sakura in niseko

The end of 'white season' ushers in 'sakura' (桜 / さくら / cherry blossom) time. These photos, courtesy of photographer Glen Claydon, illustrate exactly what the Niseko locals mean when they mention the 'green season.'

new ATM in Hirafu

The Niseko Promotion Board reports that an International ATM is now available in Hirafu Village. This is a welcome development for Niseko visitors often unaccustomed to carrying large amounts of cash and it relieves the need to travel to Kutchan to access the Post Office ATM. The new ATM is located at the Hokkaido Tracks offices in the middle village of Hirafu and will be available throughout the year.

the right direction

The AUD/JPY exchange rate appears to be headed in a favourable direction and recovering from the currency shock of the third quarter 2008.

Japan snow expo travel in Sydney

The Japan Snow & Adventure Trade Show 2009 was held in Sydney in late May. Keen observers might note that 'Yuki' (ゆき), the first name of JNTO Deputy Director Ogawa-san, translates as 'snow'.