As the temperature start dropping here in Hakuba and we see the first snowfalls on the hills and then in the valley there is an air of anticipation within the community for the start of the snow season. The buzz is quite electric as businesses finish off their renovations and everybody is busy preparing their properties for what we know is coming. At the Arctic Hotel I have kept the gardens in a good state this year however with autumn comes the falling of the leaves and the pines are maulting also so I have a major raking job to do outside. Last year we were caught off guard for what was supposed to be a light dusting of snow turned out to be 32cm from 12 midnight to 8 am in the morning on the 19th of November. The “season opener” we call it.  It can happen anytime now. Be prepared is the motto.

Last years season opener