Tele Japan - where to ski, stay

[kiwirobnz]

Hey. Looking for advice:
We are thinking about a ski trip to Hokkaido in January 2016 - we are NZers, all tele, like lift-served with off-piste options. Can ski the steeps and trees, but like the cruisers as well.

Two years ago we had 13 days Meribel, based in a ski in, ski out chalet, dinner, bed & breakfast. It worked really well - we loved the extent of the ski options. Not sure if there are similar set-ups in the various resorts in Hokkaido. Used a company package - it was reasonably priced and made it simple. We quite like the idea of staying in one place for two weeks, rather than packing up and driving. We also don't usually want to drive, rent a car or bus anywhere ski.

Where have folk skied in Hokkaido? Recommended resorts, companies, accommodation?

PS Not sure if this is the right forum, but thanks anyway.

[CIMA]

Niseko would be the most popular place in Hokkaido.
Lately we see a lot of skiers from Australia in Nagano, too.

[kiwirobnz]

Thanks. I also forgot to ask about the timing of a visit: best snow, least people, in January, as we have to work around NZ summer school holidays. When are the busy times? Christmas and New Year? Better snow in later January?

[CIMA]

Because of global warming, a safe bet would be from the end of January to the middle of February. If you like quiet environment, avoid weekends.
You should expect two or three days per week of bad weather then. However, from a different point of view, that would be blessed storms for powder junkies.

[Dirtbag]

I'm interested too. What about backcountry stuff? Guided only or can you poke around on your own?

[CIMA]

The both are possible.
If you go by yourself, GPS is indispensable.
However, if you're first-timer to Hokkaido, guided tour would be recommended.

[CIMA]

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