Summer loving
Niseko without the snow? It’s still a blast
Niseko without the snow? It’s still a blast.
To snow-sports enthusiasts, Niseko is synonymous with Champagnepowder snow and world-class winter resorts. But is there life in this part of Hokkaido, the northernmost of Japan’s main islands, at other times of the year when the army of international skiers and snowboarders are absent?
Let’s put it this way, if the two giants of Niseko — I mean Mt Annupuri, where the district’s four resorts are located, and Mt Yotei, the stand-alone, cone-shaped volcano that dominates the eastern skyline with its majestic presence — could speak, the answer would be a unanimous, and sonorous: ‘‘Hai!’’
Yes, with the arrival of spring the natural world hidden beneath the thick snow becomes lively again. The clear waters of the Shiribetsu River and brooks in the surrounding forest become more active, as do the fish living in them. Trees and plants are covered with lush leaves that paint the entire area a vibrant green; even the two mountains are no exception. Birds, insects and larger animals like squirrels, rabbits, deer and foxes are out and about to forage for food and find mates. Continuing through to autumn, when the leaves transform into different shades of red, orange and yellow, nature bustles along in its own peaceful way.
Despite the absence of its famous superfine snow, Niseko is still a paradise, especially for nature lovers — as I found during my second visit there last week. Seriously, just to sit in a meadow or somewhere on a hillside and take in the fresh, pure Hokkaido breeze and the peaceful landscape with Mt Yotei in the background is alone worth the airfare from Bangkok.
But is there anything for people who prefer some action, you might ask. The answer, again, is hai!
How about ‘‘flying’’ through and over the greenery on Hokkaido’s longest zip line (1.4km) in Niseko Village, one of the area’s major resorts. The thrill alone may not be much different from that obtainable at similar facilities in Thailand or elsewhere, but having Mt Yotei as part of the scenery makes it another story entirely.
And with Japan’s trustworthy safety standards, even a person with an incurable fear of heights like me was able to enjoy the experience in a carefree manner.
Of course, there are a host of other adventurous activities you can try in Niseko. And for those curious to see other parts of the island, a day trip can be made to interesting places such as the fruit orchards of Yoichi, the Shakotan Peninsula and the famous town of Otaru.
Niseko’s ‘‘green season’’ (spring, summer and autumn combined) is so pleasant that I must admit there were times last week when I completely forgot this place is best known as a ski destination.
Even now I still can’t decide which period I like better, the green season or the time of snow, which usually starts in early November. There can be no doubt, though, of the love I have for both.