It might not have quite made it into the wider American cultural zeitgeist quite yet, but it’s definitely no secret that Japan has some of the greatest powder snowboarding and downhill skiing on the planet. With some of the world’s highest annual snowfall and a myriad of resorts to choose from, it should be on every winter enthusiast’s bucket list. If you’re in the market for a winter getaway, there’s no better place to buy a lift pass. If you are visiting for the first time in 2016, here’s a guide to take you from the slopes to the izakaya .
Getting Here
Most will fly into either Narita Airport about 30 minutes outside of Tokyo or Haneda Airport in the heart of the city. Connecting flights to Hokkaido depart from both airports, so double check before your book.
The public transportation in Japan is amazing. Trains and buses can get you to nearly anywhere in the country. If you are traveling with a lot of gear you can ship it directly from the airport to your hotel and save yourself the hassle of lugging it around. It will usually arrive within a day and is a great idea if you plan on exploring Tokyo for a day or two when you arrive.
There are also several rental car options available. Be sure to pick up a sim card or portable wifi router at the vending machine (yes, the vending machine) to keep you connect to Google Maps. While most traffic signs are in English, it can get tricky once you get into the mountains.
What To Expect
Snow — The weather in Japan can be tricky and completely unpredictable with A LOT of snow. It’s not uncommon for areas like Niseko in Hokkaido to dump everyday. The area receives up to 15 feet of powder annually.
Lost in Translation — Japan can be a frustrating place to communicate, but nearly everyone tries their best. The nation continues to improve the use of English writing, however many restaurant menus, convenience store labels, and hotels can be challenging.
Heated Toilets — Japanese hotels, homes, and apartment tend to be colder than western style, but they more than make up for it with heated toilet seats. Be warned — it’s hard to go back to anything else after you try.
What To Bring
Japan is obsessed with gear and nearly anything you could want is available to buy. Ogawamachi in Tokyo is known as the “Sporting Goods District” and you can often find some amazing deals here. This is also a great place to pick up your favorite western energy bars or gels since most stores will only carry Japanese brands.
Powder Gear — If finding untouched sugary powder is you think than be sure to pack your powder boards or skis.
Clear Goggle Lenses — Riding at night in Japan is amazing. Bring your clear lenses, wear an extra layer, and be prepared to score.
International Driver's Licence — While Japan’s legendary bullet trains and public transportation can get you to the slopes, many of the best resorts can only be reached by car (don’t forget that Japan drives on the left). You can also check your accommodations if they provide transport.
Power Adapter — Japan uses the two prong system for charging your GoPro, iPhone, and Bluetooth speaker. Stop at any 100 yen store to buy one or use your Apple plug with an USB power cables.
Where To Go
There are literally hundreds of resorts in Japan. While many of the local mountains have a few secret runs the larger resorts have easy access to off-piste riding. Be sure to respect the resort rules and know your limits. Here are three best areas to score some powder.
Hokkaido — Japan’s northernmost island and mecca for international riders. With a claim to some of the world’s driest powder and highest annual snowfalls it’s easy to see why. Niseko is well known to the Australian and Kiwi riders escaping the southern hemisphere summer, but resorts like Kiroro Snow World and Asahidake are fantastic gems for escaping the crowds.
Nagano — Home to the 1998 Winter Olympics, Nagano Prefecture has easy access from Tokyo and a variety of mountains and attractions to choose from including the “snow monsters” at Zao Ski Resort and the hot springs at the Nozawa Ski Resort. In Hakuba twelve of the major resorts have teamed up to offer the “Hakuba Valley Ticket” package, which gives discounts on multiple day lift tickets to be used at any of the participating resorts.
Gumma / Niigata — These resorts straddling the border of these prefectures are the easiest to access from Tokyo. Resorts like Gala Yuzawa have a gondola directly from the Shinkansen station. The larger resorts tend to be crowded, however smaller resorts like Tenjindaira have a pristine backcountry and receives the 5th most snow in all of Japan.
What to Eat
Unlike the standard burger and fries of western ski lodges, in Japan there is an amazing variety of winter favorites to warm you up and give some fuel for an afternoon of riding. Here are some of my favorites.
Ramen — Fresh hot noodles in a rich soup can warm the soul and make you smile. Choose from a variety of soups: Miso, Salt, or Pork broth. My personal favorite is Hokkaido’s famous butter-miso ramen.
Katsu-Curry — A breaded and fried pork cutlet with rice topped with Japanese curry. This hearty dish is my go-to every winter. Sweet, rich Japanese curry is highly underrated.
Gyudon — Grilled pork with a sesame sauce over rice topped with grilled onions. Usually includes a side of miso soup.
Tongiru — A kind of Miso Soup with pork and a lot of root vegetables such as Gobo (burdock root), potatoes, and carrots. Order by itself or as a side dish to your katsu-curry or gyudon.
Onigiri — Great for throwing in your bag and enjoying on the lift, onigiri are rice balls with a variety of fillings. From salmon filets to seaweed there is a huge variety and are delicious snack.
What to Drink
Drinking in Japan is amazing. The relaxed public drinking laws, amazing selection, and culture of bonding over drinks make having a beer a must. On the slopes, in the lodge, or after a hard day of riding is a great time to sample the latest craft beer selection or sip some the Japan’s legendary whiskey.
Whiskey — It’s no secret anymore that Japan produces some of the finest whiskeys on the planet. The 2015 edition of Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible named Suntory’s Yamazaki Single Malt Sherry Cask 2013 the best whisky in the world. Other notables are the Yamazaki Single Malt 12 Years and Nikka Whisky From The Barrel
Craft Beer — Japan has been experiencing a renaissance in craft beer making. If you are visiting Nagano be sure to sample a beer from the Shiga Kogen brewery which shares the same name as Japan’s largest ski resort. Amazingly, many convenience stores stock a great selection of regional brews.
Sake — Sake is a complex refined drink that can be enjoyed with a meal or by itself. Depending on the variety a cup of warm sake can be another reminder of how awesome Japan is.
After Hours
Other than areas like Niseko or Hakuba, the nightlife in Japan’s mountain towns can be tame in comparison to other international hotspots. That doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Enjoy some of the beauty of Japanese culture for an experience unlike any other.
Onsen — Nothing beats a big day of riding than a relaxing dip in a Japanese Hot Springs. Areas like Nozawa have a large selection to choose from and many resorts also have one.
Izakaya — The traditional Japanese pub. Great food and atmosphere to enjoy a few beers and experience one of the best parts of the Japanese lifestyle. Most locals and staff alike are happy to share a recommendation of their favorite food or share a cup of hot local sake.
Karaoke — If you’re looking to get loose there is nothing better than karaoke. I larger towns there are private booths, but if you in a small town meet some friends at the local spot, order a nomihodai (all you can drink), and get crazy.
Article first appeared on Huckberry. Be sure to follow below and on Instagram and Twitter for more guides and adventures in Japan.
Enjoying a quality beer with friends is one of life’s greatest pleasures. However, as work, life, and adventure can separate mates across the globe it can be a challenge to share a brew.
For the founders of @Brewfeed sharing a craft beer became a way to reconnect with friends despite being an ocean apart and build a strong following in the process.
Founded in Northern California and Japan, the popular instagram account believes the “Best Experiences Are Shared.” Despite the geographic challenges the friends are able to share craft beers and good times with creative photos in unique locations on both sides of the Pacific.
I caught up with Brewfeed cofounder and Japan representative Matt Kline to learn more about artisanal Japanese ales, reconnecting with old friends, and the importance of having fun (while enjoying a few coldies, of course).
How did @brewfeed get started?
It started out by simply sharing my beer photos from Japan. Living in Tokyo I wanted to share my travels and what I was drinking in the city. Two old friends back in California loved the idea and started to add photos of West Coast craft beers that they enjoyed while backpacking and camping around Northern California.
What is @brewfeed all about?
The Brewfeed is basically about drinking beers with friends. Though it’s just beer, each photo tells a deeper story and this has connected with a lot of other beer enthusiasts and travelers around the globe.
You guys must drunk dial each other a lot?
Ha! Not really, but we went from talking from once or twice a year to being in constant contact. The time difference between Japan and California was always a challenge, but now we message back and forth like old times. Definitely brought us back together.
What are some things you enjoy about the creation process?
We’ve been trying to do interesting stuff since the beginning. It’s easy to grab a beer and snap a photo of it in front of a beach, we do that too, but we try to offer more.
Our #OregonSeries brings you along our road trip through Oregon tasting the local brews. This past summer during a 2-week, 48 mile hike along the Pacific Crest Trail the Brewfeed crew also posted live shots of the beers that fueled the adventures.
I’m always finding new places and experiences around Tokyo and Brewfeed is a great way to share my Japanese lifestyle with friends and followers.
Do you limit yourself to only the latest craft beers?
There’s really no rules with what we’re doing and that’s how we like it. We don’t want to be beer snobs, we’re not afraid to post a can of Miller Lite or Asahi. We just like the hell out of beer and this feed has given us a great excuse to drink lots of it and be creative at the same time.
What are some of the Japanese craft brews you are enjoying now?
I just drank a Shiga Kogen 10 year anniversary IPA. Does that count? Anything from Hitachino is awesome too.
Ha! Perfect. Any bar recommendations in the Tokyo area?
Danish phantom craft brewing legend Mikkel Borg Bjergro just opened a Mikkeller beer bar in Shibuya. It’s a great place to enjoy a comprehensive selection of Mikkeller brews on tap plus some cool Japanese stuff in a great international setting.
To be honest, one of the best things about Tokyo is the beer selection in convenience stores like Natural Lawson’s. Open 24 hours with select beers from Japan’s largest breweries and smaller craft producers. It’s legal to drink nearly everywhere, so grab a brew and go explore the city.
For more craft beer fueled adventures and guides like 5 Ways to Eat Off The Beaten Path in Japan be sure to follow below or on Instagram or Twitter
Japan’s Rabbit Island Is The Cutest Place on Earth
Okunoshima, also known as “Rabbit Island”, may be the cutest place on Earth. I first learned of it through a YouTube video where a Japanese woman was playfully chased by a flock of tiny bunnies. Such an idyllic place could only exist in Japan, the land of the cute.
Living and traveling throughout the country, I couldn’t help but notice the overwhelming cuteness. I regularly spot Hello Kitty backpacks, pastries carefully shaped like baby animation characters, and perfectly groomed toy poodles obediently following their equally fashionable owners.
In a time of collapsing economies, ethnic clashes, and environmental turmoil, it is comforting to take a step back and see the world this way. It seems simplistic and childish, but I don’t think there is anything wrong with that.
Ironically, the tiny semi-tropical island once produced weapons of mass destruction that caused gruesome deaths and destruction. These factories and warehouses are now populated with thousands of tame, friendly rabbits.
On a recent trip through southern Japan, I decided to experience Rabbit Island for myself. The thousands of bunnies, blue waters, and sandy beaches make Okunoshima a peaceful and unique getaway.
Located within the Inland Sea of Japan and off the coast of Hiroshima, Okunoshima is easily accessed by ferry. Once there, you immediately see why it’s called Rabbit Island. Teams of big-eyed cottontails eagerly hop over for treats. With no fear of humans or natural predators, the bunnies are more than happy to jump in your lap, snack from your hand, or crawl on top of you.
The trip left me smiling and my clothes smelling like bunnies. It was a one-of-a-kind fairytale experience.
Dark History
In 1925 the Imperial Japanese Army initiated a secret program to develop chemical weapons and chose the island because of it’s isolation.
Although Japan had signed the 1925 Geneva Protocol banning the use of chemical warfare, the development and storage of chemical weapons was allowed by the treaty. The Imperial Japanese Army went to great lengths to assure the secrecy of the facilities even going so far as to remove records of the island from some maps.
After the end of World War II documents concerning the plant were burned and people were told to remain silent about the project. The Allied Occupation Forces disposed of the gas either by burning it, dumping it off the coast, or burying around the island, where containers still remain until this day.
The island remained abandoned for decades. As the former military facilities fell into ruin, the rabbit population exploded. With no predators the bunnies grew up without fear of humans and the popularity of the island as a tourist destination expanded.
Where Did the Rabbits Come From?
No one seems to know where the rabbits came from, but there are some popular theories:
The most popular theory is that the rabbits used as test subjects for the chemical weapons facilities escaped after the war and populated the island.
However, this rumor seems unlikely as records state that the rabbits were destroyed along the gas in 1945.
Another theory is that a school teacher in 1971 brought six rabbits for school children to play with. The thousands rabbits that inhabit the island are their descendants.
Finally, the rabbits were intentionally set loose on the island after World War II as a way to develop it as a tourist destination.
Whatever the real cause, the rabbits have continued to multiply and have become an international draw for animals lovers and tourists alike.
What To Do
In a stark contrast to the munitions and poison gas that were formerly manufactured here, Okunoshima is tranquil and idyllic with easy hiking trails, white sand beaches, historical buildings, hotel and of course cute bunnies.
Other Activities:
The Beach — Rabbit Island has several nice beaches and is great for taking a swim during the warm months of summer and early autumnPoison Gas Museum — One of Japan’s Peace Museums and some examples of the weapons themselves, equipment used by the factory, workers’ diaries, and historical photos. There are also some gruesome photos of more recent victims of poison gas. (Closed Tuesdays. Open 9am-5pm; Entry ¥100)Onsen — The hotel has a Japanese style hot spring that is available for daily use. Great for washing off any dirt or bunny urine.
Where To Stay
If you wish to stay on the island there are two options:
Kyukamura Hotel — Japanese style rooms located in the heart of the island. Facilities include a Japanese onsen, tennis courts, and pool (only open during the summer), and a karaoke room. Reservations often include breakfast and dinner. Check rates and availability HERECamping — There are full service campsites available on the island. Located close to the beach and near the visitors center you can be surrounded by your new bunny friends.
Getting There
First, the train
Rabbit Island is a great day trip if you are staying in Hiroshima and takes approximately 2 hours from Hiroshima station. This is the popular plan for those with a Japan Rail Pass and leaves in the morning at 9:00am and returns to Hiroshima by 6:00pm. Arrive at Tadanoumi Station and be sure to stop at the convenience store next door to buy drinks and snacks, as options are limited on island.
Second, the ferry
The twelve-minute ferry to Rabbit Island leaves from Tadanoumi Port, a short, ten-minute walk from Tadanoumi Station.
When you arrive at the port, tickets can be purchased from the vending machine or ticket counter. The round trip ferry costs ¥620. You can also purchase bunny food for ¥100 at the port if you forgot to bring any. The hotel on the island also sells rabbit pellets.
The free bus to the public hotel will be waiting at the pier when you arrive. In case that you want to walk, it is a-15 minute walk to the hotel in a clockwise manner, or a 40-minute walk by a counterclockwise direction.
Ferry Time Table
Bound for Okunoshima: 7:30, 8:30, 9:30, 10:30, 12:30, 14:30, 15:30, 16:30, 17:30, 19:05
Bound for Tadanoumi port: 9:13, 10:13, 12:13, 14:13, 15:13, 16:13
For more guides like 5 Ways to Eat Off The Beaten Path in Japan and adventure and science backed solutions to being awesome at life and be sure to follow on LinkedIn or Twitter. Feel free to recommend below and I’d love to hear your comments on how I could have improved it.
5 Ways To Eat Off The Beaten Path in Japan
Japan is a foodie paradise. Beyond sushi and tempura there is a wide variety of amazing traditional cuisine in addition to unique variations of international favorites.
With a deep culinary tradition and a diverse geography there are flavors and cuisine based upon region, season, and local taste. Japan has no shortage of highly acclaimed restaurants, cafes, and vendors to satisfy your tastes, but to truly immerse yourself in the variety of food and traditions that Japan has to offer it is best to look deeper.
Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are amazing, but like most big cities around the world they only give a glimpse at the heart and soul of culture.
To see and discover a different side of Japan I connected with Kitchhike to explore Japan off the beaten path. Kitchhike connects travelers with local chefs and cooks for a unique experience and genuine cuisine straight from their kitchens. Here are 5 trips to discover a deeper side of Japan.
1. Fish Markets
This past spring my parents and I ventured north of Tokyo to Ibaraki prefecture and stopped at the local fish market for a lunch. While sushi has always been a family favorite we were surprised to try a variety of different dishes.
Using the fresh catch from the morning we enjoyed sashimi to calamari as our guests fed us until we were stuffed. No California rolls on the menu here. The experience and overall hospitality left a strong impression on my parents and I'm sure their friends will get tired from hearing this story over and over.
2. Glamping In Hokkaido
Japan is mostly covered with breathtaking mountains, rivers, and lakes. For outdoor enthusiasts and backpackers the simplicity and flavor of Japanese mountain cooking is a treat and there are also a wide variety of wild vegetables, mushrooms, and edible plants to enjoy.
In Hokkaido, the northern island of Japan, we tried Japanese campfire cooking using local organic produce and mountain vegetables. For me there really isn't anything better. Being outside and cooking over fire is one of life’s simple pleasures.
3. Visit A Farm
For such a small country I was surprised to see how vibrant the farms are. They often feel out of place and inspired by completely different cultures but offer a unique variation of international cuisine.
For something out of the ordinary we visited a farm with German inspired cabins, clydesdale horses, and irish chickens. Somehow the mix worked with inspiration from traditional Japanese cooking and fresh picked ingredients from around the world.
4. Go to a BBQ
Nearly every culture loves a good bbq and Japan is no different. While many bbqs fares aren't so different from western or korean style, in Kyushu we learned how to cook using bamboo. This unique and fun way to cook while giving everything a subtle bamboo flavor.
Japan has a distinct wet season in the early months of summer and we cooked under the protection of an outdoor kitchen. Over the fire we fried chicken and vegetable tempura under the sound of the pouring rain.
5. Traditional Home Cooking
There’s nothing really quite like having a home cooked meal, no matter where you are. Taking time to prepare, cook, and enjoy time together with new friends is an essential part of life and part of the magic of traveling.
Visiting a mountain home we cooked using a traditional style hearth to grill local trout and mountain boar. It felt like a scene from a black and white Kurosawa samurai film when life was a little simpler, but the food is always amazing.
For more adventure and science backed solutions to being awesome at life like Why You Should Embrace Discomfort be sure to follow on LinkedIn or Twitter. Feel free to recommend below and I’d love to hear your comments on how I could have improved it.
Microadventure Challenge
Make everyday an adventure
Thanks for all the birthday wishes. This year I’m going to focus on not only long term travel but daily microadventures.
“Microadventures” was coined by National Geographic Explorer of the Year Alastair Humphreys as a quick, local, and simple trips to incorporate into your weekly planning — take the train to somewhere new, go to a new local resaurant or enjoy the closest outdoors spot.
It doesn’t need to be epic — — keep it simple
This last week in Kyushu, Japan had beautiful summer mountain weather. I took a microadventure with my coworkers on the river 10 minutes away in Itsuki village. This river is clean and cold as we floated downstream with inner tubes, climbed a waterfall, jumped off rocks, and walked back to the van.
For my birthday I started my next revolution around the sun with a midnight swim during the Blue Moon.
Breaking bad habits can be hard. Starting new ones can be simple.
In order to enjoy a microadventure and to be more consistent with exercising, this Monday — Friday I have two daily choices:
45 minute swim in the river rapids45 minute mountain run (different route each day)
Keeping it simple removes any willpower required to make a decision (good or bad). Both choices are convenient and out of the ordinary, but can easily be incorporated in my week.
Let me know if you go on any cool trips (big or small) this week!
Kick ass at life. Learn how to be awesome here
Extra Stuff….
Shep Gordan is a capitalist, protector, hedonist, pioneer, showman, shaman and all around winner at life. Check out his documentary produced by Mike Myers for some wild stories and deeper look at the Hollywood LegendHere is a good reminder to always keep Tokyo permanently on your adventure listEver want to travel around the world first class? Check out the FrugalTravelGuy.com Around the World in First Class: An Introductory How-ToIncrease your willpower by keeping limiting the number of decisions you make. Check out how climber Joe Simpson survived a broken leg and a fall down an ice crevasse with 5 Ways To Survive Decision Fatigue