Join Jenny Jones, the UK’s most successful snowboarder, in Hokkaido, Japan, with Ski Safari
Ski Safari is offering adventurous snowboarders a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: to explore the world-renowned powder of Niseko – and neighbouring Japanese resorts – with Jenny Jones, the UK’s most globally respected and successful professional snowboarder, on the brand-new Hokkaido Powder Week.
Located two-and-a-half-hours drive from Sapporo Chitose airport and comprising four interlinked ski areas – Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village and Annupuri – Japan’s premier resort, Niseko, is home to legendary powder, world-class tree runs and a lively village with endless restaurants and bars to sample. So, where better to join a world-class athlete?
In 2014, Jenny became the first Briton to win a medal on snow at the Winter Olympics, taking bronze for slopestyle in Sochi. She is also a three time XGames gold medal winner and, if that’s not enough, in 2015, she acted as one of the coaches for the second series of Channel 4’s celebrity winter sports competition, The Jump.
Alongside the experienced instructors and local knowledgeable guides, guests can explore the mountains with Jenny, who will help unlock their potential. The mellow, rolling backcountry and incredible terrain with widely-spaced trees across the resorts, makes for safe and quick progression in powder.
In addition, the resorts of Rusutsu, Kiroro and Moiwa, which are all within an hour’s drive of Niseko, will give participants further exciting landscape to explore for the full Hokkaido experience. Two of these will be visited during the week, the choice dependent on the snow and weather conditions.
After exploring the exhilarating powder bowls and glorious glades during the day, the snowboarders can relax at the luxurious 4*+ Ki Niseko. Located in Hirafu Village, next to the Hirafu Gondola in the heart of Niseko, the hotel offers ski-in ski-out accommodation and a ski valet, who ensures quick and convenient access to the slopes, whether for the first gondola or for a sneaky night-boarding session.
Throughout the week, the group can tuck into a delicious buffet breakfast, ideal fuel for an energetic day on the slopes. They can keep their muscles supple by indulging in Ki Niseko’s relaxing spa and steaming onsen (natural hot springs), plus join in with two complimentary yoga classes. Finally, a free cooking class means they can take the enchanting taste of Japan home with them too.
Jenny says: “I’ve always felt incredibly drawn to snowboarding in Japan. Having competed there years ago, I never really had the chance to explore it until recently. It really was worth the wait. Unbelievable terrain and snow, mixed with an incredibly unique and beautiful culture. From fluffy knee deep powder, the night riding, to trying amazing and healthy food served by the nicest of people. Japan is a truly unique experience.”
The Hokkaido Powder Week with Jenny Jones is available for up to 12 high intermediate to expert snowboarders (powder experience essential) and takes place 15-23 January 2017, costs £3,499 pp and includes B&B twin-share accommodation, return flights (London Heathrow to Sapporo Chitose), transfers, six-day lift pass, shuttle service, five hosted or guided days, two yoga classes and a cooking class with dinner. Other meals and snowboard equipment extra. For more information, contact Ski Safari (01273 224067, www.skisafari.com).
