25/02/13 11:28 am - ID#1897165 Arrival statistics from Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) will be bolstered by the record-breaking amount of skiers and boarders heading to Hokkaido and Hakuba (on Japans main island of Honshu). A combination of the very favourable exchange rate and Japans renowned snow quality (and quantity), more than 17 metres of snow on the higher altitudes of Nisekos four connected ski areas, is two good reasons for the huge influx of Australian snow enthusiasts. Marcus Williams, General Manager SkiJapan, said: Weve definitely seen a recovery for Aussie skiers heading to Japan this year. 2010-11 was our busiest season ever and we will exceed the corresponding period in the 2012-13 season with a 10% increase in customer numbers. Theres a lot of contributing factors. The powder snow is always consistent and reliable plus early bird discounts and ongoing specials have encouraged people to return to Japan or choose Japan over other International resorts. The exchange rate has also been improving throughout the year making our ski packages cheaper. We havent seen the Aussie dollar as strong against the Yen in years plus weve got free night offers and free lift passes and rentals for kids (available in Niseko). Lachlan Bowes owner operator of Central Snowsports in Hakuba said: I have experienced a 75% increase in business from Australia this winter. Jetstar are very supportive of the Hakuba product and we also get lots of Hong Kong based clients because theyre only a bullet train away. Rodney Muller MD Skimax said:Skimax has seen an unprecedented demand this season for Japan. Following last year’s earthquake, Japan is clearly “back on the map”. Skier numbers this season have far outstripped any year in history and the demand continues to be strong for last minute bookings for this current season !!! With the weakening yen and the overall increase in demand for Niseko, we anticipate 2013-14 is going to be a another strong season for Japan and Skimax.
Posted on: Tue, 29 Oct 2013 17:35:45 +0000
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