On Location - Japan

Mount Yōtei, an active volcano, on Hokkaido

For Fall/Winter 2018, we chose a destination both far and exotic: Japan. We decided to begin our journey on the famed island of Hokkaido, a bucket-list spot for die-hard skiers and snowboarders. We were focused on putting our gear to the test in Japan’s legendary snow, known for being incredibly light and—most importantly—deep. Starting our adventure in Niseko, we experienced heavy snow almost every day of our stay. Large flakes fell from the sky from morning til night, at times creating giant snow walls that nearly prevented us from leaving the house we were staying in, located just blocks from Niseko’s main drag. Snow-removal crews seemed to work around the clock, creating a path for us to escape to experience Japan’s legendary skiing.

While Niseko has resort skiing, we chose to head into the backcountry with Rising Sun Guides. A day of face shots and bottomless powder stashes left the crew with grins stretching from ear to ear and snow covering every inch of our gear. Experiencing snow as deep as any we’ve ever skied, we reveled in the fact our collection kept us warm and dry while holding up to the intense elements. Cold days were followed by delicious meals in some of Niseko’s renowned restaurants, followed by nightcaps of Japanese whiskey in intimate, cozy bars. ↓

The view from the Niseko house

Niseko, Hokkaido, Japan

Niseko’s The Barn by Odin restaurant

Thoroughly satisfied from our several days in Niseko, we flew to Tokyo to experience the bustling city, full of lights and people and historic sights. We took our urban-minded pieces and transitional coats and layers for a tour of the city. Starting in the visually electrifying neighborhood of Shibuya, we made our way through the famous Crossing, arguably the busiest intersection in the world. We explored the narrow alleys of Nonbei Yokocho, lined with tiny restaurants and bars, all rich in character but small in space. Tokyo is thick with history, which we witnessed first-hand at the verdant Meiji Jingu Shrine— a park of tree-lined pathways dedicated to the late Emperor Meiji and his wife— and the beautiful Akasaka Shrine, which dates back to the 1700s. Our last location was the Myojuji Temple, a picturesque spot with its own tiny bamboo forest just outside it. Japan proved to be an endless well of exploration and adventure, both in the city and in nature, making it the perfect backdrop for Fall/Winter 2018-19. •