Kiwigaijin

Don't get stuck in Niseko for the whole time. Definitely check out some of the many other resorts Hokkaido has to offer. Furano is a great place with loads of culture. Kamui is only 30 mins from Asahikawa city and has a very relaxed off piste policy. Then there is also Tomamu which also a great mountain.

I have done the bus from Sapporo Stn to Furano a few times and its about a 3 hour trip as it isn't exactly direct, the train I'm not too sure but Im pretty sure the bus is easier. If you are looking for some long term accom in Furano, my buddies (aus) stayed at the Backpackers there for a few months and loved it there and I'm sure they will take your money/credit. They speak english too. http://www.snowjapan.com/e/hotel/viewhotel.php?hotid=138 I'm there next season so if ya need any more info on the place I can help you out there.

Originally Posted By: stemik ASB...hows the season down there so far? I spent the most of last season in Furano, I was riding off piste almost everyday and although the ski patrol still don't officially condone it they never really policed it. I realise that Furano has had in the past a rather strict approach to off piste skiing but my personal experience was fine. Also it doesn't take too much effort to find some really good untouched lines at Furano. Also a good place to base yourself for a week or so, if you get bored of Furano then you have several day trip options such as Ashidake,

I spent the whole season in Furano this year and rode out of bounds every chance I could get and never even had so much as a warning from patrol. I had previously heard about how strict the ski patrol have been in Furano and realize that this has given the resort a bit of a negative reputation because this. I think the resort has finally started to realize that they are scaring away tourist with there no tolerance attitude to off piste riding. I was riding with a small crew this season and we had fresh lines all day every powder day we had.