Koho Niseko Newsletter March Issue [No. 755] Text Version

Did you know that Niseko Town 's wine industry is booming right now?
In fact, the town has a 20-year history of wine. That history began with the existence of Niseko Winery, which cultivated the wilderness at the foot of Mount Yotei from scratch and was the first in the town to start cultivating wine grapes.
This time, we will trace the history of winemaking in the town and share the enthusiasm of three people who are aiming to open a new winery.

Trace the town's wine-making history
The town's winemaking history began with the challenge of Niseko Winery, which was the first to try growing grapes for wine.
Niseko Winery, located in the Kondo district, is the only winery Niseko Town. The winery cultivated the wilderness at the foot of Mt. Yotei from scratch, and in the cool climate of the town, they handle everything from grape cultivation to brewing, bottling, and sales. There are four vineyards at the foot of Mt. Yotei, with a total area of 4.5 hectares, where about 6,000 vines and 10 types of grapes are grown using organic farming methods without chemical pesticides or fertilizers. After harvest, the grapes are brewed at the on-site winery to produce a rare organic sparkling wine.
The initiative to cultivate grapes using organic farming methods is in line with the town's efforts to become an "Eco-Model City" and "SDGs Future City," and is an important foundation for producing high-quality, safe and secure organic wine. In the Niseko area, which is visited by many tourists from around the world as a snow resort, this initiative, which takes into account industrial promotion and environmental conservation, proposes an attractive management style for farmers, which also leads to the promotion of new farming and the development and expansion of the wine market.


Niseko Town has been certified as a "wine special zone"

The town was designated a "wine special zone" in November 2014. This special zone designation allows for some relaxation of the liquor tax law, creating an environment that makes it easier for even small businesses to try their hand at winemaking.
(1) When farmers produce fruit liquor (such as wine) and provide it for consumption, the minimum production quantity standard (6 kl) required for a manufacturing license under the Liquor Tax Act does not apply, and they will be able to obtain a liquor manufacturing license.
(2) In the case of producing fruit wine (e.g. wine) or liqueurs using local specialty products produced within the region, the minimum production quantity standard (6 kl) required for obtaining a liquor license will be reduced to 2 kl and 1 kl, respectively, and a liquor license can be obtained.
*A liquor manufacturing license is required to manufacture alcoholic beverages (fruit liquor).


Yasunori Homma of Niseko Winery, who works hard every day managing the vineyards


In October, large bunches of grapes begin to grow.


"The Taste of Niseko" Organic Sparkling Wine, Found Through Years of Research

Carefully Selected Wines

〇Grape growing that is kind to both the environment and people
Both the vineyard and the winery at Niseko Winery are JAS certified organic, and they produce white and rosé organic sparkling wines. This type of winery is rare, and there are only two in Japan, including Niseko Winery.
We are committed to organic farming that takes into consideration the environment and health.
No chemical fertilizers or synthetic pesticides are used, and if any diseases occur, natural materials approved for organic farming are sprayed to minimize control. Pests are controlled by hand, one by one, without relying on insecticides. Diseased grapes are removed one by one with tweezers to prevent the spread of the disease.
In addition, remove the leaves around the bunches to allow the bunches to get more sunlight and improve air circulation.
This will help remove morning dew, raindrops, and moisture as quickly as possible, preventing the spread of disease.
The grapes grow at the foot of Mt. Yotei on mineral-rich soil, surrounded by birdsong and fresh breezes during the day, and under a starry sky at night.

〇 Careful winemaking that takes time
The brewing process strictly follows the traditional Champagne production method of the Champagne region, the home of sparkling wine located northeast of Paris, France, and is particular about the secondary fermentation in the bottle for over 18 months. By using organically grown grapes and natural yeast from the fields only, the wine is fermented in the bottle to create a natural sparkling wine. The wine also has a refined taste with a well-balanced concentrated fruitiness and acidity, resulting in a high-class sparkling wine with long-lasting fine bubbles.
It boasts fine, long-lasting bubbles, like the champagne snow that piles up in Niseko during the harsh winter.

Characteristics of "Taste of Niseko"
One of the features of Niseko Winery's sparkling wine is that it is made by blending multiple grape varieties. There are many delicious single-variety wines in various regions, but Niseko had no winemaking predecessors, so rather than focusing on the characteristics of a single variety, they wanted to create a unique combination.
Most wines are made from a blend of only two or three varieties, with the idea being to enjoy the characteristics of each variety, but Niseko Winery's Sparkling Wine 2022-23 (Special Cuvée) is a blend of five varieties.
Each year's grape harvest varies, resulting in a unique mix of grape varieties that creates a unique Niseko flavor.


Passing on the foundations of winemaking to the next generation

Thanks to the organic grape cultivation techniques and meticulous brewing techniques that have been developed over the past 20 years, Niseko Winery's organic sparkling wine has earned high praise not only from across Japan but also from overseas, and has grown into a wine that is exported to markets in Asia and the United States.
"In the future, I want to establish the foundation for wine tourism as a new main industry that connects agriculture, the town's core industry, with tourism," says Homma. To achieve this goal, he is focusing on nurturing the next generation to increase the number of people who will be responsible for wine tourism in the future.

- Education for students who will lead Niseko in the future
We provide practical training for local elementary, junior high, and high school students, allowing them to experience grape cultivation management from planting to caring for and harvesting.
Starting in 2022, we have been carrying out the "Seedling Project," an initiative in which grapes are harvested from seedlings grown by local children, the wine is then brewed into wine and given to them on their coming-of-age ceremonies when they turn 20. This year marks the third year of the initiative.
Sparkling wine Chardonnay and Pinot Noir seedlings will be provided to children in the town free of charge, and the children will spend about a year growing the seedlings themselves and plant them in the Niseko Winery vineyards. The grapes will be harvested and brewed about two years before their coming-of-age ceremony, and the wine will be presented at the ceremony.
This project is embodied by Homma's desire for people to "use the experiences they learn and think about through wine to further their own dreams."

[Note linked project] Please also check out the town's official note!

On harvest day, children and Mr. and Mrs. Homma toast with freshly squeezed grape juice.

〇 Aiming to open a winery
Support for farmers
We support farmers who are aiming to become farmers, providing them with opportunities to learn cultivation techniques, management methods, sales management, etc. We also support self-sufficiency through wine grape cultivation and the launch of wineries.
In November 2021, we switched to a general brewing license, which requires a minimum production capacity of 6,000 liters, added more equipment, and began accepting contract brewing orders.
Currently, the project is focused on three people who hope to open a winery in the future, and provides step-by-step training in grape cultivation and management, as well as the winemaking process using grapes that they have harvested, with the aim of increasing the number of future wine tourism participants.
Niseko Winery has built the town's winemaking history. Inspired by Niseko Winery, three new people are now working to open a winery. The town hopes for the future development of the wine industry and will support this initiative.



The town supports wine tourism in Niseko!

The town is taking advantage of the energy and ideas of private businesses to promote initiatives that will help revitalize the town's economy, promote local circulation, and develop commercial, industrial, and tourist destinations from new perspectives.
The Commercial, Industrial and Tourism Promotion Project aims to strengthen collaboration between local businesses in areas such as new product development and sales, and supports initiatives to promote commerce, industry and tourism undertaken by the businesses themselves in order to create a sustainable and attractive local industry within the town.
This time, the wine tourism promotion project was selected as a target for support under the Attraction Enhancement Project.

Main initiatives in promoting wine tourism

・Held study sessions for three new entrants (creating labels and pamphlets, and supporting liquor sales license applications).
- Test marketing: Utilizing three new types of sparkling wine, increase product awareness among local businesses and consumers.
-PR activities: Creation of a common logo and pamphlet, offering it as a new hometown tax return gift.

What we expect from the wine tourism promotion project

The town implements two types of business support. The Commerce, Industry and Tourism Attraction Improvement Project is a subsidy that can be used to create new attractions and specialties through collaboration between businesses within the town.
This project began in 2023, and is the second wine tourism promotion project. This is the first project to strengthen ties between fellow winemakers, so we hope that it will serve as a model case for "strengthening cooperation between people with the same aspirations" and create a new trend in the town.
This initiative will create a new tourism resource for the town. We hope that in the future your efforts will continue to develop further, such as through collaboration with accommodations and restaurants in the town. (Commerce, Industry and Tourism Section, Commerce, Industry and Tourism Division)

For more information on the business and tourism promotion initiative, click here
■Inquiries: Commerce, Industry and Tourism Division TEL 0136-44-2121


The wine is almost finished!
Report on the highlights of sparkling wine making

We have summarized the details of a winemaking study session held at Niseko Winery on February 12th for three people who are aiming to open a winery.

1. Lumiage (moving bottle)
After the secondary fermentation in the bottle, sparkling wine that has been aged for a specified period of time will develop sediment in the bottle. In order to remove this sediment, which causes the wine to become cloudy, the wine bottle is inserted into a special stand called a pupitre, which holds the bottle upside down, and the bottle is rotated 1/8 (45 degrees) twice a day, a total of 45 times, to collect the sediment at the neck of the bottle without clouding the wine.
*Oil: floating particles and sediment (proteins, polyphenols) that occur during fermentation in wine.

2. Disgorgement (throwing out the lid)
This is the process of removing the sediment that has accumulated around the neck of the bottle. First, the neck of the bottle is immersed in antifreeze at -25°C for about 10 minutes, freezing the sediment along with the wine. When the cap is opened in this state, the strong internal air pressure causes the frozen sediment to be forcefully ejected.

3. Cork tapping and wire hanging
Champagne corks are mushroom-shaped. This is because the corks are thicker than normal and are squeezed hard by a machine to seal the cork in tightly against the strong pressure generated inside the bottle, and then secured with a wire to prevent the cork from being pushed out by the pressure inside the bottle. The top of the bottle's mouth is round, and the part that goes into the mouth of the bottle is thin and deformed.

4. Labeling
Labels can only be used after they have been approved by the tax office as being in accordance with the labeling rules set out in the Liquor Tax Act. Niseko Winery uses a roller-type machine to apply labels efficiently.
The result is a beautiful label that expresses the unique character of each wine.



Revitalizing Niseko with wine
We spoke to the four of them about their passion as they work hard every day in pursuit of the wine of their dreams.


Niseko Winery Homma Yasunori
Until the day comes when Niseko will be known as the "Champagne of Japan"
In winemaking, I devote all my time to everything from cultivation to brewing, and I value the constant pursuit of better things. I also thoroughly understand the traditional Champagne method, which is well established as a method of winemaking, and faithfully follow it as a part of the process.
Niseko Town is visited by many tourists from Japan and abroad, and there is a market for high-quality products, so it has favorable conditions for increasing the added value of wine. We would like to take advantage of this favorable environment and produce even higher quality wine. And one day, we would like to make Niseko a place that will be called "Japan's Champagne."
I started this winery business alone, but I think it's great that I have three new colleagues. I hope that these three people will understand the essence of winemaking and make wine that is unique to Niseko. I want them to have a strong passion for wine and not only make the ideal wine, but also to take on the challenge with the value of "for the community."
We believe that wine tourism will become a new industry that connects the town's core industries of agriculture and tourism. We hope that they will make the most of the experience they have accumulated and become part of the team that will create a new industry that will make Niseko synonymous with "wine."



Niseko Cassiopeia Village Yoshimitsu Tsuji
Cheers to Cassiopeia on Yotei!
52 years ago, when there was no wine made in Japan, I worked at a store that handled Western liquor, so I have had a basic knowledge of wine for a long time. I live in my hometown now, in a place with a great view.
I have this land that my parents left me, I have knowledge of wine, and I know Mr. Homma well, so I thought, "I want to make wine to drink when I die." I started to imagine an elegant slow life, growing grapes, playing with my dog, and toasting the night sky with the finished wine.
We started growing grapes in 2019, planting 200 seedlings in a 600 square meter field, but we were unable to harvest in 2022 and 2023, three years after planting. This was because a swarm of wasps had nibbled at the grapes, causing the juice that is the source of wine to disappear. Based on this experience, we took measures using medicine to exterminate wasps last year and harvested about 200 kg of grapes. We were able to complete about 150 bottles of wine. It is said that "plants listen to footsteps," and I believe that it is very important to take careful care of grapes every day, just like with grape cultivation.
In the future, I would like to find a successor to take over the wine business and create a restaurant (auberge) with a winery and accommodation. To achieve this, I plan to incorporate the winery and obtain a winemaking license in five years.



Yoshihiro Hattori from LaLaLa Farm
I want to convey the wonders of fermentation through wine.
Up until now, I have held lectures and workshops to convey the mechanism of fermentation through agriculture, and I have always thought that it would be most persuasive to convey the mechanism of fermentation through wine. Also, the birth of my child prompted me to want to change from vegetable cultivation to a new agricultural style.
Wine has many charms. It can express the Niseko climate (terroir), it has no expiration date and the older it is the more valuable it becomes. It also has a glamorous quality that attracts many people. It is also an attractive processed product that truly embodies the "fermentation" that I value most.
We started growing grapes in 2020, planting 2,000 seedlings on a 1ha field. It was completely different from the vegetable cultivation we had done up until then, so we were confused at first. In particular, we had a hard time pruning the branches because we didn't know how, so now we are proceeding carefully with Mr. Homma teaching us little by little.
There's a lot I don't know about grape growing, and it can be difficult, but I make new discoveries every day and it's fulfilling. Agriculture is most affected by the natural environment, so I want to find a way to do it that suits Niseko.
The goal is to open a winery in 2030.
I want to create amazing, high-quality products and convey the mechanisms and wonders of fermentation through winemaking.



Chise Garden Hirate Harano
I want to offer original wines at the restaurant I run.
In the spring of 2020, influenced by my senior farmer, Mr. Hattori, I decided to start making wine. I was reminded of the Italian wineries I had visited on my honeymoon, and I could imagine the vineyards spreading across my land.
We started growing grapes in 2021, planting 2,000 seedlings on a 1-hectare field. Until now, we have been busy with other business ventures and have not been able to properly manage the cultivation, but with the help of Mr. Homma and other colleagues who work in winemaking, whom we met at the restaurant, we are working hard every day to manage the cultivation.
Also, from April last year, I took a training course at the Hokkaido Wine Academy, which is sponsored by Hokkaido Prefecture, for one year, where I learned the basics of grape cultivation, brewing techniques, marketing, etc. Until now, I had struggled because I didn't know how to manage and prune the trees, but since joining the Wine Academy, I have been able to understand the basics and also learn the reasons for my failures up until now, which has been very helpful.
In the future, I aim to open a winery in 2030. My dream is to serve original wines along with home-grown vegetables at the restaurant I manage. I also want to turn food waste from the restaurant into compost and use it to grow vegetables and grapes, making this a winery that can recycle naturally. I aim to create a winery where you can experience the natural environment of Niseko.



Wine as a new tourist resource for the town
The history of winemaking in Niseko began with the challenge of just one person. Niseko Winery's commitment to environmentally friendly organic farming methods, wines made through repeated research, and efforts to nurture the next generation were the first steps in establishing the wine industry in the town.
A new group of friends has been formed to open a winery, and four people with the same aspirations have come together to start a new chapter in Niseko's winemaking history. The synergy between the individuality of each team, the town's rich natural environment, and the market characteristics will help Niseko wine grow significantly as a tourist resource for the town.
Their challenge will continue until wine tourism becomes a new industry that connects the town's two main industries, agriculture and tourism.

 

みなさんの地域や職場の話題などありましたら、広報担当（TEL 0136-44-2121）までお気軽にご連絡ください。


Let's enjoy school life together! One-day trial enrollment at elementary school
On February 4th, Kondo Elementary School and on February 6th, Niseko Elementary School held one-day trial enrollment events for young children who plan to enter elementary school in the spring.
At Kondo Elementary School, the children interacted with the first graders in the gymnasium, using things like windmills that they had made together. At lunch, parents and children enjoyed eating the new school lunch menu item, "Shoyu Char Siu Noodles," while chatting and having fun.
At Niseko Elementary School, the children experienced studying Japanese and mathematics while interacting with the first graders. The first graders gently taught the children, and they gradually began to smile. In the gymnasium, they also had fun interacting with the fifth graders, playing "Daruma-san ga Koronda" and "Tsuke Oni" while moving their bodies.

Making shapes using magnets of various shapes (Niseko Elementary School)

Children pose motionless when they hear the chant "Daruma-san ga Koronda" (Niseko Elementary School)

The delicious school lunch makes the kids give a good pose! (Kondo Elementary School)



Town Planning Youth Involvement
Children's Parliament for FY2024
The Board of Education held a children's assembly on January 16th at the Town Hall Citizens' Hall (assembly hall). The 11 children's assembly members made various proposals, such as a request to install playground equipment in the Children's Square that elementary school students can enjoy, and the use of school buses to ensure safe commuting to school. In addition, a presentation was given about the Future Niseko, which was created using technology during the Town Planning Committee meeting.

Express your opinion openly



From traditional culture to food culture
Exposure to different cultures
Organized by the Coordinator for International Relations (Niseko FRIENDS Office), a Chinese-style paper cutting craft event was held on January 18th, and a World Cafe was held the following day, January 19th, at the Community Center.

A variety of colorful works were created

Tasting the Galette de Roa made by Anna, a Coordinator for International Relations



Think about the water environment of Niseko
The 229th Town Development Citizen Lecture
On January 20th, the town held the 229th town planning lecture to discuss the realization of Niseko, a town of water environments, as outlined in the town's basic environmental plan.
With Mr. Nobuhiro Kanai from the Ministry of the Environment as our lecturer, we learned about the current situation, issues, and national policies surrounding the conservation of the local water environment.
There was also lively discussion about what we can do to protect and utilize the town's water environment.

It gave us an opportunity to think about what we can do in practice.



Enjoying New Year's Exchanges
Kotobuki University/Senior Club Joint New Year Exchange Meeting
On January 24th, a joint New Year's exchange event was held at the Community Center by the Kotobuki University Student Council and the Senior Citizens' Club Union.
At the Hokkaido Senior Citizens' Club Federation's Senior Citizens' Club Meritorious Service Award ceremony, the award was presented to Minami Atsushi, who has demonstrated leadership as chairman of the Senior Citizens' Club Federation for 10 years and has worked hard as a director of the Shiribeshi District Federation.
At the social gathering, everyone exchanged New Year's greetings and stated their aspirations while eating together.
At the end of the event, a bingo and rock-paper-scissors tournament was held and prizes were awarded to all participants.

29 people participated and deepened their friendships in the New Year.



Learn about students' school life
Niseko High School Activity Report
On January 24th, Niseko High School held an activity report session at the Town Hall where students reported on the various initiatives they have undertaken this year. Approximately 30 people, including elementary and junior high school students and local residents, attended.
Reports were given on the Mitsubishi Mirai Foundation-funded training program, which took students to Taiwan, Kyoto, and Kobe, NISEKO World Village, the after-school startup "StarsUP," and the 4th grade Malaysia training program. The students gave presentations on what they learned and felt from their experiences during the training and school activities, and it was clear from their performances that they were enjoying their studies.

Deepening my specialized knowledge during the training in Malaysia



From Niseko to the world!
Ski athlete Tensei Fujiwara
Tensei Fujiwara (from Niseko Town, a third-year student at Eniwa Minami High School who won the men's 10km classic and 15km freestyle cross-country skiing events at the Southern and Northern Hokkaido High School Championships held on January 16th and 17th, visited the town hall on January 24th to report the results of the competition to Mayor Katayama.
In early February, she will compete in the World Junior Championships to be held in Italy, where she plans to compete against top international players. Fujiwara expressed her enthusiasm, saying, "I want to finish in the top 10 at the World Junior Championships, and compete on an equal footing with international players."

Gaining experience in competitions and aiming to qualify for the Olympics



Participate in the national tournament!
Courtesy visit to Niseko Junior High School students
Niseko Junior High School third-year students Bunshiro Endo and Gokugo, who will be competing in the 62nd National Junior High School Ski Championships, paid a courtesy visit to the town hall on January 28th.
At the All-Hokkaido Tournament held recently, Endo placed 8th in the men's alpine skiing event and Tomo placed 9th in the women's alpine skiing event, earning them tickets to compete in the national tournament.
The two said, "We want to show the results of our practice and give it our all."

We are rooting for you both!



HOKKAIDO WOOD BUILDING
Niseko Distillery receives registration certificate
On February 3rd, Niseko Distillery was registered as a "HOKKAIDO WOOD BUILDING" and a registration certificate presentation ceremony was held.
In order to promote the use of wood in buildings, the Hokkaido government has registered facilities that use domestic timber as "HOKKAIDO WOODBUILDING" and is working with these facilities to promote the quality of domestic timber.

It was the first to be registered in Niseko Town



Niseko Town Self-Government Creation Strategy
Towards the formulation of the third phase
On February 13th, the town held the 230th Town Planning Citizen Lecture to formulate the "Third Niseko Town Autonomy Revitalization Comprehensive Strategy."
The Anan Planning and Environment Division Counsellor reviewed the past Comprehensive Strategies for Local Government Revitalization and gave an overview of the Third Comprehensive Strategy, which is currently being formulated. Many opinions were raised from the participants, including what they feel in their own lives about the livability of the city.

There was a lively exchange of opinions

This is a participation page for all town residents.
Looking forward to hearing from you!

Planning and Environment Division Public Relations Section
TEL.44-2121 FAX.44-3500

Niseko Fan News vol.87
Corner for townspeople by townspeople
Would you like to work as a reporter too? We look forward to your participation.

This month's reporter is "Yuko Matsuda."
I am a director of the Niseko Urban Development Forum, a non-profit organization.


Flower making
Flower lovers get excited when they hear the sound of March, and the joy of choosing this year's flowers and vegetable seeds with a catalog in hand comes into play. Every year, just thinking about how I want this year to be like this gets me excited.
Niseko also used to have about 60 flower masters, and they were very active. Aiming to become a flower town, they planted lupines and daffodils all over the fields next to Niseko Heights, and you could take a nice photo with Mt. Yotei in the background. If it were now, it would be a photogenic spot and many people would gather there.
The planting boxes along Kira Kaido were once filled with gorgeous plantings, hanging baskets were lined with beautiful ornaments, and large buses were parked and tourists were seen walking around. They walked around looking at various gardens, and were so lively that they could even hold a contest, just like in the open gardens of the UK.
There are many beautiful gardens in the city, and when I visit them, I often have endless conversations with fellow flower lovers. I have many fond memories. The planting of Kira Kaido and the production of hanging baskets have continued thanks to the help of the volunteers.
From the beginning of June to the end of September, people who live near Kira Kaido have to water and maintain the plants every day. Especially in the summer, when the heat is as intense as in Honshu, watering the plants every morning and evening is quite a tough job. If you meet anyone who has been maintaining the plants this year, please say "thank you for your hard work."




Niseko High School Agriculture Club

We are starting a new initiative
First Year Secretary Yuzuki Takase

Nice to meet you all! I'm Takase Yuzuki, a first-year student, and the new secretary of the student council.
I am from Otaki Ward, Date City, which is an hour's drive from Niseko Town. Niseko High School is going through a big change from this year to next year, and I wanted to be a strong part of that change as a member of the student council, so I ran for student council secretary.
We are currently discussing what proposals we should make to the school regarding the new school uniform. We hope to make a trial period during which students can wear whatever they like to school, and then we can make a decision that will be good for the new students entering next year.
It has been about four months since I became the new student council member, but I will do my best to contribute to the student council activities to the best of my ability. I would appreciate your continued support for Niseko High School.



Niseko Tanka Association
Following Shuntaro's poem, I will also relay New Year's greetings to the world.
New Year's Day Snow falling from the roof is unmanageable, my body hurts, so I asked for a machine.

Niseko Haiku Association
The New Year's Day Forecast is Wrong Miyu Sato Taiko
Winter warmth: No clouds blocking Ezo Fuji. Ayako Shimizu
The townscape is like a fortress, covered in snow. Yuriko Kudo
The first calendar of the year, "The days of peace and tranquility" by Yasuko Shigemori

 

Learning Exchange Center Aso Book
■ Opening hours: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Closed: Mondays, last Fridays, public holidays, year-end and New Year holidays
TEL.0136-43-2155  FAX.0136-43-2156
https://asobook-lib.com/


Niseko Elementary and Kondo Elementary Book Festival
On both February 10th and 14th, children could be seen looking happy at the many books lined up in the gymnasium.


AEDs have been installed
Our staff received training on installing AEDs. Please use them in emergencies.



Notice

Please send a book request
When you visit the library, have you ever found yourself unable to find the book you wanted to read, or wanted to read something but Asobook doesn't have it? At the counter, we are available to help you find the book you want to read. We also purchase new books based on user feedback. Please feel free to use the "Book Application Form" next to the counter.
You can also borrow books from nearby libraries and reserve your spot on currently checked-out books.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have about how to use it.
Have you forgotten anything?
Did you leave something behind when you visited Asobook?
All lost or found items currently being kept at Asobook this year will be disposed of at the end of March. If you think you may have lost something, please check the lost and found corner next to the counter.


"New York Public Library Best Picture Book Award"
Akiko Miyakoshi's "The Little Shrew" has been selected as the 2024 winning entry.
Akiko Miyakoshi has won numerous awards both at home and abroad, including the Bologna Ragazzi Prize, and is one of the most popular picture book authors in the world today. We have set up an exhibition corner and look forward to your visit.


Essay corner has been created
We have set up a new section for essay books, which were previously displayed alongside novels, to make it easier for users to find what they are looking for.


Exhibition
book display
3/1-3/30 "North, South, East, West by Artist's Name"
We have collected books that seem like they might come up on a quiz show, or be in an evening TV corner, whose authors' names contain the four elements of east, west, north, and south. How many of them can you think of?

hobby exhibition
3/1～3/30 Calligraphy by Ippukudo Heart



New arrival book introduction

practical book
How you speak determines 90% of who you are, Shigehisa Nagamatsu
People age from their mouths Yuko Teruyama
Grandchildren's Guide by Ihoko Kurokawa

Reading material
Natural Bone Chicken by Hitomi Kanehara
Don't eat the fried chicken bento here Obara Ban
Sojuro and the End of the World by Noboru Kinouchi

Children's books and picture books
You can forget it Yuko Omori
Delivered to Todo Written by Kenta Otsuka, illustrated by Karin Kanou
An Introduction to the World of Paris Opera Ballet Delphine Godard

Report daily activities from the members!
My Neighborhood Cooperation Team 42.

We will send out information every month so that the townspeople can learn about the activities and personalities of our volunteers!

Editor in charge
≫Information is also being sent on SNS!
<2nd year> Risa Ito Osamu Muraoka
First year: Kyoka Sato, Kosuke Ota

Introducing the activities of the cooperation team

≫Radio Niseko
Inside [Kira Niseko]
"Because I like Niseko of the cooperation team~"
(every Monday from 3:20 pm to 50 pm)
<Those scheduled to perform in March>
3/6 Hideki Hinoura and Daisuke Kudo
10 Keima Sato and Misa Kudo
17 Osamu Muraoka and Junichi Ohba
24 Kyoka Sato and Risa Kamikawauchi
31 Kohei Shimizu, new captain

＞＞Information is also being posted on social media!
website
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Facebook
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Instagram
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Interview
I am a volunteer working for the Niseko Resort Tourism Association.

Niseko Station suddenly becomes very lively in winter.
As the train's arrival time draws near, tourists carrying luggage begin to gather at the small wooden Niseko Station building. The Niseko Resort Tourism Association, which has its office inside the station building, is currently home to three local revitalization volunteers.

Interviewer (hereinafter referred to as (I)): "Please tell us about your main duties at the Tourism Association."
Three volunteers: "We mainly provide information about the town to tourists who come to the Niseko Station Tourist Information Center. We also receive inquiries by phone.
In the summer, they lend out tourist equipment such as rental bicycles and bear spray, and in the winter they provide information on how to get to the ski resorts and accommodation facilities in town.
In addition, JOCV members are also in charge of accepting students for educational trips.
We work with travel agencies and school staff to create programs and coordinate the sightseeing experiences in Niseko for school trip students.
I also attend to the students on the day and guide them around the town."

(b) "What kind of things do you want to work on as a tourism association in the future?"
Sudo: "We hold our annual Starry Sky Picnic, and last year for the first time we invited local residents to it, which was a big success. When you hear the word 'tourism association', you might think of it as something only for tourists to use, but in the future we would like to provide more tools like these to invite local residents, and become a tourism association that local residents can look up to."
Sato: "It's tourism support for the efforts of the people who live in the town."
Kizawa: "There is still a lack of knowledge and information about tourism in Niseko, so I would like to visit many places and convey to tourists the charms of Niseko Town that I have seen and experienced with my own eyes!"
(I) "There are many attractions that can only be found by choosing Niseko and moving here! Please tell us about any tourist spots you would like to recommend to the townspeople."
Sudo: "It's an ostrich farm."
Sato: "Goshiki Onsen and the surrounding area. The hot springs after a short hike were amazing."
Kizawa: "Niseko is a town of agriculture and tourism, so in the broad sense of the word, it's a tourist spot, so perhaps a 'gourmet tour' within the town."
(b) "Niseko Town is great because you can enjoy the great outdoors and the food is delicious! As a volunteer or immigrant, what do you think is particularly attractive about Niseko in the winter?"
Sudo: "I like having a ski resort nearby and being able to see the snow-covered Mt. Yotei on a clear day."
Sato: "It's like a sunny day in a cloudy sky."
Kizawa: "There are a lot of tourists from overseas, and I feel drawn to a world I've never experienced before."


Rie Sudo (from Osaka Prefecture)
Keima Sato (from Obihiro City)
Daigo Kizawa (from Hakodate City)


Ranking of questions asked by foreign tourists at the counter
1st place: Please call me a taxi!
2.Is there a place where I can exchange money?
3rd place: Please tell me where I can eat around here!

(B) "There is a demand for taxis from tourists from overseas. Many people also ask at taxi counters about things that may be difficult to search for on a smartphone, such as how to get to areas like Sapporo, New Chitose Airport, and Lake Toya, or where to exchange money. They are a great help when traveling. Please tell us any English conversational phrases that you often use."
Sudo: "Where do you go? I usually start with this phrase."
Sato: Enjoy your stay!
Kizawa: "When I say, 'I can't speak English well,' most people will speak to me more slowly."
(B) "It seems like working at a tourism association would help me improve my English naturally."



Graduation special feature

Hokuto Takagi (from Sapporo) Assigned to: Agriculture Policy Division Forestry Support
I think all the volunteers feel the same way when they are about to graduate, but the three years went by in a flash. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn so much during my term. I was interested in the environmentally friendly forestry that Niseko Town promotes, so I took up my post. I hope to continue promoting forestry that is considerate of the ecosystem so that Niseko Town can continue to have a wonderful natural environment.
On a personal note, my first child was born last September, marking a major turning point in my life. All living things instinctively leave offspring to preserve the species. It was the first time I had felt this way since becoming a parent, but I also realized that I am a part of a life that has been passed down uninterrupted for many generations, and that it is time for me to pass on the baton of life to others.
Forestry is a profession where you don't see results until you spend a long time working, and it's a job that must be passed down to the next generation. I hope to be able to do it patiently without thinking only about the immediate future.
Thank you for your support. We will continue to build a loving family and create a forest.

Naoki Nakamura (from Sapporo) Assigned to: Agriculture Policy Division
Three years of volunteering have passed in the blink of an eye. I joined the volunteer program with the goal of becoming a farmer, and every day has been so meaningful that time has flown by.
It feels like the time has flown by. It was a busy and difficult three years, but also a lot of fun, and I was able to gain a lot of experience and grow as a person. When I first joined the force, I participated in many events without knowing anything, and I enjoyed working with the townspeople and holding fun and safe events more than anything.
From now on, I will be farming in Niseko Town under the name "Crystal Farm", mainly cultivating cherry tomatoes. I will be selling them at the Niseko View Plaza Roadside Station Direct Sales Event. Please try them. I look forward to your continued support.
 

In this corner,
Introducing various activities and information!

Parenting topics

Yoji Centre

Setsubun
This year, Setsubun fell on February 2nd, but since that day fell on a Sunday, the bean-throwing ceremony at Yoji Centre took place on the 3rd.
I drove away various demons that lived in my heart, including a crybaby demon and an angry demon.
The older children made beautiful demon masks and clubs and played the role of demons. At the end, an adult demon appeared and, together with the older children, shouted "Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi" (Demons out, good fortune in) with beans made from newspapers. The children must have been able to drive away the evil demons in their hearts.
Let's drive out the evil demons in your heart! !



Sun

Baby Massage Classes
We held a parenting course called "Baby Massage Class."
Baby massage is recommended as a way to communicate with your baby. It is said that by gently touching and massaging your baby's body, you can relax both the body and mind, and it also promotes intestinal activity, which makes it easier to notice changes in your baby's physical condition, leading to reduced constipation. We were also taught about pressure points that are effective in calming your baby's nighttime crying and promoting sleep.
We want both adults and babies to feel at ease and comfortable.
A comfortable moment

"Ohisama" is a place where parents and children can play casually and talk to each other about their worries. (Inside Yoji Centre)



Notice

Consultation to Ohisama
We will be holding Ohisama Niko Niko Consultations (consultations with public health nurses and nutritionists) on the following dates. Why not come and ask us about your concerns and questions regarding child rearing, such as child development, vaccinations, and weaning food? We will also measure your child's height and weight.
Date and time: Thursday, March 6th, 10:00am - 11:30am
◆ Place: Child-rearing Support Center “Ohisama”

Child-rearing course "Yoga class"
Date and time: Thursday, March 13th, 10:00am
◆Place/Townsman Center
◆ Daycare / Child-rearing Support Center “Ohisama”
◆Application deadline: Thursday, March 6th
◆ Capacity: Approximately 8 people


<Inquiries about this page>
Niseko Town Yoji Centre "Kiratto" Manager / Aoki and Matsui
TEL（代表）0136-44-2700 FAX 0136-44-2725

Nutritionist Saito
Health and Welfare Division, Health Promotion Section
TEL 0136-44-2121


Applications for various health checkups for fiscal year 2025 are now open

A health check-up is an opportunity to know your health condition and review your lifestyle habits. To live a healthy life, you should have a health check-up once a year.
The town is currently collecting applications for annual health checkups. Application forms, schedules, and instructions are being distributed along with this month's administrative promotion documents.
If you wish to receive treatment, please check the details and apply by Wednesday, March 19th.

Points to consider when choosing

1. There are health checkups at the community center or at each facility, and you can get a medical checkup at once. If you live in the town, you can get a specific medical checkup at Niseko Clinic.
2. Both men and women can undergo various medical examinations when they turn 30 years old.
3. Cancer screening is available regardless of medical insurance.
4. National Health Insurance members between the ages of 40 and 74 can also undergo a medical checkup.
5. Families covered by social insurance can undergo specific health examinations.
6. Those eligible for free cancer screening coupons as of April 1st will receive them in May.

Apply online
In addition to filling out an application form, you can also apply online for various health checkups by phone, computer, or smartphone. You can apply anytime, anywhere, without worrying about time. We recommend this method because you can access a dedicated page by simply scanning the 2D code, and you can complete your application by simply checking the required items.

Kira points will be awarded
Niseko Town will give 1,000 points (worth 1,000 yen) to each town resident who undergoes various health checkups conducted by the town, so please take advantage of this offer.

A medical checkup costs 6,000 yen.
Starting from fiscal year 2025, the self-pay amount for health checkups has been revised from 12,000 yen to 6,000 yen, making it more affordable for everyone to receive medical checkups.
For details, please contact the Health and Welfare Division, Health Promotion Section.

News from Niseko Town

Information of living


Notice
★It's the season when many people move.
Confirmation of moving procedures
Spring is a time when many people move to new places for further education, employment, job transfers, etc. When moving, there are various procedures that need to be completed.
If you do not complete the procedures, you may not be able to receive necessary services or may not receive notices and other documents. Please be careful not to forget.

Change of address/Seal registration
When you move, you must notify the change of address. Also, when you move out of the town, you must bring the "Certificate of Moving Out" issued by the town and complete the moving-in procedure at the city, town, or village where you are moving within two weeks.
If you have a My Number Card, please also use our convenient online services.
・Moving procedures on Mynaportal
・Digital Town Policy Page Moving Procedure Online Service
・Smartphone electronic certificate service
Please note that your personal seal registration will be cancelled when you move out of the city, ward, town or village. If you need to register your personal seal, you will need to go through the registration process again in the city, ward, town or village where you are moving to.
If you have a My Number Card, please let us know during the procedure.

Water supply / sewerage system
Please change your address and cancel your water supply at your local government office. Please be sure to turn off your water supply as there is a risk of your water pipes freezing.
If you do not complete the water and sewerage procedures, you will have to pay the basic charges even if you are not using them, so please be careful not to forget any procedures.

Pension, National Health Insurance, Disability Certificate, etc.
Those who are enrolled in the National Pension System, National Health Insurance, or have a disability certificate should complete the procedures at their local city hall. Those who are enrolled in the Employee's Pension System or Social Insurance should contact their workplace.

Electricity, gas, telephone, mail
Please contact each company directly to make changes.
■Inquiries/
・Change of address・Seal registration・National pension/Resident section, Resident life department
・Waterworks and Sewerage/Waterworks and Sewerage Division Maintenance Section
・National Health Insurance/Health and Welfare Division, Insurance and Medical Affairs Section
・障がい者手帳／保健福祉課福祉係 いずれも TEL 0136-44-2121


Foreign standard radio equipment cannot be used in Japan.
Foreign standard radio equipment such as FRS, GMRS, UHF-CB and PRS cannot be used in Japan as they may interfere with important domestic radio communications and television broadcasts.
When using radio equipment in Japan, make sure it has a "Technical Standards Conformity Certification Mark."
■問合せ／北海道総合通信局 TEL 011-709-2311


★Are you done?
We are currently accepting tax returns
The office is currently accepting tax returns.


Important Notices

Advance reservations are required to declare at the office.
To file your tax return at the city hall, please make a reservation in advance for the desired date and time. To make a reservation in advance, please contact us by phone or email at least one day before the desired date.
The application period at the town hall will end on Friday, March 14. We expect it to be busy just before the end of the application period, so please make your reservation early.
TEL 0136- 44 -2121 mail:zeimu@town.niseko.lg.jp
*If you are filing a tax return at the tax office, you will need to obtain an "admission ticket" in advance.
They can be obtained in advance from the National Tax Agency's official LINE account or distributed on the day at the venue.

If you delay your return, the amount of your municipal tax and national health insurance tax may change in the middle of the fiscal year, and tax certificates such as income certificates may not be issued correctly at the beginning of the fiscal year. Therefore, anyone who needs to file a return, except for those filing for refunds, should file as soon as possible.

File your tax return from home using your My Number card!
On the National Tax Agency website's "Tax Return Preparation Corner," you can create a tax return by simply entering the amount, etc. Once you have created the tax return, you can send it via e-Tax using your My Number card.
This has the following advantages over filing at the tax office or city hall:
・No need to submit attached documents (life insurance certificate, etc.)
・E-Tax provides quick refunds (within about 3 weeks) and is becoming more convenient and easy to use every year. Please take advantage of this opportunity.
■How to use e-Tax: First, search for "e-Tax" on the Internet
■問合せ／税務課 TEL 0136-44-2121




Attorney Sato will solve your worries!

●This month's theme
Rules of Wills

Recently, we have been receiving more and more consultations regarding the writing of wills. There are strict rules set by law for the format of a will, and if the rules are not followed, the will that was painstakingly created may be invalid. Unfortunately, when you actually open a will, it is often found that it is not recognized as a will.
For example, handwritten wills must be written entirely in one's own handwriting as a general rule. If there are multiple types of assets, an inventory of assets may be attached to the will. Due to recent changes in the law, it is now possible to create an inventory of assets using a computer, but there are detailed rules, such as the requirement that each page of a document created using a computer must also be signed and stamped.
In addition, the date of creation of the will cannot be written as "Auspicious day, March 2025." In order to clarify which will was created last, the date of creation must be clearly written in the will.
Furthermore, if the person you want to inherit your estate from dies before you and there is no name listed to inherit in their place, the will will be invalid.
As you can see, there are many detailed rules for writing a will, so we recommend that you first learn about these rules before writing one.

Park Front Law Office Niseko Office
141 Hondori Niseko Town
TEL 0136-44-3800 FAX.0136-44-3801






Don't forget to change your address for your automobile tax classification

The automobile tax classification levy is a tax levied based on the registration as of April 1. If you move and your address changes, please register the change at the local transport bureau.
Registration is required at the local transport bureau in the following cases:
・When your address changes (change registration)
・When buying or selling a car (transfer of registration)
・When you no longer use your car (deregistration)

To ensure that you receive your 2025 Motor Vehicle Tax Category Tax Payment Notice, please complete the procedure by March.
If you are unable to register the change in time, please change the delivery address for your tax notice by going to the "Motor Vehicle Tax Category Address Change Procedure" on the Hokkaido Tax website.
■問合せ／札幌道税事務所自動車税部 TEL 011-746-1190


★Installed in fiscal year 2025
Septic tank installation maintenance cost subsidy

The town will subsidize the installation costs for people who are switching from a septic tank or individual treatment tank to a combined treatment tank in private homes in the town in fiscal year 2025. Application forms are available at the Resident Life Division or on the town's website, so please apply if you are planning to switch to a combined treatment tank between May 2025 and the end of February 2026.
Please note that the subsidy amount and eligibility requirements include the size of the septic tank and the details of the construction.
Conditions apply, so please contact us or visit our website for more information.
■Subsidy target/
・Being outside the treatment area of public sewerage and agricultural village wastewater treatment facilities
・You must not be in arrears with town taxes, utility fees, etc.
・It is clear that the owner of the house is living as an individual Niseko Town resident, or has moved in and will be living there for more than 5 years (address transfer procedure required)
・It must not be a business office or a residence intended for sale.
・Please note that if construction is started before the "subsidy grant decision notification" (issued after the subsidy grant application) is received, the project will not be eligible for subsidy.
■ Application period: Monday, March 3rd to Friday, April 25th (not on a first-come, first-served basis)
*Subsidies for installing septic tanks in newly constructed homes ended in 2023.
■問合せ／町民生活課町民生活係 TEL 0136-44-2121



★Don't forget to apply
Start of accepting sewage collection requests

We are now accepting applications for sewage collection in fiscal year 2025. Details will be announced in this month's administrative promotion officer document, so please gather your applications at your local neighborhood association and apply by Friday, March 14th.
If you do not apply this time and need collection within the fiscal year (until March 2026), please contact the collection company directly.
■収集企業／（有）塚越産業 TEL 0136-44-2630
■申込み・問合せ／町民生活課町民生活係 TEL 0136-44-2121



Request for proper use of ambulances
We would like to thank all residents for their ongoing support of our firefighting efforts.
Have you ever wondered whether to call an ambulance? I think few people have actually done so. For some people, it may be a once in a lifetime thing, but that moment can come suddenly.

◎ If you think the situation is urgent, call 119 without hesitation.
Symptoms that are considered to be of a high level of urgency include sudden chest pain, sudden inability to move arms or legs, slurred speech, loss of words, distorted face, and sudden severe headache.
◎ On the other hand, the number of ambulances and emergency personnel is limited, so it is not advisable for people with mild symptoms to make requests without careful consideration.
The role of the ambulance team is to administer first aid to people who suddenly become seriously ill or injured and transport them to an appropriate medical facility.
The number of emergency dispatches for minor illnesses that do not require hospitalization, such as "I want to go to the hospital but I don't have transportation," "I can't get in touch with a taxi company," "I have no one to take me there," "I have a fever and feel tired," "My throat is sore and it's hard to speak," and "Abrasions, cuts, and sprains on my hands and feet," is increasing and far exceeds the number of serious emergency cases.
The number of ambulances owned by the Yotei Sanroku Fire Department Association is limited, with only five for the seven towns and villages that make up the association. The sooner an ambulance arrives at a medical institution after the onset of symptoms and treatment begins, the greater the chances that there will be no aftereffects and that it will not affect your life in the future.
We ask for everyone's cooperation in using ambulances appropriately.
■問合せ／羊蹄山ろく消防組合消防署ニセコ支署 TEL 0136-44-2354



City Case Files
Niseko Town Crime Prevention Association

Incidents There were no incidents in Niseko Town during January.
Traffic Accidents There were no traffic accidents in Niseko Town during January.

倶知安警察署／TEL 0136-22-0110



We will subsidize part of the cost of snow removal in front of elderly people's homes.
The town will subsidize a portion of the cost of having a snow removal company remove snow from walkways in front of homes for elderly households.
To receive the snow removal subsidy, please submit your snow removal contract and receipts to the city hall's Health and Welfare Division by Friday, March 21, 2025. After the application is reviewed, the subsidy will be transferred to the designated financial institution.
If you are unsure whether you qualify for this subsidy, please contact the person in charge in advance.
■Eligibility: Households consisting of only elderly people aged 70 years or older who live in Niseko Town, and all household members are exempt from resident tax.
■ Eligible projects: Those that request snow removal companies to remove snow from the driveway leading up to the entrance of the target person's residence
* Expenses such as removing snow from roofs and clearing snow around the house are not covered.
■Only if the subsidy amount/contract amount exceeds 50,000 yen, two-thirds of the excess amount will be subsidized. The maximum subsidy amount is 50,000 yen (rounded down to the nearest 1,000 yen)
■問合せ／保健福祉課福祉係 TEL 0136-44-2121


<Example> If the cost is 75,000 yen
(75,000 yen - 50,000 yen) ÷ 2/3
= 16,666 yen
Grant amount 16,000 yen



Note
Beware of avalanches

Although it has become warmer in March, there is still a lot of snow remaining in the mountain areas. Many people enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowy mountain climbing at this time of year, but it is important to be careful of avalanches in snowy mountains.
Avalanches are broadly divided into two types: "surface avalanches" and "full-depth avalanches." Surface avalanches often occur after heavy snowfall during cooler temperatures. When temperatures rise in early spring, full-depth avalanches become more likely to occur as meltwater accumulates between the ground and the snow. Avalanches travel at high speeds, making it difficult to escape once you notice they are occurring.
If there is a risk of an avalanche, the weather station will
An "avalanche warning" has been issued, urging caution. Please check the latest weather information.

■問合せ／札幌管区気象台天気相談所 TEL 011-611-0170


Tracking! vol.50
Activities of a town development company!


We held a snow play event at Niseko Mirai!
In late January, Niseko Mirai held its annually popular snow play event. This event is always well attended, but this year it was a huge success with about 50 participants (30 children and 20 adults). This time, the event was planned and co-hosted with the cooperation of Lion Adventure.
For the main activity, we had a four-person boat pulled by a snowmobile and went for a walk in the snow. We enjoyed the beautiful, unobstructed view of Niseko Mirai all the way to Mt. Yotei. While waiting for the snowmobile, we had fun sliding down the slopes on snow tubes and sleds. Because it was warmer than usual, the snow was hard and we were able to make snowmen and snow igloos. Some children enjoyed playing with colored water and soap bubbles, and showed us their unique creations.
The children who participated said, "Both the snowmobiles and sleds were a lot of fun! I want to come to Niseko Mirai every week!" The adult participants commented, "It was great that the kids were able to play freely in the snow. It was a valuable opportunity to interact with people I don't usually meet."
Once again, Niseko High School students volunteered to help make the event a success. We are always grateful for their bright, cheerful smiles that brighten up the venue.
We are planning many exciting events next year, so we look forward to your participation!
■Inquiries: Niseko Town Co., Ltd.
TEL 0136-55-6087
Email:info@nisekomachi.co.jp



Recruitment
We are looking for 2025 census enumerators

The census is a survey of all people and households living in Japan, conducted once every five years, to grasp the "nationwide situation." It is an important survey that is used for disaster prevention measures, disaster countermeasures, measures against low birth rates and an aging population, and improving living environments. We appreciate your help.
■ Number of applicants: Approximately 40
■Activity period: Mid-August to late October (planned)
■ Activities: Participation in information sessions, distribution and collection of survey forms, etc.
■ Application Qualifications/
・In principle, people aged 20 or over
・A person who can carry out investigation work responsibly
・People who can maintain confidentiality regarding the contents of the survey
・People who are not directly involved with taxation, police, or elections
・People who have no close ties to gangs or gang members
■Remuneration for investigation: Approximately 40,000 yen (varies depending on the number of investigation areas)
*Refer to the previous (R2) survey
■問合せ／企画環境課経営企画係 TEL 0136-44-2121



Cat spay/neuter surgery
We are planning to have Dr. Daimon from Mobile VET Office, a hospital in Ebetsu City that specializes in sterilization and neutering of dogs and cats, come and perform the surgery on cats in the town.
During the implementation period, we will specially subsidize approximately half of the regular basic fee (5,000 to 6,000 yen for male cats, 8,000 to 10,000 yen for female cats).
■ Date and time: Saturday, April 5th and Sunday, April 6th. Registration opens at 9:00 a.m.
■Location: 61 Hondori (right next to Hokkaido Shinkin Bank)
■Application deadline: Saturday, March 30th
*When applying, please let us know your name, address, contact information (phone number and email address), the desired surgery date, the gender, age, name, number of cats, and any other necessary information.
■Sponsored by: “Aiming for a happy coexistence of cats and people” Association for developing the future of Niseko
■申し込み・問合せ／さいとうショートメール:080-3114-3145（通話不可）
mail:nisekoumeko@gmail.com
fax:0136-59-2822





International Exchange News vol.23

At the World Kitchen held on January 23rd, CIRs cooked dishes from various countries together with high school students. This time, Fabian from Germany introduced the students to a famous German dish called "Flammkuchen." It is a dish that requires few ingredients, making it a good choice for learning how to cook at home.
Although it looks similar to pizza, the way it is made and the ingredients are different, so the taste is completely different. Students put their favorite ingredients, such as onion, corn, sausage, and bacon, on the dough and made Flammkuchen of various flavors!
We all chatted and enjoyed the food until we were full.




We are looking for social education committee members.
The Board of Education is recruiting members of the social education committee to hear their opinions on the town's social education administration.
■Term of office: April 1, 2020 to March 31, 2020
■ Application requirements: Applicants must be 18 years of age or older, reside in this town, and have an interest in social education and home education.
■Application deadline: Friday, March 14th
* Application forms are available at the General Education Division in the General Gymnasium, or can be downloaded from the town's website.
Our social education activities cover a wide range of fields, including various sports and cultural programs, experiential learning for children and students, Asobook and Kotobuki University.
In order to improve social education in Niseko Town, we would like to hear your opinions based on your knowledge and experience. For more information, please contact us.
■問合せ／総合教育課町民学習係 TEL 0136-44-2034



Recruitment of Coast Guard officers and Coast Guard Academy students
The Japan Coast Guard is recruiting Coast Guard officers for April 2026 and Japan Coast Guard Academy students (special) for October 2025.
● Japan Coast Guard Academy Student Recruitment Examination (Special)
Eligibility requirements: Those who have graduated from high school or secondary school within the last 13 years as of April 1, 2025 (Reiwa 7) and those who are expected to graduate from university by September 2025 (Reiwa 7), etc.
・Application period: Thursday, February 20th to Thursday, March 13th
※Online application

First exam
■ Date/Time: Sunday, May 11th
■ Test location: Otaru City, etc.
●Coast Guard Recruitment Exam
Eligibility: People born on or after April 2, 1995 (Heisei 7), who have graduated from a university (excluding junior colleges) or who are scheduled to graduate from a university by March 2026 (Reiwa 8), etc.
・Application period: Thursday, February 20th to Monday, March 24th
※Online application
・First exam
■ Date/Time: Sunday, May 25th
■ Test location: Sapporo City
For more information, please visit the Japan Coast Guard Recruitment website.
■問合せ／小樽海上保安部管理課 TEL 0134-27-6118


Radio Niseko News vol.11

Radio Niseko Theater Company is looking for members!
Time flies, and it's been almost 13 years since Radio Niseko was founded.
The Radio Niseko Theater Company also got started in the same year as the station opened, and aired its first drama in October. Did you know that?
I recently met up with the lead actor in that first radio drama, "God of Dawn."
When the filming was taking place, they were still in elementary school, but now they have grown into fine adults, walking their own paths confidently, and seeing them like that, I was suddenly reminded of the drama.
"God of the Dawn" is a story about the main characters who are worried about their future, but get lost, meet various people, and find their own path. I was moved by this story, as it somehow overlapped with that drama.
Radio Niseko Broadcasting Troupe has been producing radio dramas every year since its launch, but activities were suspended due to the effects of COVID-19. We are currently preparing to restart this year. Would you like to appear in a radio drama? If you are interested, please feel free to contact Radio Niseko. We look forward to hearing from you.
■Inquiries/Radio Niseko
TEL 0136-55-5762
Email:niseok762@radioniseko.jp




There is a vacant room in the town house

Type Apartment name Type Structure Rent guideline Minimum to maximum Parking space
Public housing (for families) Fujimi Danchi Building 3, Room 102 3LDK (61.99 sqm) Built in 1983 Simple fireproofing, 2nd floor 10,700 yen to 34,900 yen (varies depending on income, etc.) Available
Public housing (for families) Fujimi Danchi Building 4, Room 201 3LDK (61.99 sqm) Built in 1985 Simple fireproofing 2nd floor 11,000 yen to 35,700 yen (varies depending on income, etc.) Available

●Application period: March 3rd (Monday) to March 17th (Monday)
●Eligibility and application method/Please inquire for details.
■問合せ／都市建設課住宅管理係 TEL 0136-44-2121



Notice of Recruitment of Self-Defense Forces
● Assistant Reserve SDF Officer
・Qualifications for taking the exam／
General: People aged 18 to 52
Skills: 18 years of age or older and with a national license or other qualification (upper age limit is 53 to 55 years old depending on the qualification)
・Application period: Wednesday, January 22nd to Tuesday, April 8th
・Exam date: April 6th (Sun) to April 20th (Sun)
Please contact us for more information as test dates are subject to change.
■Inquiries: Sapporo Regional Cooperation Headquarters of the Self-Defense Forces Kutchan Regional Office
TEL 0136-23-3540 または自衛官募集相談 TEL 0136-44-2177



culture
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum × Bungo to Alchemist tie-up project
We will be holding a tie-up project with the game "Bungo to Alchemist." We will be distributing postcards of Takeo Arishima, who appears in the game, as well as original stamps and setting up life-sized panels in several places in the museum. Also, during March, admission will be free if you show the game's home screen at the reception desk.
Please enjoy it along with the permanent exhibition or reading in the cafe.
■Date and time: March 1st (Sat) - June 29th (Sun)
■ Place / Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum
■問合せ／有島記念館 TEL 0136-44-3245


Arishima Memorial Museum
Sapporo Chikaho / Sapporo City Tram Jack
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum displays exhibits related to Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum and Takeo Arishima in various locations outside of Niseko Town.
A panel exhibition was held in the Sapporo Underground Pedestrian Space from January 14th to 15th, and an advertising takeover was carried out on the Sapporo City Tram from February 1st to 14th.
You may come across Arishima somewhere other than Niseko Town. If so, please stop by and take a look.




pension news

It is advantageous to pay National Pension Insurance premiums by bank transfer.
National pension insurance premiums can be paid by direct debit.
Direct debit offers larger discounts than cash payments, including six months, one year, or two years of advance payment, as well as an early bird discount of 50 yen per month.
If you wish to have your payment transferred directly from your account, please bring your payment slip or pension number notification, bankbook, and financial institution registration seal to your desired financial institution or nearest pension office.
Bank transfer forms are also available at the town hall. Please contact us if you are interested.
■問合せ／年金ダイヤル TEL  0570-05-1165
町民生活課住民係 TEL 0136-44-2121


Contract Results
The contract results are posted on Niseko Town official website.





hello mayor
Town with high school
The government is promoting Regional Revitalization 2.0, but for small towns and villages, the presence of a high school within the area is a major starting point for regional revitalization. The efforts of Oki Dozen High School in Ama Town, Shimane Prefecture, have been introduced as a model for regional revitalization, and at meetings of town and village mayors, the importance of the presence of a high school to town development has become a hot topic.
There are currently 17 municipal high schools in Hokkaido, each of which is promoting its own unique characteristics.
Recently, schools such as Ozora High School and Okushiri High School, which have been transferred from prefectural to municipal levels, have been attracting attention.
Having a high school in the area has an economic effect in terms of population, but more than anything, it has a great effect on the young people living and working in the area. I am grateful for the Niseko High School students' daily community development activities.
Niseko Town Kenya Katayama

 

Water and sewerage charges are due in March.
◆ Direct deductions will be made on the 28th (Friday)
■上下水道料金の問合せ／上下水道課　 TEL 0136-44-2121
If you use direct debit in March, please check your balance.


Top left box article
Emergency and sudden illness response at night and on holidays
倶倶知安厚生病院　電話0136-22-1141

5th (Wed)
● 2nd Niseko Town Regular Meeting (scheduled) / Role: 10:00 ~

Thursday 6th
●Ohisama Niko Niko Consultation / Kindergarten: 10:00 ~ Niko Niko Hiroba (See p.13)
● Play Club (reservation required) / A: 15:00~
Open at night

7th (Friday)
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~

Saturday, August 8
●Niseko English Conversation Circle/O: 10:00~

9th (Sun)

10th (Monday)
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~
Playbook closed day

Tuesday 11th
Central warehouse group closed days

12th (Wed)
●Niseko Junior High School Graduation Ceremony/Niseko Junior High School: 9:15~

Thursday 13th
Parenting class "Yoga class" / Town: 10:00-Niko Niko Hiroba (see page 13)
●Magic Carpet/A: 15:00~
Open at night

Friday 14th
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~

15th (Sat)

16th (Sun)

Monday 17th
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~
Playbook closed day

Tuesday 18th
● Kotobuki University Study Session/Closing Ceremony/Town: Study Session: 10:00~
Closing ceremony: 11:00~
● Free legal consultation with a lawyer / Town: From 13:00 (Reservation required by noon the previous day)
●Health exercise class/Town: 14:00~
Central warehouse group closed days

Wednesday, 19th
●Niseko Elementary School Graduation Ceremony/Niseko Elementary School: 9:00~
●Kondo Elementary School Graduation Ceremony/Kondo Elementary School: 10:00~
●Radio Niseko Interruption Broadcast/Role: 10:50~

Thursday 20th
Vernal Equinox Day
Playbook closed day

21st (Fri)
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~

22nd (Sat)
●Niseko English Conversation Circle/O: 10:00~

23rd (Sun)

Monday 24th
● Yoji Centre Graduation Ceremony/ Yoji Centre: 10:00~
Playbook closed day

25th (Tuesday)
Central warehouse group closed days

Wednesday 26th

Thursday 27th
Open at night

28th (Fri)
Playbook closed day

29th (Sat)

30th (Sun)

31st (Monday)
Playbook closed day

April 1 (Tuesday)
Central warehouse group closed days

2nd (Wed)

3rd (Thurs)
Open at night

Friday 4th

5th (Sat)

We are looking for photos!
身近な写真を広報で紹介してみませんか。撮影日や撮影場所などの簡単な説明とお名前（フォトネーム）とともに、広報広聴係（koho@town.niseko.lg.jp）までお寄せください。ニセコ町公式LINEの投稿フォームからも投稿できます。

Diamond Art
Photographer: Moko & Kuu-chan

Snowmen in the Central Warehouses
Photographer: Public Relations Section

[Winter Break Children's Cooking Class]
This year, we also held a cooking class for elementary school students during the winter break, with the theme of "Learning about food waste."
The menu consists of two items: gratin and mille crepes.
During the tasting, we gave a simple explanation of "What is food waste?" and everyone listened attentively. As a measure against food waste, we talked about starting with what we can do to prevent it, such as "don't peel vegetables too much," "don't leave food uneaten," and "don't shop too much."
Participating children were given "doggy bags" (bags for taking leftover food home) as part of a demonstration project conducted by the town and the Niseko Resort Tourism Association as part of an effort to reduce food waste.
Some kids even took home some of the prizes.
We will introduce part of the menu, so please try making it at home.

Macaroni Gratin
◆ Ingredients (for one person)
◆How to make
1. Thinly slice the onion and cut the bacon into 1cm pieces.
2. Fry the bacon and onion in a pan with melted butter.
3. When the onion has softened, turn off the heat, add the flour and mix until just combined.
4. While stirring with a wooden spatula, gradually add the milk.
5. Add the consomme, macaroni, salt and pepper and mix slowly over low heat.
6. Place in a gratin dish, sprinkle pizza cheese and breadcrumbs on top, and bake in a toaster oven for 7-8 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Macaroni・・・・・・・・・30g
Broccoli: 2-3 bunches
Onion: 30g
Bacon: 1 slice
Flour・・・・・・・・・・・・・2 tsp
Milk: 100ml
Granulated consommé・・・・・・・・・1g
Pizza cheese・・・・・・・・・・10g
Bread crumbs...a little
Salt and pepper: a little

■Inquiries: Health and Welfare Division, Health Promotion Section
TEL 0136-44-2121 FAX 0136-44-3500
MAIL：kenko@town.niseko.lg.jp

This month's feature introduces the expansion of Niseko Town 's wine industry.
I believe that the efforts of Niseko Winery, which has built the town's winemaking history over the past 20 years, have been the catalyst that has breathed a new wind of "wine" into the town's industry.
I have been practicing hard for the past two years as a member of the local Japanese drum team "Yawara." Although we have just started, we have recently had more opportunities to perform at local events, and our scope of activities has expanded little by little. From March, we plan to begin full-scale practice with the "Niseko Kogen Taiko" in order to revive the town's traditional taiko drums.
Although the fields are completely different, I would like to weave the history of the traditional drums of the town where I am working, just like Niseko Winery.

The situation of radiation dose in the town
measuring date
Maximum value 0.027μGy/h
Minimum value: 0.017μGy/h
Average value: 0.021μGy/h
For the month ending February 15th

The spatial radiation dose rate is
normal level

Movement of people (as of the end of January)
Population: 5,578
(Up 27% from the previous month)
Men: 2,841
(+11 compared to previous month)
Women: 2,737
(+16 compared to the previous month)
Number of households: 3,290
(+30 compared to previous month)
Of these, 1,087 are foreigners.
Of these, 932 are foreign households