bigjimmystyle

I would just like to add the simple observation that the Japanese ski industry is still in the midst of incredible competition (what I believe to be the real reason for low prices). Japanese investors in the ski resorts have been unable to cut their losses and are still holding on for whatever reasons. I don't pretend to understand what keeps them from letting go, but it is good for you, the investor. My theory is that eventually, 10-20 years from now, Japan will only have 2-3 resorts, to include Niseko and Hakuba, that the entire region (Japan, Aus, China, even Korea) will patronize. Al

I've heard alot about a district in Tokyo where you can go clean up on all last season's gear. In particular I remember hearing about one store called Victoria's. Can anyone tell me how to get there and when the sales begin? Thanks all

Dear Britain - your reply brings up a question. How exactly do you go about reserving a seat on the Shink if you live off-island? How important is it to do this, exactly? Thanks,

Cartels too bling? They are right on the money - I picked up the white ones and the thing I was most dissapointed in was the awful lime green color of the plastic that I thought was gold from the pictures! I love the height of the skybacks and how good they look. Plus, they are eally comfortable with my big ol' feet. Can't wait to test them out and see how they ride!

One last question - how hard is it to get to Hakuba from Nozawa? That being said, how do you get from Nagano to Nozawa? I can't seem to find anything on the train schedules, do you have to take a bus?

Is this snow trip to Hakuba worth pushing my leave back a week? I mean, it's cheap as hell - 16000 yen for two nights and meals is ridiculous - but will the boarding be good or better than Nozawa? This will be my first time tasting Japan and i want to do it right, and from what I can tell Nozawa is quiter and less crowded with more off-piste access. All in all, I'm just interested in solid boarding with dood atmosphere. Thanks all

Is the Nagano region going to have good snow by January? I've been looking at the weather reports and it looks pretty bleak... are they usually dumped on by the 15th? Thanks,