Setsu Staff are Excited about Spring in Niseko

  • By Tsuyuki

Nestled in the heart of Hokkaido, Japan, Niseko is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts from around the world. But as the snow begins to melt, and the cherry blossoms start to bloom, the town transforms into a stunning paradise, welcoming visitors to experience the joys of spring.

Spring in Niseko also offers a plethora of outdoor activities, from spring skiing, hiking and mountain biking to golfing and horseback riding. And for the adventurous, the melting snow reveals raging rivers, perfect for white-water rafting and kayaking. 

But perhaps the most spectacular sight is the annual migration of the sakura, or cherry blossom trees. The pink and white blooms create a breathtaking canopy, attracting visitors from all over the world to witness the stunning display.

Recently we caught up with some of the team members at Setsu Niseko to learn more about what makes them most excited for spring in Niseko:

Can you introduce yourself and your role at Setsu Niseko? 

Jane - My name is Jane and I'm from Taiwan. I came to Niseko 6 years ago for the snow and fell in love with the beautiful nature of Hokkaido.

Maru - My name is Maru, I work in the Setsu Maintenance team. I am originally from Niigata, but I have lived in Niseko for 16 years.

Scott - My name is Scott, I am the Senior Sales and Marketing Manager at Setsu Niseko and have been in Niseko 15 years (yep, a long time) and love all the seasons we experience in Niseko.

Jasmine - I am Jasmine, an Aussie who moved to Niseko this season and I’m working in the marketing department. I’ve been here since December, so about three months now.

Ellie - Hi I am Ellie, from the front desk. This is the 6th year that I lived in Niseko. I am a coffee lover, and snowboarder. I really love the snow here, and would like to stay as long as I can!

Lucie - Hi, my name is Lucie and I'm from France. I'm working as the Housekeeping manager at Setsu Niseko. I was living in Niseko 5 years ago and decided to come back this winter to enjoy Niseko's snow and be a part of the grand opening of Setsu. 

Terry - I'm from Singapore and I've been in Niseko for almost 4 years.

What do you like most about Spring in Niseko?

Jane - The beautiful and warm weather brings all the cute wildlife out.

Maru - Feeling joy in the changes in natural colors, plants and migratory birds that change day by day in everyday life.

Scott - I love the warmer weather and the smile on my family's faces. When the sun is shining, who doesn't like being outdoors and on the ski hill.... 

Jasmine - I haven’t seen Niseko during the springtime yet, but I am very excited to see more foliage and sunshine as we approach the warmer months. 

Ellie - The new sprout of trees and flowers blooming is my favorite view in springtime.

Lucie - it is really nice to enjoy some beautiful sunny days, with the weather warming up and great views of the mountains around. 

Terry -  I like that we can do away with snow clearing, get rid of the thick winter coats, turn off the heater and leave home later in the morning thanks to shorter driving times.

What do you like doing during Spring that you cannot do in the other seasons?

Jane - BBQs on the snow during bluebird days with friends or grabbing a cup of coffee and sitting outside of the coffee stand enjoying the sunshine.

Maru - Cycling and gardening that can't be done in winter.

Scott - As the weather warms you are able to again get back into your summer sports (I'm an avid road cyclist) but also go skiing whenever you like as a lot of the resort is still open until the 6th of May.

Jasmine - I enjoy getting outdoors more during spring. After a long winter it’s nice as the weather gets milder. I am also looking forward to going river rafting once the snow melts.

Ellie - Spring rafting and cherry blossom viewing.

Lucie - Spring is a great time to enjoy rafting, golfing and cycling, and watch the days getting longer and longer. 

Terry -  Enjoying the Sakura and just feeling the start of another cycle again.

Where do you like to view the Sakura?

Jane - Hokkaido Shrine, Makkari Shrine, Kyogoku Mesui Koen

Maru - Goryokaku in Hakodate.

Scott -  For Sakura, I generally stay at home. I have several cherry blossom trees in my garden. I picnic here with family and friends. When exploring further afield I love Goryokaku Park in Hakodate and the parks around Niseko Town.

Jasmine - I haven’t been in Hokkaido during the Sakura season before, but I am planning to go to Ranran Park when the time comes. 

Ellie - (In Hokkaido) There are some of my favorite spots in Hakodate and Yoichi. If I have time, Nijukken Road will be the No.1 in my experience.

Lucie - I actually didn't get the chance yet to see them around here, I'm pretty excited about it!

Terry - Mishima's garden, Asahigaoka area and the Shiribetsu River bank area.

Do you enjoy springtime skiing?

Jane - Yes, I enjoy the slushy snow under the sunshine and especially the spring park.

Maru - Spring skiing offers a different fun than winter.

Scott - Yes I do. I love going with my family and watching my daughter learn to ski. The nicer conditions mean we can be "on the hill" longer and we don't have complaints of cold feet or hands.

Jasmine - Yes I do. I love sleeping in and enjoying a relaxed breakfast before heading onto the hill mid morning once the snow has softened. 

Ellie - I am spoiled by the powder in the winter! I do other outdoor activities in spring.

Lucie - I am a big fan of skiing powder during the colder days, but it is nice to enjoy some sun on the slopes and try a bit more snowboarding. 

Terry -  I hardly ski, but enjoy spring for the other activities. 

Why would you recommend visitors come to Niseko during spring?

Jane - I would recommend visitors to come to Niseko during Spring because it's less crowded and the weather is just perfect. Most sunny days allow the visitors to enjoy the beautiful view of Mt Yotei.

Maru - The views of Mt Yotei and the Niseko mountain range are beautiful in spring, with contrasting blue sky and snow capped mountains.

Scott - To learn to ski and to visit all the great restaurants in the area. The ski slopes are quieter, the weather is warm and sunny with amazing views. Pricing is also more affordable at this time of year too.

Jasmine - The lift lines are already much quieter than February so it's a great opportunity to go skiing if you’re like me and hate waiting for more than a couple of minutes. I’m a big foodie so I’ve noticed it is a lot easier to book restaurants now as we move away from the peak months of January and February.

Ellie - Golf, fishing, zipline, skiing, viewing the Sakura, and onsen tours are fun.

Lucie - It is a good time to enjoy Niseko with good weather, good visibility, and a great view of mount Yotei and the other mountains. On top of it, it is warmer which makes spending time outside nicer, and the town is less crowded!
Terry -  The town is less crowded than winter, with cheaper prices for food and accommodation

Whether you're seeking adventure or simply looking for a place to relax and recharge, Niseko in spring promises to be a truly unforgettable experience.

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