Record-breaking visitation to Japan's snow resorts

With more than 17 metres of snow having fallen on the higher altitudes of Niseko's four connected ski areas since its ski lifts opened last November, the region has witnessed a 10% increase in customer numbers.

The Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) has reported a record-breaking number of skiers and boarders heading to Hokkaido and Hakuba (on Japan's main island of Honshu), and there is lots of snowy days (and nights) remaining at this popular winter playground.

For Australians, the combination of the very favourable exchange rate and Japan's snow quality (and quantity) is enticing snow riders back winter after winter.

As a result, a number of Australian snow enthusiasts have settled on the north island of Hokkaido and around Hakuba while many more seek employment as instructors, or mountain guides such as SkiJapan.com's Rod White, who is based in Niseko.

SkiJapan.com General Manager Marcus Williams explains "we've definitely seen a recovery for Aussie skiers heading to Japan this year. 2010-11 was our busiest season ever and we will exceed the corresponding period in the 2012-13 season with a 10% increase in customer numbers.

"There's a lot of contributing factors. The powder snow is always consistent and reliable plus early bird discounts and ongoing specials have encouraged people to return to Japan or choose Japan over other International resorts.

"The exchange rate has also been improving throughout the year making our ski packages cheaper. We haven't seen the Aussie dollar as strong against the Yen in years plus we've got free night offers and free lift passes and rentals for kids - available in Niseko."

A SkiJapan.com March special costs from $748 including accommodation, ski lift tickets and door-to-door transfers from Chitose International Airport.

Lachlan Bowes, owner/operator of Central Snowsports in Hakuba adds "I have experienced a 75% increase in business from Australia this winter. Jetstar are very supportive of the Hakuba product and we also get lots of Hong Kong based clients because they're only a bullet train away."

Skimax Managing Director Rodney Muller agrees, concluding "Skimax has seen an unprecedented demand this season for Japan.

"Following last year's earthquake, Japan is clearly 'back on the map' Skier numbers this season have far outstripped any year in history and the demand continues to be strong for last-minute bookings for this current season.

"With the weakening yen and the overall increase in demand for Niseko, we anticipate 2013/14 is going to be another strong season."

Image: The Japanese ski resort of Niseko.

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