Koho Niseko Newsletter August Issue [No. 760] Text Version

Special Feature: Active as a driving force behind town development! Regional Revitalization Cooperation Volunteers

There are currently 25 local revitalization volunteers active in Niseko Town.
We are breathing new life into the town, taking on new challenges every day, and working as part of the community to liven up the area.
In this special feature, we asked six members who joined the force after October of last year about their thoughts.
We will also introduce the event support and events that the volunteers are implementing.


What is the Regional Revitalization Volunteer?
The Regional Revitalization Volunteers program was established by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications in fiscal year 2009, and is a system in which volunteers move from urban areas to rural areas, engaging in "regional cooperation activities" while aiming to settle and become established in the area. Volunteers serve for a maximum of three years, and work at their assigned locations, making use of their own experience and abilities, while also working to settle in through local community activities such as supporting local events.


Niseko Town Cooperation Volunteer
The town first recruited three volunteers in 2011. To date, it has accepted 90 volunteers, with 65 having graduated by last year.
Currently, the group consists of 25 members, including three first-year members, nine second-year members, and 13 third-year members who joined this year. They usually work in various places, such as the town hall and the Niseko Resort Tourism Association. In addition, they also work as volunteers, supporting events in the town and working to become independent after graduating.




Recruitment (people) Applications (people) Hiring (people)
FY2011-FY2019 53 118 34
R2 (2020) 17 26 10
R3 (2021) 23 29 11
R4 (2022) First half 19 19 8
Late 9 8 3
R5 (2023) First half 7 16 8
Late 8 8 6
R6 (2024) First half 7 8 6
Late 4 4 3
R7 (2025) First half 6 7 3
Total 153 243 92


Situation after JOCV graduation
Local businesses: 35%
Employment within the town: 32%
Moved out of town 29%
Unknown 3%


Second-year students who joined after October 1994


Chiho Kobayashi (from Aichi Prefecture) R6.10.7 ~
Assignment: General Education Division, Niseko High School

Special skills and qualifications
Completed 420 hours of Japanese language teacher training course, second-degree calligraphy, bookkeeping, large-scale second-class qualifications, etc.

Before becoming a volunteer
Worked in a select shop and restaurant cafe, wholesale/retail sales of Nepalese products and other products, and administrative staff at a private high school.

What I like about Niseko
Global environment, Mt. Yotei, climate, etc.

What I want to do as a volunteer
We would like to support the creation of new schools and new education so that they can be fully utilized for the future of students.

Current Initiatives
Teaching assistant for entrepreneurial education inquiry activities and assistant for after-school entrepreneurial activity StarsUP.

Goals after graduation
I would like to play a role in connecting Japan with the world through Japanese language education and cultural exchange.



Daigo Kizawa (from Hakodate City) November 1, 2014 -
Assignment / Niseko Resort Tourist Association Co., Ltd.

Special skills and qualifications
Certified in bookkeeping at the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Level 2, social welfare officer, and consultation support specialist.

Before becoming a volunteer
He worked for about 20 years at an accounting firm and a social welfare corporation, where he was involved in tax and finance matters as well as human resource development such as training.

What I like about Niseko
Abundant nature, delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere.

What I want to do as a volunteer
I would like to actively communicate and build a wide network of contacts through my assigned work and local events.

Current Initiatives
Accepting educational trips and providing tourist information.

Goals after graduation
Starting a business focused on tourism-related businesses.



Mai Ikeda (from Hakodate City) December 16, 2014 -
Assignment: Niseko View Plaza Direct Sales

Special skills and qualifications
Nutritionist and chef.

Before becoming a volunteer
Worked as a nutritionist at nursing homes and welfare facilities for 14 years.

What I like about Niseko
You can see the majestic Mt. Yotei from anywhere, the nature is beautiful, and there is an abundance of delicious food.

What I want to do as a volunteer
To promote Niseko Town 's local ingredients and spread their appeal to many people.

Current Initiatives
Learn the faces and names of the farmers and the operations of the direct sales event.

Goals after graduation
Developing recipes and foods that utilize local ingredients, and holding harvest events in collaboration with local farmers.



1st year students

Kaito Kida (from Sapporo City) R7.4.7 ~
Assignment / Children's Future Division

Special skills and qualifications
JFA certified soccer coaching C-class license, Kids Leader U6, JFA 47 Match Commissioner.

Before becoming a volunteer
Works at a sporting goods store and coaches a youth soccer team.

What I like about Niseko
Mount Yotei is blessed with abundant nature, and every day is peaceful.

What I want to do as a volunteer
Learn about Niseko Town through local events and volunteer activities. I want to take advantage of the rich nature and participate in activities that I can enjoy.

Current Initiatives
Interacting with local children through the children's center and after-school children's classes.

Goals after graduation
I am currently exploring options for settling down and would like to engage in activities that allow me to enjoy nature.




Megumi Noguchi (from Kanagawa Prefecture) May 1, 2015 -
Assignment: Children's Future Division, Early Yoji Centre

Special skills and qualifications
Childcare worker license, kindergarten teacher second-class license, vegetable sommelier, etc.

Before becoming a volunteer
She lived on the Izu Peninsula for nine years, working as a nursery teacher and belonging to an NPO, where she was involved in local activities.

What I like about Niseko
A quiet townscape nestled in nature surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

What I want to do as a volunteer
We would like to connect with people in the community, obtain various information, and take on initiatives that will help support children.

Current Initiatives
Supporting Yoji Centre. Responsible for looking after children at "Ohisama."

Goals after graduation
We are opening a business together as a couple and want to establish the necessary preparations for management.




Mari Nomura (from Sapporo City) R7.5.1 ~
Assignment: Commerce, Commerce and Tourism Division

Special skills and qualifications
Yoga, Eiken Grade 2, music, snowboarding, SUP, mountain climbing.

Before becoming a volunteer
Works for apparel and IT companies.

What I like about Niseko
It is full of the power of nature, and the people are warm and kind.

What I want to do as a volunteer
The goal is to increase yoga retreat tourism and boost summer tourism demand from urban areas, increase migration by improving year-round employment, and launch agricultural experience tourism tours.

Current Initiatives
Conducting yoga classes.

Goals after graduation
We will stabilize our business by encouraging more residents to move to the area through yoga, tourism, and year-round employment. We hope to contribute to the creation of a sustainable town where both residents and tourists can enjoy themselves.




The volunteers are doing the following activities!

Active in places like this too
The volunteers came together with the desire to "love Niseko Town" and "want to live in Niseko Town." They support local events and organize events planned by the volunteers, with the goal of "enlivening the area" and "revitalizing the area" (see table on the left).
Through interactions with the townspeople, such as planting trees along Kira Kaido, the Tanabata evening fireworks festival, and harvesting Halloween pumpkins, the members make various discoveries that can sometimes be used in their own activities. They also engage in a wide range of activities, such as planning unique events such as Christmas parties and Minna no Shokudo, which are created with ideas that can only be born from the diverse backgrounds of the members who come together.
They also appear on Radio Niseko's program "Kira Kira Niseko" in the segment "Because the JOCVs Love Niseko." From their reports on their activities and recent developments, you can learn about the thoughts of each member of the JOCV.

Keep an eye on the upcoming JOCVs
As the driving force behind town development, the local revitalization volunteers support and enliven the town in various places within the town. In addition to their activities as volunteers, their individual efforts to settle down after graduation and their achievements after graduation are also noteworthy.


Check social media for details on volunteer activities!
Website
Instagram
Facebook


Supported and planned events for 2024

schedule event
April: Spring Clean-up Campaign
May Niseko Gravel Spring
June Kira Kaido Planting, Hanging Basket Making, Asobook Festival, Niseko Classic, Niseko Elementary School Rice Planting Support, After-School Children's Class, Plastic Bottle Rocket, Niseko Morning Market
July: Pool support Yoji Centre, Fermentation Festival, Yoji Centre Iwaonupuri mountain climbing support, Niconico Summer Festival, Shokonsai Festival, Trial Cooperation Team, Bait scattering
August Tanabata Evening, Shiribeshi Study Abroad, 2nd Minna no Shokudo, Niseko Marathon Envelope Stuffing
September Roadside Station Harvest Festival, Annupuri mountain climbing support, Karifuto Shrine Festival Odoriyama, Niseko Marathon, Pumpkin Harvest Festival, Niseko Gravel Fall, Bait spraying, Kira Kaido planting cleanup
October: Niseko Winery grape harvest, Niseko Halloween, Niseko Elementary School rice harvest support
November: Family running, Wood Park, tree planting experience support, jack-o'-lantern making, jack-o'-lantern lighting
December: Halloween pumpkin removal, bait spraying, rice milling support at Niseko Elementary School, 3rd Minna no Shokudo (Everybody's Dining Hall)
January: Christmas event hosted by the JOCV
February Scenic Night: Creating and lighting snow letters
March Niseko GS Cup Support

Town Development Information Room

We would like to inform you of the salary status of town employees for fiscal year 2024.

The status of town employee salaries for fiscal year 2024 (as of March 31, 2025) has been compiled.
Here we will inform you of the percentage of various allowances in salary expenses, the salary settlement status, the salary details of special positions, members of parliament, and general staff, and the number of staff.


Number of employees by grade (regular staff)
Category Standard duties Number of employees (people)
R5 R6
6th grade section chief 4 4
Level 5 Section Chief 11 12
4th grade section chief 27 24
3rd grade section chief, chief 29 31
Level 2 Supervisor 9 9
1st class supervisor 15 18
Total 95 98
*Number of employees is as of April 1st of each fiscal year.



Breakdown of Salary Expenses (General Staff)
1. Salary: 373,580,000 yen (62.1%)
2. Dependent allowance: 9.5 million yen (1.6%)
3. Housing allowance: 12.74 million yen (2.1%)
4. Commuting allowance: 1.47 million yen (0.2%)
5. Overtime pay: 25.84 million yen (4.3%)
6. End-of-year bonus: 84.72 million yen (14.1%)
7. Diligence allowance: 67.31 million yen (11.2%)
8. Cold weather allowance: 8.48 million yen (1.4%)
9. Child allowance: 5.49 million yen (0.9%)
10. Management allowance: 10.82 million yen (1.8%)
11. Special work allowance for management staff: 550,000 yen (0.1%)
12. Night duty allowance: 670,000 yen (0.1%)
Total amount: 601.17 million yen



Personnel expenses (parliamentary members, special positions, general positions, etc.)
Total expenditures (A) 7,411,120,000 yen
Personnel expenses (B) 1,162,950,000 yen
Labor cost ratio (B/A) 15.7%
Personnel expenses including employee salaries (C) 677.33 million yen
Staff salary ratio (C/A) 9.1%



Average monthly salary and average age of staff
Category General administrative position
Average monthly salary Average age
Niseko Town 308,600 yen 42.1 years old
Similar organizations 310,131 yen 41.7 years old
Hokkaido 318,800 yen 42.5 years old
National 323,823 yen 42.1 years old
*Similar organizations are those with similar population size and industrial structure.




We would like to inform you of the salary details for April 2024.

We would like to inform you of our salary details as of April 1, 2024.
Currently, the salaries of civil servants are undergoing a nationwide review.
Based on these trends, the town will continue to strive to maintain an appropriate level.


Salary status of special positions
salary
Mayor: 700,000 yen
Deputy Mayor: 595,000 yen
Superintendent of Education: 545,000 yen
Term-end allowance
June (monthly salary + 15/100 of monthly salary) x 230.0/100
December (monthly salary + 15/100 of monthly salary) x 230.0/100
Total (monthly salary + 15/100 of monthly salary) x 460.0/100


Remuneration of members of parliament
salary
Chairman: 269,000 yen
Vice-chairman 215,000 yen
Chairman of the House Management Committee: 191,000 yen
Standing Committee Chairman 191,000 yen
Councillors: 186,000 yen
Term-end allowance
June (monthly salary + 15/100 of monthly salary) x 230.0/100
December (Monthly salary + 15/100 of monthly salary) x 230.0/100
Total (monthly salary + 15/100 of monthly salary) x 460.0/100

End-of-Term/Diligence Allowance
Category End of term allowance Diligence allowance Additional measures
Niseko Town June 1.225 months 1.025 months Additional treatment based on job classification, job grade, etc.
December 1.275 months 1.075 months Additional treatment based on job classification, job grade, etc.
Total 2.5 months 2.1 months Additional treatment based on job classification, job grade, etc.
*Same as the payment rate for national civil servants



retirement allowance
Payment rate
Niseko Town
Years of service Voluntary retirement Recommended retirement Other bonuses Special pay increase at time of retirement
20 years of service 19.6695 months 24.5869 months Special measures for early retirement before retirement age None
25 years of service: 28.0395 months 33.2708 months (2-20% bonus)
35 years of service 39.7575 months 47.709 months
Maximum limit 47.70 September 47.70 September
Same as Niseko Town



Dependent allowance (monthly amount)
Niseko Town
Spouse 6,500 yen
Children up to 22 years old: 10,000 yen per person
Non-children: 6,500 yen
Children between the ages of 16 and 22: 5,000 yen extra
*Same as national civil servants



Commuting allowance (monthly)
Niseko Town
Use a car, etc.
2-5km 2,000 yen
5-10km 4,200 yen
10-15km 7,100 yen
15-20km 10,000 yen
*Same as national civil servants



Housing allowance (monthly amount)
Niseko Town
Rented house/room
Basic deduction 12,000 yen (1)
Full payment: 11,000 yen (2)
1/2 addition limit 17,000 yen
(Maximum payment limit: 28,000 yen)
Example: If your rent is 50,000 yen, your housing allowance is 24,500 yen.
・50,000 yen - ((1) + (2)) = 27,000 yen (3)
・(3) x 1/2 + (2) = 24,500 yen (amount paid)
*Only the basic deduction for "rented house/rented room" differs from that for national civil servants.
(16,000 yen for national civil servants)
*The "Homeowner's Allowance" has been abolished.



Special work allowance
Infectious disease prevention risk allowance: 500 yen per day for work related to infectious disease prevention.
Public health nurse danger allowance: 500 yen per day for home visits to tuberculosis patients



management allowance
Amount of payment: 51,900 yen (Level 6) or 49,600 yen (Level 5)
Eligible persons Section manager or equivalent



Administrative Staff Special Work Allowance
When a manager works due to temporary or urgent business
Payment amount
(Holidays) 10,000 yen per session
(Holidays) Working more than 6 hours: 15,000 yen
(Weekday nights) 5,000 yen per session
Eligible persons Section manager or equivalent



Laspeyres index
R3 95.2%
R4 95.0%
R5 95.8%
R6 95.1%
*The Laspeyres index is the salary level of local government employees (Niseko Town) when the salary of national government employees is 100%.


Joining welfare organizations
Niseko Town We are a member of the Niseko Town Employees' Mutual Aid Association, which is made up of employees of the Hokkaido Municipal Welfare Association, and the Hokkaido Municipal Employees' Welfare Association, which is made up of employees of municipalities in Hokkaido, and are committed to the welfare of our employees.
■問合せ/総務課総務係 TEL 0136-56-8834




Niseko Town Basic Ordinance for Town Development

The fifth review was carried out
The third ordinance amendment has been made!

The Niseko Town Basic Ordinance for Town Development, which came into effect in April 2001, is based on the fundamental principles of information sharing and resident participation, and aims to create a town where residents can take pride and want to continue living across generations by encouraging each and every resident to think and act for themselves.
This ordinance is positioned as a "nurturing ordinance," and Article 57 of the ordinance requires that it be periodically reviewed to ensure that it remains appropriate for the town. The fifth revision review committee was launched in 2023, and a report was submitted in March 2025.


Two ordinance amendments

This report includes revisions to reflect changes in the times and society.
In response to this report, the town made the following changes:

(1) In accordance with the revision of the Civil Code, which lowered the age of majority, the expression in the ordinance was changed from "20 years old" to "18 years old." The Basic Ordinance on Urban Development guarantees the right of young people and children to participate in urban development appropriate to their age.
Article 11 Young people and children under the age of 20 have the right to participate in urban development appropriate to their age.
○ Changed from "20 years old" to "18 years old"

(2) The expression regarding gender has been changed from “taking care not to favor one gender” to “taking care to ensure gender equality and diversity.”
This clause was added during the first revision of the ordinance to promote women's participation, but this time it has been revised to take into account changes in social conditions and to reflect a more diverse range of opinions in councils and other bodies established by the town.
Article 31 The town must endeavor to include members selected through public recruitment as members of review boards, councils, investigation committees, and other affiliated organizations and similar bodies.
2. In composing the committee under the preceding paragraph, care shall be taken to avoid bias towards one gender.
"Avoid bias towards one gender" → Revised to "For gender equality and diversity"


For more details, please check the website.
Niseko Town Home Page

The revision process followed the following steps. First, the town publicly solicited members to review the ordinance. Niseko Town Basic Ordinance for Town Development Fifth Review Committee, consisting of six members, including legal experts. The committee met a total of four times to review the contents of the ordinance and exchange opinions on issues and areas for improvement. Furthermore, at the 226th Town Planning Citizens' Seminar on October 17, 2024, a "Roundtable Discussion on the Basic Urban Development Ordinance" was held, where participants exchanged opinions on the background of the Basic Urban Development Ordinance, the progress of the review, the future direction of the ordinance, and the content of the review. Following this process, the review committee compiled a report, the town formulated a revision proposal, and after public comment was received, the proposal was passed by the town council in June 2025.
In addition to the amendments to the ordinance, the report included the following four opinions regarding the Basic Ordinance as a whole.


Four opinions on the Basic Ordinance as a whole

Carrying on the spirit of the original establishment
1. Through staff training and other means, we will deepen staff understanding of the purpose of the ordinance and specific responses based on the ordinance, and take steps to put them into practice.
2. Invite people who were around when the plan was formulated to hold roundtable discussions and other events, record videos of these discussions, and use the website and other platforms to make the plan accessible to the mayor at any time (by creating short videos and using illustrations, the plan can be made easier to understand).
3. In order to raise awareness of the Basic Ordinance on Urban Development among a wide range of generations, we will devise ways to create opportunities for people to learn about it through town resident lectures and public relations magazines.
4. In order to raise awareness of "autonomy," which is the principle of the Basic Ordinance, which is to think and act independently, we will create opportunities to learn about the Basic Ordinance (we consider announcing it through town resident lectures and newsletters each year in the month of its enactment).
5. We will translate not only the Basic Ordinance but also the accompanying materials, and take measures to accommodate multiple cultures.



The role of the community
1. In addition to providing a list of neighborhood association presidents to new residents, we will also create information on how to join the neighborhood association.
2. The number of people who do not change Juminhyo (Resident Certificate) due to short-term stays or changes in their living base is increasing. Therefore, we will consider a system to disseminate information about joining neighborhood associations in cooperation with real estate businesses and other entities.



Regarding the nature of information transmission
1. Coordinate with neighborhood associations to ensure that newsletters are distributed through the associations even to households that are not members of the association, thereby reducing the number of households that do not receive the newsletter as much as possible (some neighborhood associations are already doing this, but some ingenuity is needed for households with a high rate of turnover, such as hotel employees).
2. In addition to distributing newsletters, the organization operates various social media platforms, so it is necessary to make the most of the media and take an approach to increasing the number of registered users.
3. In order to promote disaster-resistant town development, we will set up booths at events held within the town to publicize examples of how disaster prevention radios are used and work to increase distribution rates.


Promoting resident participation in urban development
1. Creating opportunities for information exchange tailored to different generations and lifestyles (e.g., baby boomers, parenting generations, millennials, Gen Z, etc.)
2. Creating opportunities for participation that take diversity into consideration, such as multilingual support (using AI apps) so that everyone can participate.
3. Proactively hold community development lectures and assembly reports to create opportunities to disseminate information.


The Basic Town Development Ordinance is an ordinance that will be "developed" by the townspeople.
Going forward, we will continue to develop the town while valuing information sharing and resident participation, in line with the voices of our residents and the changing times.


The 226th Town Planning Citizen Lecture can be viewed on Niseko Town official YouTube channel.
Niseko Town Official YouTube
■問合せ/企画環境課経営企画係 TEL0136-56-8837




Niseko Town 's agriculture, food service, and tourism industries collaborate
NISEKO Vegetable Picnic
At "Veggiepic"
Niseko Town 's seasonal vegetables
Let's taste it!

The NISEKO Vegetable Picnic, commonly known as "Vegi-Pic," allows you to enjoy the spectacular views of Niseko Town while eating Niseko Town 's delicious vegetables. This initiative, which began in August last year and lasted for about a month, will be held again this year with even more power.

What is VegiPic?
This is an initiative to let more people, both within and outside the town, know about and enjoy the agricultural products and spectacular scenery that Niseko Town is proud of.
During the event, Niseko View Plaza Direct Sales will collaborate with local food and beverage businesses to develop and sell new food, drinks, and desserts (commonly known as the Vegipic Menu) using locally grown vegetables, allowing people to enjoy the town's seasonal vegetables in a variety of ways.
Additionally, terraces and benches made from wood harvested from the forests of the Shiribeshi region will be installed in locations in Niseko Town where beautiful views can be enjoyed. We believe there are many more spectacular spots in town that are yet to be discovered. Purchase a veggie picnic menu and enjoy Niseko Town 's produce and the spectacular view at the same time at these scenic spots.
In addition, everyone who purchases a VegiPic menu will receive a discount coupon that can be used at the Niseko View Plaza Direct Sales Event, where the vegetables included in the VegiPic menu are sold.


Power-up points
1. The period will be extended so that autumn vegetables can also be enjoyed. Held for two seasons
August 22nd to September 21st
First installment: Colorful summer vegetable "Sama Veggie Menu"
September 22nd to October 31st
The second autumn vegetable Halloween "Haro Veggie Menu"
2. Expanding menu and stores so you can enjoy vegetables in any way you like
・In addition to food, we also offer drinks, soups, desserts, etc. Please use it at various times, such as lunch or a snack.
・Participating restaurants expanded to 13 stores
3. In addition to the terrace, a chainsaw art bench will be installed to allow visitors to enjoy a variety of spectacular views.
・A one-of-a-kind wooden artistic bench designed by Kokoro Kodama, winner of numerous international competitions, is now available.
・A total of eight scenic spots, including last year's terrace
4. To develop a business together with the "Niseko Vegetables & Spectacular Views Support Group"
・Starting this year, a new support group has been formed to support vegetables and spectacular views.



Takahashi Farm Representative Yuta Takahashi (Aza Miyata)
Recommended places are…
You can see the scenery and produce at the roadside station, experience the history of the town and nature at Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum, or look down on the town from the Annupuri 1000m plateau.

○Looking back on My Trier x VegiPic 2024
Our melons were used in Maitorie's special menu, which was a big hit last year. We sympathized with Maitorie's desire to take on the challenge, and so we decided to work together. By bringing together producers, restaurants, and tourism businesses, new exchanges are born, further expanding the appeal of the region. That's what we felt.
○ Commitment to melon cultivation
Melons are a crop that repays you in quality in proportion to the amount of care you put into them. We aim to produce melons that are delicious in terms of size, sugar content, and taste, and we implement thorough pest control and management that suits the growing conditions. The number of melon producers in town is on the decline, but that is precisely why we want to increase the brand power of Niseko Town melons and cultivate them into an agricultural product we can be proud of.
○Expectations for VegePic
As a farmer in Niseko Town, I've always felt that it would be great to have more opportunities to eat dishes made with delicious local vegetables. With VegiPic, I hope that people will enjoy tasting the vegetables as if they were at an event, and take home some cooking ideas. I also hope that this initiative will help townspeople rediscover the deliciousness of Niseko vegetables.



Niseko Vegetables & Spectacular Views Supporters
This year marks the start of a support group initiative. Companies and organizations that love and cherish the scenery and vegetables of Niseko Town will work together to foster a bizipiku that brings together agriculture, the food and beverage industry, and tourism.


Niseko Ekimae Onsen Kuro Nanu
"By experiencing the delicious vegetables and purchasing them cheaply, we hope to dispel the image of high prices and also provide an opportunity to promote Niseko Town during the green season. We hope that people will visit Niseko Town with the image of delicious vegetables and a fun experience, and enjoy their time in the town."

Niseko Konbu Onsen Tsuruga Besso Moku no Sho
I feel that this initiative is packed with the unique charm of Niseko Town, where you can experience firsthand the connection between the town's nature and agriculture. I would like to contribute to the development of the region as a member of the tourism industry in the historic Konbu Onsen area by deepening my ties with farmers and restaurant owners and making the entire town a vibrant place.

Hokkaido Lion Adventure
This initiative will create a new summer experience for Niseko Town through locally grown vegetables, and will also be an opportunity for townspeople to enjoy Niseko Town again. We hope that you will take a rental electric tuk-tuk, which was launched this summer, and enjoy the charm of agriculture and the interactions with the people you meet through VegePic.

Niseko Distillery
We are supported by the nature and vegetables of Niseko Town. We use willow, Japanese peppermint, and lavender for our gin, and water and air for our whiskey. We would like to work more closely with farmers in the future, and that is why we want to support Vejpic.


Check the website for details
VegiPic homepage here

■Inquiries: Niseko Town Tourism Revitalization Industry Cooperation Council Secretariat
(Niseko Base Camp LLC)
mail:niseko.vegipiku@gmail.com

 

Topic of town

Have fun with the local community! Be energetic! Have a heated battle!
The 18th Community Sports Meet

Last year's town sports meet was cancelled due to rain, but this year it was held on July 6th at the Niseko Elementary School grounds.
Participants in each district demonstrated teamwork and fought hard in the competition. They also enjoyed interacting with local people while getting some exercise, and smiles spread throughout the venue.


Topic of town

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 0136-56-8837)までお気軽に
Please contact me.



A memorable page of my youth
Niseko High School School Festival

The Niseko High School Festival was held on July 12th.
In addition to the student stalls selling shaved ice and french fries, and booths from local businesses, class exhibits included fun ideas the students had come up with, such as a festival and a maid cafe, which brought smiles to the faces of visitors.A Hawaiian lei-making workshop was also held in World Village, and many people enjoyed making colorful leis.
The stage performances were packed with band performances, dancing, singing, drumming, and more. The high-level singing and instrumental performances drew cheers from the audience. The final performance was a rap battle, with the winner determined by the cheers of the audience, bringing the event to a climax.

The cute dance drew cheers from the audience!

The audience was completely captivated by the beautiful dance

All the food stalls were a huge success



Introducing the town's charms
Exchange between Niseko Junior High School and Miyanomori Junior High School in Sapporo

On June 16th, an exchange class was held at the Town Hall for 61 second-year students from Niseko Junior High School and 97 second-year students from Miyanomori Junior High School in Sapporo.
This lesson was held as part of hometown education. Niseko Junior High School students introduced the town's attractions and unique features. At the end of the lesson, students shared their thoughts and questions, providing a valuable opportunity to learn more about each other's regions.

Introducing the town's attractions using materials they created themselves



A huge collection of toys
2nd Toy Festival

The 2nd Toy Festival, sponsored by Famisaponiseko, was held at the Town Hall on June 14th.
A toy store where both children and adults could have fun playing, and a picture book store where they could find a variety of picture books were opened. In addition, a toy hospital was opened to repair broken toys and games. The venue was filled with the sounds of happy laughter as people played with toys.

Try making a spinning rainbow



I'm looking forward to becoming a brick
Children Yoji Centre collecting soil

On June 13th, older children from Yoji Centre excavated soil at the construction site of the new Yotei Sanroku Fire Department Niseko Branch Office.
The children used shovels to collect soil to be mixed into the exterior bricks of the new Niseko Branch Office building. They worked hard on the rare experience of digging through the clayey ground and scraping away at the earthen walls.

We all work together to carve out the mud wall.



Ensuring safe living in the town
Fire drill

A fire drill was held at the sports park on June 24th, with 49 members of the fire brigade demonstrating the results of their daily training.
The drills included platoon training to strengthen the unity among the members, and simultaneous water spraying training to acquire firefighting techniques. It was a scorching summer day, but the members worked hard on the drills with loud shouts and sharp movements.
As summer approaches, there will be more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Please be mindful of your actions to avoid accidents and fires.

Simultaneous water spraying training



Thinking about what can be done
Lecture on creating a supportive community environment

On June 26th, the town and the town social welfare council held a lecture at the town hall, with Mr. Marufuji Kyo of the Minami Hokkaido Regional Development Support Center, a general incorporated association, as the lecturer. The lecture was titled "How to build the future of Niseko Town- Towards a town where people support and help each other."
About 50 people, including local residents and welfare workers from inside and outside the town, gathered to listen to the lecture. Participants learned that social connections, such as conversation and interaction with others, can help prevent dementia, and thought about what they can do themselves to create a community where people support each other.

By knowing the problems, we can help each other



Delicious and full of smiles
Minna no Shokudo in Niseko

On July 7th, the Niseko Future Support Team NPO held "Everyone's Dining in Niseko" at the Town Hall. Approximately 200 parents and children from the town and local residents attended the event.
Visitors enjoyed curry rice and side dishes prepared by the Jugobaa using ingredients provided by local farmers and businesses. The many dishes on display brought smiles to the faces of customers, and children could be seen having seconds. Niseko High School students also helped run the event, creating an opportunity for local people of all ages to interact.

Curry rice is delicious



Starting from Niseko Town
First shipment of Yotei melons

This year, the first shipment of melons from Niseko Town was made on June 20th, marking the start of the JA Yotei area. The shipment was made by Eiichi Sato (Miyata).
The sugar content of the Yotei melons shipped this time is 15 degrees, exceeding the standard of 13 degrees.
Starting with the newly shipped "Rupia Red," the town will be able to enjoy delicious melons until October, with various varieties being introduced in succession.

Enjoy fresh and juicy melons



I walked hard in the heat
Niseko Elementary School and Yoji Centre Excursion

On June 20th, Niseko Elementary School and Yoji Centre held a field trip. Students walked a variety of routes, each aiming for their own destination, including the summit of Mt. Annupuri, Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum, and Soga Forest Park.
At their destination, the children were seen playing tag and other games despite the heat, and eating their lunch boxes while chatting with friends.

Eating lunch under the blue sky is the best!



What kind of creatures are there?
Aquatic insect observation party

The town commissioned the Niseko FF River Observation Society to hold an aquatic insect observation event at the Rubeshibe River on July 12th.
This year, 24 children and their parents took part in this hugely popular annual event, observing underwater creatures. They peered into the river through box glasses and engrossedly searched for fast-moving loaches and young yamame trout, as well as aquatic insects hiding under rocks.

I found a loach, can I catch it?

Everybody's page

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

Public Relations Planning & Environment Division
TEL.56-8837 FAX.44-3500


Niseko Fan News Vol.90
Corner for townspeople by townspeople Why don't you try reporting? We look forward to your participation.

This month's reporter is Akemi Koshiko, who is active as a town board of education member and a learning advisor for after-school children's classes.


It all started with "Playbook"

Niseko Town Learning and Exchange Center Asobook opened in April 2003. I moved to Niseko Town the year before. Although I didn't know many people, I went to the library at the community center. Thanks to the connections I made with the people there, I attended Asobook's opening ceremony as one of the volunteers. This marked the beginning of an inseparable life between me and Asobook.
The interactions between the volunteers and the children gave me a fulfilling life. I was raising my own children, but I would go to Asobook several times a week, so much so that people would say to me, "Mom, you love Asobook!"
A few years later, I had the opportunity to work as a staff member at Asobook, and I began to enjoy interacting with townspeople of a wide range of ages, which was different from my involvement as a volunteer. A few years later, I was given a job related to the "After-School Children's Classes." I have been working with children at Asobook for many years.
I believe I was able to take on this role because of my experience working with children. I still keep in contact with the volunteers I worked with, and I continue to participate in volunteer activities to the extent that I can.
Volunteering is something you do because you want to. Children who want to come to the Asobu Club also sign up. You don't have to come to the After-School Children's Classes either. You don't have to come, but I always want to make it a place that people want to come to.
I'm glad I came to Niseko Town! I'm glad I live here! I want to live with a smile so that not only I, but everyone who works in Niseko Town, volunteers, and children growing up in the town can feel the same way.



Niseko High School Student Council

Looking back on the school festival
2nd Year President Pirika Kunii

It's been hot and humid lately, how are you all doing?
The other day, our school held its "School Festival." The day was blessed with beautiful weather, as if even the sky was blessing us, and many people came to the event, making it a more lively day than usual.
The Student Council played a central role in the preparations, coming up with various ideas through trial and error. This year, they also tried new things, such as class exhibitions. While it was rewarding, it also presented many challenges, but all of these were great learning experiences.
We asked everyone who attended to fill out a survey. We will use the results to expand the scale of next year's school festival and make it even more appealing. We hope you will look forward to it!



Niseko Tanka Association

A pot of hydrangeas for Mother's Day has finished blooming, and Father's Day is coming. Sasaki Sadako
My aunt, whom I loved like a mother, has passed away, and now I feel lonely with no one around. Hayashi Miyo


Niseko Haiku Association

A sparrow bathed in soft sunlight by Sato Taiko
Spicy Summer Radish Pickled Overnight by Yoshie Koshino
Summer rain brings the crops to life. Ayako Shimizu
Lily of the Valley in the Birch Forest by Masako Hakinoshita

Playbook Newsletter No.270

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/


Asobook Sign Language Rakugo
On July 2nd, Tondenpei Hayashiya performed a sign language rakugo. The venue was filled with the laughter of many children.

Tanabata decorations
Children participating in the Asobu Club and volunteers created Tanabata decorations. There was also an exhibition related to Tanabata.



Important Notice

It's summer vacation!
Asobook displays many books that can be used as topics for independent research, books recommended for book report contests, and books designated by Hokkaido, in order to be of use to children during their summer vacation. Some of the books were selected by staff members who attended a book fair held in Sapporo, thinking of the faces of the children who regularly use the library.
"Japan's Local Bread Encyclopedia" features photos of bread from all over the country, making it a book that can be enjoyed by both children and adults. You might find a local bread that brings back memories of the past. We also have books in a variety of other genres.
August is a hot month. Please use Asobook when you are out shopping or on your way to the hospital, waiting for Nikotto Bus, or when you need a toilet, hydrate, or take a break to prevent heatstroke.



Exhibition

book display
7/26 - 8/28 "Sea, Mountain, Sky, Lake"
It's summer. It's a great season to experience the nature of Niseko.
I have collected many books with the titles "Sea, Mountains, Sky, Lakes."

hobby exhibition
August 1st to August 15th: Day Service Activity Exhibition / Day Service Users
8/16-8/31 Diamond Art / Miyuki Sato


Welfare Festival "Secondhand Book Market"
This year, we will be participating in the Welfare Festival with a "Used Book Market." We will have general books, children's books, picture books, manga, magazines, foreign books, and more. We ask for donations of 10 yen or more per book.
If you are visiting the Welfare Festival, please also stop by the Used Book Market.
Date and time: Saturday, August 23rd, 10:30 AM
■ Place / Townsman Center


Book cart introduced
We have installed two book carts. Please feel free to use them. We have also installed new drinking water faucets in front of the restrooms.


Librarian's recommended books
"Leo's Legacy: Children of the Westerbork Concentration Camp" by Martine Leterie, Seizansha
The story depicts the life of a real Jewish boy, Leo Meyer, from the age of 7 to 8. It also includes photographs, drawings, and letters from Leo.
During World War II, 102,000 people were deported from the Westerbork concentration camp in the Netherlands and lost their lives. One young boy is suddenly taken away one day, and the anxiety, disappointment, and despair he experienced are conveyed in each sentence, which is heartbreaking.
I hope that discrimination and war will disappear from the world.
(Librarian Yasue Tsujimoto)


New arrival book introduction

practical book
What the world's top people do on their days off Shinji Koshikawa
A curator's guide to making Japanese art more enjoyable A curator at a small art museum
The trump card for tidying up that will move you - Saori Honda

Reading material
Problem: Kazuma Hayami
Travel Picture Scroll Rental Bookstore Osen Takase Noichi
Hietsu Hoshishu

Children's books and picture books
Loosen your pants strings, Morikumado
Animal Prosthetics Shop by Toshiko Sawada
The Complete Guide to the Mysteries Surrounding the World That Even Adults Don't Know

Niseko Town Area Development Cooperation Team

Report daily activities from the members!
My Neighbor Cooperation Team 47.

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

Editor in charge
<2nd year> Saori Nakahara
<First year> Mari Nomura

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)

<Scheduled performers in August>
8/4 Kyoka Sato and Kosuke Ota
11 Daigo Kizawa and Nanami Takagi
18. Kosuke Ota and Risa Kamikawauchi
25 Kohei Shimizu and Mari Nomura

≫Information is also being sent on SNS!
website

Facebook

Instagram



Overall activity report
Conducted in June

Niseko Classic
I participated in the Niseko Classic event held on June 15th as a sentry. It was impressive to see people of all ages, including women and foreigners, dashing through the magnificent natural scenery of Niseko. There were some tough sections with continuous uphill climbs, but seeing the runners having fun and smiling at the end made me very happy.
I hope to share the charm of Niseko with more people through sports that take advantage of Niseko's natural beauty. (Nomura Mari)


Niseko Ko-Annupuri Climbing Support
We went to support the 5th and 6th graders from Niseko Elementary School as they climbed Mt. Annupuri! The experienced students climbed smoothly, and the students at the back took turns looking back and taking breaks, encouraging each other with comments like, "You've climbed so far already!" They all climbed safely, taking about 2 hours each way.
The children said, "The rice balls after climbing so hard are so delicious!" There was a bit of fog on the summit, but it didn't rain and it was a fun climb. (Nakahara Saori)


Asoppuku Festival
We participated in supporting the Asobook Festival, which was held on June 21st. There were book exhibitions, puppet shows, a festival, a craft corner, and more, and the volunteers mainly supported the children's festival! At the children's festival, there were raffles and shooting games, and we were able to support while watching the happy faces of the children. In addition, this time there was also a food and drink stall at "Maromayu Cafe," run by a current volunteer!
The event was crowded with many children and local residents. (Takagi Nanami)


After-school Children's Class: Plastic Bottle Rocket
We had the opportunity to launch a plastic bottle rocket together with the children from the after-school children's class and the children's center. Five volunteers supported the event, and many children participated.
We also saw some children trying to see who could throw the ball the farthest. The weather was cool, and we were able to interact with children we don't usually get to meet, making it a really fun event. (Miyamae Ago)


Graduation special feature

Daisuke Kudo (from Sapporo)
Assignment / Niseko Town Chamber of Commerce

Thank you very much for the past three years!
At the end of September, I will be graduating from the JOCV after completing my three-year term. I was assigned to Niseko Town Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the past three years have flown by.
I have had so many valuable experiences in this town. Working at my assigned place of work and participating in various events, I have been able to get to know and interact with many local people, and these are irreplaceable memories. As for personal challenges, I was able to trial open a yakitori restaurant and start up a drone-based pesticide spraying business, all while working as a volunteer.
This is all thanks to your support and cooperation. I plan to continue living in Niseko Town and continuing my activities after graduating, so I would appreciate your continued support.



new corner
Activities that connect to the future of Niseko
Second-year student Risa Kamikawauchi (from Chiba Prefecture)
Assigned to/Niseko Machi Co., Ltd.

We're starting a relay series with five members who are working to connect the town to the future! The special will also start on the radio from August 4th!
First, I, who work for Niseko Machi Co., Ltd., will talk about energy sustainability. Energy sources such as electricity, gas, and oil are essential to our lives. Saving energy and introducing renewable energy facilities has the following benefits: 1. It's good for the global environment, 2. It makes infrastructure less likely to stop working in the event of a disaster, 3. It saves money, and 4. It prevents money from leaking out of the local area. It also leads to environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
Niseko Town has grants available for the installation of solar power and energy-saving equipment. If you are considering installing these systems in your home or business, please feel free to contact us at Planning & Environment Division or Niseko Machi Co!

smiling square

In this section, we will introduce various activities and information related to child-rearing!

Parenting topics

Yoji Centre
There was a fun party
The oldest children held a fun party again this year. The children had been planning and preparing the dinner menu for days, and were looking forward to it. On the day, they put on aprons and bandanas and cut the ingredients for curry rice together, preparing dinner.
The curry that the children had cut themselves seemed especially delicious. The haunted house and fireworks must have been great memories for the children.

It cut well


Sun
There was a daycare opening
We held an open daycare event where preschool children could come into the classroom with their parents and experience childcare.
This time, 0- and 2-year-old children participated and played with the current kindergarten children. Some children seemed nervous in a new place and shy, but little by little they showed interest and tried to interact with the children.

Let's play together

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



Important Notice

Parenting Class
Making aroma spray
Create a relaxing and refreshing scented spray using essential oils.
Date and time: Thursday, August 21st, 10:00 AM
◆Place/Townsman Center
◆Materials cost: 500 yen (materials cost will be charged if cancelled on the day)
◆Childcare/Support Center "Ohisama"
◆Application deadline: Friday, August 15th


Ohisama autumn excursion
Take the bus to Rusutsu Village Furusato Park.
Date and time: Tuesday, September 9th, 10:00 AM Departure from the Community Center (backup day: Wednesday, September 17th)
◆ Destination: Rusutsu Village "Furusato Park"
What to bring: Lunch, drinks, mat, change of clothes, etc.
◆Application deadline: Wednesday, September 3rd


<Inquiries about this page>
Niseko Town Yoji Center "Kiratto" (Childcare Facility)
TEL.(代表)0136-44-2700 FAX.0136-44-2725

Health Promotion Newsletter vol.112

Josen Public Health Nurse
Health Promotion Section, Health & Welfare Division
TEL 0136-56-8840


What is shingles and vaccination?

Shingles is a skin disease in which a rash with blisters (vesicles) appears in a band-like pattern along the nerves. If you contract chickenpox as a child, the varicella-zoster virus remains dormant in your body for a long time, and with aging or a weakened immune system, it develops into shingles.
Even after the skin symptoms have cleared up, you may develop postherpetic neuralgia, which can cause persistent pain for a long time.

Prevention and treatment
Be sure to eat a balanced diet, exercise moderately, and get enough sleep. Getting vaccinated can help prevent the disease from developing and becoming severe.
Treatment is with antiviral drugs that suppress the growth of the virus. Early administration is said to be more effective. If blisters appear after itching and pain, see a doctor as soon as possible.
Types of shingles vaccines
Appendix 1
Preventive effect of the shingles vaccine
Appendix 2
Shingles vaccine cost subsidy
1. Starting in fiscal year 2025, shingles will become a routine vaccination, and cost subsidies will be provided to those who fall under the following categories (Appendix 3) and who have not previously received cost subsidies for shingles.


Out-of-pocket expense
The subsidy for recombinant vaccines is 10,000 yen per dose, and for live vaccines it is 2,500 yen per dose. The subsidy period is until March 31, 2026.
2. Those aged 65 or older who are not eligible for regular vaccinations will receive a subsidy of 5,000 yen per dose.



Appendix 1 Vaccine characteristics
Live vaccines Recombinant vaccines
Inoculation method Subcutaneous injection Intramuscular injection
Number of vaccinations and intervals: 1 dose 2 doses (at least 2 months interval)
Vaccination conditions: Those with weakened immune systems due to illness or treatment cannot receive the vaccine. Vaccination is available regardless of immune status.


Table 2: Preventive effect of vaccine against shingles
Years since vaccination Live vaccine Recombinant vaccine
One year after vaccination: About 60% More than 90%
Five years after vaccination: About 40% About 90%
10 years after vaccination - about 70%



Appendix 3: Eligible persons for routine vaccinations
65 years old April 2, 1960 - April 1, 1961
70 years old April 2, 1955 - April 1, 1956
75 years old April 2, 1950 - April 1, 1951
80 years old April 2, 1945 - April 1, 1946
Age 85 April 2, 1940 - April 1, 1941
90 years old April 2, 1935 - April 1, 1936
95 years old April 2, 1930 - April 1, 1931
100 years old April 2, 1925 - April 1, 1916
100 years old or older Born after April 1, 1925
Those aged 60 to 65 who have impaired immune function due to the human immunodeficiency virus (equivalent to a Class 1 disability certificate)

News from Niseko Town Information on living

Important Notice
"Children's Human Rights Counseling" Reinforcement Week
The Legal Affairs Bureau has set up a dedicated hotline for children's human rights, "Children's Human Rights 110," and also accepts human rights consultations via LINE. Please contact us with any concerns you may have about children's human rights, such as bullying or abuse.
Furthermore, from Wednesday, August 27th to Tuesday, September 2nd is "National Children's Human Rights Counseling Week." During this period, we will extend our weekday hours and also be open on weekends.
Reception hours on weekdays: 8:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. (excluding year-end and New Year holidays)
■ Reception hours during intensive week
August 27th (Wed) - 29th (Fri) and September 1st (Mon) - 2nd (Tue) 8:30am - 7pm
August 30th (Sat) - 31st (Sun) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
■Inquiries: Children's Rights 110
TEL 0120-007-110 (nationwide, toll free)
LINE account name: "Legal Affairs Bureau LINE Human Rights Consultation" ID: @linejinkensoudan



Volcanic disaster prevention
Do you enjoy mountain climbing or bathing in hot springs?
Volcanoes bring many blessings, but they can also sometimes cause disasters that result in the loss of life.
Let's take this opportunity to learn about volcanic disaster prevention on August 26th, Volcano Disaster Prevention Day, and September 1st, Disaster Prevention Day.
When an eruption occurs, large volcanic blocks and pyroclastic flows can cause serious damage in the surrounding area. The 2014 Mt. Ontake eruption resulted in 63 deaths and missing people due to volcanic blocks and other debris.
Even in areas far from the volcano, volcanic ash carried by the wind can affect crops, transportation, electricity, and water facilities.
When traveling near a volcano, be sure to check the volcano's characteristics and activity status in advance by obtaining information about the volcano via the internet or your smartphone.
Also, when climbing, be sure to prepare your gear such as a helmet and goggles in advance.
■Special website for "Volcano Disaster Prevention Day"/
■Information page for volcano climbers/
■ Volcano climbing guide/


Disaster prevention radio automatic start training
In conjunction with the nationwide simultaneous information transmission test of the J-ALERT nationwide instantaneous warning system, the town will be conducting automatic start-up drills for disaster prevention radios. In order to quickly notify residents of emergency information announced by the national government, disaster prevention radios will be automatically activated in conjunction with J-ALERT.
Date and time: Wednesday, August 20th, from around 11:00 AM
When it is time for the drill, a loud voice will be broadcast from the disaster prevention radio. Please be careful not to make a mistake as this is a drill.
■Inquiries: General Affairs Division, TEL 0136-56-8835



★Important information in case of emergency
Distribution of emergency medical information kits and confirmation of their contents
The Regional Comprehensive Support Center distributes "Emergency Medical Information Kits." These kits contain a sheet with information such as your name, blood type, medications, and emergency contact details, which you can store in a container in your refrigerator at home to ensure that emergency medical personnel can respond quickly in the unlikely event that you need to be taken to the hospital by ambulance.
The kits are available to households with only people aged 60 or over, so if you are interested, please contact your local comprehensive support center.
◎If you already have the kit, please update your information.
The kit contains important information for responding to an emergency, but it is important that the information is up to date in order to respond more appropriately. If you already have a kit, please check the contents to see if your current prescribed medications have changed, or if your emergency contact number has changed.
■申し込み・問合せ/地域包括支援センター TEL 0136-56-8840



The free cervical and breast cancer screening coupons are valid until the end of March.
The town is offering free coupons for various health checkups to people who are of certain ages as of April 1st. These coupons are valid until the end of March 2026. Please make your appointment well in advance of this period.
*Free cervical cancer screening coupons are available to those aged 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40.
*Free breast cancer screening coupons are available to those aged 40, 45, 50, 55, and 60.
■問合せ/保健福祉課健康づくり係 TEL 0136-56-8840



Echinococcosis Screening
Date and time: Monday, September 8th, 6:30pm - 7:00pm
■ Place / Townsman Center
■ Target:
1. 3rd grade elementary school students and 2nd grade junior high school students (times will be specified and parents will be notified)
2. People aged 20 or older who live in the Arishima, Motomachi, or Kondo areas (people from other areas can also take the test as long as they have not been tested in the past five years).
■ Inspection method/blood sampling
■Inspection fee/
Minors: Free
20 to 69 years old: 200 yen
70 years old and over: 100 yen
■Notification of results: Only those with abnormalities will be notified individually one month later.
■Inquiries: Health & Welfare Division, Health Promotion Section, TEL 0136-56-8840




Attorney Sato's
We will solve your worries!
●This month's theme
Fraud is becoming a familiar threat
There is no end to special frauds and crimes using social media.
Some people may think that this is something that doesn't concern them, but with the spread of smartphones, various crime risks are lurking all around us.
One way to prevent special fraud is to decide not to answer calls from unregistered numbers. When you receive a call from an unknown number, you may be tempted to call back, but you need to be careful because it could be a scam or you could be charged high international phone charges. While searching the number online was effective, recent advances in technology have made it possible to even disguise the number, so don't be complacent. It's also effective to have an answering machine available at all times, even when you're at home, or to use a phone with a nuisance call blocking feature. If you have even the slightest suspicion, you should immediately consult with family or the police. If it turns out that the caller is not suspicious, that's all there is to it, so the key is to not hesitate.
To prevent trouble with people you meet on social media, it is important to take thorough precautions, such as not sending your personal information or photos carelessly. It is no exaggeration to say that it is almost impossible to retrieve personal information once it has been leaked.
It is important to be aware that being a victim of fraud is not something that happens to other people, and to immediately consult someone if you think something is strange.
Park Front Law Office Niseko Office
141 Hondori Niseko Town
TEL 0136-44-3800 FAX.0136-44-3801




There is a vacant room in the town house
Type
Public housing (for households)

Apartment name
Shin-Arishima Housing Complex Building 4, Room 102

format
3LDK (61.99m2) Built in 1988

Construction
Simple fireproof second floor

Minimum to maximum rent
11,400 yen to 37,100 yen (varies depending on income, etc.)

Parking space
Y

In addition to the above, we plan to hold public tenders for Arishima Danchi and Fujimi Danchi, among others.
For more information, please visit the town's website.
●Application period: August 1st (Friday) to August 15th (Friday)
●Eligibility and application method/Please inquire for details.
■問合せ/都市建設課住宅管理係 TEL 0136-56-8846


August: Return of the Northern Territories
It's the month to emphasize our demands
■Inquiries/Northern Territories Reversion Alliance Shishi Local Branch
 倶知安町北1条東2丁目(後志合同庁舎内) TEL 0136-22-0216


★Why not think about the future of your home or vacant property?

Lecture on house closing
The problem of vacant houses has become a social issue throughout Japan. Niseko Town also has vacant and abandoned houses. Leaving vacant houses unmanaged can have a negative impact on the surrounding area and even put you at legal risk. Therefore, why not start thinking about closing your home now?
Experts in architecture, real estate, law, and government will provide easy-to-understand explanations about the risks of leaving vacant houses unattended and how to utilize them. You can participate without prior application, but those who apply in advance and complete a questionnaire on the day will receive a 1,000 yen QUO card (will be mailed to you later). Please apply by picking up a flyer at the Town Hall Municipal Infrastructure Division or downloading it from the town's website.
Date and time: Thursday, August 21st, 10:20 AM (Registration begins at 10 AM)
■ Place / Townsman Center
■問合せ/都市建設課都市計画係 TEL 0136-56-8846


★Celebrate 50 years together
Presenting commemorative gifts for 50 years of marriage
We present commemorative gifts to couples celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of couples who got married between January 1st and December 31st, 1975. Couples who meet this requirement and would like to receive a commemorative gift, or couples who have already been married for 50 years but have not yet applied, please contact us by Friday, August 15th.
■問合せ/保健福祉課福祉係 TEL 0136-56-8840



★Let's all celebrate longevity
We will hold a "Respect for the Aged Day" event.
The town will be holding a Respect for the Aged Day event for Niseko Town aged 75 and over. Eligible participants have been notified by letter. Please return the enclosed postcard by Friday, August 8th to report your attendance.
■ Eligible applicants: People born before December 31, 1950
Date and time: Thursday, September 4th, 10:30 AM
■ Place / Townsman Center
■Membership fee: Free
■問合せ/保健福祉課福祉係 TEL 0136-56-8840



CS Channel vol.44

Niseko Town Community School
"Community School Collaborative Activities" begins

Starting this year, Niseko Town Community School (CS) has begun full-scale promotion of "community school collaboration activities" and has begun an initiative to support children's learning throughout the community. This activity aims to "develop a community with the school at its core" by partnering with a wide range of local residents, from elderly people to students, parents, NPOs, and businesses, to support children's growth.
Concrete activities were immediately carried out at Niseko Elementary School and Niseko High School.


◆Collaborating with the local community by climbing Annupuri!
(Niseko Elementary School)
Niseko Elementary School planned a mountain climbing trip to Mt. Annupuri for their 5th and 6th graders. After consulting with the Niseko Elementary School CS committee, a total of 21 guides and volunteers supported the children's climb. Thanks to the cooperation of the local community, the children were able to enjoy a safe and enjoyable climb.


◆Learn about the charm of Niseko through interactions with local businesses!
(Niseko High School)
Niseko High School provided an opportunity for first-year students to listen to presentations from eight local businesses during their research time. The eight businesses were asked to cooperate through Niseko High School's CS committee member, Chairman Makino of the Chamber of Commerce. This was a valuable opportunity for students to gain a deeper understanding of the charms of Niseko and the jobs available in the local area.
Both of these initiatives were made possible through cooperation with the CS committee, as these were areas that would have been difficult for the school's faculty and staff to accomplish alone. By gaining the expertise and support of the local community, the school's educational activities are evolving to a higher quality.
■問合せ/コミュニティ・スクール委員会事務局 TEL 0136-44-2101



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



★ Landscape Ordinance procedures will change from October
Holding of an explanatory meeting on the revised Landscape Ordinance
In April 2024, the town established goals, policies, and standards for landscape formation, and formulated architectural guidelines that outline points to consider. From October this year, the architectural guidelines will be incorporated into the town's ordinance, and the revised Landscape Ordinance will begin to come into effect. The three main revisions are as follows:
- Project operators will be required to hold a preliminary opinion exchange meeting with relevant residents and others at the basic planning stage (attendance by the project manager is mandatory).
-When businesses submit a preliminary landscape survey report, they must also submit a checklist of considerations regarding landscape and snow management as stipulated in the building guidelines.
- A specialist committee will be established within the Urban Planning Council to seek opinions and advice from experts on the content of the opinion exchanges and business plans submitted by businesses.
In connection with the above, we will be holding explanatory meetings. The explanatory meeting for business operators will mainly explain procedures such as pre-examination meetings and checklists. The explanatory meeting for residents will mainly explain the purpose of this revision and the overall process. Please feel free to join us.
Date and time: Tuesday, August 26th, from 1:30 PM (for businesses), from 6 PM (for residents)
■ Place / Townsman Center
■ Contents: Explanation of the revised Landscape Ordinance, Q&A and exchange of opinions
■ Niseko Town Landscape Ordinance Revision and Formulation Process (Town Website) /
■問合せ/都市建設課都市計画係 TEL 0136-56-8846




Convenient electronic filing for road tax returns
L-Tax (Local Tax Portal System) is a convenient way to file and pay corporate business tax, diesel oil collection tax, golf course usage tax, and other taxes electronically from home or the office. Please access the L-Tax website.
■L-Tax homepage/
■Prefectural Tax Website/
■問合せ/後志総合振興局税務課課税係 TEL 0136-23-1332



Radio Niseko News vol.17
Appointed Road Safety Advisor
Three Radio Niseko staff members have been appointed as "Road Safety Advisors" who will promote road safety through radio broadcasts. On June 12th, they were presented with letters of appointment by Kutchan Police Station Traffic Division Chief Kato.
Radio Niseko broadcasts road safety information daily in live programs. Many people may be traveling far away in August for summer vacation and the Obon holiday. It's hot, so be sure to take a break before you feel tired, and avoid falling asleep or distracted driving.
Radio Niseko also invites a member of the Niseko Police Station twice a month to talk about incidents and accidents in the town, as well as things to be careful of depending on the season.
〇 "Niseko Police Station Miscellaneous Journal"
Kira・Niseko 2nd and 4th Friday of every month
3:30 PM - 3:50 PM
■問合せ/ラジオニセコ TEL 0136-55-5762
Email : niseok762@radioniseko.jp




heart gift
We received your donation. thanks for the goodwill
《Niseko Town Office Reception》
Please use it for "Project to develop industries that utilize local resources and create an environment that allows for diverse working styles."
Panaracer Corporation
CHINTAI Co., Ltd.
"Promotion of town development where people can continue to live in peace"
Please help us
Able Co., Ltd.
AC Service Co., Ltd.
Able & Partners Co., Ltd.
《Niseko Town Social Welfare Council Reception》
“Please use it for social welfare.”
Ms. Satoko Arishima Kaneko



Emergency radio rental
The town lends out disaster prevention radios, with one set per household and per business within the town. The radios have a function that automatically switches on and provides information in the event of a disaster or other emergency.
If any households or businesses in the town do not yet have one, please apply at the Town Hall Planning & Environment Division and receive a disaster prevention radio.
■問合せ/企画環境課広報広聴係 TEL 0136-56-8837




★Enjoy nature
Niseko Trail Point Rally
The Niseko Trail Point Rally will be held, where you can easily participate while enjoying Niseko's rich nature.
Simply visit the signposts along the Niseko Trail, a long trail within the Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Coast National Park, take photos, and submit your entry.
There will also be a chance to win some great prizes in the lottery. Why not give it a try with your family or friends who love mountain climbing or hiking?
■ Event period: August 1st (Friday) to October 31st (Friday)
■How to participate: Take a photo of the trail sign (1-32) and apply using the QR code
*Flyers and QR codes are posted on the town's website
Town homepage/
*Free to participate
■Application deadline: Friday, November 7th
■Venue: Niseko Trail (approximately 40km from Raiden Coast to Niseko Hirafu Hill)
■問合せ/北海道後志総合振興局保健環境部環境生活課自然環境係  TEL 0136-23-1354





Town case book Niseko Town Crime Prevention Association
Incidents There were no incidents in Niseko Town during June.
Traffic Accidents There were no traffic accidents in Niseko Town during June.
倶知安警察署/TEL 0136-22-0110




International Exchange Newsletter vol.28

Hello! The Coordinator for International Relations (CIR) held a quiz at the "Asobi Book Festival" in June! Please give it a try! The answer will be published in next month's issue.
1.What languages do Belgians not speak?
A) French B) Belgian C) Dutch F) German
2. What are the unlucky numbers in China?
A) 4 B) 8 C) 9
3.Which animal is not found in Germany?
A) bear B) wolf C) fox
4. What do Indonesians use to eat rice?
A) knife and fork B) chopsticks C) fork and spoon
5. What would you do if you heard Beethoven's "Für Elise" in Taiwan?
A) Go home B) Take out the trash C) Leave the store


* Owner's responsibility
I would like appropriate management of unoccupied house
Vacant houses, such as abandoned homes and unused warehouses, will deteriorate year by year if they are not properly maintained through regular snow removal and repairs. Vacant (abandoned) houses that are so damaged that they cannot be reused not only impair the town's landscape, but also pose a risk of harm to the surrounding area if they collapse.

◎ What is the responsibility of the owner of an empty house?
Vacant houses are private property, so owners must manage them properly. As a general rule, the town does not manage vacant houses. If accumulated snow falls or parts of the building collapse, causing damage to neighboring houses or passersby, the owner of the vacant house may be held responsible for management responsibilities such as paying compensation for damages. Owners of vacant houses are asked to manage their houses properly so that they do not become a nuisance to those around them.

◎ What if you leave an abandoned house?
The town enacted the Niseko Town Landscape Ordinance in 2004, which requires landowners to make efforts to properly maintain and manage their land so that the landscape is not impaired by "poor land management" such as abandoned buildings.
Additionally, in order to address the nationwide problem of vacant and abandoned houses, the national government enacted the "Act on Special Measures Concerning the Promotion of Measures for Vacant Houses, etc." in 2014. This law calls for the comprehensive and systematic promotion of measures for vacant and abandoned houses. Based on this ordinance and law, towns conduct on-site inspections of land where abandoned houses are located, provide guidance to owners, and in some cases issue warnings and orders. If the property is still not properly managed, the town may remove the abandoned house and collect the costs from the landowner under the Administrative Enforcement Act.


◎ Countermeasures against vacant houses in cooperation with the Niseko Real Estate Industry Association
The town has signed an agreement with the "Niseko Real Estate Industry Association" to help manage villas and vacant houses, as well as short-term rental of villas and vacant houses while the owners are not using them. .

◎We will help you manage villas and vacant houses.
The town serves as the consultation desk, while businesses affiliated with the real estate association are in charge of the actual management, with monthly patrols to check the exterior of the building and grounds, as well as snow removal services in the winter.
Through this project, we have patrolled vacation homes and vacant houses, as well as helped with weeding and snow removal. If you have any problems with your vacation home or vacant house, please contact us.

◎Why don't you rent out a villa or an empty house for a short period of time?
The town will act as a registration and consultation center for properties and users, and businesses affiliated with the Real Estate Association will handle the actual rental operations, renting out vacation homes and vacant houses to businesses in the town that need housing for the period when the owners are not using them. Reducing the period when buildings are unused also helps to reduce deterioration of the buildings. If you are interested in utilizing your vacation home or vacant house, please contact us.

◎Please let me know if you have any vacant house information.
The town has formulated a "Plan for Measures against Vacant Houses" in fiscal year 2022 and is working to promote measures against vacant houses. Surveys have been conducted based on water shutoff status, etc., but in order to further uncover vacant houses, we are now soliciting information about vacant houses that residents have. The information obtained from the survey will be compiled into a ledger, and after conducting a survey of owners' intentions, it will be used to plan future measures against vacant houses.
■問合せ/都市建設課都市計画係 TEL 0136-56-8846




Recruitment
Notice of Recruitment of Self-Defense Forces
● General Soda Candidate (2nd)
・Eligibility for taking the exam: 18 years old or older but under 33 years old as of the 1st day of the scheduled hiring month
・Application period: July 1st (Tue) to September 2nd (Tue)
First exam date: September 13th (Saturday) to September 22nd (Monday)
● Self-Defense Force Candidates (3rd)
・Eligibility for taking the exam: 18 years old or older but under 33 years old as of the 1st day of the scheduled hiring month
・Application period: July 1st (Tue) to September 2nd (Tue)
・Exam date: Any one of September 22nd (Monday) to 27th (Saturday) (Kutchan venue: September 24th (Wednesday))
Exam dates are subject to change, so please contact us for more information.
■問合せ/自衛隊札幌地方協力本部倶知安地域事務所 TEL 0136-23-3540
または自衛官募集相談員 TEL 0136-44-2177


Niseko Welfare Association Staff Recruitment
Niseko Welfare Association, a social welfare corporation, is recruiting staff to work at Niseko Heights Special Nursing Home, Niseko Town Day Service Center, and Group Home Kirari.
We are happy to discuss whether you would like to work as a full-time or part-time employee, so please feel free to contact us.
■ Job type/
Niseko Heights: Caregivers, nurses
Day care center: nurse
Group Home Kirari: Caregiver
■Inquiries: Niseko Heights Special Nursing Home for the Elderly
TEL 0136-44-2772



Recruitment of Kanta shrine festival dance mountain
Niseko Town Chamber of Commerce is looking for participants for the Odoriyama dance at the Kaributo Shrine Festival, which will be held on Wednesday, September 10th. Yukata and other clothing will be provided. Anyone is welcome to join, regardless of experience or gender. Those who wish to participate should come directly on the first practice day (September 4th).
Or contact Niseko Town Chamber of Commerce.
■ Practice dates and times: September 4th (Thurs), 5th (Fri), 9th (Tue) 7pm-9pm
■ Practice location: Town Hall
■問合せ/ニセコ町商工会 TEL 0136-44-2214



★ Dance with Fighters Girl
Recruiting dance class participants
This year, the town is implementing various initiatives related to the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters' "Hokkaido Support Ambassador Project." One of these initiatives is a dance class for preschool and elementary school children.
Even if you have no experience of dancing, please come and join us. We look forward to your participation.
■Date/Time/September 6th (Sat)
1. 2:00 PM - 2:20 PM 2. 2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
■Place/Townsman Center Training Room 1
■ Target:
1. 2 PM session: Preschoolers (ages 4 and over) to 3rd grade elementary school students (no dance experience)
2. From 2:30 PM: 1st to 3rd grade elementary school students with dance experience, 4th to 6th grade elementary school students
*Preschool children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian if participating.
■ Participation fee: Free
■Number of participants/30 people for each division
*If there are a large number of applications, a lottery will be held and the results will be announced later.
■Application deadline: Wednesday, August 13th
■How to apply: Please fill out the application form posted on the town's website or the application form available at the Planning & Environment Division counter and apply by bringing it in, faxing it, or emailing it. You can also apply using the QR code on the left.
■申し込み・問合せ/企画環境課広報広聴係 TEL 0136-56-8837




Tracking! vol.54

Activities of a town development company!
Niseko Mirai EV Share Car Points Giveaway Campaign
Did you know that Niseko Town has a quiet, eco-friendly electric car share? Niseko Mirai operates one electric car share, and to encourage residents to use it more easily, we are running a points giveaway campaign (from July 1st to August 31st).
Simply install and register the car sharing app (Patto) using the QR code below, and enter the registration ID and name issued by the app into the points giveaway form to receive 5,000 yen worth of car sharing points that can be used from your first ride (you can also access the points giveaway form using the same QR code)!
For more information, please see the flyers posted at each facility in the town. Please note that it may take up to a week for points to be awarded, so please register as soon as possible.
Registration and fuel costs for Patto are free! Feel free to use it for local shopping trips, picking up and dropping off family, or going out on weekends.
Niseko supports the convenient lifestyle of "sharing cars instead of owning them"
■Inquiries/
Niseko Town Co., Ltd.
TEL  0136-55-6087
Email:info@nisekomachi.co.jp



★Let's climb the mountains in Niseko!
Call for participants to climb Annupuri
The Niseko Future Support Team, a non-profit organization, will be hosting an Annupuri mountain climbing tour for elementary school students. Together with mountain guides, participants will head to the summit from the Goshiki Information Center.
■Date/Time/September 6th (Sat)
■ Capacity: Approximately 50 people (advance registration required)
■Participation fee: 300 yen (including insurance fee) For details, please see the announcements sent out by each elementary school and apply.
■Inquiries: Niseko Future Support Team NPO
mail:contact.nis.eco@gmail.com




Event
Niseko Welfare Festival held
We will be holding our 24th Welfare Festival. Please invite your friends and join us. Everyone, from children to adults, including those with disabilities, can have fun interacting with each other.
*Please note that the event will be held one week earlier than usual.
Date and time: August 23rd (Saturday) 10:30 AM
■ Place / Townsman Center
■Contents: Dance, bazaar, fun raffle, etc.
*For more details, please see the Welfare Festival flyer posted around the town.
■問合せ/ニセコ福祉まつり実行委員会事務局  TEL 0136-44-2234



culture
Shiribishi Museum Road Joint Exhibition
This is a collaborative exhibition by six art museums in Shiribeshi. The common theme of the exhibition is "Showa," and our museum will be exhibiting works by illustrator Hideyuki Fujikura that evoke the "Showa" era.
■Date and time: July 12th (Sat) - September 23rd (Tue)
■Location: Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum (Hideyuki Fujikura Memorial Gallery)
■ Fee/Free




Hideyuki Fujikura Exhibition from Summer to Autumn
The JR Hokkaido in-car magazine, which has long been illustrated by illustrator Hideyuki Fujikura, whose works are in our museum's collection of 10,000, will cease publication with the September issue of this year. In the exhibition starting in August, you can enjoy works that have adorned the in-car magazine in the past, as well as landscape paintings of Hokkaido throughout the four seasons.
■Date and time: Saturday, August 2nd to Sunday, October 5th
■ Place / Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum
■Price/entrance fee only




clean station
Be careful when disposing of cassette gas cylinders etc.
On the afternoon of Wednesday, June 25th, a fire occurred in a garbage truck while collecting non-burnable garbage in the Fujimi area. The cause has not been determined, but an investigation by the police and fire department revealed flammable garbage, including gas cartridges, spray cans, and disposable lighters that had not been emptied of gas.
To prevent fires, be sure to use up the contents of cassette gas cylinders and spray cans, puncture them, and then dispose of them as recyclable waste. Similarly, use up the contents of disposable lighters and dispose of them as recyclable waste on the final collection day of the month. Also, if small appliances have lithium-ion batteries, be sure to remove them and dispose of them separately.
If the appliance is difficult to remove, please bring it to the collection of used small appliances for recycling, which is conducted twice a year. The second collection this year is scheduled for autumn, and once the date has been confirmed, it will be announced in Koho Niseko Newsletter and on the town's official website.
■問合せ/町民生活課町民生活係 TEL 0136-56-8839




Introducing Niseko Town official social media accounts!

LINE
We provide information on town events, etc. In addition, in the event of a disaster, we also provide information on the disaster situation.

Instagram
"People who are interested in living in Niseko Town"
We will deliver the charm of the town based on "everyday life" to "townspeople who want to know the latest information about the town."

X
In addition to disseminating information about the town, we will actively share administrative information to promote town development.

Facebook
In addition to disseminating information about the town, we will actively share administrative information to promote town development.

note
A local revitalization volunteer who has just moved to Niseko Town will bring you information about the town from an outsider's perspective.



Fujikura Hideyuki's works will jump out of Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum!
An exhibition of Fujikura Hideyuki's works will be held at the Abashiri City Museum of Art in Abashiri City from Saturday, August 2nd to Sunday, September 7th, and at the Kawauchi Magokoro Literature Museum (a sister museum Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum) in Kagoshima Prefecture from Monday, August 11th to Sunday, September 28th.



80 Years After the War: Gen Hongo's Reading Drama
This year marks 80 years since the end of World War II. After the war, many repatriates from Sakhalin lived in Niseko Town and throughout Shiribeshi. Even after August 15th, when the war was said to have ended, organized fighting between the Japanese and Soviet armies, urban warfare, and air raids continued on Sakhalin, resulting in many deaths. This forgotten history will be presented as a recitation play.
Date and time: Saturday, August 23rd, from 2pm
■ Place / Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum
■Price/entrance fee only
■ Appearance: Gen Hongo (actor)



Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum opening hours and closing days in September
The museum will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays in the first, third, and fifth weeks (Tuesdays and Wednesdays if Monday is a public holiday).
The second and fourth weeks will be closed on Mondays as usual.
From September onwards, opening hours will be 10am - 4:30pm (last entrance at 4pm).
Thank you for your understanding.
※くらしの情報「文化」コーナーについての問い合わせは有島記念館まで TEL 0136-44-3245
* Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum opens at 9:00 AM, with last admission at 4:30 PM (closed on Mondays). Admission is 500 yen for adults, and free for high school students and younger and town residents aged 65 and older.



Personnel affairs of the town staff
■Date: July 1st
◎Recruitment
▽ Municipal Infrastructure Division, Architecture Section and City Planning Section, Chief, Yoshinaga Taketo
■Dated June 30th
◎Retirement
▽Information Management Section Chief, Information Management Office
Shunsuke Ouchi




Riko Sasaki's Claire Paris News vol.02
Have you ever heard of the term "multicultural coexistence"? It means "foreign residents living in Japan becoming accustomed to Japan and living together."
Last year, when I was working at CLAIR's Tokyo headquarters, I was planning training for people promoting multicultural coexistence across the country. Since I was a beginner in this field, it was a valuable opportunity for me to learn a lot while planning the training. There were many things I learned for the first time, such as the legal system for foreign residents, how to deal with them in schools, and "easy Japanese" that can be understood even by people who are not familiar with Japanese.
Even when we say "towns with a large foreign population," the nationalities and residence status vary from town to town. Tourist destinations like Niseko Town have many English-speaking people on working holidays and in professional occupations, which is unusual nationwide. In other areas I've worked with, the majority of residents are long-time residents with foreign roots, or workers in factories or construction sites.
Since not being able to speak Japanese would cause problems in daily life (at government offices, hospitals, etc.) and at work, the town as a whole is making progress in its efforts to promote multicultural coexistence. However, in Niseko Town, the majority of residents are English speakers, so I feel that multicultural coexistence efforts have been limited.
Niseko Town is already visited and lived by many people from all over the world. I believe that in the future, there will be a need to create an environment where people with diverse cultures and values can live with greater peace of mind. Based on my experience in Tokyo, I will deepen my learning in France and do my best to contribute to the future of the town when I return!




new staff
Nice to meet you. I look forward to meeting you.
Municipal Infrastructure Division, Architecture Section and Urban Planning Section
Yoshinaga Taketo (from Shizuoka Prefecture)
I came from Shizuoka because I wanted to live in Niseko Town.
I will use my experience from my previous job to do my best as an architect to support the town's architectural administration.




hello mayor
Progress towards resident autonomy
After the dissolution of the legal merger council of the towns and villages at the foot of Mt. Yotei, it was difficult to prepare an initial budget in the current financial situation, but thanks to the many efforts of the townspeople and various organizations with a sense of crisis in the background, we are here today at Niseko Town. We believe that the only way for our town to survive is through "residents' autonomy," in which residents think and act on their own initiative, and we have held numerous meetings, including the "Town Development Course for Townspeople," as well as proactive activities by our residents. The constitution of our town, "Niseko Town Basic Ordinance for Town Development," the first of its kind in Japan, was created after 124 meetings as a system to sustain the implementation of these activities into the future. The town's goals have evolved from "Small World City" to "Environmentally Creative City" to the current "Children's Future Co-Creation City" of Niseko. The progress of municipal reform will continue in the future.
Niseko Town Kenya Katayama

Town Calendar 8 AUGUST

Town Calendar/August AUGUST

Upper right box article
August is
long-term care insurance premiums, late-stage elderly medical insurance premiums, and municipal tax (second period for each)
It is the deadline for the National Health Insurance tax (third term)
The deadline for payment is the 25th (Monday)
If you use bank transfer, please check your balance.
町道民税・国民健康保険税の問合せ/税務課 TEL0136-56-8838
介護保険料・後期高齢者医療保険料の問合せ/保健福祉課 TEL0136-56-8840

bottom right box article
Emergency and sudden illness response at night and on holidays
倶知安厚生病院 TEL0136-22-1141


3rd (Sun)
Discover the mysteries of the forest / Niseko Yukimorikosha: 10:00~

4th (Monday)
Playbook closed day

5th (Tuesday)
Discover the mysteries of the forest / Niseko Yukimorikosha: 10:00~
●Free legal consultation by lawyer/Town: 13:00~
Central warehouse group closed days

6th (Wed)

7th (Thu)
Open at night

8th (Friday)
Discover the mysteries of the forest / Niseko Yukimorikosha: 10:00~
●Muscle storage class/Town: 10:30~

9th (Sat)
●English conversation circle/o: 10:00~

10th (Sun)
Discover the mysteries of the forest / Niseko Yukimorikosha: 10:00~

11th (Monday)
Mountain day
Playbook closed day

12th (Tue)
Discover the mysteries of the forest / Niseko Yukimorikosha: 10:00~
Hello Mayor's Office / Role: 10:00-12:00
●Health exercise class/Town: 19:00~
Playbook closed day
Central warehouse group closed days

13th (Wed)
Discover the mysteries of the forest / Niseko Yukimorikosha: 15:30~

14th (Thu)
Open at night

15th (Fri)
Discover the mysteries of the forest / Niseko Yukimorikosha: 10:00~

16th (Sat)

17th (Sun)
Discover the mysteries of the forest / Niseko Yukimorikosha: 10:00~

18th (Monday)
●Muscle storage class/Town: 10:30~
Playbook closed day

19th (Tuesday)
Discover the mysteries of the forest / Niseko Yukimorikosha: 10:00~
Niseko Town Election Candidate Information Session / Role: 10:00~
●Health checkup for 18-year-old and 3-year-old children/Town: 12:45~
●Free legal consultation by lawyer/Town: 13:00~
Central warehouse group closed days

20th (Wed)
Radio Niseko Cut-in Training Broadcast / Time: 10:50~ See Living Information p21

21st (Thu)
Parenting class "Making Aroma Spray" Town: 10:00 ~ See page 19 of the Smiling Plaza
Lecture on house closing / Town 10:20~
● Play Club (reservation required) / A: 15:00~
Open at night

22nd (Friday)
●Cancer Association General Medical Examination/Town: Meet at 6:30
●Echinococcus extermination measures/town: 9:00~
Discover the mysteries of the forest / Niseko Yukimorikosha: 10:00~
After-school children's class/physical education: 13:30~

23rd (Sat)
Niseko Welfare Festival / Town: 10:00~ See Living Information p.28
●English conversation circle/o: 10:00~
●80th Anniversary of the End of the War Gen Hongo Reading Drama / Available: 14:00~ See Living Information p29

24th (Sun)
●Niseko Morning Market/Maeda Shoten: 8:00~

25th (Mon)
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~
Playbook closed day

26th (Tuesday)
Discover the mysteries of the forest / Niseko Yukimorikosha: 10:00~
Landscape Ordinance Information Session for Businesses and Residents / Town: 13:30-, 18:00-
●Dental checkup/fluoridation/Town: 14:00~
●Health exercise class/Town: 19:00~
Central warehouse group closed days

27th (Wednesday)
Blood donation/town: 10:30~
Discover the mysteries of the forest / Niseko Yukimorikosha: 15:30~

28th (Thursday)
●Magic Carpet/A: 15:00~
Open at night

29th (Friday)
Cancer Association Health Checkup Result Explanation Session/Town: 9:30am
After-school children's class/physical education: 13:30~
Playbook closed day

30th (Sat)

31st (Sun)

Monday, September 1st
●Muscle storage class/Town: 10:30~
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~
Playbook closed day

2nd (Tue)
●Dental checkup and fluoride application/Town: From 13:00
●Free legal consultation by lawyer/Town: 13:00~
Central warehouse group closed days

3rd (Wed)

Photo album of this month

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。


Achieved the summit of Mt. Yotei!
Photographer: Sports Section, General Education Division


Consadole viewing tour!
I was very happy to be able to see the players up close on the pitch!!
Photographer: Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo Niseko Supporters Association


Diamond Art
Photographer: Moko & Kuu-chan


Popular Rimu Sensei
Photographer: Niseko High School intern, Ezaki Kaede

Central warehouse group communication vol.35

Before I knew it, it was already summer!

Hello, I'm Matsuda, the director of Niseko Central Warehouses.
It seems like there were many cool days up until mid-June, but before we knew it, the signs of summer were in full swing and the high temperatures have been continuing for days. Are you feeling well? Make sure to stay hydrated and enjoy the summer in good health!
Speaking of "hydration," we have recently installed a water server in the free space (indoor social space) of the building! It dispenses not only cold water but also hot water. You can use it to hydrate with your own bottle or to drink soup you brought with you.
Additionally, for two months in June and July, we ran a "Free/Half Price Rental Space Campaign" for town residents. This campaign attracted people who don't usually use the space, and even people who hadn't even known that the Central Warehouse Complex had rental space, making it an opportunity to once again let people know that the Central Warehouse Complex is a space that town residents can use freely.
The usual usage fee will apply, but please continue to use the facility for events, classes, gatherings with friends, etc. If you have any questions about how we can use the facility for your purposes, please feel free to contact our staff. We also welcome inquiries via our website or social media.
Niseko Central Warehouse Group (Former Starch Factory / No. 1 Warehouse)
Opening hours / 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Closed/every Tuesday
TEL:0136-55-5538 FAX:0136-55-5596
Homepage Reservation System

DATA OF NISEKO TOWN

The situation of radiation dose in the town
Measurement date: 1 month until July 15th
Maximum value: 0.038μGy/h
Minimum value 0.034μGy/h
Average value 0.035μGy/h

Space radiation dose rate is normal level
Movement of people (as of the end of June)
Population: 5,054 people
(+1 compared to the previous month)
2,565 men
(+8 compared to the previous month)
Women: 2,496
(-7 compared to the previous month)
Number of households: 2,789
(-7 compared to the previous month)
Of these, 600 are foreigners
Of these, 427 are foreign households

Editor's Note

The other day, I went to a friend's house to splash around in the water. As the years went by, I'd been going to the beach and pool less and less, but then I got an invitation to "go splash around in the water." Not minding that I didn't have sandals, I headed there fully prepared in short sleeves and shorts.
Children play innocently in a pool where water shoots up like a fountain. As I was leisurely watching them having fun, water was sprayed on them from somewhere and I got soaked. Not to be outdone, I grabbed a water gun, aimed and started spraying. Who knew spraying water at each other could be so much fun! Even the unexpected incident of being sprayed with water directly from the hose as I turned around just before cleaning up was fun.
It was at that moment that I realized that even though I was soaked and in a terrible state, there was still so much fun to be had. It was also nice to have a day like that, to return to my childhood and play for the first time in a while. (Ma)

Inquiries 

Niseko Town Hall
TEL:0136-44-2121
FAX:0136-44-3500