About Jamie O’Brien

It’s often said that Hokkaido isn’t steep. People come for the powder, but it’s almost as if the amazing snow quality makes up for the fact that challenging terrain is …
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Over the years, I’ve bought many different digital cameras, bullet cams and action cams specifically for filming ski and snowboarding trips. Looking back, I’ve dropped a lot of money on …
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For most skiers and snowboarders that flock to northwestern Hokkaido, the luxury and modern infrastructure of Niseko, Kiroro and Rusutsu are the big draw. Backcountry enthusiasts come here for a …
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Accommodation in Japan is getting expensive. Just a few years ago, it was possible to pay next to nothing for a room in a resort. In recent seasons, prices have …
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Japan is a unique destination, and to get the most from a skiing trip, it can be better to base yourself in a large town or city rather than stay …
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After visiting Japan for the last thirteen seasons hunting for tree runs, taking the odd cat tour or lift-assisted snowshoe tour, I felt it was time to sample the backcountry …
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Kiroro has abundant fluffy soft snow, modern lifts and resort infrastructure, excellent rental gear, luxury all-inclusive resort hotels, tree run zones, low crowds, and unbelievable backcountry – but what really …
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Ski trips inevitably involve some sort of compromise. It’s very hard to find a resort with great powder, modern lifts, slopeside accommodation, good food, activities other than skiing and snowboarding, …
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This year, Japan has exploded as a destination as coverage on TikTok and other social media has fuelled record visitor numbers to popular tourist spots and the famous ski resorts …
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F Village isn’t really a ski resort at all, which is a very good thing if you’re a complete beginner or a family who want to try snowsports without the …
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