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13 Nov

Australians form a Substantial Part of Japan’s Ski Tourism Market, says JNTO

Mr. Hidenao Takizawa, Director of JNTO

Mr. Hidenao Takizawa, Director of JNTO

Despite the many threats to international tourism in recent years, Japan has enjoyed year on year growth in its inbound tourism. In fact, Japan’s National Tourist Organization has revealed that in 2006 over 7.33 million tourists arrived in Japan, which is a substantial 9 percent increase from the previous year. The reason for this success lies in the “Yokoso! Japan” tourism campaign.

The campaign begun in 2003 as an initiative by Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi. It had an immediate effect on inbound tourism growth, which grew from 5.2 million in 2003 to 6.7 million in 2005. The budget for the “Yokoso! Japan” campaign has also grown as a result, while initiatives in other public sectors have been drastically cut.

Director of JNTO, Mr. Hidenao Takizawa said, “For a long time, we have ignored inbound tourism altogether. However, through the Yokoso! Japan campaign, we have worked towards eliminating Japan’s negative images.”

The success of the tourism campaign has relied heavily on the collaboration of public and private sectors through its project and advisory teams as well as promotional committees. Together they have worked to market Japan as an affordable tourism destination with much to offer in terms of culture, history, dining, nature and attractions.

“Yet the language barrier is still our largest challenge – though we have increased the quality of our signs and equipment,” Mr. Takizawa added.

In the case of Australia, tourists from Down Under form a crucial share of Japan’s ski tourism market. As one of Japan’s key inbound markets, the months of April, May and June become important opportunities for the promotion of ski resorts such as Niseko and Furano.

“For 2006 alone, 195,100 Australian tourists arrived in Japan,” said Mr. Takizawa. “A majority of these tourists travelled to Hokkaido, where the powder-like snow fields make ideal conditions for skiing. Australian skiers are also growing in the Hakuba region, which is conveniently located closer to Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto.”

“While these visitors travel to Japan for the snow, we have also noticed that these skiers enjoy after ski tours to the ancient cities of Nara and Kyoto. In response to this, we have promoted tours which include both ski and after ski attractions,” added Mr. Takizawa.

JNTO is targeting 10 million inbound visitors by 2010. In order to achieve this, teams from across the globe will focus on strategies unique to the preferences of each market. Business travelers are also an area of growth, which will see JNTO further the promotion of Japan’s MICE market.

Friday, 2 March 2007

Niseko Accommodation Homes


Annupuri Oasis Lodge

Annupuri Oasis Lodge

Annupuri Oasis Lodge is a bed ‘n breakfast style accommodation option located in Annupuri Village, part of the wider Niseko area. Only 5 minute walk away from the main gondola and sitting within its own virgin forest, Annupuri Oasis Lodge offers the best value for your money.

Australia House
Australia House has 12 nicely furnished bedrooms and each with their own programmable gas heater, for the coziest of sleeping conditions. Other features are Free WiFi internet access, tunning bench, Common Lonnge area with large Screen TV, seperate kitchen for customers use.

Country Resort Chalets

Country Resort Chalets

From a compact 2 bedroom chalet of 85 square metres, to a spacious 4 bedroom of 225 square metres, we have something for everyone at The Chalets at Country Resort. Each of the standalone homes is furnished with modern creature comforts, from wi-fi internet and flat screen TV’s to fully equipped kitchens and centralised heating.

Forest Estate

Forest Estate is a group of five luxury homes in the center of Hirafu Village. Expect breathtaking views of Mount Yotei and the surrounding landscape, as well as all the amenities of a modern home.

Ginsetsu

Ginsetsu is a unique property located in Hirafu Village. Think elegantly handcrafted furnishings, a Japanese tea room, a spacious Japanese Cyprus bath and tatami bedrooms.

The closest accommodation to the newly-completed Hirafu Gondola coupled with its tasteful furnishings. A stay at the Gondola Chalets gives you a great location, comfortable interiors, and stunning views.

Hana & Jo

Hana & Jo

Hana & Jo are a pair of luxury townhouses located just out of central Hirafu in the Izumikyo 2 village. Hana & Jo are well-suited to families or groups of friends seeking their own private winter hideout.

Hidamari

Hidamari

Hidamari is a 4 bedroom cottage located in lower Hirafu. Hidamari is a short walk away from a variety of bars and restaurants. Enjoy a night in the village or a quiet meal from the comfort of your lodging – its up to you!

Niseko Izumikyo
Enjoy spending relaxed private time in a cottage with gracefully nature in Niseko. We will provide you with a cottage that has fixture necessary for life like electrical appliances, tableware and kitchen equipment.

Jurin

Jurin

Jurin is cozy accommodation located in Izumikyo 1 – just outside the village center. Together with its simple rustic style, guests are treated to a comfortable home away from home, with all the creature comforts of a modern lifestyle.

Nupuri Cottage

Nupuri Cottage

Nupuri Cottage is a cozy cottage with 1 Bedroom + Loft cottage located in Lower Hirafu. Recently remodeled and furnished in a western-style, it is a perfect property for couples, small families or friends.

Powderhound Lodge

Powderhound Lodge

Just a short walk away from the lifts and located amidst restaurants and bars, the lodge is well-suited for those seeking value accommodation at a great location.

Nupuri Cottage

Shinrin Lodge

Shinrin Lodge offers guests a luxurious way to experience Niseko. Shinrin Lodge further ups the ante with a Jacuzzi bath, media room and games room with billards table. There is even a gas fireplace for guests to lounge in front of after a day on the mountain and a hearty meal.

Nupuri Cottage

Sugarpot

Sugarpot is a 5 bedroom house located in the central village. Modern furnishings and a contemporary finish make for great surroundings to relax. Sugarpot addresses the short supply of large accommodations for above average-sized groups of friends, family or both.
NISEKO ACCOMMODATION