Snowchef

Japan is calling! The land known for some of the deepest powder in the world, also has one of the best culinary scenes that one can indulge in. SnowChef headed to Twelve Board Store in Melbourne to get the lowdown on the equipment and gear needed for a trip to the mountains of Hokkaido and Honshu.

First stop, lost in the underbelly of Tokyo! No more waiting, haste required, time to venture into a little of Japanese unknown.

Sapporo and its eponymic beer, colossal ice sculptures at the Snow Festival and world famous ramen, was the perfect location for the Snowchef crew to commence their food and snow obsessed journey into Japan's northernmost prefecture. Have you been to the magical island of Hokkaido?

On piste in Hirafu, seemed a logical location to commence our Niseko food journey. From within the confines of Skye Niseko, Kumo Restaurant allowed stunning views of the picturesque scenery.

The climate of Hokkaido creates more than just world class snow. With cold waters and wide farmlands this northern Japanese island is truly blessed when it comes to producing food that is simply amazing. Hokkaido is renowned for its seafood, produce, dairy and Wagyu beef.

Riding at Hirafu and Hanazono was certainly on the to-do list. Unfortunately for us, the prized Hokkaido powder wasn't on song and it would be standard fare on piste.

Madarao, located deep within the heart of the Japanese Alps, at the northern section of Nagano Prefecture was the next stop for the SnowChef crew. With a few days in Madarao, it was time to find the renowned Madapow, more food, beverage and village characters.

The dream of the snow enthusiast is to find that location that is blessed by the SnowGods. Savoring the powder perfection and riding untouched gems. Finding a town with a sense of community incorporating a blend of locals and foreigners where respect is the ultimate gift. Perhaps as the powder mecca of Honshu, the uniquely Japanese, Myoko Kogen, could be the diamond in the sky.

Culture, charm, delicious food and powder, Japan certainly has this on tap! A historic, traditional village filled with cobblestoned streets, Ryokans and hot springs, all in the shadow of a mountain know for its diversity and abundance of snow! This is Nozawaonsen.