Swap your skis and snowboards for a snowmobile with Niseko Snowmobile Tours, an adrenaline-pumping experience that offers a unique perspective on Niseko. Choose from the powerful rides, get an expert driving tutorial and off you go to explore Niseko’s uncharted terrain. Manoeuvring the hulking machine appeared daunting at first, but once I got going, I could easily see the appeal (thankfully it’s easier than learning how to ski or snowboard). It’s an amazing feeling weaving through the snow-covered trees and climbing up gentle hills in the backcountry. The most exhilarating part, however, is accelerating through a plateau covered in fresh snow with Mount Yotei towering in the background.
Sea and Summit Media
Did you really do that black run if you don’t have a photo or video as proof? Enter Sea and Summit Media, Niseko’s trusted name for guided photography and videography tours. Founded by outdoor adventurer and photographer Chad Clark, the company has a team well-versed in capturing the perfect frame and traversing the terrain. They’ll take you to less-trodden slopes, accompany you as you amp up a snowmobile, and even take a lovely family portrait. The group also runs Hokkaido fly fishing tours and winter wildlife photography tours where you can see—and snap—local animals like white-tailed eagles, red-crowned cranes, Hokkaido red foxes and more.
ESSENTIALS
Niseko Black
There are ski instructors then there are Niseko Black ski instructors. The premier luxury concierge service prides itself in providing anything guests ask — and they like doing it with flair. Case in point: My private ski instructor Lucas Westgate met me at the exit of my hotel dressed head-to-toe in black Moncler gear. There’s plenty of substance to go with the style as I enjoyed a fun yet challenging three-hour private lesson that helped build my confidence and, dare I say it, gave me an alpine high.
Win D’ol Resorts Service
If you’re looking to spend an entire day out or enjoy a kaiseki dinner date, a babysitting service is a must. It can be tough to find availability during peak periods, so I was delighted to discover Win D’ol, a local company that covers Niseko and Furano areas.
To say they’re professional is an understatement: I arrived back to see a happy 18-month-old who showed me his first artwork made from strips of origami paper, as well as received a full written report from the babysitter. This attention to detail isn’t surprising as the service is led by Saori Maki, a former national cross-country skier and the wife of renowned alpine skier and four-time Olympian Kimura Kiminobu. Together, their company also runs the Kimura Kiminobu Ski School, which offers a range of group and private ski and snowboarding lessons. Once my toddler is ready, I know where to go!
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