“Where are you?”, I yell out to my ski buddies. I can hear a distant hollering and I wonder if this is one of distress or pleasure… most likely the latter. The flood lights shimmer in the distance, but I stand firmly planted in feet of snow looking down the dimly lit trail ahead. True, we have strayed further than most would on such a night, but how could we resist the temptation of un-tracked powder? Impossible.
The expression “no friends on a powder day” is universally accepted in the skiing world as a suitable reason to ditch your fellow rider. In other words, if you’re too slow, too bad. However, it takes on a whole new meaning when dodging trees in less than perfect lighting; when night skiing off-piste, one should always partner-up.
Mt. Niseko-Annupuri already has quite the following in the skiing community. Featured in numerous ski films over the years, it’s reputation for impeccable powder precedes it. Allegedly the largest lit area in Japan, Niseko also stands out as a top night skiing destination. Paired with unparalleled snow fall and high-speed lifts, night skiing has to be one of the best kept secrets in Hokkaido. Come twilight, tired skiers and boarders will head down to the hotels and that’s when the die-hards make their move. Empty, wide-open runs practically offer themselves to skiers willing to “brave” the evening. Over-sized snowflakes shimmering in the inky sky and a quiet like only Japan can offer come as a bonus.
For those less adventurous or new to the sport, staying on piste will ensure proper visibility. Trails of all ability levels are available when night skiing in Niseko, catering to the needs of even the least experienced slider. For the powder hunters out there, follow the path less traveled— a little further out of the light but still within bounds. Fresh tracks are only granted to those who suppress their fear of the dark.
At the junction of the dimly lit, wooded trail and the run-out to the lifts, I see my friends waiting; perched on their poles with grins plastered to their faces. Another stellar night of powder shredding goodness in Niseko has begun.
Winter is coming,
K
Part of the Hokkaido, Japan series