A short trip from any major city, in any direction, is a Japan often overlooked. With plenty to see, do and eat, regional Japan is the place to be if you’re looking to avoid the tourist traps and discover the ‘other side’. 

So why not plan your trip to discover more of Hokkaido beyond the big international ski areas? From the cities to smaller, less known ski resorts, to the wilderness, to the indigenous Ainu culture, there is plenty on offer.

After a dozen winters skiing Japan I have a confession to make: for the past couple of years, as I start to dream about the next “Japowder” mission, I actually find myself dreaming more about the onsen (hot spring baths) than the actual skiing.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or you just like to get a bit snap happy on your smartphone, you won’t have to look far (or try too hard) to get some impressive, envy-inducing travel shots in Japan.