Skiing/Snowboarding Hirafu

The resorts are really fun here. There are 5 within a short bus ride of eachother. You can connect Annapuri, Niseko Village, Grand Hirafu and Hanazono with the all mtn pass. The 5th is called Moiwa and can be seen from the Niseko United resorts. A 6th sits just about an hour away that one is Rusutsu and a 7th is on the coast also an hour away which offers access to backcountry terrain via snowcat or you can hike the public access area from the bottom. That one is called Iwanai. (They have the best sushi!)

The powder is absolutely amazing at Niseko United. When the sun comes out which is rare the views are absolutely stunning. Around Grand Hirafu you can see Mt. Yotei. Another wonderful mountain you can hike and ride down. There's so much to explore even on the resorts. The gates offer lots of fun terrain and the pow, as Ryan says, "Dick Deep!" No matter where you end up you'll be impressed by the mountains and terrain Japan has to offer.

What I Wish I knew Going to Japan

Traveling in a foreign country for the first time is kind of scary not to mention there's a lot to figure out. This was my first time traveling outside of my home country in the USA besides a few trips to Mexico. Let me tell you its culture shock. I have compiled a list of things that I have figured out in just a weeks time including what to try and tips to make it cheaper.

• The country mainly speaks Japanese but, there's english translation on all transportation. If traveling to Niseko for skiing the town Hirafu is very westerner friendly. 
• Most onsens besides the ones in Hirafu will not allow you in if you have tattoos. 
• The toilets are all equipped with bidets and they're quite confusing if it doesn't include English translation. I recommend trying it out though. 
• The wierd looking food at the marts and convenience stores are actually quite delicious for the most part and I recommend trying everything if you don't have dietary restrictions. PS. these things are also usually pretty cheap.
• The water everywhere is safe to drink and most places have free hot water. With that said buy your own teas, instant coffee, matte, matcha etc and carry your own travel mug.
• Japan is a cash country. Always carry cash. 
• They sort ALL of their trash. Be courteous and pay close attention to what you are throwing in which bin. The streets don't have bins so carry a bag to haul your trash. 
• Japanese are extremely polite and they try to help you as much as possible. 
• The police will yell at you for jaywalking. Do not cross unless the walk sign is on and DO NOT walk in the road unless it is completely unavoidable. 
• Some towns they play music on street speakers. 
• Police can hold you for 28 days without cause. 
• Japan has A LOT of rules. Familiarize yourself with them. 
• Learn a few key words to show gratitude to the local communities. Arigatogozimashita - Thank you, Kon'nichiwa - Hello. They appreciate it. 
• Don't flick cigarettes on the ground it is completely unacceptable. You can buy a pocket ash tray for ¥180.
• If traveling in winter bring or buy shoe spikes, you'll thank me later. 
• They drive on the left hand side of the road. 

So far this is what I have learned. It is really fun to find things out for yourself to so I won't spoil all the fun. Happy travels.