sunrise

I didn't see any snowgums when I was in Niseko (Higashiama).

I didn't see any snowgums when I was in Niseko (Higashiama).

Markie, Easter's a little too far away for me to even comprehend right now! But I'll keep it in the back of my mind.

Possibly, if I'm not working.

Possibly, if I'm not working.

Yes, I do it for a living. Sing and play piano/KBs.

Ah well, perhaps next season, Markie....

Do they seem to know what they're talking about for the important stuff (like boots, etc)? Maybe my bad "Japlish" could get me by or even bring a nihongo speaking expert with me if I can find someone... But I'm still more inclined to like the idea of getting advice from someone overseas who I can trust to help me. thanks

Oooh, I didn't know that. That should give for a nice view. Hey Markie, a pity we're not going to be there at the same time, we could've tried a few runs together...

The couple of times I've actually been able to ski them properly it's been amazing. If you can get your skiing rhythm in tune with them there's nothing like it.

Check out: http://www.rusutsu.co.jp Also you can check the reviews on this site for other info.

Quote: Originally posted by Antonio: Sunrise...boots are always the big issue. I'd be hesitant to recommend the shop i went to as experts. I kind of knew what i wanted and just needed someone to go and fetch the right sizes of a few different brands. I agree that it's vital you get the right advice. They don't sound the like right guys for me unless I already know what I need (like you). Quote: There's a boot specialist on the corner in Jinbocho near Alpen (i think) that might be able to help. Anyone been there or know if they speak english? Before you go though you need to do some

I once went X-countrying with a group of local rice farmers out at a lake on Urbandai (or is that Ur-Bandai?) about 10 years ago. Nasty blizzardy day, but it was fun nonetheless. I've always thought of getting a pair of skis and boots so that after big dumps I could zap outside of Tokyo and go for a bit of a dash.... Ah, one of these years, if I'm still here that is....

Thanks for all the info, Antonio. I think I can probably figure out skis with that and other online help, and last years skis on sale sounds like a good idea, I'll check it out. It's the boots that I'm the most concerned about. I've never been able to get the right boots. I'm worried that even if they let me try on lots of different types, I'm still not going to get the best ones for my level of skiing, correct alignment, etc without assistance of someone who is very knowledgable in this field. Do you think the people there would qualify? Bindings - uh oh, there's another thing

Anyone recommend ski shops in Tokyo with knowledgable staff that speak English? If I'm buying new boots (and skis) this year I want to make sure that I'm advised to get the right ones for me and not something I'm not happy with. Also, how do the prices on gear in japan compare with overseas? Thanks.

Aussie...!

I just checked my old skis - they're 180s (longer than I thought). I guess that means I should think of getting something around 160s or maybe 165s... I'll start looking into it, thanks. Ah, this brings me to another question for anyone who wants to answer: - I assume that I should get new bindings and not use the old ones even if they seem to work okay? Also, how about poles? Will it make a difference upgrading them also? Excuse the lack of knowledge here. I've really been out of the race.... Thanks.

Quote: Originally posted by Fattwins: Size is shorter but the skis are fatter and this makes the difference. Most powder skis are no longer than 190 nowadays. Do a little research via the web. Thanks, Fattwins, for the info. I'll see what I can find out on the web.

Quote: Originally posted by Fattwins: Size is shorter but the skis are fatter and this makes the difference. Most powder skis are no longer than 190 nowadays. Do a little research via the web. Thanks, Fattwins, for the info. I'll see what I can find out on the web.

Quote: Originally posted by Markie: My goodness, sunrise, you are mighty short! Is that a typo or are you pulling our legs. Ooops! That *does* make me look mighty short, doesn't it! Okay, then, add an extra 100 cm in front of the 63 to get a better idea of my real height! (when I'm not feeling short, that is ;-)

I haven't skied for 7 years, but I'll have a month in Hokkaido this season - ski lengths seem to go in and out of fashion. What's happening nowadays? Shorter skis, longer skis? Last time I was skiing on 175cm or maybe that was 165cm, gosh can't remember now (I'm 63cm tall, and am reasonably good intermediate skier, or at least I was...!). Also, anyone recommend boots that won't kill someone with large calves? thanks.

How about sales in the first half of January? Likely?

I'll be there from mid Jan to mid Feb. Haven't skied for 7 years. Anyone know if there's any English speaking instructors there? It'd be nice to do a class.....