ben

There are plans to introduce new ticket gates in Niseko this season. Rather than losing out on current ticket combinations, fingers crossed we should have more options to choose from. Details to be finalised by mid July.

Well worth a visit! Great trails have been cut into Hirafu's summer jungle, leading up and past the half-pipe. The 30min course is 3000 yen, and the 90min 9000 yen per person. Beginners and experienced welcome. (Experienced are allowed to explore the mountain without an instructor.) All equipment provided. Contact Sakai-san (nickname "Swat") on 090 5982 4745. Open seven days, 9am to sunset. More info to follow in a feature soon...

Have ridden, and both are lots of fun in powder. Not recommended for harder stuff. They are basically the same board, except the Slasher has more surface area. Length, width, nose and tail are slightly bigger, but sole, shape and flex are all the same as the TT. TT may be slightly more responsive, but the Slasher seemed to out-perform when slashing around on anything semi-vertical. (Hence the name...?) My advice would be to select according to body weight. Over 75kgs, and the Slasher will probably suit best.

Still a bit of snow up high, but Hanazono is shut, nighta is finished, the pipe's been flattened and the powder is slushy... Probably best to wait for December. Unless of course you're coming up for some rafting action - big water at the moment!

Wonder if they'll be paying us another visit this summer? www.skijapanguide.com/2002/features/powder-8.html

Niseko management were keen to set up gates between resort limits and backcountry. There was even talk of a possible beacon check. They were stopped by the Forestry Department who argued that the resort didn't have the right to give people access to these areas. Full details; www.skijapanguide.com/2002/features/powder-11.html So, i'm afraid the current policy is you are not allowed to go backcountry, but in reality there is little or no patrolling of this. Carry the gear, and look after each other.

hey lama, great turns this mornin' - knee deep plus everywhere. Fatty did some great cartwheels, and came close to your Yetti impersonation. Hanazono to open tomorrow...

there is one huge gap-jump Paddy hasn't done. Up near Goshiki Onsen - landing in lots of deep powder. Still a bit early in the season though... Hope Paddy is alive or out of jail. Come on home Paddy!

board: Gentem TT binding: Flow boots: Flow goggle: Oakley A-frame Lots of annoying skating in Niseko, so step-in bindings save heaps of time. Clear, yellow or light coloured lenses also help to see in the usually poor light.