penguin mura | useful information

Voltage

The electrical power supply in Japan operates at 100V. As such, devices from other countries may require connection to a special transformer.

Travel Insurance

It's always a good idea to ensure you are properly insured during travel, and travel to Japan is no exception. If you're visiting Niseko it's likely you'll be making the most of the snow, so make sure your insurance company knows where you're going and agrees to cover you for the activities you'll be undergoing. Bring insurance company contact information with you in case of injury.

Currency Requirements

Cash is the most reliable way of paying for things in Japan; it's best not to rely on credit cards. Living costs are comparable to those in Australia, so allow around 5,000 to 10,000 yen per day. Due to the limited access to ATMs and banks in Niseko, it's a good idea to purchase yen before leaving Australia.

Telephone Access

Local calls can be made free from Penguin Mura, while international calls will require the purchase of a telephone card - these are available locally.

Mobile Phone Rental

Mobile phones are available for rent from the Skybus company if you use them for your airport transfers, as well as being locally available for rent.

Public Phones

Public phones are not common in the Hirafu area. There is an international public phone located left of the front desk in the foyer of the Alpen Hotel. Phone cards can be purchased from vending machines for 1,000 yen. Collect calls can be made from any phone by paying 10 yen and dialling 0057. An English-speaking operator will connect you.

Driving

An International driving licence is essential if you are going to drive in Japan. International licences must be obtained in Australia prior to departure. Purchase via RACV or the interstate equivalent with your valid Australian licence.

The Japanese drive on the left hand side of the road.

Moisturisers and Sunscreens

Contrary to your experiences in Australia the air and snow in Niseko-Hirafu is usually very dry. This results in drying of the skin and the risk of skin cracking. Good skin moisturisers are strongly recommended.

Ski Rentals

We can arrange rental of ski equipment with sufficient notice. There may be some difficulty obtaining comfortable large size ski boots. It is always advisable to bring your own boots if possible. We recommend Demo Ski and Snow Board Hire. Click here for more information.

Ski and Board Waxing Service

Skis waxed in Australia may not run as well as you would like. This is because a wax for the temperatures below minus 10C or lower is required. Ski tuning and waxing equipment is available in our Pension ski tuning room. You will need your own wax.

Ski and Snow Board School

We recommend the internationally reputed and qualified on mountain NISS, Niseko Ski and Snow Sport School for you and your family, Kids snow sport school is sensational for your children. Scotty head of NISS will ensure you all have a powder experience is memorable. Click here for more information.

Public Transportation

Ski Shuttle to Lifts

A free ski shuttle bus service runs throughout the village providing transport to the base of the lifts and gondola and operate between 8:30am and 9:00pm each day. The buses circulate through the town approximately every 10 minutes and passes directly in front of Penguin Mura and are free. There are two Bus Stops each about 30 metres either side of Penguin Mura along a relatively flat road.

Transportation to Kutchan

There are daily bus services between Hirafu and Kutchan, the main town , 5 kilometres from Hirafu. Kutchan has good shopping, facilities, restaurants and a very good hospital.

Transportation to Sapporo

The most convenient way to Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido Province, is by train. The train leaves from the Kutchan Train station several times during the day. The train service is via Otaru along the picturesque northern coastline There is also a bus service. This services leave from the Hirafu Bus Station and drops off at the Sapporo train station.

Onsens

Onsens are hot natural mineral spring baths. Hot water is channelled into indoor and outdoor pools. Onsens are wonderful for aches and pains and meeting the locals. Most supply a small courtesy towel (only 80cm x 20cm!) for 200 yen, but Penguin Mura can provide you with one for your use whilst in Niseko. Wearing bathers in the Onsens is not socially acceptable. Most Onsens have separate male and female facilities. (Bathers will be required for the nearest swimming pool, located at the Alpen hotel and will cost you 600 yen approx.)

Yukoro: This Onsen located in the lower half of the village only about 200m from Penguin Mura is a classic outdoor onsen with separate male and female areas. Entrance cost is 600 yen. approx

Hirafutei Hotel: This onsen is located inside the hotel 150 metres on the left up main road from the traffic lights. Separate male and female areas. Entrance cost is 700 yen approx.

Grand Hotel Onsen: A popular onsen situated 20 minute drive from Niseko. There are separate male and female areas and also a large scenic outdoor both sex pools. Entrance cost is 700 yen approx.

Restaurants

Booking required well in advance for most restaurants

Paddy McGinty's Irish Pub: Located on the uphill side of the Berg Plaza on the main road, 50 metres on the right up main road from the traffic lights. Great Irish pub fare at reasonable prices. Great fun, various beers including Guinness, Kilkenny and Sports Screens, a real fun night. Children welcome. English speaking staff and an English menu is available.

Fuji: Located opposite Seicomart next door to Izakaya. You can't miss Fuji Restaurant, it has the big glass showcase displaying traditional Japanese meals outside of the restaurant. Fuji has both traditional Japanese and western seating areas and a sushi bar. The food is excellent and an English menu is available.

Jo Jo's: Great burgers and smoothies at the Aussie owned Niseko Adventure Centre.

A Bu Cha: Situated at the traffic lights with very friendly staff and good food and an English menu is available.

Bang Bang: Located at the rear of B's Cafe next door to the Niseko Park Hotel on the left side of the main road. The owner Masa-san speaks good English and is very welcoming to his guests. An English menu is available, a little pricier but a special night out.

Important Notes for your Safety

Every year serious avalanche related accidents occur in the Niseko area.

Australian skiers are not generally avalanche conscious. For your own safety, please note the following: Do not take the danger of avalanches lightly. Do not overestimate your ability, and remember to ski safely. Note: Most avalanches are caused by fellow skiers and boarders! Many avalanche accidents occur during a snowstorm/blizzard or just afterwards. NOTE: Any deep snowdrift on a steep slope is an avalanche danger at all times. The Niseko Ski Patrol does not control areas outside the marked ski zones. If you ski outside the marked ski zones you do so at your own risk. Keep out of "Strictly off limits" areas (indicated on the ski maps). Entering these areas is forbidden at all times by local ordinance. The peak of Niseko Annupuri may be closed during inclement weather. Do not climb the peak on these days. If you are climbing and weather closes in trace your steps back to marked runs. It is easy to lose your orientation on the peak. At the Niseko ski resorts the degree of avalanche danger is posted daily at lift areas.

You must have travel insurance before you depart Australia. Keep your insurance company contact information with you upon your arrival and easily accessible in the event of accident or illness.

DISCLAIMER

Prices, travel times and exchange rates have been sourced from the most current information we can access, and are subject to change outside of our control. Please accept our apology for any errors or omissions.