Mt Fuji
Mt Yotei Sknowboarding
Niseko
Sapporo Snow Festival
Snow Walls
Japanese Lanterns
Japanese Udon Noodle Dish
Hokkaido Onsen
Tokyo with Mt Fuji
Shinjuku National Garden Tokyo
Japan’s landscapes are adorned in striking mountains and long seashores. The central highlands and northern regions are abundant in high quality snow, making the skiing grounds in Japan amongst the best the world has to offer. Some of the most famous ski resorts are found in Hokkaido, the northern island, and Nagano on the main island of Honshu, offering a variety of accommodations in a peaceful and welcoming village setting. Japan’s complementing ski culture of beautiful scenery, relaxing hot springs and an appreciation of traditional gourmet delights transforms a simple ski holiday into an unforgettable and intrinsically rewarding experience.
Climate
Japan’s winter is from December to February presenting the best times to visit the snow. The average snowfall in Niseko on the island of Hokkaido reaches 15 metres per year. On the main island of Honshu where Hakuba and Nozawa Onsen are located the average yearly snow fall is 11 metres per season.
Passport and Visas
Each person must carry a passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of arrival into Japan. Australian passport holders do not require a Visa prior to arrival in Japan for stays up to 90 days. Asia Escape Holidays highly recommends to check all visa requirements with the appropriate embassies or consulates before commencing travel arrangements.
Language
Most Japanese speak their mother tongue of Japanese as well as English. English is widely understood in most major tourist areas of Japan. However take the time to learn some basic Japanese, a little effort will be appreciated and enjoyed by the locals.
Drinking Water
It is safe to drink water directly from the tap in Japan. However, bottled water can be easily obtained from super markets, convenience stores and within hotels.
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Health
Japan is a very clean country and travellers generally do not suffer travel related sickness. If you do become sick, the health facilities in Japan are of a very high quality. Asia Escape Holidays advise you to talk to your doctor prior to departure about recommended vaccinations or medication that you may require.
Currency and Money Changers
The local currency is Japanese Yen. Money can be changed at licensed Travex booths, banks or hotels. International Credit cards such as VISA, MasterCard, American Express and Diners Club are widely accepted in department stores, ski resorts and restaurants. Some form of identification will be required if cashing in travellers cheques. Foreign credit/cash cards can be used at Post Offices and Seven Bank ATMs (located at 7-Eleven convenience stores). Citibank ATMs are widely available in Tokyo, major airports and are another good option for accessing your funds via your Visa card.
Holidays and Special Days
There are a number of special days/holidays all throughout Japan. On the island of Hokkaido, for 7 days starting in the second week of February, the town of Sapporo holds the Sapporo Snow Festival, where rows of snow statues are on display in the city. This festival attracts over 2 million people world-wide every year. A must do if you are in Niseko or Rusutsu during the festival.
Electricity
Japan’s voltage is 100 volts. Some hotels may provide adaptors on request but purchasing your own is recommended. Power points and plugs in Japan are two-flat-pinned.
Travel Insurance
Asia Escape Holidays highly recommends insurance when travelling to Japan. Snow holidays often require a special type of cover. Most Australians that require hospitalisation are airlifted back to Australia at a cost in excess of $40,000. This fee is covered in most insurance policies so please do not consider travelling without adequate cover. Please discuss your insurance options with your travel agent.
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