Niseko Summer Activities Keep Visitors Just As Busy as Skiing in the Winter

In the southwest corner of Japan’s most northern island, Hokkaido, sits the spectacular Village of Hirafu, most widely known as Niseko. Mount Yotei provides a luscious backdrop of deep green valleys, thick forests, stunningly beautiful fields of sunflowers, clear alpine rivers and tranquil lakes.

Transforming from winter into the alpine summer, Hokkaido has so many summer activities that one will have to plan carefully to get all of them into their vacation schedule.

As snow melts the rivers come to life with crisp, clear water providing river rafting and kayaking as you navigate through the dancing rivers. Multiple Australia run rafting companies bring their years of expertise to the area for boaters of all types.

White water rafting at Niseko Adventure Centre http://www.nac-web.com/raft1/e_raft1.htm or at Scott Adventure sports at http://jp.youtube.com/watch?v=S7WcA0-2N-k

Golfing tours are organized for the single golfer as well as pairs or larger groups. More than six courses wind through breathtaking scenery and offer first class facilities for golfers to enjoy.

Of course, no summer vacation would be complete for the avid outdoorsman without the ability to camp, fish, sail and surf. Fresh water and saltwater activities are just a short distance from the Village itself.

Held in late July, The Kutchan Summer Jazz Festival attracts crowds of thousands from the world over. Both local and international artists have made this event extremely popular.

Did you know that there is a soccer village in Niseko? Four fabulous soccer fields beautifully nestled within the mountain features tournaments every year with teams coming from all over Japan. These wonderful soccer players range in age from the elementary age students to older adults who still love the game as much as they did as children!

Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, tennis, paragliding, and paintball are all offered through tours or individually – depending on your preferences. If you would like to try your hand at rock climbing, there is even an indoor facility so you can learn the sport without risking serious injury. Instructors on hand will be happy to teach you the ropes!

If you happen to be a little less adventurous and prefer quiet activities, bird viewing will be spectacular, as the number of feathered friends drawn by the lush green vegetation, strawberry fields and cherry blossoms are never in short supply. World class shopping and restaurants are spread out abundantly over the island. Why not grab a picnic basket to enjoy by the glistening lakes or while being mesmerized by the dancing rivers?

An added bonus to visiting the area during the summer is one that everyone can appreciate. Since summer is considered the “off season” prices are substantially lower for hotels, lodges, pensions and other seasonal rental units in the area. Come on over and check it out. Just remember to bring your camera. You will want to show everyone just what a gem you have found.