When you think of skiing or snowboarding super deep powder, most people think of AK, Canada or the US.
However in the last few years Japan has also entered the game, it is not as if they have just started to receive more snow, but more like the word is starting to get out within the snow communities of the quantity and quality of snow that the little Island receives.
Japan has 100's of quality resorts around the country, but it is the northern Island of Hokkaido that has received the reputation as one of the greatest powder destinations of the world, with a range of resorts to please everyone.
In close proximity to Sapporo, Hokkaido's capital, you can find one very under rated resort such as Kokusai.
Attracting a very family orientated crowd being so close to the city, you will find many don't explore off the marked trails very often, this leaves a lot of untouched powder lying in the gullies waiting to be enjoyed.
If you are staying in Sapporo also try Teine, approximately 30 minutes from the entertainment district of Susukino.
Teine has something to offer everyone in the family, Olympia is perfect for the beginners and Highland is great for those that are a little more experienced with steeper terrain and a park that keep you entertained for hours.
Also try Kirror Ski Resort, just outside of Otaru for a day or two.
On the other side of Sapparo you head into central Hokkaido and more quality resorts for all abilities, backcountry hounds and families are well catered for.
Furano is one of the more populated areas and a favorite amongst tourists due to the incredibly dry snow that the area receives.
One drawback to Furano is the lack off piste access due to the strict regulations that are enforced by ski patrol.
If you are after a truly unique experience, Asahidake is your dream come true.
It features one gondola, two massive runs surrounding a huge powder catching bowl with awesome terrain.
Be sure to take your avalanche gear for safety and to open up the massive hiking possibilities.
Be sure to make your way back to the gondola and do it all again.
If first class kid facilities, luxury or a tropical island atmosphere is more your priority, make sure you head east to Club Med Sahoro Resort, situated just outside of Obihiro.
You will find all the facilities you would normally find from a Club Med to keep you entertained off the hill and is without doubt the best resort for kids to enjoy.
Heading back to the Niseko area, between Sapporo and Niseko you will find Rusutsu Resort.
A great escape from the Niseko crowds and easy access from Sapporo.
With 3 ski-able areas there is plenty of terrain to keep you finding new and untouched lines of powder all day long.
When night falls you can make your way over to the half pipe and take a few laps under lights if your legs are up to it! The quickly developing town of Niseko is without doubt the most well known resort by international visitors in Japan after receiving rave reviews from ski and snowboarding publications around the world, including being voted as the second snowiest resort in the world by Forbes Traveller.
Without doubt Niseko is truly a majestic and unique travel destination.
While in Niseko you will continually think that it just does not stop snowing, if you are lucky you might not see the sun or a glimpse of blue sky for weeks on end.
The resort is made up of 3 ski-able resorts linked under one lift pass, with some ski-able areas open for your entertainment up to 9 hours a day.
With the awesome village atmosphere, fantastic locals, super relaxing onsens and great food it is pretty obvious why Niseko has become a hot sopt for so many snow hungry travelers.
With such highly publicised snow conditions and recognition, Niseko is now home to many international snow junkies year round.
However it is not only the snow that is the attraction, such as investing in Niseko real estate.
This has been an outstanding investment over the last 10 years with strong returns and more expected to continue for years to come.