As the Japan winter snow season reaches it's midway point, we wrap up all the news from the best resorts and some of the best available properties too!
Niseko
Most snowfall trackers are reporting approximately 6.5 metres of snow having fallen at village/base level in Niseko so far this winter, which by Niseko terms, is around about average. Fairly consistent snowfall has been seen almost every day throughout December and January, however there have been slightly fewer super-deep-50cm+ days this winter compared to last. Heavy snowfall is in the forecast starting this weekend though so February could begin with a bang.
Featured property - with ski-in ski-out access and breathtaking forest views, condo living in central Hirafu doesn't get much better than in this 2-bedroom stunner in the AYA Niseko hotel.
Rusutsu
Recently named Japan's Best Ski Resort (again!), Rusutsu is enjoying a typically epic season. @rusutsu20_20 reports almost 8 metres of snowfall this winter at village level. And no doubt, plenty more up top! Deep days in Rusutsu are hard to beat anywhere in Japan, thanks not just to the snow and amazing terrain, but the unbelievably delicious pork katsu curry they serve in the day lodge!
Feature property - Rusutsu's newest and best condo apartment complex is The Vale Rusutsu. With ski-in ski-out access unmatched anywhere else in the resort, luxurious suites, great amenities and a range of different unit types available, this property is attracting a lot of attention from savvy buyers.
Furano
'The biggest January in 10 years'... so say the snow reports coming out of Furano! Over 4 metres of snow has fallen already this winter with plenty more to come in this Central Hokkaido skiing mecca.
Feature property - construction works are moving forward swiftly, despite the snowfall, at Fenix West. This, the second phase of the 3-part Fenix condominium development is set for completion in late 2022, featuring a range of deluxe apartments and an unbeatable location close to the Furano slopes and in the heart of the off-mountain action.
Hakuba
A good snow season in Hakuba too this winter, as snowfall at village level inches towards 4 metres. This includes a couple of bumper days, including 50cm+ on the 14th of January (see photo above!) and over a foot on the 21st. Hakuba is famous for it's steep, big mountain terrain, so when there is deep snow like that, the place becomes akin to heaven.
Feature property - options abound for buyers looking to enter the Hakuba market, but how about this hotel for a quirky one!? With 9 guestrooms, traditional stone/wood baths and a super central location, this one is perfect to 'switch on' as an operating hotel or for those looking to add value via renovation.
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Meet Danny Geerken, a visitor who fell in love with the Soga area of Niseko so much that he wants you to come too!
