The commencement of each year brings a steady slope of new challenges to any corporate executive. While the demanding roles of CEO’s and executives can be steep, it is always important to celebrate the peak experiences in the steady rise to the top.
At this time of year Japan is most famously regarded as a playful winter wonderland. Corporate executives and their families can leverage the opportunity to embark on the excitement of a ski adventure amongst the backdrop of Japan’s majestic mountains.
With trips available from November to April every year adventurous travellers and their families can perfect a peak experience to Japan’s world renown ski fields. We encourage you to harness the steady stream of shimmering powder and world class ski runs of Japan’s most magical mountain retreats. Today we offer four escapes that can create exciting destinations for the adventurous executive and their family.
Niseko
Incredible scenery, exceptional service and enviable powder snow means Japan’s Niseko ski resort offers families a deeply rewarding skiing experience. Known as “Powder Mountain” this popular ski resort topples travellers with 15 meters of snow downfalls every year.
Given that Australian’s expect only 2 – 3 meters at any of its local peaks such as Falls Creek, Hotham, or Kosciuszko there is no argument that Japan offers a far superior skiing experience.
Niseko is the largest of the ski areas on Hokkaido, and offers four interlinked ski resorts which can create a peak platform for any family escape.
Hakuba
Host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games Hakuba Valley lies in the heart of the majestic Japanese Alps. Located only three hours from downtown Tokyo Hakuba is one of Japan’s most famous alpine ski resorts. With numerous ski resort on offer there is a variety of alpine terrain boasting new areas to explore with 138 lifts and 5 gondolas allowing families the opportunity a perfect match for a skiing holiday. An electric village atmosphere means hosting families is not a problem for this travel destination with ample access to Tokyo’s bustling metropolis.
Appi Kogen
With gentle slopes, and graceful mountain peaks Appi Kogen offers a refreshing approach to a family holiday. Located only 3 and a half hours from Sendai Appi Kogen offers both a snow escalator, kids park and school for kids to learn the basics of this winter sport amongst the powder white fields of Japans best skiing.
Each winter season amazing powder covers all of APPI’s 828-meter vertical from peak to base. The 21 trails at APPI are easily and comfortably accessible by two eight-person gondolas and three high-speed, detachable, hooded quad chairs. There’s also a lot of variety at APPI Kogen – from beginner bunny slopes to a 5.5-km cruiser to steep and deep! APPI is one of the most well-known resorts in Japan and continues to be a mecca for skiers and boarders alike.
Nozawa
Nozawa hosts some of Japan’s oldest ski resorts. Featuring high speed lifts, two gondolas and fast runs the skiing here allows picture perfect views of the Northern Japan Alps and the Sea of Japan. At the end of a long day on the slopes an onsen bathing experience awaits skiers in the town to add warmth to this winter experience.
While in recent years Nozawa Onsen has become increasingly popular with visitors from overseas, the village still retains a traditional and quaint Japanese feel. At this time every year the Dosojin Matsuri (Fire Festival) is one of the highlights of the season.
The history of this national sport is also reflected in the ski museum which displays historic skis from around the world as well as a history of skiing in Japan, located near the base of the Hikage Gondola.
We also highly recommend considering the ski resorts of Rusutsu, Kiroro, Furano, Sahoro, Tomamu and Myoko Kogen. We can assist with bookings including accommodation, transfers, rentals, lessons, tours, and luxury experiences. Plan Japan can customise a full package or consult on your itinerary as required.
I look forward to advising you on how to create lasting memories for all you travel adventures in 2017 catering for singles, friends and families. Conquer the mountain of your travel dreams!
Speak with us about booking a peak experience with Plan Japan in 2017.
RACHEL LANG
Drawing on my years of travel expertise Plan Japan is a travel itinerary and booking service that helps corporates and industry organisations plan bespoke travel experiences.
As a fluent Japanese speaker and expert I travel frequently with my husband and two children who share a enthusiasm for the language, its people and customs. Also bilingual in Japanese my two children spend extended periods of time in Japan every year which gives me informed insights on how to enjoy a experience from the perspective of a family.
I can tailor and create a unique Japanese experience for CEO’s and leadership teams to deliver a peak experience in 2017: www.planjapan.com.au