This is the 2nd episode in the Ski Japan Series and it’s all about the snowiest and fluffiest, ski destination in Japan… Niseko!

In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton sits down with long-time Niseko devotee Christie Hampton, who has spent more than 20 winters in Japan’s most famous ski town. If you’re dreaming of that light, dry, ridiculously fluffy Hokkaido powder (that you simply cannot get in Australia), this is your ultimate family guide to skiing Niseko. Plus Christie also shares why the ski resorts in Rusutsu and Furano are also fantastic options.

Christie first visited Niseko decades ago, long before it blew up into the global ski phenomenon it is today. Now, she returns every single Japanese winter with her family. Her kids have been skiing that powder since they were two years old, so she is a bona fide expert!

Sally and Christie cover:

• Why Niseko continues to win “Best Ski Resort in Japan” year after year


• What first-timers need to know about weather, gear, goggles and the cold


• Whether Niseko is comfortable for babies and toddlers


• Why booking ski school (and pretty much everything possible) early is essential


• Where to eat, shop and explore beyond the slopes


• What makes Furano and Rusutsu worth adding to your itinerary


• Onsens (yes, we talk about mixed onsens!) and the magic of Japanese snow culture


• Day trip ideas, terrain advice.

Christie gives a refreshingly honest, super helpful breakdown of what makes Niseko special and why so many families return year after year. If you’re tossing up whether to make Japan your next snow holiday… this episode will absolutely seal the deal.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to Niseko: A Family Ski Paradise

03:01 The Allure of Niseko's Powder Snow

06:01 Skiing in Hokkaido: Comparing Resorts

10:37 Christie's Journey: From Visitor to Local

11:44 Exploring Other Hokkaido Resorts

15:33 Why Niseko is the Best Ski Area in Japan

22:01 The Changing Face of Niseko

25:19 Budget-Friendly Tips for Families

26:05 Getting Around Niseko: Transportation Tips

27:57 Activities for Non-Skiers: Food and Onsens

30:52 Exploring Onsen Culture in Japan

32:45 Family-Friendly Activities in Niseko

34:59 Day Trips and Local Attractions

37:44 Ski School Insights for Kids

42:02 Winter Weather and Clothing Essentials

48:04 Packing Tips for a Niseko Trip

49:42 Shopping and Supermarket Experiences

52:10 Quickfire Questions about Niseko

Topics  we mentioned

Furano Ski Resort

Rusutsu

Rhythm Japan

Niseko United

Grand Hotel Onsen

Rhythm Rides

Moiwa Lodge

Ren Izakaya

Gyu Bar

Connect

Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook

 @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis

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Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com 

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AND... Don't forget your snacks or your skis!