to provide a relaxing bath. Many of the hotels we feature in our brochure offer natural hot springs or Onsens. To get the most out of your onsen experience there are a couple of rules which need to be followed. 1) The bath is never used for washing; it is only used for soaking. Washing and showering are done before entering the bath. 2) Hot springs are enjoyed naked. Swim suits are not allowed inside the bathing area. There are separate male and female baths. In some hotels however you can book a private onsen for yourself and family. 3) After soaking for a while get out of the spring and wash yourself again and then re-enter the bath. 4) After finishing soaking, let your body absorb the natural minerals for a few minutes before towelling yourself down to dry. 3

4 JAPAN HOKKAIDO 4 Hokkaido is the coldest and most northern Japanese island and receives some of the best snow there is, hence why so many powder hunters flock to Hokkaido each winter in search of spectacular deep powder, off piste runs and challenging terrain. Hokkaido offers skiers, snowboarders and cross country enthusiasts some of the best snow conditions in the world. With about 6-10 meters of snow in most areas, during an average year, there are plenty of great days to enjoy the snow. The winter season gets into full swing from about mid-december onwards to about the end of March. Some resorts are able to open earlier and there tends to be plenty of spring skiing up to about late April and in good years even early May! Niseko and the small village of Hirafu is probably the best known resort on Hokkaido and are unlike anything you ve ever experienced. It s an adventure of snow and culture with small family owned Japanese pensions to modern, stylish fully self-contained apartments. TRANSFERS: For most of the Hokkaido resorts it is best to fly into New Chitose Airport (Sapporo) and from there we can arrange scheduled coach transfers to your chosen ski resort. Transfers are also possible to some ski resorts from Ashiakawa Airport and Sapporo City. Allow approximately 2 hours to get from New Chitose Airport to Rusutsu, 3 hours for Niseko and 3.5 hours to get to Furano. Scheduled coach services have limitations connecting with International flights so be sure to come through to our office before purchasing your flights. With some flight schedules you may find it is necessary to stay overnight in either Tokyo or Sapporo before heading to the ski resort. TRAINS: for more information on train travel The rail system in Japan is remarkably organised with frequent services renowned for running to schedule. Whilst it is possible to get to Hokkaido Island from Honshu by train, it is a trip better done over a number of days. For example, expect a minimum of 3 train changes to get from Tokyo City and at least a 10 hour journey with a 20 minute bus or taxi trip at the end to get to your ski resort. If you do choose to travel by train we recommend you courier your skis to the ski resort when you arrive at Narita Airport. It is our recommendation to instead, include the domestic airfare to New Chitose Airport as it s quicker, less expensive than the train and a more user friendly way of getting to the Hokkaido Ski Resorts. ICE FESTIVAL: The Sapporo Snow Festival, held in February each year is one of Japan s largest winter events. Rows of snow statues are on display at three sites in Sapporo City during this festival, which is visited by two million people each winter. Odori Park which serves as the main venue is located in the city centre and a space extending 1.5km transforms into a snow museum. International Square (Nishi 11 chome, Odori) becomes the stage for the International Snow Statue Contest and every year more than 10 teams compete from all over the world. As this is a park, you can drop by whenever you like. The rapid express train from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo departs at 15 minute intervals and only takes 36 mins to get into the city centre.

5 JAPAN NISEKO NISEKO VITAL STATISTICS BASE SUMMIT 300m 1,309m SKI AREA LONGEST RUN 2,191 acres 5.6 km NISEKO is located in the south west corner of Hokkaido and is the largest of the Hokkaido ski areas with 4 interlinked resorts: Annapuri, Niseko Village, Hirafu and Hanazono. Niseko is widely known as having one of the most consistent and biggest snowfalls in Japan and is famous for some of the best powder conditions to be found. The skiing around Niseko is superb with over 1000m of groomed runs, tree gullies and beautiful open powder bowls. Lifts are open from 8.30am to 9pm providing some great night skiing with a complimentary ski shuttle operating around Hirafu village until 9pm. HIRAFU village is where most international holiday makers stay as it is the main heartbeat of Niseko with lots of restaurants, a very active nightlife and lots of shops. Hirafu is sub-divided into various villages. The Hirafu Upper Village is closest to the ski area, whilst Hirafu Lower Village is the area below the main highway (343). The new Hirafu East village and Hirafu South are both best accessed via shuttle service. Hirafu Village itself has limited ski-in, ski-out accommodation which generally comes at a premium price due to its demand. There are some larger hotels with ski access to the Family run and a couple of hotels with access to the Hirafu Gondola and Ace #2 lift. NISEKO VILLAGE is much smaller and quieter than Hirafu so it s great for someone who has no need for nightlife and likes the idea of a Gondola leaving right from the Hotel to the hill. It s only a minute drive away from Hirafu via shuttle. The most distinctive accommodation options in Niseko Village are the 4-star Hilton Niseko Village Hotel or Green Leaf Hotel. ANNUPURI is away from the crowds and is popular with die-hard powder hounds who want to get fresh tracks in the Annupuri bowls. When it dumps, lift access to Annupuri ski area can be cut off from the rest of Niseko meaning you and a few people get to enjoy the freshies all to yourselves. Whilst there are a few nearby restaurants & bars, Annupuri is not big on nightlife; so if this is a priority head to Hirafu. HANAZONO offers an unprecedented variety of terrain for skiing and riding at AVERAGE ANNUAL SNOWFALL 12m TERRAIN MIX Beginner 30%, Intermediate 40%, Advanced 30% TRAILS More than 248 marked trails TOTAL LIFTS 38 including 3 express gondolas TERRAIN PARKS 4 GATEWAY AIRPORT New Chitose TRANSFER By scheduled coach any level. Beginners will appreciate the 2 covered Magic Carpets and confident beginners can progress to the hooded quad chair. For experienced skiers and riders, enjoy wide open cruisers, challenging groomed runs and some of the most awe inspiring and exhilarating powder you will find anywhere in the world. Start your day with a homemade muffin and a coffee or hot chocolate freshly prepared by a barista at the 308 Café. Modern facilities include a fully equipped rental and retail store, Snowsports School, guided back country tours and snow-play activities desk. The HANAZONO free shuttle bus departs from Niseko Hirafu locations every 20 minutes between the hours of 7:50am to 5:10pm. 5

6 Pension Locomotion HIRAFU VILLAGE Pension Locomotion is one of our most popular pensions. Located in the Izumikyo area close to the ski shuttle stop or just a 10 minute walk to the lifts. Choose from Western twin rooms with ensuite or lofted rooms with Japanese bedding catering for 3 or 4 people. All rooms have a small ensuite bathroom and TV. Amenities include vending machines, restaurant and bar, guest lounge, communal kitchen, coin operated laundry facilities, ski storage and luggage storage. Owashi Lodge HIRAFU VILLAGE Owashi Lodge is a backpacker s hostel, designed to cater for the modern budget skier and boarder and is the perfect combination of affordability, location and comfort. It offers a combination of small bunk rooms for 2 people, to a larger dorm room that sleeps up to 6 people with shared bathroom facilities on each floor. Other amenities are a communal kitchen, coin operated laundry, large lounge and games areas and drying room. M Hotel HIRAFU VILLAGE M Hotel is ideal for people wanting a good location at a reasonable price, situated just off the main street near the Seicomart convenience store and just a 4 minute walk to Ace Family Lift. It features 36 cosy guest rooms with en-suite facilities, TV, fridge, microwave, tea and coffee making facilities. Suite rooms are more spacious with a King bed and a sofa. Hotel facilities include free Wi Fi, coin operated laundry facilities, ski storage and drying room. Green Leaf NISEKO VILLAGE Situated at the base of the Niseko Village Ski Area, inspired by a fusion of world-class design, local artistry and breath-taking scenery, this 200 room hotel provides an inviting ski-in ski-out base. Amenities include the Green Leaf spa and natural onsen facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi, ski valet and lockers plus a variety of bar and dining options featuring local seafood and seasonal Hokkaido produce. Freshwater Apartments HIRAFU VILLAGE Freshwater apartments are luxurious in design with a fusion of western and Japanese interiors. Located on the main street in Hirafu Village an easy 6 minute walk to the Ace Family Lift or guests may use the Freshwaters complimentary shuttle. Choose from studios or 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments. Studios have a small kitchenette and access to laundry facilities. The larger apartments all have a sofa bed for an extra 2 guests with designer kitchens and their own in-suite laundry. Amenities include Wi Fi in rooms, English satellite TV, phone and heated ski room. Yama Shizen Apartments HIRAFU VILLAGE Yama Shizen apartments offer a prime location in the central village close to the lifts, restaurants and shops. The apartments are modern and feature designer kitchens and bathrooms, internet access, secure ski storage and laundry facilities in in each unit. Most of the apartments offer a fireplace and views of Mt Yotei and the ski area. Enjoy the Kamimura restaurant on the first floor of the West apartments and the large Jacuzzi on the roof top. 6

7 Genji & Musashi HIRAFU VILLAGE Genji & Musashi are 3 & 4 bedroom townhomes situated in the Izumikyo 1 area adjacent to the Hirafu upper village. The atmosphere here is more sedate than the busy upper and middle village with no high rise or noisy revellers. Ski-in access to both houses is possible at the end of the day from the Gondola station. All guests staying at this property receive free morning transfers to the Niseko Hirafu ski area. Both chalets feature modern furnishings and come complete with free wireless internet and satellite TV. The Vale HIRAFU VILLAGE This elegant and luxurious ski-in, ski-out hotel is located in Hirafu Village at the base of the Ace Family Lift. It offers stunning views and a variety of room types from hotel rooms through to three bedroom self-catering apartments all with very generous bedrooms and living areas. Some apartments have their own private onsen on the balcony with mountain views. Amenities include a fabulous onsen, heated lap pool and sauna and a full restaurant and bar. Landmark View HIRAFU VILLAGE Located just a few mins walk from the Gondola Station and shops and restaurants; Landmark offers 47 two & three bedroom apartments. These western style apartments have every comfort in mind with spacious lounge areas, floor to ceiling windows and state of the art appliances including internet access, wide screen satellite TV, two bathrooms and drying room. Shiki HIRAFU VILLAGE Shiki offers luxury apartments in the heart of the upper Hirafu village. Incorporating contemporary Japanese aesthetics, premium furnishings, enhanced with reception & concierge services, a Michelin star gourmet restaurant and fresh produce at the in-house marketplace. All bedrooms have King or twin bedding configurations, full kitchen, solid timber flooring and LCD TV with cable channels and free wireless internet, laundry facilities with washing machine and dryer, ski storage and drying room. Tracks Apartments HIRAFU VILLAGE Hokkaido Tracks offer a large variety of apartments, penthouses and resort homes in all areas of Niseko. Suited for all budgets, families, couples or small groups. Pricing starts with their Eco service where no service is provided during your stay apart from fresh towels and rubbish removed every 2nd day. Fully serviced rates are available for an additional cost so please let us know at the time of quoting if you require a fully serviced apartment. Choose from Youtei Tracks, Powder Tracks, Deep Tracks, Kira Kira, Miharahsi, and Hangetsu to name just a few. Ki Niseko UPPER HIRAFU VILLAGE Opening Dec 2014 the Ki Niseko will offer ski-in, ski-out luxury less than 100m from the Gondola. With everything you need right on your doorstep: natural hot springs, bar, restaurant, café, massage and private ski valet Ki Niseko delivers the perfect setting. It also offers breath taking Mt Yotei and Mt Annupuri views and a wide array of refined upscale hotel amenities including Wi-Fi, satellite TV, humidifiers and air conditioning, state of the art entertainment system, complimentary shuttle and ski storage lockers at the base of the mountain. 7

8 JAPAN FURANO FURANO VITAL STATISTICS BASE SUMMIT 235m 1,209m SKI AREA LONGEST RUN 470 acres 4 km FURANO is one of Japan's most famous ski resorts, although relatively little is known about it outside of Japan. Situated in the middle of Hokkaido, Furano benefits from Siberian storm systems that pass over the Sea of Japan and then dump the lightest and driest snow in all of Hokkaido - and 9 meters of it each season. After a big snow fall there is often untracked powder for days. The Furano Ski area is made up two zones, the Kitanomine zone (Mid. Dec - Late Mar) and the Furano zone (Late Nov - Early May). Both areas have a variety of accommodation options and the town of Furano is only a 3 min shuttle from the Kitanomine zone and a 6 min shuttle away from the Furano zone. Both of these zones can be accessed on the one pass and are serviced by 17 lifts. Furano has an abundance of varied terrain for every level of skier and snowboarder and a vertical drop of over 950 meters making it one of the steepest mountains in Hokkaido. In the Kitanomine zone, you can access the peak via a 3km 6-person gondola. A 1km High-speed detachable quad services a long cruiser for beginners and also some short intermediate runs. This lift is also the night skiing lift in the Kitanomine zone. There are also 2 single chairs which service the downhill racecourses. The connecting 2-person lift takes you 925m across the hill to the other mountain. It is from this lift that you access the Furano Mountain. Furano's main lift is the 2.3km Cable Car (called the Ropeway). This is the fastest lift of its kind in Japan ferrying 101 skiers and boarders up the hill at 10m per second. From the top of this lift there are some great choices for any level of skier and boarder. To reach the peak, there is a single seat 571m lift that takes you to the top and accesses the highest point in the Furano ski area. Any skier will revel in the deep powder that is to be found on these courses after a big dump of snow. The Furano Zone also provides other lift options including two beginner areas, one at the base and one accessible from the top of the Ropeway. A high-speed detachable quad also allows skiers a second option to get a long way up the hill without having to step out of their bindings to ride the Ropeway. Free Ski Host services are available at Furano. These bilingual guided tours cater for all level of skiers and AVERAGE ANNUAL SNOWFALL 8m TERRAIN MIX Beginner 40%, Intermediate 40%, Advanced 20% TOTAL LIFTS 17 including a 100 person cable car TERRAIN PARKS 1 GATEWAY AIRPORT New Chitose or Asahikawa TRANSFER By scheduled coach from New Chitose snowboarders. As well as showing you every aspect of the ski resort the hosts can give you some local history and recommend restaurants and bars. BACK COUNTRY TOUR OPTIONS: Within 90 minutes drive of Furano are the resorts of Kamui Ski Links and Asahidake to the north and Tomamu to the south. Each resort receives snow from different wind directions and so there are always good snow options. We can arrange guided Tours with Powder Tours: You will be instructed in safety equipment use before the start of the day. Groups are equipped with radios for communication with the guide. Contact our office for further detailed information. 8

9 New Furano Prince FURANO ZONE New Furano Prince Hotel is Furano s premier Hotel and is located in the Furano Zone near the cable car to the top of the mountain. This hotel offers deluxe guest rooms with full ski-in, ski-out access and is only 10 mins by shuttle from downtown Furano. Amenities include 6 restaurants and bars, bakery, convenience store, sauna, fabulous onsen, ski rental shop and on site ski school. Fresh Powder Apartments KITANOMINE These apartments are located only 30 metres from the base of the Kitanomine high-speed gondola. Each spacious apartment is well-appointed with modern western furniture with a full kitchen, sofa bed in the lounge, flat screen TV, free Wi-Fi, in suite laundry and free parking. Amenities include ski storage and drying room. All village bars and restaurants are within easy walking distance. The one bedroom ground floor apartments have their own private traditional deep onsen bath. Furano Prince KITANOMINE The Furano Prince (not to be confused with the New Furano Prince Hotel) is an older well priced hotel tucked into the ski hill on the Kitanomine side of the mountain giving it a great ski-in, ski-out location. The standard rooms are cosy with 2 western twin beds and TV. They have a couple of larger maisonette rooms suitable for families. Hotel facilities include a games room, restaurants, souvenir shop and ski room plus an onsen with sauna. North Country Inn KITANOMINE North Country Inn has the perfect mix of Japanese tradition and Western comfort and convenience. The accommodation is affordable, comfortable and cosy, the dining excellent and the staff friendly and welcoming. Within the Inn, Nord Restaurant and bar serves a delicious seasonal menu including fondue and the Inn s own micro wines. Amenities include a free shuttle to the Kitanomine ski area, (3 mins) Japanese Onsen and guest laundry. Pension Snow Crystal KITANOMINE Located just seconds from the Kitanomine Gondola Station this friendly Japanese pension offers 8 spacious, simply furnished non-smoking rooms, all with en suite bathrooms. With a great breakfast room, free computer access in the lobby, guest laundry room and ski drying room no wonder this is such a popular choice for clients wanting an authentic and affordable stay in Furano. Pension Furanui KITANOMINE Pension Furanui is a European inspired lodge located just a 4 minute walk from the Kitanomine Gondola. It is a true budget property perfectly suitable for those watching their pennies. Furani has a choice of Japanese or Western style rooms with TV and private bathrooms. It offers guests a relaxed and warm atmosphere with a Japanese flavour with its own small hot spring on the premises and free internet access. 9

10 JAPAN HONSHU Honshu, the main Island of Japan, has more than 500 ski resorts. There may not be as much powder in Honshu as there is at some resorts in Hokkaido but the snow still falls in abundance. Most of the ski resorts are within the Japanese Alps in the prefectures of Nagano and Niigata. Ski areas near Nagano include; HAKUBA VALLEY ski area which consists of 10 resorts including Hakuba 47 and Happo One. SHIGA KOGEN located in the heart of the Joshshinetsu Kogen National Park. NOZAWA ONSEN in northern Nagano. MYOKO KOGEN located one hour north of Nagano in the Niigata prefecture. TRANSFERS TRAIN: From Narita Airport take the Narita Express to Tokyo or Shinjuku Station. (1 hour) From Tokyo travel by the Nagano Bullet Train to Nagano (1 hour 50 mins). From Nagano catch a schedule bus to Hakuba (1 hour) From Shinjuku Station catch the Chuo limited express train directly to Hakuba (3 hours 50 mins) Because of the arrival times on international flights into Tokyo it is our recommendation to have at least 1 night or longer in Tokyo before heading off to Nagano. BUS: There is a scheduled bus to Hakuba from Narita Airport however it does not depart until around 11pm so entails a long wait at the airport plus you will not arrive until approx. 2am so not the best start to your holiday. We recommend you consider having a night in Tokyo first and then take the ski bus from Tokyo Station the following day arriving into the resort around 11am. PRIVATE OR SHARED CHUO TAXI: If you do not want to stay in Tokyo then another option is to book and pre-pay for a private or a shared o Taxi, this way you will be on your way shortly after arriving into Narita Airport and you will be delivered to your Hotel door. This is the only transfer option that can be pre-booked and pre-paid. LUGGAGE INFORMATION: Trains and Taxis have very limited luggage space so we recommend you consider sending your skis or snow boards to the ski resort by courier. There are several companies to choose from at Narita Airport and your gear will be waiting for you on arrival at your Hotel. Luggage sent from Narita will arrive the following day, luggage sent from the ski resort to Narita must be sent at least 2 days before your flight home so this option is only suitable for clients who are staying in Tokyo pre or post their trip. 10

11 JAPAN HAKUBA HAKUBA VITAL STATISTICS BASE SUMMIT 750m 1,820m SKI AREA LONGEST RUN 2,191 acres 8 km AVERAGE ANNUAL SNOWFALL 10m TERRAIN MIX Beginner 30%, Intermediate 40%, Advanced 30% TOTAL LIFTS 138 including 5 gondolas TERRAIN PARKS 4 GATEWAY AIRPORT Narita (5 hours) TRANSFER Transfer Train, bus or private Taxi There are 8 ski resorts accessing over 200 runs in the Hakuba valley offering an incredible variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders. Resorts include Sun Alpina, Hakuba 47, Goryu-Toomi, Happo-One, Iwatake, Tsugaike, Norikura and Cortina. From the complete novice to expert, Hakuba provides some of the best skiing in all of Japan. Everything from gentle beginner slopes to steeps, bumps and long groomers and of course plenty of fresh powder. Happo-One resort has some of the longest vertical pitches in all of Japan and is Hakuba s premier skier s mountain. Hakuba 47 and Goryu- Toomi challenges everyone from first timers to experts. Tsugaike and Iwatake are well suited for the beginner to intermediate, with long cruising trails providing an opportunity for nonstop uninterrupted skiing. For the snowboarders endless half-pipes, terrain parks, gullies, hits, powder bowls and steeps are on offer for you in Hakuba. Night skiing is available at four of the resorts in Hakuba, usually from the end of December to the end of March. Courses are fairly limited in Hakuba compared to Niseko, which has one of the largest night skiing areas in the world. For those wanting to have a break from the snow, take in Nagano s famous Zenkoji Temple and the snow monkeys at Jigokudani hot springs. SNOW MONKEY HOT SPRINGS, MASUICHI ICHIMURA SAKE BREWERY AND ZENKOJI TEMPLE TOUR FROM HAKUBA The world famous Jigokudani wild monkey hot-springs is home to about 200 wild monkeys who spend their days soaking in the natural hot springs, keeping warm from the harsh winter. The park was opened in 1964 and is considered to be the only place in the world to see snow monkeys bathing in the wild. The hike to the hot-springs takes about 20 to 30 minutes each way. After viewing the monkeys travel to the historic town of Obuse, home to the famous Japanese artist Hokusai and the museum dedicated to his works. Enjoy a traditionally cooked superb Japanese set menu lunch at the Masuichi Club Restaurant, which is an open style country restaurant and see the beautifully preserved 240 year old Masuichi Sake Brewery. The next stop is Nagano City home to Zenkoji Temple designated a national treasure and has a history of over 1400 years. It is one of Japan's most revered temples and houses the first image of Buddha brought to Japan in the 7th century. The streets surrounding the temple are lined with lantern lit shops and tiered roofed stalls, souvenir shops, restaurants and galleries. This is a full day tour departing at 8.00am and arriving back in Hakuba at 5.30pm. 11

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14 High Mount Hotel Hotel Hakuba Small family run Hotel located at the top of the Sakka Runs and on the shuttle route for all the ski buses and night GO Bus. Guest rooms are clean and tidy with small en-suite bathrooms. There are also a couple of large family rooms. Daily breakfast included and in the evenings a small menu is available for in house guests. Other amenities include a great common room with a small bar, free Wi-Fi in all rooms, a beautiful natural hot spring, small ski hire on site. Communal washing machines and dryer available for guests. Located in the centre of Hakuba village just 5 mins by shuttle to the ski slopes. Rooms have been recently renovated and have a small kitchenette with a microwave and fridge, sofa and LCD TV. Amenities include 2 public hot-spring baths, rental ski equipment and free Wi-Fi in the lobby. Western and Japanese dishes are served at the buffet restaurant plus the hotel has vending machines selling drinks, ice-cream and beer. The hotel also offers free transfers to and from Hakuba Station, a 10-minute walk away. Aria Hotel Hakuba Springs Modest accommodation in the Wadano area only 3 mins walk to the Happo One lift and right next door to the Mominoki Hotel where you can catch the shuttle bus to Hakuba Goryu, Hakuba 47 and Hakuba Iwatake. It offers a choice of Twin bedded Western or Japanese rooms with the option of daily breakfast or half board. The Aria has a large open lounge area with fireplace and an onsen. Other amenities include wireless internet, laundry and English cable TV. This moderate 3 star property has a good location right in the centre of Happo village just a 5 min walk to the Happo lifts and offers very good value for the price paid. Choose from Western rooms with twin, triple or quad bedding, all with ensuite bathrooms or stay in a Japanese style Wa Yo room with tatami matting and futon beds. Facilities include free wireless internet access in the lobby, restaurant, indoor onsen, sauna, ski room and shop. Spicey ski rentals are located next door. De Laile Aqua Alpine De Laile is a small, clean and comfortable hotel run by cheerful and welcoming owners. Its best feature is its ski-in, ski-out location, only a 2-minute ski or walk to the ticket office. Natural indoor and outdoor mineral hot-springs are a plus, just perfect after a strenuous day on the slopes. The hotel's restaurant serves western and Japanese cuisine and has nice mountain views. Here you can chose to stay in a Western twin room or a combination Japanese Wa Yo room, both with en-suite bathroom. Aqua Alpine Hotel has undergone major renovation and refurbishment, including en-suites in all rooms, new furnishings and a new Bar and Restaurant. This Australian owned hotel strives to provide exceptional hospitality and personal service. The hotel offers a perfect blend of traditional Japanese culture such as onsen baths and karaoke room, with western convenience. Choose from standard, spa or large family rooms. All rooms feature king size beds or king single beds, en suite bathrooms, some with separate spa baths, TV,DVD and IPod players and fridges. The hotel is located only 300 metres from Hakuba Goryu

15 Hotel Mominoki Phoenix Chalets The hotel is a 3-minute walk to the Kokusai lift and offers a fabulous outdoor natural hot-spring bath, free Wi-Fi and 3 restaurants. The hotel rooms feature spectacular views of the forest and each room is equipped with a fridge, electric kettle, cable TV and en-suite bathrooms with bathtub. Guests can relax with a massage at the spa, or unwind in the hot springs or sauna. The hotel offers a game room and a coin-operated launderette. Daily buffet breakfast included. The Phoenix Chalets are luxurious, fully equipped apartments nestled in the forest next to the Phoenix Hotel. These 2 and 3 bedroom Chalets have stylish, spacious modern interiors and provide the ultimate winter escape. The Phoenix Chalets have two stories, 2 or 3 large bathrooms and a huge bath to soak in. Each Chalet features a fully equipped western kitchen, large screen LCD TV, DVD player & Bose sound dock, Wi-Fi, in suite laundry, drying room & ski storage facility and free shuttle to and from local ski areas. Hotel La Neige Higashikan Sky Park Apartments This luxury boutique hotel is located in the beautiful woods of Hakuba. It features western style guest rooms and separate log cabins which are popular with families. Happo-One ski resort is a short 5 minute walk away and a shuttle bus service is also available to the other local ski resorts. The hotel features beautiful architecture and lots of bright windows. The lobby has a warm fireplace with cosy couches that encourage conversation. Wi-Fi internet is available throughout the hotel. Every guest room in the hotel is individually decorated so that no two rooms are the same all with beautiful bathrooms. This ski-in, ski-out property offers 4 newly built mountain apartments that cater to those who want to be able to leave the hassle behind and be right on the mountain. Located in Wadano Sky Park is just a short walk to the Happo One Sakka chair. Each apartment features modern western luxury interiors and furnishings, wireless broadband Internet, DVD players, entertainment systems, IPod docks, ski storage facilities, drying rooms and laundry facilities. Tokyu Hotel Alpine Azumi Apartments The Tokyu hotel is one of the most exclusive properties in Hakuba with wide open spaces, visually impressive architectural features and sophisticated resort-style lodging. Its French and traditional Japanese buffet style restaurants, in addition to its natural hot spring onsen, make the Tokyu an excellent place for a relaxing stay. Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel and all ski area shuttle buses stop right at the front door. Alpine Azumi is perfectly located at the base of Happo One with ski-in, ski-out access to the Sakka express quad chair. These spacious condominiums have modern interiors and furnishings and are within walking distance of public onsens, shops and restaurants. The 2 and 4 bedroom apartments all have entertainment systems, in suite laundry, wireless internet throughout and ski storage. 15

16 JAPAN NOZAWA ONSEN Nestled in an idyllic landscape, surrounded by imposing mountain ranges lies the resort of Nozawa Onsen where great skiing, history, charm, tradition and hospitality are all blended together in one wonderful location. With a vertical of 1085m and over 740 acres devoted to the pursuit of skiing and boarding Nozawa ranks amongst one of the best ski resorts in Japan with a great selection of runs offering great skiing and snowboarding for beginners right through to the most advanced. The village is famous for its public hot springs with more than 30 springs located throughout the resort. Stroll the streets and feel the romantic charm which exudes from the lodges and shops. Lodge Matsuya NOZAWA VITAL STATISTICS BASE 565m SUMMIT 1,605m SKI AREA 740 acres LONGEST RUN 10km AVERAGE SNOW FALL 10m TERRAIN PARK Yes TOTAL LIFTS 25 including 2 Gondolas TERRAIN MIX Beginner 40%, Intermediate 30%, Advanced 30% GATEWAY AIRPORT Tokyo 4 hours, nearest city Nagano 1.5 hours TRANSPORT By scheduled coach from Tokyo or Nagano Nozawa Onsen Hotel Located right in the hub of Nozawa Village approx. a 7 min walk to Yu road, Matsuya offers modest, comfortable lodge style accommodation with excellent service and home cooked meals. This lodge is best suited to budget minded travellers looking for a central location. Combinations of rooms are available with or without bathrooms. There is a restaurant on site plus a lounge and relaxation for guests. Other amenities include laundry facilities indoor hot spring and restaurant. Enjoy the natural hot springs in this popular hotel. This comfortable and spacious property with friendly and attentive staff is located just 3 minutes walk to the Yu Road (moving walkway to the ski slopes) and 7 minutes to the Nagasaka gondola. There is a selection of rooms available including Western style rooms with en-suite bathrooms and a variety of Japanese style rooms. Amenities include a relaxation room, ski locker room, internet access, restaurant and café. Nozawa Grand Hotel Ryokan Sakaya Located 5 minutes walk to Shin-Yu lift (moving walkway) the Nozawa Grand hotel has recently been totally refurbished & now offers 29 Japanese, semi-japanese & Western style accommodations with every room having an ensuite Bathroom, LCD TV, small fridge and hairdryer. Facilities include wireless internet, a Japanese restaurant, lounge and a fabulous indoor & outdoor hot spring. The new open-air hot springs offer two different kinds of spring water. The view from the Hotel is amazing looking directly over the Nozawa Onsen Ski slopes. Ryokan Sakaya is a 3-minute walk from Kenmei-ji Temple and the Nozawa Onsen bus stop. Offering free Wi-Fi access, it houses indoor and outdoor onsen (hot spring) baths. The Japanese-style rooms feature a private bathroom with a bathtub and hairdryer, flat-screen TV, personal safe and a fridge. Guests can relax in the sauna, go for a massage, or reserve the onsen (hot spring) bath for private use at no charge. Other facilities include a gift shop, coin-operated laundry machines and ski storage. 16

17 JAPAN SHIGA KOGEN Shiga Kogen is located in the Joshinetsu National Park in the Nagano Prefecture, about 50km northeast of Nagano. The town of Yamanouchi sits at the base of the mountain, with a windy road leading up to the ski areas. In terms of sheer size and scale, Shiga Kogen is Japan s largest ski resort in Honshu with approximately 1,482 acres of terrain, 80+ kilometres of trails and 21 interlinked ski areas. Yakebitaiyama and Okushigakogen are amongst the largest ski areas within Shiga Kogen, whilst some of the other ski areas are so small that you could blink and miss them. A few of the areas are exclusively for skiers. The Shiga Kogen terrain is varied and includes beginners slopes, moguls, and some tree skiing. There s nothing particularly steep at Shiga Kogen, its forte is the many kilometres of fresh runs for cruising or schussing so it perfect for intermediate to strong intermediates, and low end advanced riders. SHIGA KOGEN VITAL STATISTICS BASE 1350m SUMMIT 2,300m SKI AREA 740 acres LONGEST RUN 8km AVERAGE SNOW FALL 12m TOTAL LIFTS 71 including 2 Gondolas TERRAIN MIX Beginner 30%, Intermediate 40%, Advanced 30% TERRAIN PARKS Yes GATEWAY AIRPORT Tokyo 4 hours, nearest city Nagano 1.5 hours TRANSFER By scheduled coach from Tokyo or Nagano Hotel Mt Shiga INCHINOSE VILLAGE Hotel Mt Shiga is situated slopeside in Ichinose resort, Shiga Kogen s main village area offering easy access to the slopes and close to nearby restaurants and bars. The property offers very friendly service with comfortable budget style accommodation with a variety of room types and is very close to the ski shuttle and bus stop to Nagano. Amenities include traditional public baths, dining area and cosy foyer, laundry facilities and ski room. Sunroute Hotel INCHINOSE VILLAGE Offering views through to Yakebitaiyama Ski Area the Sunroute Hotel is perfectly located in the Ichinose village directly across from the Diamond Ski Area within easy walking distance to the ski slopes and local entertainment. Facilities include two restaurants and lounge area with internet, Jacuzzi, sauna and bathhouse, laundry facilities and a small rental shop. All rooms are spacious with western style bedding and ensuite bathrooms. Prince Hotel East Wing YAKEBITAIYAMA The Prince Resort Hotel is located at the base of the Yakebitaiyama ski area offering a fantastic ski-in/ ski-out location. This resort hotel has spacious deluxe lodging in the east wing and compact standard lodging in the west wing. The hotels offer a variety of restaurants featuring everything from French and Italian cuisine to authentic Japanese and Chinese dishes. Hot springs, massage salons, karaoke rooms convenience stores and a day nursery are amongst some of the facilities available. Shuttle buses run between the hotels for providing customers with access to restaurants, night skiing, and hot springs. Hotel Grand Phenix Okushiga OKUSHIGA This premier property is located at the base of Oku-Shiga and offers unrivalled services and total relaxation. The hotel is a beautiful property with a wide range of facilities including 2 gourmet restaurants offering Italian and Japanese cuisine, spacious lounge area, fireplace and panoramic views, swimming pool, hot springs, saunas and a ski clothing shop. The interior is a natural mix of quality timbers and stone work complemented with European style furnishings. Keeping with its plush and decorative style the rooms are very spacious and well furnished. (Note you can only access skiing slopes (no boarding) directly from this hotel. 17

18 JAPAN MYOKO KOGEN Myoko Kogen is located one hour north of Nagano Japan in the Niigata prefecture and is great for those looking for an authentic Japanese experience. Founded in the 1930s, Myoko is particularly rich in history, traditional Japanese culture, and the area has lots of unadulterated onsens. The area is made up of 10 different ski resorts that are largely linked together by a shuttle bus. The main ski area is Myoko Akakura which is made up of two resorts side by side; Akakura Kanko ski resort and Akakura Onsen. Suginohara ski resort features super long cruisy groomers, Seki Onsen is renowned for steep tree skiing, Ikenotaira Onsen has good freestyle fun, and family friendly slopes can be found at Kyukamura and Myoko Ski Park. For the international market a four area combined lift pass is available. Myoko Kogen ski resort is renowned for some of the best vertical and longest runs Japan has to offer with an average of 14m of snow and unlike some other Honshu resorts, Myoko does not prohibit off-piste and tree skiing. It also has lots of backcountry opportunities. Hotel Central AKAKURA ONSEN Offering ski-to-door access, Central Hotel is just a 1-minute walk from Akakura Onsen and Akakura Kanko Ski Resort. The Japanese style guest rooms have tatami mats, futon beds with a wash basin and toilet. Western rooms have twin beds and en-suite bathroom. Facilities available include washer & dryer and internet access and there is a natural hot spring onsite. It is a very short walk from the hotel to the main street of Akakura Onsen where you will find a variety of restaurants, bars and souvenir shops. MYOKO KOGEN VITAL STATISTICS BASE 700m SUMMIT 1,855m Suginohara SKI AREA 10 resorts LONGEST RUN 8.5km AVERAGE SNOW FALL 13m TERRAIN PARK Yes TOTAL LIFTS 70 including 2 Gondolas TERRAIN MIX Beginner 40%, Intermediate 40%, Advanced 20% GATEWAY AIRPORT Tokyo 4 hours, nearest city Nagano 1 hour TRANSPORT By train from Nagano Akakura Park Hotel AKAKURA ONSEN The Akakura Park Hotel is located in central Akakura Onsen, and offers some of the cheapest accommodation in Myoko Kogen. It is a medium size hotel, a mix of Japanese and Western rooms, many with en-suite facilities. The exterior is reminiscent of a Swiss Mountain Chalet, while the interior lets you know you are well and truly in Japan. The hot spring baths are one of the features of this hotel and provide a relaxing end to a day on the ski slopes. There are several bars and restaurants around the hotel, so heading out for dinner is not a problem. Hotel Alp AKAKURA ONSEN Positioned in Akakura Onsen ski village with one of the best locations in front of the Chuo Triple Lift, Hotel Alp provides true ski in ski out access. This friendly Austrian inspired ski Lodge offers both Japanese or western style rooms all with ensuite facilities. Amenities include a breakfast room, lounge area on each level, games room, wireless internet access, Japanese hot springs, drying room and ski storage. Akakura Kanko AKAKURA KANKO The Akakura Kanko Hotel was one of the first European-style ski Hotels in Japan. Located midway on the ski mountain at Akakura Kanko resort, it s modern and recently renovated yet still has old world charm. This 4 Star Hotel has 52 comfortable guest rooms with both Japanese or western style all with en-suites. Facilities include two different mineral hot springs, a day spa, massage, room service, indoor pool and gym plus a variety of first class restaurants. This hotel has very few westerners staying at it so be prepared for a very Japanese experience. 18

19 JAPAN RUSUTSU / TOKYO RUSUTSU is situated 79km west of Sapporo, close to Niseko so it s great for a day trip from Niseko but we think it s worth a few nights to a week s stay. With an average annual snowfall of over 14m, Rusutsu has some of the most incredible powder and tree skiing to be found in Japan. This family friendly resort has great groomed pistes for beginners and is ideal for intermediates, but the highlight for powder seekers is the fantastic fall line tree skiing that can be easily accessed straight off the lifts and with minimal traversing (joy for snowboarders!). The great powder runs generally don't have steep pitches or drop-offs, so it's also a great place to learn to ski or board powder. You also don't have to share the fresh lines with many others as the resort is generally uncrowded, and even on the weekends it's rare to see a lift line. The lift infrastructure is very well developed so it's possible to stay warm whilst getting in plenty of vertical. Of the 19 lifts, four are gondolas and seven lifts are fast quads with hoods. Accommodation at Rusutsu is somewhat limited to a couple of large glitzy resort hotels at the base of the mountain and a few cabins and pensions. RUSUTSU VITAL STATISTICS BASE 310m SKI AREA 10 resorts Rusutsu Resort Hotel Rusutsu Resort Hotel (North and South Wings) is a large 4 star hotel at the base of the ski lifts. It is very conveniently located with ski-in ski-out access to the slopes which include the kids area and other beginner slopes. The hotel has a variety of Western and Japanese style room configurations. Facilities include a convenience store as well as 16 shops and various restaurants plus an indoor wave pool with great kids entertainment plus Japanese onsens. Rusutsu Tower is situated between Mount West and Mount East and is almost twice the cost of the North & South Wings. The Tower is ideal for families as the suites are much larger however a 3 min mono-rail ride is required to get to the base of the lifts. Pension Clydesdale SUMMIT 994m LONGEST RUN 3.5km AVERAGE SNOW FALL 12m TOTAL LIFTS 19 TERRAIN MIX Beginner 30%, Intermediate 40%, Advanced 30% TERRAIN PARKS Yes GATEWAY AIRPORT New Chitose 1.5 hrs TRANSFER By coach from Sapporo or Niseko TOKYO the capital of Japan is home to more than 13 million people and is one of the most fascinating cities in the world. Visitors are recommended to visit Ginza, famous all over the world for its elegant high class shopping, Akihabara the electric centre of Tokyo where you can purchase the latest gadgets. Shinjuku is famous for its neon lights and futuristic skyscrapers, while Harajuku and Shibuya cater to the younger fashion conscious travellers. Tokyo is also home to the Imperial Palace, formerly Edo castle which even today is still surrounded by its original moat. TRANSFER OPTIONS PRIVATE LIMO INTO TOKYO: Get met on arrival at Narita Airport by driver and get delivered directly to your Hotel. Approx 1 hour depending on traffic. TRAIN FROM NARITA TO SHINJUKU OR TOKYO STATION: Narita Express takes approx - 1 hour. Best Western Shinjuku Located in the heart of Tokyo, this family-friendly hotel is within walking distance of Hanazono Shrine, Shinjuku Isetan, and Isetan Department Store Shinjuku. Guestrooms feature complimentary wireless Internet access and en-suite bathrooms. Hyatt Regency Tokyo This luxury hotel is located in the heart of Tokyo, steps from Shinjuku Central Park and Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Facilities include restaurant and bar and indoor pool and massage treatment rooms. Guestrooms feature refrigerators and Internet access (surcharge). The Tokyo Station Hotel Located just a 3 min drive from Rusutsu this family run property offers a free shuttle service to the Ski Resort. Cosy rooms are simply furnished with an LCD TV, wooden furnishings and a chair or sofa. Bathroom facilities are shared. Guests can enjoy homemade bread, bagels and sausages for breakfast, served in Pension Clydesdale's dining room. For dinner, Italian dishes, cooked in a Japanese style with local produce is offered. As this popular property has only 5 rooms you need to book early to secure a reservation. This luxury hotel is located of top of Tokyo Station in Nihonbashi, close to Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum, Tokyo Imperial Palace, and Imperial Palace Garden. Also nearby are Kabuki-za Theatre and National Diet Building. In addition to a restaurant, The Tokyo Station Hotel features a health club and full-service spa and bars/lounges. Room Amenities include complimentary Internet access, refrigerators and beautiful large bathrooms. 19

20 SKI TRAVEL JAPAN TOUR 2014 everything snow BOOK WITH YOUR FAVOURITE TAANZ BONDED AGENT Division of Concept Travel Ltd Trade Enquiries: Ph Fax Outside Auckland: FREEPHONE SKI