There are many international-class skiing resorts in Hokkaido, but perhaps none to rival Hirafu-Niseko. Located roughly 100 km west of Sapporo, the area, which is especially popular among ski-loving Australians and expats, is home to three skiing areas: Niseko Annupuri, Niseko Higashiyama and Niseko Grand Hirafu.
With the slopes turning white under a blanket of snow, the six-month skiing season begins in mid-November in Hirafu-Niseko. The snow there is exceptional, and cannot be compared to the watery, heavy snow you may find at many other skiing resorts. In fact, Niseko's powder snow is so fine, with a water content of around 8 percent, that it is ranked among the world's best.
So check your bindings, and top up the wax on your skis and snowboard.