Koho Niseko Newsletter February Issue [No. 766] Text Version
Special Feature: Do you use Kira cards?
Exploring the appeal of point cards that revitalize local communities
Exploring the appeal of point cards that revitalize local communities
Do you use the Kira Card when shopping in your town? The Kira Card is an attractive points card that allows you to enjoy shopping at great value the more you use it, with events where you can accumulate points and point-granting services that are closely related to your daily life.
On the other hand, the people who use the Kira Card are limited to those in their 40s to 70s, and usage is particularly low among younger people.
This time, in order to let more townspeople know about the appeal of the Kira Card, we will introduce the features of the card, which makes life in the community more convenient and revitalizes the town's local economy, and how to use it to your advantage.
Do you use point services when you shop? In recent years, a variety of point services have been launched by private companies, local governments, restaurants, and more, giving consumers a wider range of options.
Niseko Town has a great points card called the Kira Card.
Kira Card is an initiative that aims to maintain and expand consumption within the local area through events where you can accumulate points at a discount and point-granting services that are closely related to daily life.
As of the end of March 2025, the number of Kira Cards issued was 5,515. On the other hand, active users are limited to those in their 70s (20%), 60s (18%), 50s (19%), and 40s (18%). The usage rate among younger generations (teens to 20s) is 2%.
The current situation is that the number of customers is low. In order to maintain and develop the local economy, it is clear that efforts are needed to encourage young people to actively shop at local stores. In addition, the total annual shopping amount at all member stores is currently down by approximately 9% compared to the previous year.
This time, in order to let more townspeople know about the appeal of the Kira Card, we will introduce the features of the Kira Card, which makes local life more convenient and revitalizes the town's local economy, as well as ways to use it to your advantage.
How to use Kira Cards
Shop now
Present your card or smartphone app
Check your points
Use your accumulated points to shop and participate in events!
Purchase ratio by age group
Source: Niseko Town Kira Card Association Reiwa 7 Ordinary General Meeting Proposal
How did Kira Cards come about?
My thoughts on Kira Cards
Ujiie: It all started with the launch of the Kira Stamp Club as a way to liven up the area, in conjunction with the development of Kira Kaido. At first, stamps were attached to stamp mounts, but considering the effort required for users to attach stamp stickers, we switched to magnetic cards in November 2009. At that time, we changed the name from Kira Stamp Club to the current Kira Card Club.
Ichihashi: Furthermore, in November 2017, we switched to the current card with a built-in IC chip to keep up with the changing times. Kira Points can now be used in units of 1 point, which improves convenience for users.
Takayuki Ichihashi, Business Advisor Niseko Town Chamber of Commerce
The current Kira Card format was born from the pursuit of user convenience
Ichihashi: Not only has it increased convenience for users, it has also brought benefits to the Kira Card Association and member businesses.
By using cards with built-in IC chips, it becomes easier to manage point information, and by analyzing users' consumption behavior, it becomes possible to consider the store's product lineup based on this data.
Ujiie: While we were improving the card, we had a strong desire to work together with all the businesses to boost Niseko's retail industry.
Ichihashi: Rather than holding events at individual stores, I believe that working in cooperation and collaboration with many businesses will result in a larger scale and a greater impact on the local economy.
Niseko Kira Card Association Chairman Ujiie Seiichi
What you can do with Kira Card
[Event benefits]
Niseko Morning Market Held monthly from May to October
The draw competition will be held at the Tanabata evening fireworks festival. The first 100 people to arrive can participate with 500 points.
Spring Kira Kira Stamp Rally
・Summer Thanksgiving → 300,000 points sharing campaign
・Year-end Thanksgiving Sale → 1 million points sharing campaign
・Double points sale at all stores → Held on the fourth Friday of every month
Kira points will be awarded as a prize for the stamp rally.
[Points awarding service]
Health Points: 1 point awarded for using the General Gymnasium and Kiranoyu
Reading points: 1 point awarded for using the Learning Exchange Center Asobook
Health Checkup Participants will receive 1,000 points when they take a health checkup conducted by Niseko Town.
Nikotto Bus Points: Receive 1 point when riding Nikotto Bus
Birthday Points: 10 points on the first purchase of your birthday month
Immigrant Points: 100 points awarded to households who move to Niseko Town
[Contribution to the local community]
Regional support ticket
An initiative to use local support coupons (30 yen each) to support organizations active in the local community
Simply write the name of the organization you want to support on the back and drop it in the collection box!
*Collection boxes are located at the Community Center, A-Mart Niseko, Maeda Shoten, Kyogoku Oil SS, Emodoran Niseko, and Kiranoyu.
How to use Kira Cards, as told by a senior who is a master of Kira Cards
How to save Kira Points cost-effectively? / Housewife in her 40s
I have been using it since it was called Kira Stamp before it became the current Kira Card. I check the latest information on Kira Card and shop on days when each affiliated store has a sale or when all stores have a double points sale, so I can accumulate points efficiently. Recently, I have about 3,000 points.
I use a lot of kerosene in the winter, so I use the points I've accumulated from my regular shopping.
I also use the official Kira Card LINE. It's very convenient because you can use digital points instead of paper gift certificates, such as Kira Pay, which is a childcare support service, in 1 yen increments!
Tell me about the convenient features of the Kira Card! / Housewife in her 30s
I have been using the Kira Card for about 10 years. I always check the points sale days, and try to buy groceries and daily necessities on the days when each affiliated store has a sale or when all stores have a double points sale.
I use Kira Card's official LINE account on a daily basis. I don't usually carry a wallet and I mostly use digital payments, so it's convenient to be able to use it with just my smartphone without having to carry my card!
Raising children is a big financial burden, so I'm very grateful for the KiraPay childcare support program. I hope that these kinds of initiatives will continue in the future.
What is important to develop the local economy of Niseko Town?
Ichihashi: First of all, it's important for businesses to make efforts to provide better products and services to consumers so that they will be more likely to shop in the town. I believe that if consumers and businesses support each other, the shopping district will be able to continue to exist as economic infrastructure.
Also, having multiple stores means there is a system in place to support each other, which may help to spread the risk if a problem occurs.
Ujiie: I believe that in the future we will need to provide support and measures for business succession.
Ichihashi: In addition to the appeal of the Kira Card, it's important that the participating stores are also attractive. I think it would be great if the number of attractive stores increased and we could all work together to improve the local economy.
It is also important to further improve convenience and make it a tool that is easy to use for both businesses and users.
In the future, we would like to focus on disseminating information. Last year, we started the official LINE account for the Kira Card Association as a notification tool. First of all, we would like to disseminate information about the deals at participating stores in an easy-to-understand manner so that people can learn about the appeal of these stores.
Ujiie: It depends on the business, but generally there are few businesses that can stand on their own, so collaboration is common.
I believe that it is through interaction and cooperation with the local community that a shopping district can become so vibrant.
Use it now! Great price support
Click here to check which stores accept Kira Cards
[Applicable to all town residents]
Digital gift certificate "KiraPay"
In order to promote local consumption, maintain and develop local shops, and revitalize the local community, we will be implementing the "Kira Pay" project, which provides digital gift certificates that can only be used within the town.
■ Eligible people: Niseko Town as of November 1, 2025, and people who have issued a maternal and child health handbook as of November 1, 2025
■Contents/10,000 yen worth of "Kira Pay" will be awarded per person
■ Expiration date: Until March 15th (Sun)
*Issuance will begin on Saturday, January 31st, and it will take approximately two weeks for distribution to all households to be completed.
[For child-rearing generations]
Kira Card Electronic Money "Kira Pay"
Kira Pay, an electronic money card that can only be used within the town, will be given to households with children under junior high school age who live in Niseko Town!
■ Eligible people: Children under junior high school age who live in Niseko Town as of November 1, 2025, and people who have issued a maternal and child health handbook as of November 1, 2025
■Contents/10,000 yen will be awarded for each eligible child
■ Expiration date: Until February 28th (Saturday)
The Kira Card Association's activities began with the construction of the Kira Highway, and to this day they have been working to support the lives of their users. The appeal of the Kira Card is that the more you use it, the more you can enjoy shopping at great savings, with points awarded that are closely tied to local life and special offers at events.
In addition, the "Community Support Voucher" system allows you to donate accumulated points to local support organizations, and it is a system that allows the Kira Card Association and those who have accumulated Kira points to work together to develop the community. By using the Kira Card, you can not only enjoy shopping at great prices, but also contribute to revitalizing the community.
Why not take advantage of the Kira Card's advantageous ways and convenient functions to increase your opportunities to shop in town?
Get great deals quickly!
Kira Card Club's official LINE account is now available
Once you register as a member, you can use Kira Points on your smartphone and check your transaction balance.
You can also be the first to know about deals, new information, events, and more.
=Easy! How to register=
1. Go to the registration page via the QR code
2. Enter the card number and PIN number on the back of your Kira Card to log in.
3. Enter the required information on the registration screen and complete registration
4. To link your Kira Card with your official LINE account, register as a friend on the official Kira Card LINE account using the QR code.
5. When the LINE screen opens, tap "Kira Card" on the bottom left. Enter the card number and the password you set in step 3 (first time only).
Do you use the Kira Card when shopping in your town? The Kira Card is an attractive points card that allows you to enjoy shopping at great value the more you use it, with events where you can accumulate points and point-granting services that are closely related to your daily life.
On the other hand, the people who use the Kira Card are limited to those in their 40s to 70s, and usage is particularly low among younger people.
This time, in order to let more townspeople know about the appeal of the Kira Card, we will introduce the features of the card, which makes life in the community more convenient and revitalizes the town's local economy, and how to use it to your advantage.
Do you use point services when you shop? In recent years, a variety of point services have been launched by private companies, local governments, restaurants, and more, giving consumers a wider range of options.
Niseko Town has a great points card called the Kira Card.
Kira Card is an initiative that aims to maintain and expand consumption within the local area through events where you can accumulate points at a discount and point-granting services that are closely related to daily life.
As of the end of March 2025, the number of Kira Cards issued was 5,515. On the other hand, active users are limited to those in their 70s (20%), 60s (18%), 50s (19%), and 40s (18%). The usage rate among younger generations (teens to 20s) is 2%.
The current situation is that the number of customers is low. In order to maintain and develop the local economy, it is clear that efforts are needed to encourage young people to actively shop at local stores. In addition, the total annual shopping amount at all member stores is currently down by approximately 9% compared to the previous year.
This time, in order to let more townspeople know about the appeal of the Kira Card, we will introduce the features of the Kira Card, which makes local life more convenient and revitalizes the town's local economy, as well as ways to use it to your advantage.
How to use Kira Cards
Shop now
Present your card or smartphone app
Check your points
Use your accumulated points to shop and participate in events!
Purchase ratio by age group
Source: Niseko Town Kira Card Association Reiwa 7 Ordinary General Meeting Proposal
How did Kira Cards come about?
My thoughts on Kira Cards
Ujiie: It all started with the launch of the Kira Stamp Club as a way to liven up the area, in conjunction with the development of Kira Kaido. At first, stamps were attached to stamp mounts, but considering the effort required for users to attach stamp stickers, we switched to magnetic cards in November 2009. At that time, we changed the name from Kira Stamp Club to the current Kira Card Club.
Ichihashi: Furthermore, in November 2017, we switched to the current card with a built-in IC chip to keep up with the changing times. Kira Points can now be used in units of 1 point, which improves convenience for users.
Takayuki Ichihashi, Business Advisor Niseko Town Chamber of Commerce
The current Kira Card format was born from the pursuit of user convenience
Ichihashi: Not only has it increased convenience for users, it has also brought benefits to the Kira Card Association and member businesses.
By using cards with built-in IC chips, it becomes easier to manage point information, and by analyzing users' consumption behavior, it becomes possible to consider the store's product lineup based on this data.
Ujiie: While we were improving the card, we had a strong desire to work together with all the businesses to boost Niseko's retail industry.
Ichihashi: Rather than holding events at individual stores, I believe that working in cooperation and collaboration with many businesses will result in a larger scale and a greater impact on the local economy.
Niseko Kira Card Association Chairman Ujiie Seiichi
What you can do with Kira Card
[Event benefits]
Niseko Morning Market Held monthly from May to October
The draw competition will be held at the Tanabata evening fireworks festival. The first 100 people to arrive can participate with 500 points.
Spring Kira Kira Stamp Rally
・Summer Thanksgiving → 300,000 points sharing campaign
・Year-end Thanksgiving Sale → 1 million points sharing campaign
・Double points sale at all stores → Held on the fourth Friday of every month
Kira points will be awarded as a prize for the stamp rally.
[Points awarding service]
Health Points: 1 point awarded for using the General Gymnasium and Kiranoyu
Reading points: 1 point awarded for using the Learning Exchange Center Asobook
Health Checkup Participants will receive 1,000 points when they take a health checkup conducted by Niseko Town.
Nikotto Bus Points: Receive 1 point when riding Nikotto Bus
Birthday Points: 10 points on the first purchase of your birthday month
Immigrant Points: 100 points awarded to households who move to Niseko Town
[Contribution to the local community]
Regional support ticket
An initiative to use local support coupons (30 yen each) to support organizations active in the local community
Simply write the name of the organization you want to support on the back and drop it in the collection box!
*Collection boxes are located at the Community Center, A-Mart Niseko, Maeda Shoten, Kyogoku Oil SS, Emodoran Niseko, and Kiranoyu.
How to use Kira Cards, as told by a senior who is a master of Kira Cards
How to save Kira Points cost-effectively? / Housewife in her 40s
I have been using it since it was called Kira Stamp before it became the current Kira Card. I check the latest information on Kira Card and shop on days when each affiliated store has a sale or when all stores have a double points sale, so I can accumulate points efficiently. Recently, I have about 3,000 points.
I use a lot of kerosene in the winter, so I use the points I've accumulated from my regular shopping.
I also use the official Kira Card LINE. It's very convenient because you can use digital points instead of paper gift certificates, such as Kira Pay, which is a childcare support service, in 1 yen increments!
Tell me about the convenient features of the Kira Card! / Housewife in her 30s
I have been using the Kira Card for about 10 years. I always check the points sale days, and try to buy groceries and daily necessities on the days when each affiliated store has a sale or when all stores have a double points sale.
I use Kira Card's official LINE account on a daily basis. I don't usually carry a wallet and I mostly use digital payments, so it's convenient to be able to use it with just my smartphone without having to carry my card!
Raising children is a big financial burden, so I'm very grateful for the KiraPay childcare support program. I hope that these kinds of initiatives will continue in the future.
What is important to develop the local economy of Niseko Town?
Ichihashi: First of all, it's important for businesses to make efforts to provide better products and services to consumers so that they will be more likely to shop in the town. I believe that if consumers and businesses support each other, the shopping district will be able to continue to exist as economic infrastructure.
Also, having multiple stores means there is a system in place to support each other, which may help to spread the risk if a problem occurs.
Ujiie: I believe that in the future we will need to provide support and measures for business succession.
Ichihashi: In addition to the appeal of the Kira Card, it's important that the participating stores are also attractive. I think it would be great if the number of attractive stores increased and we could all work together to improve the local economy.
It is also important to further improve convenience and make it a tool that is easy to use for both businesses and users.
In the future, we would like to focus on disseminating information. Last year, we started the official LINE account for the Kira Card Association as a notification tool. First of all, we would like to disseminate information about the deals at participating stores in an easy-to-understand manner so that people can learn about the appeal of these stores.
Ujiie: It depends on the business, but generally there are few businesses that can stand on their own, so collaboration is common.
I believe that it is through interaction and cooperation with the local community that a shopping district can become so vibrant.
Use it now! Great price support
Click here to check which stores accept Kira Cards
[Applicable to all town residents]
Digital gift certificate "KiraPay"
In order to promote local consumption, maintain and develop local shops, and revitalize the local community, we will be implementing the "Kira Pay" project, which provides digital gift certificates that can only be used within the town.
■ Eligible people: Niseko Town as of November 1, 2025, and people who have issued a maternal and child health handbook as of November 1, 2025
■Contents/10,000 yen worth of "Kira Pay" will be awarded per person
■ Expiration date: Until March 15th (Sun)
*Issuance will begin on Saturday, January 31st, and it will take approximately two weeks for distribution to all households to be completed.
[For child-rearing generations]
Kira Card Electronic Money "Kira Pay"
Kira Pay, an electronic money card that can only be used within the town, will be given to households with children under junior high school age who live in Niseko Town!
■ Eligible people: Children under junior high school age who live in Niseko Town as of November 1, 2025, and people who have issued a maternal and child health handbook as of November 1, 2025
■Contents/10,000 yen will be awarded for each eligible child
■ Expiration date: Until February 28th (Saturday)
The Kira Card Association's activities began with the construction of the Kira Highway, and to this day they have been working to support the lives of their users. The appeal of the Kira Card is that the more you use it, the more you can enjoy shopping at great savings, with points awarded that are closely tied to local life and special offers at events.
In addition, the "Community Support Voucher" system allows you to donate accumulated points to local support organizations, and it is a system that allows the Kira Card Association and those who have accumulated Kira points to work together to develop the community. By using the Kira Card, you can not only enjoy shopping at great prices, but also contribute to revitalizing the community.
Why not take advantage of the Kira Card's advantageous ways and convenient functions to increase your opportunities to shop in town?
Get great deals quickly!
Kira Card Club's official LINE account is now available
Once you register as a member, you can use Kira Points on your smartphone and check your transaction balance.
You can also be the first to know about deals, new information, events, and more.
=Easy! How to register=
1. Go to the registration page via the QR code
2. Enter the card number and PIN number on the back of your Kira Card to log in.
3. Enter the required information on the registration screen and complete registration
4. To link your Kira Card with your official LINE account, register as a friend on the official Kira Card LINE account using the QR code.
5. When the LINE screen opens, tap "Kira Card" on the bottom left. Enter the card number and the password you set in step 3 (first time only).
Town development lecture meeting held
Every year, the town holds a "town development discussion meeting" at the local community center or other venue to exchange opinions with townspeople about town development. In the February issue of the town newsletter, we will introduce the main opinions and requests that were expressed at the discussion meeting held from November to December last year.
■ Event period: November 25th to December 9th, 2025
■Number of times held: 14 times (held in various areas of the town)
■Total number of participants: 184 people
■ Opinions and requests received: 156
Q:
Why did the water resource problem occur?
A:
The land in question was acquired by Niseko Town in 2013 under a legitimate sales contract. The case alleges that the sale was invalid because the purchaser, who purchased it four generations ago, sold it to a third party without the knowledge of the purchaser. The first instance ruling ruled in favor of the opposing party. While media reports have stated that the land in question is a "water source," it is actually "land surrounding the water source." Furthermore, this land, known as a water source buffer zone, is also protected by the Water Resources Protection Ordinance. Therefore, even if the land were to be transferred to a third party, the water supply would not be immediately cut off, so please rest assured.
As the trial is still ongoing, there are many things I cannot disclose, but I hope to have an opportunity to explain the situation to everyone when the time is right.
*After the town planning meeting, it was decided that the debate would resume. We will continue to work hard to protect Niseko Town 's water resources.
"Arguments resume"...
The resumption of oral arguments that were once concluded by the conclusion of the trial (the end of arguments), with further arguments and evidence, and then a judgment is rendered.
Q:
Some people's incomes are increasing as tourism becomes more popular.
It would be good if people's lives were enriched, but what about sacrificing it?
Unless this is possible, we should not get involved in various businesses.
In some foreign countries, there are restrictions on the sale and purchase of land to foreigners.
A:
It is difficult for a local government to impose restrictions on land sales on its own. We have been working to the extent possible with our own ordinances, such as Landscape Ordinance, but we are not keeping up with the current situation, so we need to consider this. We will also carefully discuss how to attract businesses. With the number of vacant houses increasing and the aging rate rising, if we were to completely halt development, people would stop moving around, making it difficult to sustain and maintain the town. We will proceed while maintaining balance and harmony.
Q:
The national project is scheduled to end at the end of next fiscal year. I believe that once it ends, there will inevitably be problems in the areas that have been renovated. I would like you to consider measures to be taken after the project ends.
A:
We are aware that follow-up is necessary after the project is completed, and we are also conveying the voices of those on the ground through our requests to the national government. We believe that what happens after the project is important, so we would like to continue conveying the voices of those on the ground. We will also work with the national government to consider how we can address this issue as a town.
Q:
I would like Kiranoyu to increase its subsidies for the elderly.
A:
We would like to consider changing the pricing for both local residents and tourists to increase revenue and make it easier for local residents to use the facility.
Q:
It's great to be able to buy lift tickets for my children at a discount, but I can't let my children go to the ski resort by themselves. I want parents to be subsidized as well.
A:
With the cooperation of ski operators, we are providing subsidies mainly for children. We understand that it can be difficult for children to go alone. We are considering what form of subsidy we can provide in a sustainable manner. We would like you to make good use of the various discount systems offered by operators.
Q:
Isn't it time to renovate the pool? The pool is the main play area for children in the summer.
A:
There have been many voices calling for the reconstruction of the facility for some time, but the need to consider construction costs, running costs, and maintenance has prevented the project from progressing. There is a strong awareness of the issues surrounding the facility, such as the aging of the children's playground and gymnasium, and the lack of a playground. Some people are of the opinion that it would be good to build a new facility to promote health. The town is currently considering what options are available.
Q:
The office parking lot is small.
A:
The site where the fire department building is currently being constructed will become a parking lot with space for 24 cars.
[From the Mayor]
This was my first town planning meeting since taking office, and I had the opportunity to visit each district. I'd like to thank everyone who participated. In the past, I only introduced a portion of the opinions we received, but I would like to improve the quality of information disclosure and resident participation by publishing as many opinions as possible and our responses to them on our website. While we have many mechanisms for resident participation, I would also like to review them to keep up with the times. I also intend to fully acknowledge the existence of the "voiceless voices," including those who were unable to attend, and reflect them in town administration.
The opinions and requests received at the meeting will be published on the website from mid-February onwards.
Once it is published, we will notify you through various social media platforms.
Please check this out as well.
■問合せ／企画環境課広報広聴係 TEL 0136-56-8837
Niseko Town website here
■ Event period: November 25th to December 9th, 2025
■Number of times held: 14 times (held in various areas of the town)
■Total number of participants: 184 people
■ Opinions and requests received: 156
Q:
Why did the water resource problem occur?
A:
The land in question was acquired by Niseko Town in 2013 under a legitimate sales contract. The case alleges that the sale was invalid because the purchaser, who purchased it four generations ago, sold it to a third party without the knowledge of the purchaser. The first instance ruling ruled in favor of the opposing party. While media reports have stated that the land in question is a "water source," it is actually "land surrounding the water source." Furthermore, this land, known as a water source buffer zone, is also protected by the Water Resources Protection Ordinance. Therefore, even if the land were to be transferred to a third party, the water supply would not be immediately cut off, so please rest assured.
As the trial is still ongoing, there are many things I cannot disclose, but I hope to have an opportunity to explain the situation to everyone when the time is right.
*After the town planning meeting, it was decided that the debate would resume. We will continue to work hard to protect Niseko Town 's water resources.
"Arguments resume"...
The resumption of oral arguments that were once concluded by the conclusion of the trial (the end of arguments), with further arguments and evidence, and then a judgment is rendered.
Q:
Some people's incomes are increasing as tourism becomes more popular.
It would be good if people's lives were enriched, but what about sacrificing it?
Unless this is possible, we should not get involved in various businesses.
In some foreign countries, there are restrictions on the sale and purchase of land to foreigners.
A:
It is difficult for a local government to impose restrictions on land sales on its own. We have been working to the extent possible with our own ordinances, such as Landscape Ordinance, but we are not keeping up with the current situation, so we need to consider this. We will also carefully discuss how to attract businesses. With the number of vacant houses increasing and the aging rate rising, if we were to completely halt development, people would stop moving around, making it difficult to sustain and maintain the town. We will proceed while maintaining balance and harmony.
Q:
The national project is scheduled to end at the end of next fiscal year. I believe that once it ends, there will inevitably be problems in the areas that have been renovated. I would like you to consider measures to be taken after the project ends.
A:
We are aware that follow-up is necessary after the project is completed, and we are also conveying the voices of those on the ground through our requests to the national government. We believe that what happens after the project is important, so we would like to continue conveying the voices of those on the ground. We will also work with the national government to consider how we can address this issue as a town.
Q:
I would like Kiranoyu to increase its subsidies for the elderly.
A:
We would like to consider changing the pricing for both local residents and tourists to increase revenue and make it easier for local residents to use the facility.
Q:
It's great to be able to buy lift tickets for my children at a discount, but I can't let my children go to the ski resort by themselves. I want parents to be subsidized as well.
A:
With the cooperation of ski operators, we are providing subsidies mainly for children. We understand that it can be difficult for children to go alone. We are considering what form of subsidy we can provide in a sustainable manner. We would like you to make good use of the various discount systems offered by operators.
Q:
Isn't it time to renovate the pool? The pool is the main play area for children in the summer.
A:
There have been many voices calling for the reconstruction of the facility for some time, but the need to consider construction costs, running costs, and maintenance has prevented the project from progressing. There is a strong awareness of the issues surrounding the facility, such as the aging of the children's playground and gymnasium, and the lack of a playground. Some people are of the opinion that it would be good to build a new facility to promote health. The town is currently considering what options are available.
Q:
The office parking lot is small.
A:
The site where the fire department building is currently being constructed will become a parking lot with space for 24 cars.
[From the Mayor]
This was my first town planning meeting since taking office, and I had the opportunity to visit each district. I'd like to thank everyone who participated. In the past, I only introduced a portion of the opinions we received, but I would like to improve the quality of information disclosure and resident participation by publishing as many opinions as possible and our responses to them on our website. While we have many mechanisms for resident participation, I would also like to review them to keep up with the times. I also intend to fully acknowledge the existence of the "voiceless voices," including those who were unable to attend, and reflect them in town administration.
The opinions and requests received at the meeting will be published on the website from mid-February onwards.
Once it is published, we will notify you through various social media platforms.
Please check this out as well.
■問合せ／企画環境課広報広聴係 TEL 0136-56-8837
Niseko Town website here
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）までお気軽にご連絡ください。
Boosting the morale of firefighters
Niseko Fire Department New Year's Parade
On January 7th, the Niseko Fire Department's Niseko Branch and the Niseko Fire Brigade held their 2026 New Year's Parade.
The ceremony began with a review and inspection of the fire brigade in front of the Niseko Branch Police Station. Despite the cold, snowy weather, the fire brigade members demonstrated the results of their daily training. The ceremony then moved to the Town Hall, where certificates of commendation were presented to fire brigade personnel who have dedicated themselves to disaster prevention and fire prevention activities for many years.
Prior to the New Year's Parade, a parade was held to call for fire prevention. During this season, when the use of heating equipment is essential, there has been an increase in fires caused by heating equipment. Please be very careful.
Department head Koji Shibata receiving the Hokkaido Governor's Award
Inspection by Mayor Tanaka
The parade included four fire engines that toured the town.
In recognition of his many years of achievement
The award ceremony was handed over
Tadahiko Wakayama, Chairman of Niseko Town Welfare Committee, received the National Federation of Welfare Committee and Child Welfare Committee Chairman's Award and the Hokkaido Social Contribution Award, and was presented with a certificate of commendation by Mayor Tanaka at the regular meeting of the Welfare Committee and Child Welfare Committee on December 12th last year.
This award is in recognition of his achievements as a welfare officer for over 20 years, contributing to the promotion of welfare in the community through activities such as visiting elderly people and other residents.
Thank you for your ongoing activities
Learn about Chinese food culture
Boiled dumpling cooking class
A boiled dumpling cooking class was held at the town center on December 14th last year.
In northern China, there is a custom of eating dumplings to coincide with the winter solstice, one of the 24 solar terms. This time, participants tried their hand at making boiled and steamed dumplings. Participants kneaded the dough for the dumpling skins and worked together to prepare the fillings. It was a valuable opportunity to taste authentic Chinese cuisine.
Carefully wrap the filling in gyoza skin
We all had fun
Yoji Centre Christmas Party
A Christmas party was held at Yoji Centre on December 23rd last year, where Santa handed out Christmas presents to the children. There was also a Santa-related quiz, and the children deepened their connections while answering the questions.
At the end of the day, the children enjoyed singing and clapping along to Christmas songs performed by the teachers and the Pikinini Music Band.
Children delighted with presents from Santa
At Niseko View Plaza Roadside Station
Installation of emergency container toilets
A portable "disaster prevention container toilet" was installed at the Niseko View Plaza Roadside Station and began operation on December 19th last year.
The disaster prevention container toilet is equipped with one toilet and one changing room. This toilet features a solar power generation device and a water purification system, so it can be used even during power outages and water outages. It is expected that it will be dispatched to disaster-stricken areas in the event of a disaster, and will be used to meet the needs of those affected.
Under normal circumstances, the changing rooms are open as bus waiting rooms, so please feel free to use them when waiting for the bus.
Available during normal times
Delicious food filled with smiles
Winter Holiday Children's Cooking Class
During the winter break for elementary school students, the town held a winter break children's cooking class with the theme of "Learn about food waste."
This time, the children made seaweed rice, fried fish cakes with cheese, soup, and fondant au chocolat. Some of the participating children commented that they "cook regularly," and were seen skillfully cutting ingredients and actively cooking. A nutritionist also gave a lecture on food waste, and through practical experience, the children had the opportunity to learn what they can do to reduce food waste.
We all had fun cooking
Learn about foreign cultures
New Year's Pastry Class "King's Pie"
On January 10th, a confectionery class was held at the Town Hall by the Coordinators for International Relations (Niseko FRIENDS Office).
In France and other parts of Europe, there is a custom of eating a pie called "King's Pie" on January 6th, the Feast of Epiphany, to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, so we tried our hand at making a King's Pie. The beautifully baked pie, filled with almond cream, was very crispy. We also learned about other customs, such as what is done on Epiphany.
I drew a lovely pattern on the surface of the pie.
In recognition of long-standing achievements
Industry Contributor Award
To those who have contributed to the development of industry
To express their gratitude, Niseko Town Industrial Contributor Awards for 2025 was held at the Town Hall on January 6th.
The award recipient, Junko Araki, has been a member of the JA Yotei Women's Division for many years, and has served as the head of the Women's Division and the chairperson of the JA Shiribeshi District Women's Council. She has contributed to improving the status of female farmers in the Shiribeshi region and to the development of women's division activities.
Contributing to community development activities
Children and adults alike had a blast
Central Warehouse Group Mochi Pounding Competition
On January 10th, the Central Warehouse Group held a rice cake pounding event at the former starch factory. Led by the Niseko Future Support Team NPO and the 15 Grandma's, participants had the opportunity to try pounding rice cakes using a mortar and pestle.
Over 100 local residents gathered at the venue and enjoyed the chewy, freshly made rice cakes topped with soybean flour and red bean paste.
Pounding rice cakes with all your might in unison with the cheers
Land of Stories and Play
Kids Park held at Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum
"Storytelling and Playland (Kids' Park)," jointly organized by the Niseko Future Support Team NPO and Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum, is being held on weekends and holidays from January 6th to March 22nd.
As with last year, you can enjoy trampolines and inflatable play equipment, and there will also be a display of a picture book panel based on Takeo Arishima's book "A Bunch of Grapes."
The picture book panel exhibition will be open until March 29th.
Boosting the morale of firefighters
Niseko Fire Department New Year's Parade
On January 7th, the Niseko Fire Department's Niseko Branch and the Niseko Fire Brigade held their 2026 New Year's Parade.
The ceremony began with a review and inspection of the fire brigade in front of the Niseko Branch Police Station. Despite the cold, snowy weather, the fire brigade members demonstrated the results of their daily training. The ceremony then moved to the Town Hall, where certificates of commendation were presented to fire brigade personnel who have dedicated themselves to disaster prevention and fire prevention activities for many years.
Prior to the New Year's Parade, a parade was held to call for fire prevention. During this season, when the use of heating equipment is essential, there has been an increase in fires caused by heating equipment. Please be very careful.
Department head Koji Shibata receiving the Hokkaido Governor's Award
Inspection by Mayor Tanaka
The parade included four fire engines that toured the town.
In recognition of his many years of achievement
The award ceremony was handed over
Tadahiko Wakayama, Chairman of Niseko Town Welfare Committee, received the National Federation of Welfare Committee and Child Welfare Committee Chairman's Award and the Hokkaido Social Contribution Award, and was presented with a certificate of commendation by Mayor Tanaka at the regular meeting of the Welfare Committee and Child Welfare Committee on December 12th last year.
This award is in recognition of his achievements as a welfare officer for over 20 years, contributing to the promotion of welfare in the community through activities such as visiting elderly people and other residents.
Thank you for your ongoing activities
Learn about Chinese food culture
Boiled dumpling cooking class
A boiled dumpling cooking class was held at the town center on December 14th last year.
In northern China, there is a custom of eating dumplings to coincide with the winter solstice, one of the 24 solar terms. This time, participants tried their hand at making boiled and steamed dumplings. Participants kneaded the dough for the dumpling skins and worked together to prepare the fillings. It was a valuable opportunity to taste authentic Chinese cuisine.
Carefully wrap the filling in gyoza skin
We all had fun
Yoji Centre Christmas Party
A Christmas party was held at Yoji Centre on December 23rd last year, where Santa handed out Christmas presents to the children. There was also a Santa-related quiz, and the children deepened their connections while answering the questions.
At the end of the day, the children enjoyed singing and clapping along to Christmas songs performed by the teachers and the Pikinini Music Band.
Children delighted with presents from Santa
At Niseko View Plaza Roadside Station
Installation of emergency container toilets
A portable "disaster prevention container toilet" was installed at the Niseko View Plaza Roadside Station and began operation on December 19th last year.
The disaster prevention container toilet is equipped with one toilet and one changing room. This toilet features a solar power generation device and a water purification system, so it can be used even during power outages and water outages. It is expected that it will be dispatched to disaster-stricken areas in the event of a disaster, and will be used to meet the needs of those affected.
Under normal circumstances, the changing rooms are open as bus waiting rooms, so please feel free to use them when waiting for the bus.
Available during normal times
Delicious food filled with smiles
Winter Holiday Children's Cooking Class
During the winter break for elementary school students, the town held a winter break children's cooking class with the theme of "Learn about food waste."
This time, the children made seaweed rice, fried fish cakes with cheese, soup, and fondant au chocolat. Some of the participating children commented that they "cook regularly," and were seen skillfully cutting ingredients and actively cooking. A nutritionist also gave a lecture on food waste, and through practical experience, the children had the opportunity to learn what they can do to reduce food waste.
We all had fun cooking
Learn about foreign cultures
New Year's Pastry Class "King's Pie"
On January 10th, a confectionery class was held at the Town Hall by the Coordinators for International Relations (Niseko FRIENDS Office).
In France and other parts of Europe, there is a custom of eating a pie called "King's Pie" on January 6th, the Feast of Epiphany, to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, so we tried our hand at making a King's Pie. The beautifully baked pie, filled with almond cream, was very crispy. We also learned about other customs, such as what is done on Epiphany.
I drew a lovely pattern on the surface of the pie.
In recognition of long-standing achievements
Industry Contributor Award
To those who have contributed to the development of industry
To express their gratitude, Niseko Town Industrial Contributor Awards for 2025 was held at the Town Hall on January 6th.
The award recipient, Junko Araki, has been a member of the JA Yotei Women's Division for many years, and has served as the head of the Women's Division and the chairperson of the JA Shiribeshi District Women's Council. She has contributed to improving the status of female farmers in the Shiribeshi region and to the development of women's division activities.
Contributing to community development activities
Children and adults alike had a blast
Central Warehouse Group Mochi Pounding Competition
On January 10th, the Central Warehouse Group held a rice cake pounding event at the former starch factory. Led by the Niseko Future Support Team NPO and the 15 Grandma's, participants had the opportunity to try pounding rice cakes using a mortar and pestle.
Over 100 local residents gathered at the venue and enjoyed the chewy, freshly made rice cakes topped with soybean flour and red bean paste.
Pounding rice cakes with all your might in unison with the cheers
Land of Stories and Play
Kids Park held at Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum
"Storytelling and Playland (Kids' Park)," jointly organized by the Niseko Future Support Team NPO and Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum, is being held on weekends and holidays from January 6th to March 22nd.
As with last year, you can enjoy trampolines and inflatable play equipment, and there will also be a display of a picture book panel based on Takeo Arishima's book "A Bunch of Grapes."
The picture book panel exhibition will be open until March 29th.
Reuniting with old friends brings smiles
Reiwa 8 (2026) Twenty Years Old Gathering
Thirty-three people, dressed in furisode kimonos and other attire, attended the "Twenty Years Old Gathering" held at the Community Center on January 11th. Those who turned 20 this year were born between April 2007 and March 2006.
At the ceremony, Toshiro Fujimaki, representing the 20-year-olds, expressed his gratitude to his parents, teachers, and the local community, and made a powerful declaration of his outlook for the future.
After the ceremony, there was a special lecture by Mr. Takahiro Asai, the fourth grade teacher of the students, and Mr. Yoshiyuki Ogaki, the teacher when they graduated from junior high school. The students were given letters they had written to their 20-year-old selves, a special issue of the class newsletter from the 20th Birthday Gathering, and video letters, and they reminisced about those days with their friends and parents.
1. All the 20-year-olds gathered together
2. Taking a commemorative photo to celebrate the long-awaited reunion
3-5: Various expressions on the day of the 20th birthday gathering
6. I received a letter from Asai Sensei addressed to my 20-year-old self.
7. Special class newsletter and video letter from Mr. Ogaki for the 20th Birthday Gathering
8. Commemorative photo in furisode kimono
9. A gift from a teacher makes me smile
10. Mizuki Tanaka receiving a commemorative beer glass from the deputy mayor
11. Great excitement at socializing after the ceremony
This person is shining Vol.186
Greetings from the representative of the 20-year-olds
Thank you very much for holding such a heartwarming ceremony for us new adults today. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all the guests who took time out of their busy schedules to attend, as well as to all those who have supported and nurtured us up to now.
Today, we take a new step as adults. Behind this journey are the days we spent together with our parents, teachers, and the local community of Niseko Town; these were precious and indispensable times for us. Your strong, broad backs guided us, sometimes gently and sometimes strictly, and they form the foundation of our values and way of life.
From now on, as members of society, we will all take responsibility for our own actions and walk our own paths. We may experience setbacks and uncertainty, but with the compassion we learned in Niseko Town and the strength to face difficulties as our fuel, we will eventually catch up with and surpass you, and grow into a presence that can show what we have seen so far. We believe that this is the greatest way we can repay the kindness of our community.
Although we are still inexperienced, we will never forget our gratitude to all those who have supported us, will appreciate the help we have received, and will pledge to move forward into the future with hope.This concludes my speech as a representative of the 20-year-olds.
January 11, 2020
Representative of the 20-year-olds: Toshiro Fujimaki
At the ceremony, Toshiro Fujimaki, representing the 20-year-olds, expressed his gratitude to his parents, teachers, and the local community, and made a powerful declaration of his outlook for the future.
After the ceremony, there was a special lecture by Mr. Takahiro Asai, the fourth grade teacher of the students, and Mr. Yoshiyuki Ogaki, the teacher when they graduated from junior high school. The students were given letters they had written to their 20-year-old selves, a special issue of the class newsletter from the 20th Birthday Gathering, and video letters, and they reminisced about those days with their friends and parents.
1. All the 20-year-olds gathered together
2. Taking a commemorative photo to celebrate the long-awaited reunion
3-5: Various expressions on the day of the 20th birthday gathering
6. I received a letter from Asai Sensei addressed to my 20-year-old self.
7. Special class newsletter and video letter from Mr. Ogaki for the 20th Birthday Gathering
8. Commemorative photo in furisode kimono
9. A gift from a teacher makes me smile
10. Mizuki Tanaka receiving a commemorative beer glass from the deputy mayor
11. Great excitement at socializing after the ceremony
This person is shining Vol.186
Greetings from the representative of the 20-year-olds
Thank you very much for holding such a heartwarming ceremony for us new adults today. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all the guests who took time out of their busy schedules to attend, as well as to all those who have supported and nurtured us up to now.
Today, we take a new step as adults. Behind this journey are the days we spent together with our parents, teachers, and the local community of Niseko Town; these were precious and indispensable times for us. Your strong, broad backs guided us, sometimes gently and sometimes strictly, and they form the foundation of our values and way of life.
From now on, as members of society, we will all take responsibility for our own actions and walk our own paths. We may experience setbacks and uncertainty, but with the compassion we learned in Niseko Town and the strength to face difficulties as our fuel, we will eventually catch up with and surpass you, and grow into a presence that can show what we have seen so far. We believe that this is the greatest way we can repay the kindness of our community.
Although we are still inexperienced, we will never forget our gratitude to all those who have supported us, will appreciate the help we have received, and will pledge to move forward into the future with hope.This concludes my speech as a representative of the 20-year-olds.
January 11, 2020
Representative of the 20-year-olds: Toshiro Fujimaki
Everybody's page
This is a participation page for all town residents.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Everybody's page
Public Relations Planning & Environment Division
TEL.56-8837 FAX.44-3500
We would like to introduce you to the opinions and letters received from everyone.
My opinion
This month, we will introduce a method for you to easily communicate with the town about things you notice about the town and town development on a daily basis.
Please feel free to use it.
Submit "My Opinion"
Pages 12 and 13 of this month's newsletter are a submission form called "My Opinion." This form is for you to feel free to share with us any opinions or questions you may have about the town administration.
This form can be cut along the lines and glued together to form an envelope, which can then be mailed directly. No stamp is required. The form that arrives at the town will be opened by the mayor himself and the contents will be checked.
We will then respond to each of your comments and questions, so please include your address and name if possible. We will strictly protect your personal information. In addition, we will instruct the relevant department to respond as quickly as possible to any issues that require or are possible to be addressed.
In addition to this form, we also accept opinions by letter, fax, email, or through the "Town Planning Public Relations Boxes" located in various places around town.
*"Machizukuri Public Listening Boxes" are installed at the town hall, townspeople center, Kiranoyu, and Asobukku.
Please use "town development talk"
If you would like to have a group discussion with the mayor, please use the "Town Development Talk." Once approximately five people have gathered, the mayor will visit you at a designated location.
Niseko High School Student Council
As a new student council member
1st year secretary Yuzuki Nishiyama
It's the coldest time of the year, but the days are gradually getting longer.
Nice to meet you, I'm Nishiyama Yuki, a first-year student. I've been appointed as the student council secretary.
With the new school Established next year, I'm sure there are many people who have no idea what kind of school it will be. As secretary, I will carefully record meetings and organize information, and strive to communicate information in an easy-to-understand manner to all students and the local community.
I still have a lot to learn, but I will work diligently on each and every activity, cooperating with my seniors and colleagues around me.
Niseko Tanka Association
After work, I look up at the sky and see the crescent moon shining faintly. I hurry home.
It's been a while since I've seen the sunlight streaming in on this morning, and the poinsettias are dazzling. Sasaki Sadako
Niseko Haiku Association
Turn off the lights and enjoy the winter full moon all to yourself Yoshie Koshino
The grass and trees around me have withered away. Yuriko Kudo
After the Buddhist sermon, the journey home with the warmth of winter in my mind.
A raccoon dog appears quietly in the garden. Masako Habakishita
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Everybody's page
Public Relations Planning & Environment Division
TEL.56-8837 FAX.44-3500
We would like to introduce you to the opinions and letters received from everyone.
My opinion
This month, we will introduce a method for you to easily communicate with the town about things you notice about the town and town development on a daily basis.
Please feel free to use it.
Submit "My Opinion"
Pages 12 and 13 of this month's newsletter are a submission form called "My Opinion." This form is for you to feel free to share with us any opinions or questions you may have about the town administration.
This form can be cut along the lines and glued together to form an envelope, which can then be mailed directly. No stamp is required. The form that arrives at the town will be opened by the mayor himself and the contents will be checked.
We will then respond to each of your comments and questions, so please include your address and name if possible. We will strictly protect your personal information. In addition, we will instruct the relevant department to respond as quickly as possible to any issues that require or are possible to be addressed.
In addition to this form, we also accept opinions by letter, fax, email, or through the "Town Planning Public Relations Boxes" located in various places around town.
*"Machizukuri Public Listening Boxes" are installed at the town hall, townspeople center, Kiranoyu, and Asobukku.
Please use "town development talk"
If you would like to have a group discussion with the mayor, please use the "Town Development Talk." Once approximately five people have gathered, the mayor will visit you at a designated location.
Niseko High School Student Council
As a new student council member
1st year secretary Yuzuki Nishiyama
It's the coldest time of the year, but the days are gradually getting longer.
Nice to meet you, I'm Nishiyama Yuki, a first-year student. I've been appointed as the student council secretary.
With the new school Established next year, I'm sure there are many people who have no idea what kind of school it will be. As secretary, I will carefully record meetings and organize information, and strive to communicate information in an easy-to-understand manner to all students and the local community.
I still have a lot to learn, but I will work diligently on each and every activity, cooperating with my seniors and colleagues around me.
Niseko Tanka Association
After work, I look up at the sky and see the crescent moon shining faintly. I hurry home.
It's been a while since I've seen the sunlight streaming in on this morning, and the poinsettias are dazzling. Sasaki Sadako
Niseko Haiku Association
Turn off the lights and enjoy the winter full moon all to yourself Yoshie Koshino
The grass and trees around me have withered away. Yuriko Kudo
After the Buddhist sermon, the journey home with the warmth of winter in my mind.
A raccoon dog appears quietly in the garden. Masako Habakishita
Playbook Newsletter No.276
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/
A discussion was held between Mayor Tanaka and Asobook executives and staff. The importance of Asobook and other educational and cultural facilities in the town were discussed.
We had a reading session at Niseko Elementary School on December 17th. The next session is scheduled for February 18th.
Important Notice
Honma Bunko RAINBOW
Picture books borrowed from the many books owned by Honma Mayumi, a picture book author living in Niseko Town, are on display in the "Honma Bunko RAINBOW" corner.
In addition to Japanese, there are also books in other languages such as Korean and English, so you can compare them. Because these are valuable books, they cannot be borrowed, but you can read them in the library. Please feel free to pick up a book and take a look.
World Festival + Picture Book World
Niseko FRIENDS will be hosting the World Festival on February 7th. This international exchange event is an even larger scale version of last year's Picture Book World. Performances and workshops will be held in the main venue. Asobook will be exhibiting and reading various picture books, including cloth picture books created by the volunteer group Silver Needle. The Asobook Puppet Theatre will also be participating. Everyone is welcome to come and join us!
Date and time: Saturday, February 7th, 12:00 noon to 4:00 pm
■ Place / Townsman Center
Hobby Exhibition Call
We are looking for people to exhibit their hobby works starting in April. If you are interested, please contact Asobook.
Librarian's recommended books
「ペンギンにさよならをいう方法」
Hazel Prior, Tokyo Sogensha
The protagonist, Veronica, is an 85-year-old grandmother living alone in Scotland. After seeing Adélie penguins on television, she becomes interested in them and travels alone to Antarctica to see if they would be a suitable recipient of her inheritance. It may seem like a reckless adventure, but what will she experience in Antarctica?
The story begins with the so-called "end-of-life preparations." The narrative is light and easy to read. Please enjoy the story while admiring the adorable penguins. (Librarian, Hamabe Yoko)
Exhibition
book display
1/31~2/26 "YA Picture Books"
The YA (Young Adult) section is filled with picture books that can be enjoyed by junior high and high school students as well as adults. This time, we will be exhibiting some particularly recommended picture books. Please take a look.
hobby exhibition
2/1-2/15 "House of Living" Exhibition/House of Living
New arrival book introduction
practical book
Amazing ear acupressure textbook by Taki Nakamoto
Growing Mushrooms at Home Book by Takako Fukamachi
New Mathematics You'll Want to Solve by Masahiko Sato
Reading material
I. Michio Shusuke
Akatsuki Star Kanae Minato
On the way home from the cafe, Shimazu Teru
Children's books and picture books
How to tie strings and ropework for elementary school students POLALOP
3.2.1 Cue! Let my voice be heard by Kobe Haruma
Mountain Father Kikuchiki
■ 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/
A discussion was held between Mayor Tanaka and Asobook executives and staff. The importance of Asobook and other educational and cultural facilities in the town were discussed.
We had a reading session at Niseko Elementary School on December 17th. The next session is scheduled for February 18th.
Important Notice
Honma Bunko RAINBOW
Picture books borrowed from the many books owned by Honma Mayumi, a picture book author living in Niseko Town, are on display in the "Honma Bunko RAINBOW" corner.
In addition to Japanese, there are also books in other languages such as Korean and English, so you can compare them. Because these are valuable books, they cannot be borrowed, but you can read them in the library. Please feel free to pick up a book and take a look.
World Festival + Picture Book World
Niseko FRIENDS will be hosting the World Festival on February 7th. This international exchange event is an even larger scale version of last year's Picture Book World. Performances and workshops will be held in the main venue. Asobook will be exhibiting and reading various picture books, including cloth picture books created by the volunteer group Silver Needle. The Asobook Puppet Theatre will also be participating. Everyone is welcome to come and join us!
Date and time: Saturday, February 7th, 12:00 noon to 4:00 pm
■ Place / Townsman Center
Hobby Exhibition Call
We are looking for people to exhibit their hobby works starting in April. If you are interested, please contact Asobook.
Librarian's recommended books
「ペンギンにさよならをいう方法」
Hazel Prior, Tokyo Sogensha
The protagonist, Veronica, is an 85-year-old grandmother living alone in Scotland. After seeing Adélie penguins on television, she becomes interested in them and travels alone to Antarctica to see if they would be a suitable recipient of her inheritance. It may seem like a reckless adventure, but what will she experience in Antarctica?
The story begins with the so-called "end-of-life preparations." The narrative is light and easy to read. Please enjoy the story while admiring the adorable penguins. (Librarian, Hamabe Yoko)
Exhibition
book display
1/31~2/26 "YA Picture Books"
The YA (Young Adult) section is filled with picture books that can be enjoyed by junior high and high school students as well as adults. This time, we will be exhibiting some particularly recommended picture books. Please take a look.
hobby exhibition
2/1-2/15 "House of Living" Exhibition/House of Living
New arrival book introduction
practical book
Amazing ear acupressure textbook by Taki Nakamoto
Growing Mushrooms at Home Book by Takako Fukamachi
New Mathematics You'll Want to Solve by Masahiko Sato
Reading material
I. Michio Shusuke
Akatsuki Star Kanae Minato
On the way home from the cafe, Shimazu Teru
Children's books and picture books
How to tie strings and ropework for elementary school students POLALOP
3.2.1 Cue! Let my voice be heard by Kobe Haruma
Mountain Father Kikuchiki
Niseko Town Area Development Cooperation Team
Report daily activities from the members!
My neighbor's volunteer 53.
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> Mai Ikeda
<First year> Mari Nomura
Introducing the activities of the cooperation team
》Radio Niseko
Inside [Kira Niseko]
「協力隊の、ニセコが好きだから～」
(every Monday from 3:20 pm to 50 pm)
<Those scheduled to perform in February>
2/2 Keima Sato and Megumi Noguchi
9 Risa Kamikawauchi and Daigo Kizawa
16 Junichi Ohba and Emi Deguchi
23 Kaito Kida and Rie Sudo
》Information is also being posted on social media!
website
▼
Facebook
▼
Instagram
▼
Announcement
Regional Revitalization Cooperation Team "What are we doing in Niseko Town? Connecting through conversations about daily life"
On February 18th from 2:00 pm at the Town Hall, we will be introducing the activities of the Regional Revitalization Cooperation Team and holding a space where local residents can casually interact with us.
The purpose of the event is to let people know about the thoughts and background of the JOCVs' efforts, as well as the daily involvement and activities they undertake in the local community. We hope that on the day you will feel closer to the JOCVs through the involvement and perspectives of each member. We look forward to seeing many of you there. (Kizawa Daigo)
The 7th Minna no Shokudo is being held!
The 7th "Minna no Shokudo" (Everyone's Dining Hall) will be held on March 6th.
We hope to provide dishes using local vegetables and create an event where everyone can have fun. The event will be held in the large hall of the town center, in two sessions, from 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM. We are still asking for donations of vegetables and other ingredients, as well as financial support.
Details about the event will be posted on the JOCV's social media accounts, so please check them out. Thank you for your support. (Takagi Nanami)
Overall activity report
Experience the essence of Niseko in one day! NISEKO Xmas 2025
NISEKO Xmas 2025 was held at the Community Center on December 14th last year. The total number of visitors was approximately 400! It was the largest event ever, and the venue was filled with excitement. Under the theme of "A Christmas of Sound and Nature," the venue was filled with warm, international sounds, including Christmas songs in English, an orchestra, energetic dance, and a performance by a dad band in collaboration with Niseko High School students. A real tree sponsored by Kawahara Seed was also on display at the venue! There was also a wide variety of crafts, including making wooden ornaments and musical instruments.
Did you all have fun? For about three months, all the volunteers, led by three first-year students (Kida and Noguchi), worked hard. We would like to continue doing what we can so that when the children grow up, they can be proud of Niseko and say, "Niseko is a great town." We would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who cooperated. (Nomura Mari)
Introduction of my assignment
38. Kiranoyu 2nd year Takagi Nanami (from Sapporo)
I would like to introduce the work I do at Niseko Ekimae Onsen Kiranoyu, where I am currently assigned.
Kiranoyu is used not only by local residents, but also by tourists from outside the town and outside Hokkaido, and especially in the winter, by foreign visitors, making it a place where you can interact with a variety of people.
I really enjoy working as a receptionist, as I get to talk to local people and convey the charms of Niseko Town.
My main duties at Kiranoyu are reception and customer service at the front desk, and cleaning the building. I also coordinate support for the volunteers during events at Kiranoyu, such as Halloween and Winter Scenic Night.
39. Niseko View Plaza Direct Sales Event, 2nd Year, Mai Ikeda (from Hakodate City)
At the Niseko View Plaza Direct Sales, where I am assigned, in addition to daily sales duties, I am also involved in creating the sales floor, managing products, handling shipping, and posting information on social media, all of which help convey the appeal of seasonal agricultural products.
Through these tasks, we also play a role in connecting producers and customers. Hearing directly from farmers about their thoughts on vegetables and how the harvest has been this year provides important hints for product introductions and customer service. By sharing our impressions of the produce and our cooking techniques, we sometimes hear customers say, "I'll come back to buy more." Direct sales events are a place where people can connect with each other through food and experience the charm of the region every day.
40. Mari Nomura (from Sapporo City), 1st year, Commerce and Tourism Division
I work in Commerce and Tourism Division, where I am in charge of web production, paper design, novelty goods design, and website construction and editing. During Halloween and sporting events, I also work on-site, so my work changes every day.
Utilizing the creative knowledge and sales tactics I developed in my previous job, I pursue "design that communicates" by calculating not only beautiful appearance but also the placement of photos, color schemes, and user flow. I feel rewarded when the work I have created brings joy to someone or inspires them to take action. Recently, I created a summary of Niseko Town 's winter bus information! It makes me very happy to see it actually being posted.
The blog on the JOCV website also features an introduction to each assignment.
Please check it out by clicking the QR code below!
My neighbor's volunteer 53.
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> Mai Ikeda
<First year> Mari Nomura
Introducing the activities of the cooperation team
》Radio Niseko
Inside [Kira Niseko]
「協力隊の、ニセコが好きだから～」
(every Monday from 3:20 pm to 50 pm)
<Those scheduled to perform in February>
2/2 Keima Sato and Megumi Noguchi
9 Risa Kamikawauchi and Daigo Kizawa
16 Junichi Ohba and Emi Deguchi
23 Kaito Kida and Rie Sudo
》Information is also being posted on social media!
website
▼
▼
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Announcement
Regional Revitalization Cooperation Team "What are we doing in Niseko Town? Connecting through conversations about daily life"
On February 18th from 2:00 pm at the Town Hall, we will be introducing the activities of the Regional Revitalization Cooperation Team and holding a space where local residents can casually interact with us.
The purpose of the event is to let people know about the thoughts and background of the JOCVs' efforts, as well as the daily involvement and activities they undertake in the local community. We hope that on the day you will feel closer to the JOCVs through the involvement and perspectives of each member. We look forward to seeing many of you there. (Kizawa Daigo)
The 7th Minna no Shokudo is being held!
The 7th "Minna no Shokudo" (Everyone's Dining Hall) will be held on March 6th.
We hope to provide dishes using local vegetables and create an event where everyone can have fun. The event will be held in the large hall of the town center, in two sessions, from 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM. We are still asking for donations of vegetables and other ingredients, as well as financial support.
Details about the event will be posted on the JOCV's social media accounts, so please check them out. Thank you for your support. (Takagi Nanami)
Overall activity report
Experience the essence of Niseko in one day! NISEKO Xmas 2025
NISEKO Xmas 2025 was held at the Community Center on December 14th last year. The total number of visitors was approximately 400! It was the largest event ever, and the venue was filled with excitement. Under the theme of "A Christmas of Sound and Nature," the venue was filled with warm, international sounds, including Christmas songs in English, an orchestra, energetic dance, and a performance by a dad band in collaboration with Niseko High School students. A real tree sponsored by Kawahara Seed was also on display at the venue! There was also a wide variety of crafts, including making wooden ornaments and musical instruments.
Did you all have fun? For about three months, all the volunteers, led by three first-year students (Kida and Noguchi), worked hard. We would like to continue doing what we can so that when the children grow up, they can be proud of Niseko and say, "Niseko is a great town." We would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who cooperated. (Nomura Mari)
Introduction of my assignment
38. Kiranoyu 2nd year Takagi Nanami (from Sapporo)
I would like to introduce the work I do at Niseko Ekimae Onsen Kiranoyu, where I am currently assigned.
Kiranoyu is used not only by local residents, but also by tourists from outside the town and outside Hokkaido, and especially in the winter, by foreign visitors, making it a place where you can interact with a variety of people.
I really enjoy working as a receptionist, as I get to talk to local people and convey the charms of Niseko Town.
My main duties at Kiranoyu are reception and customer service at the front desk, and cleaning the building. I also coordinate support for the volunteers during events at Kiranoyu, such as Halloween and Winter Scenic Night.
39. Niseko View Plaza Direct Sales Event, 2nd Year, Mai Ikeda (from Hakodate City)
At the Niseko View Plaza Direct Sales, where I am assigned, in addition to daily sales duties, I am also involved in creating the sales floor, managing products, handling shipping, and posting information on social media, all of which help convey the appeal of seasonal agricultural products.
Through these tasks, we also play a role in connecting producers and customers. Hearing directly from farmers about their thoughts on vegetables and how the harvest has been this year provides important hints for product introductions and customer service. By sharing our impressions of the produce and our cooking techniques, we sometimes hear customers say, "I'll come back to buy more." Direct sales events are a place where people can connect with each other through food and experience the charm of the region every day.
40. Mari Nomura (from Sapporo City), 1st year, Commerce and Tourism Division
I work in Commerce and Tourism Division, where I am in charge of web production, paper design, novelty goods design, and website construction and editing. During Halloween and sporting events, I also work on-site, so my work changes every day.
Utilizing the creative knowledge and sales tactics I developed in my previous job, I pursue "design that communicates" by calculating not only beautiful appearance but also the placement of photos, color schemes, and user flow. I feel rewarded when the work I have created brings joy to someone or inspires them to take action. Recently, I created a summary of Niseko Town 's winter bus information! It makes me very happy to see it actually being posted.
The blog on the JOCV website also features an introduction to each assignment.
Please check it out by clicking the QR code below!
smiling square
In this corner,
Introducing various activities and information!
Parenting topics
Yoji Centre
There was a mochi-pounding party.
We held our annual "Mochitsuki Party." On this day, B.B. from the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters came to Yoji Centre and we all pounded mochi together.
When the children were shown the steamed rice in turn, they exclaimed with delight, "Wow!" They all sang the rice cake pounding song in a loud voice and cheered on the staff members, the older brothers and sisters of the Bear Group, and special guest B.B., who were pounding the rice cakes, calling out "Yoisho! Yoisho!"
This time, B.B. also participated, and the children were very happy to see the rice cakes they had made. It must have become a fond memory for them.
It's fun pounding rice cakes with B.B.!
Sun
Child-raising course "Knitting Class"
A knitting class was held with Yoko Tanaka and Yoko Sakai, who live in the town, as instructors.
Many of the participants were trying knitting for the first time, and they knitted stitch by stitch under the guidance of the instructor. At first, they struggled, but with each session they began to understand how to knit, and their knitting speed increased.
Knitting is a painstaking process, but everyone worked hard and the pieces quickly took shape. I'm sure the children are looking forward to finishing their warm gloves and socks.
Everyone is doing their best!
"Ohisama" is a place where parents and children can play casually and talk to friends about their worries (within Yoji Centre).
Important Notice
Early Yoji Centre Opening
Yoji Centre will be open to parents and children before they start kindergarten.
Date and time: Tuesday, February 17th, 10:00 AM
◆Location: Yoji Centre
◆Contents: playing in the snow, indoor play, etc.
◆Application deadline: Thursday, February 12th
*The content of the daycare may change. Please dress appropriately for playing in the snow.
Parenting seminar "Playbook Puppet Show"
The Asobook Puppet Theatre Company will come to Yoji Centre and perform puppet shows. Why not come and watch a show with your children?
Date and time: Wednesday, February 25th, 10:30 AM
◆Location: Yoji Centre
<Inquiries about this page>
Niseko Town Yoji Center "Kiratto" (Childcare Facility)
TEL.（代表）0136-44-2700 FAX.0136-44-2725
Introducing various activities and information!
Parenting topics
Yoji Centre
There was a mochi-pounding party.
We held our annual "Mochitsuki Party." On this day, B.B. from the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters came to Yoji Centre and we all pounded mochi together.
When the children were shown the steamed rice in turn, they exclaimed with delight, "Wow!" They all sang the rice cake pounding song in a loud voice and cheered on the staff members, the older brothers and sisters of the Bear Group, and special guest B.B., who were pounding the rice cakes, calling out "Yoisho! Yoisho!"
This time, B.B. also participated, and the children were very happy to see the rice cakes they had made. It must have become a fond memory for them.
It's fun pounding rice cakes with B.B.!
Sun
Child-raising course "Knitting Class"
A knitting class was held with Yoko Tanaka and Yoko Sakai, who live in the town, as instructors.
Many of the participants were trying knitting for the first time, and they knitted stitch by stitch under the guidance of the instructor. At first, they struggled, but with each session they began to understand how to knit, and their knitting speed increased.
Knitting is a painstaking process, but everyone worked hard and the pieces quickly took shape. I'm sure the children are looking forward to finishing their warm gloves and socks.
Everyone is doing their best!
"Ohisama" is a place where parents and children can play casually and talk to friends about their worries (within Yoji Centre).
Important Notice
Early Yoji Centre Opening
Yoji Centre will be open to parents and children before they start kindergarten.
Date and time: Tuesday, February 17th, 10:00 AM
◆Location: Yoji Centre
◆Contents: playing in the snow, indoor play, etc.
◆Application deadline: Thursday, February 12th
*The content of the daycare may change. Please dress appropriately for playing in the snow.
Parenting seminar "Playbook Puppet Show"
The Asobook Puppet Theatre Company will come to Yoji Centre and perform puppet shows. Why not come and watch a show with your children?
Date and time: Wednesday, February 25th, 10:30 AM
◆Location: Yoji Centre
<Inquiries about this page>
Niseko Town Yoji Center "Kiratto" (Childcare Facility)
TEL.（代表）0136-44-2700 FAX.0136-44-2725
Dr. Kawai's
Quick Health Memo vol.33
Niseko Clinic
TEL.0136-44-2201
Cancer Story
Hello everyone. Today I would like to talk about cancer, the most problematic disease of all. To put it simply, cancer is a disease in which your own cells continue to grow, ignoring the natural rules of proliferation.
About Cancer
Our bodies are made up of approximately 60 trillion cells, which follow strict rules: when they get old, they break down and only grow as many as needed. However, when for some reason the mechanism that stops cell proliferation stops working, cells begin to grow on their own, which is called "cancer."
Why is it scary?
The reason cancer is so scary is that it can destroy cells in the organ where it originated, or it can enter the blood or lymph and be carried to another location, where it can multiply and destroy the function of that organ.
Why does it occur?
Most cancers are caused by the accumulation of damage over many years. Typical examples include smoking (lungs, bladder, etc.), alcohol (esophagus, liver, etc.), diet, ultraviolet rays (skin cancer), infections (Helicobacter pylori, viruses), and aging.
What about prevention?
Cancer prevention is said to be early detection and early treatment, but if we know the probability of developing cancer in the future, it is thought that we may be able to effectively reduce the risk of developing cancer by taking measures such as protecting the organs in question.Recently, research and practical application of urine testing to analyze the risk of developing cancer in the future has been progressing.Specifically, by analyzing microRNA contained in urine using AI, the current and future risk of developing cancer in each organ can be determined.
What are microRNAs?
It is one of the transmitters that communicate between cells. It is known that specific microRNAs increase or decrease in cancer cells, and by collecting information on the expression patterns of various microRNAs and analyzing that data using AI, cancer risk can be clarified.
What are the advantages and disadvantages?
The advantages of urine-based cancer testing are that it is painless, easy to collect, and easy to repeat, making it a great contribution to early detection and screening. The drawbacks are that urine tests have limitations and do not provide a definitive diagnosis. The biggest problem is that the tests are still expensive. However, it's up to you whether or not you want to invest that money in your future.
TEL.0136-44-2201
Cancer Story
Hello everyone. Today I would like to talk about cancer, the most problematic disease of all. To put it simply, cancer is a disease in which your own cells continue to grow, ignoring the natural rules of proliferation.
About Cancer
Our bodies are made up of approximately 60 trillion cells, which follow strict rules: when they get old, they break down and only grow as many as needed. However, when for some reason the mechanism that stops cell proliferation stops working, cells begin to grow on their own, which is called "cancer."
Why is it scary?
The reason cancer is so scary is that it can destroy cells in the organ where it originated, or it can enter the blood or lymph and be carried to another location, where it can multiply and destroy the function of that organ.
Why does it occur?
Most cancers are caused by the accumulation of damage over many years. Typical examples include smoking (lungs, bladder, etc.), alcohol (esophagus, liver, etc.), diet, ultraviolet rays (skin cancer), infections (Helicobacter pylori, viruses), and aging.
What about prevention?
Cancer prevention is said to be early detection and early treatment, but if we know the probability of developing cancer in the future, it is thought that we may be able to effectively reduce the risk of developing cancer by taking measures such as protecting the organs in question.Recently, research and practical application of urine testing to analyze the risk of developing cancer in the future has been progressing.Specifically, by analyzing microRNA contained in urine using AI, the current and future risk of developing cancer in each organ can be determined.
What are microRNAs?
It is one of the transmitters that communicate between cells. It is known that specific microRNAs increase or decrease in cancer cells, and by collecting information on the expression patterns of various microRNAs and analyzing that data using AI, cancer risk can be clarified.
What are the advantages and disadvantages?
The advantages of urine-based cancer testing are that it is painless, easy to collect, and easy to repeat, making it a great contribution to early detection and screening. The drawbacks are that urine tests have limitations and do not provide a definitive diagnosis. The biggest problem is that the tests are still expensive. However, it's up to you whether or not you want to invest that money in your future.
News from Niseko Town
Information of living
News
If you are enrolled in National Health Insurance or Medical Insurance for the Elderly, don't forget to declare your income!
For National Health Insurance and Medical Insurance for the Elderly, insurance premiums and the maximum self-payment limit for high-cost medical expenses are calculated based on the previous year's income.
Unless you declare your income, we cannot make a correct judgment, so please be sure to declare it.
You need to file even if your income is 0 yen!
People who had no income in the previous year, or who only have tax-exempt income such as disability pensions, survivor pensions, or unemployment benefits from employment insurance, must declare that their income is "0 yen."
If you don't declare your income...
*Reductions in national health insurance tax and medical insurance premiums for the elderly are not applicable.
Without declarations from the subscriber and head of household, income cannot be determined, so reductions that should be available cannot be determined, and the reductions will not be applied.
〇It is not possible to determine the maximum amount of copayment for high-cost medical care expenses.
If even one member of the insured person's household has not filed a declaration, the maximum co-payment limit for high-cost medical care expenses and the co-payment ratio for elderly people (70 years old and over) cannot be determined. As a result, the maximum co-payment limit may be determined to be higher than it actually is.
The following people do not need to file a tax return:
・I have already filed my income tax return and town/prefectural resident tax (resident tax) return.
・Employees have only salary income and their employer has submitted a salary payment report to Niseko Town
・Your income is solely from public pensions (excluding disability and survivor pensions) and your public pension payment report has been submitted to Niseko Town
・Students under the age of 18, etc.
■Inquiries/
・国民健康保険制度・後期高齢者医療制度について／保健福祉課保険医療係 TEL0136-56-8840
・所得の申告・国民健康保険税について／税務課税務係 TEL0136-56-8838
Disaster prevention radio automatic start training
The town will be conducting an automatic start-up drill for disaster prevention radios in conjunction with the nationwide simultaneous information transmission test of the J-ALERT (National Instantaneous Warning System). In order to quickly notify residents of emergency information announced by the national government, the disaster prevention radios will be automatically activated in conjunction with JALERT.
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.
Date and time: February 6th (Friday) 11:00 AM
■問合せ／総務課防災係 TEL0136-56-8835
Announcement from telecommunications carrier NTT Docomo
"FOMA" and "i-mode" 3G services will end on March 31, 2026.
As a result, all services for 3G models will be suspended.
Additionally, some 4G models purchased before 2021 will experience issues such as being unable to make voice calls. For more information, please contact the Docomo Shop Yotei (Kutchan Town).
■Inquiries: Docomo Shop Yotei (Kutchan Town) TEL 0120-680-797
JA Hokkaido Welfare Federation Niseko-Yotei Regional Kutchan Hospital Public Lecture
This health seminar will be taught by a registered dietitian, a physical therapist, and a public health nurse. The theme will be "Tips for a Long and Healthy Life: Diet, Health, Metabolic Syndrome, and Frailty." This seminar is recommended for those who have recently experienced a loss of appetite or have experienced weight gain or loss.
Date and time: February 27th (Friday) 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
■Location: Niseko Yotei Regional Kutchan Kosei Hospital Life Therapy Center
■ Instructors: Registered dietitians, physical therapists, public health nurses
*No application required
■問合せ／ニセコ羊蹄広域倶知安厚生病院総合支援センター TEL0136-23-2185
Get ready for heavy snow
The snow season has officially arrived. The silvery white scenery on sunny days is beautiful, and it's the perfect time to enjoy winter sports.
On the other hand, heavy snow can also have a major impact on our lives. Heavy snow occurs when various weather conditions, such as winter pressure patterns and developed low pressure systems, come together. Heavy snowfall can have an impact on transportation, such as cars and trains being unable to move. When heavy snow is expected, it is important to prepare early, such as by considering changing your route to your destination and refraining from unnecessary outings.
The Meteorological Agency will issue a heavy snow warning when there is a risk of serious disasters due to heavy snow. In addition, snowfall forecasts and snow accumulation conditions are published on the website. Please check the latest information frequently to spend a safe winter.
■Japan Meteorological Agency website (future snow)/
■Sapporo District Homepage (Snow accumulation in Hokkaido)/
Attorney Tsuchiya's
We will solve your worries!
●This month's theme: Prison sentences
Many people have probably heard the phrases "The defendant is sentenced to three years in prison" or "The defendant is sentenced to five years in prison." Both imprisonment and incarceration are criminal penalties that involve detention in a penal institution, but "incarceration" means that the defendant is obligated to perform specified work, while "incarceration" means that the defendant is not obligated to perform specified work.
However, currently, both penal servitude and incarceration have been abolished, and a new unified punishment called imprisonment has been created.
Previously, prisoners were primarily tasked with prescribed work until the end of their sentence. However, with the introduction of the incarceration system, inmates are now required to undergo not only prescribed work but also necessary training, such as correctional treatment programs. This is to promote rehabilitation and prevent recidivism, tailored to the individual characteristics of each inmate. For example, inmates aged 70 or older who have difficulty living independently due to dementia or other conditions are provided with treatment to maintain and improve cognitive function through regular advice and guidance from occupational therapists. Furthermore, within the prescribed work, various courses are now offered at the discretion of each prison, such as agricultural business courses focusing on crop production, product processing, and sales planning, and sustainable work courses in which inmates learn the skills of local artisans to create traditional crafts.
Penalties are evolving to become an effective system suited to modern society.
Park Front Law Office Niseko Office
141 Hondori Niseko Town
TEL.0136-44-3800 FAX.0136-44-3801
The contract results are posted on Niseko Town official website.
Documents circulated along with public relations materials can be viewed on the website.
heart gift
We received your donation.
thank you for your kindness
《Niseko Town Social Welfare Council Reception》
"Please use it for social welfare." Junichi Yoshimoto, Chairman of the Hokkaido Shinkin Bank Himawari Foundation
"Please use it for social welfare." Yukio Takagi, Chairman of the Niseko Sapporo Beer Association
Public housing vacancy information
If there are any rooms that were not filled in the January public offering, we will recruit for vacant rooms in February. Please see our website for details.
●Application period: February 2nd (Monday) to February 16th (Monday)
●Eligibility and application method/Please inquire for details.
■問合せ／都市建設課住宅管理係 TEL0136-56-8846
★Advance reservation is required
Acceptance of final tax return
You can file your tax return at the city hall from Monday, February 16th to Friday, March 13th.
*You can file your tax return at any time at the Kutchan Tax Office.
important!
Advance reservation is required for final tax return
Please make a reservation in advance for your desired date and time to file your tax return, and come to the office with plenty of time to spare.
For advance reservations, please contact us by phone or email at least one day before your desired date.
It can get very busy right before the end of tax return filing, and we may not be able to accommodate your reservation. We recommend making your reservation early.
TEL0136-56-8838
mail:zeimu@town.niseko.lg.jp
*If you file at the tax office,
Please purchase an "admission ticket" in advance.
You need to get it.
National Tax Agency Official LINE Account
Tickets will be issued in advance at the account or distributed at the venue on the day.
Available now
We may refuse your application.
If you do not make a reservation in advance, you will not be able to file your tax return at the city hall. Also, even if you have made a reservation in advance, if you are not feeling well on the day, please do not force yourself and file again at a later date.
File your e-Tax return from home using My Number Card and smartphone!
In the "Tax Return Creation Corner," you can create a tax return by simply entering amounts, etc., and the calculations will be automatic. Furthermore, by linking with My Number Portal, you can automatically enter information such as salary, medical expenses, and hometown tax payments.
The benefits include 24-hour availability, the ability to check the contents from the receipt notification, no need to submit attached documents (with some exceptions), and early refunds. Take this opportunity to use e-Tax to file your tax return on your smartphone.
■Tax return preparation corner/
■ My Number Portal Linkage/
■Watch the video of your tax return/
You can file for a refund any time within five years!
If you are filing a tax return to receive a refund for overpaid income tax (adding deductions for medical expenses, donations, life insurance, etc.), you do not need to file by March 16th. Refund returns can be filed for five years, so you can file for the 2025 tax year at any time up until December 31st, 2020.
Tax offices and city halls are busy during the tax return filing season. If you are filing to get a tax refund, consider filing at a later date or using e-Tax.
If you are not sure whether you need to file a tax return
If you are unsure whether you should file your tax return yourself, please feel free to contact us.
When contacting us, please prepare the following documents that show your income and expenses for the past year.
■ Reference documents (example)/
・Withholding tax slip for salary and pension
・Receipt of medical expenses (total amount paid out-of-pocket)
・Life insurance deduction certificate, etc.
■問合せ／税務課 TEL0136-56-8838
Consultation on capital gains and gift taxes
If you need individual consultation with a tax office employee regarding capital gains or gift tax, specialized staff will be available for online consultation every Monday, Tuesday, and Friday until March 16th. If you would like to receive a consultation, please obtain an "admission ticket" before coming to the office.
■問合せ／倶知安税務署 個人課税部門 TEL0136-22-1192
clean station
The garbage station
Let's all manage it together!
Garbage stations are managed by everyone who uses them. During this time of year, it snows, and the roof and surrounding area of the garbage station can become buried in snow. If the area is buried in snow, it will be impossible to throw away or collect garbage. It can also damage the station, so please maintain the station by regularly removing the snow.
Also, if you throw away your garbage on days other than the designated days, the garbage stations may become full. Each type of garbage has a designated collection day, so be sure to throw it away at the station on the collection day.
■問合せ／町民生活課町民生活係 TEL 0136-56-8839
We ask for your understanding and cooperation regarding emergency vehicle operations and firefighting activities during the winter season.
With the snowfall season upon us, it's time to worry about frozen roads, snow accumulation, and traffic disruptions caused by snowfall. Emergency vehicles such as fire engines can run smoothly only with the cooperation of general vehicles.
Fire engines, ambulances, and other vehicles that receive 119 calls are allowed to arrive at the disaster site as quickly as possible and begin firefighting efforts and transporting injured people to medical facilities as quickly as possible. In order to do so, they are granted the right of way under the Road Traffic Act, which allows them to drive all or part of their vehicle on the right side of the road and enter intersections with red lights, among other things. If you are driving a private car or other vehicle and an emergency vehicle is approaching, please give way to it and cooperate with the following points so that we can reach the disaster site as quickly as possible.
(1)
If you are driving and an emergency vehicle approaches with its siren sounding, pay close attention to your surroundings, move to the left side of the road, and give way quickly.
(2)
If you are driving at or near an intersection, avoid the intersection, move to the left side of the road (or to the right if doing so would obstruct traffic), and stop temporarily.
(3)
If you are riding a bicycle or walking on a road without a sidewalk, please give way to other pedestrians as quickly as possible by moving as close to the edge of the road as possible.
Emergency calls tend to increase during the winter tourist season, which means there are often times when ambulances are not available in Niseko Town. When emergency calls overlap within Niseko Town, ambulances from neighboring towns and villages are dispatched, and at the same time, Niseko Fire Department dispatches a fire engine to the scene of the emergency, providing first aid and supporting the emergency team's activities.
We will be driving to the scene of an emergency with our sirens blaring, which may be confused with a fire, but we ask for your understanding and cooperation in order to save as many lives as possible. When calling 119, you may be asked to "please come without sounding the siren," but it is required by law that when driving to an emergency, you must always drive with your red warning lights flashing and your siren blaring, so we ask for your understanding and cooperation.
Additionally, parking cars near fire hydrants and fire water tanks during the winter, and dumping cleared snow into them, can be a major hindrance to firefighting activities, so please refrain from doing so under any circumstances.
■問合せ／羊蹄山ろく消防組合消防署ニセコ支署 TEL 0136-44-2354
Radio Niseko News vol.22
Multilingual information
With the cooperation of the Niseko Avalanche Research Institute, Radio Niseko broadcasts information on avalanches and the demand-responsive bus service "Nikotto Bus" that runs within Niseko Town, in multiple languages including Japanese, English, and Chinese.
Niseko Avalanche Information
Broadcast program: "Niseko Morning" from around 8:20 am
Language: Japanese, English
We will provide information on the temperature, snow conditions, and avalanche risk for each mountain in the Niseko area on that day.
*Please note that information will be provided as soon as it arrives, so there may be delays in providing the information.
About using the demand bus "Nikotto Bus"
Broadcast programs/live broadcasts. Information is provided mainly in the weather and traffic information sections.
Language: Japanese, English, Chinese
We would like to inform you of important points to note when using Nikotto Bus.
The open studio, hosted by local personalities, also has multilingual broadcasts. Be sure to tune in!
・ Niseko Town Coordinator for International Relations "International Radio"
・Matt Neyman "LUCKY FINGERS RADIO"
・John Burton "Niseko the Island"
If you have any other information you would like us to share in multiple languages, please contact Radio Niseko.
■Inquiries/Radio Niseko
TEL 0136-55-5762
Email : niseko762@radioniseko.jp
Niseko Town Crime Prevention Association
City Case Files
Incidents: There were no incidents in Niseko Town during December.
Traffic Accident: On December 4th, a traffic accident resulting in injury occurred while reversing within the building premises.
倶知安警察署／TEL0136-22-0110
General election of the House of Representatives and national referendum on Supreme Court justices
■ Election date: February 8th (Sunday)
■ Voting hours: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Voting will close at 6pm on election day.
■Voting location/Please vote at the designated polling station.
■ Who can vote? / People who are 18 years of age or older on the voting day and who have been registered in Niseko Town Resident Basic Register since before October 26, 2025
■ Tickets will be mailed to your address. Please check your voting location.
■Vote counting begins at 8:00 PM
Voting before the date
If you think you won't be able to vote on election day due to work or travel, you can vote early.
■ Period: Wednesday, January 28th to Saturday, February 7th
*Voting for the National Referendum on Supreme Court Judges will begin on Sunday, February 1st.
■ Time / 8:30 am to 8:00 pm
■Location: Town Hall 1st floor, multipurpose hall
■問合せ／ニセコ町選挙管理委員会 TEL0136-44-2121
Event
World Festival and the 12th Picture Book World held
Our annual "Picture Book World" will be held again this year, held every February. This year, we will also be holding the "World Festival" at the same time, allowing you to experience even more cultures from around the world.
At the World Festival, you can experience cultures from around the world through games, exhibits, crafts, dance and more.
There will also be a stamp rally and a raffle with fantastic prizes.
Date and time: Saturday, February 7th, 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
■ Place / Townsman Center
■問合せ／ニセコFRIENDS事務局 TEL0136-56-8837
Recruitment
Notice of Recruitment of Self-Defense Forces
●Self-Defense Force candidates (8th)
・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: Until February 19th (Thursday)
・Exam date: March 1st (Sunday)
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 TEL0136-23-3540
または自衛官募集相談員 TEL0136-44-2177
Istre x Brain Training Health Class Participants Wanted
We will be holding a health class aimed at preventing the need for nursing care, with instructor Junki Yokono, a former Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo player, as the lecturer. Even those who are not confident in their physical strength can easily participate.
For more information, please see the flyer on the town's website.
Date and time: Wednesday, February 18th, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
■ Place / Townsman Center
■ Contents: Chair-based stretching, brain training games using colored balls, etc.
■ What to wear/bring: Comfortable clothing (such as a tracksuit), towel, drink (if needed)
■ Target audience: People aged 60 and over (if there is space available, people of all ages can participate)
■ Capacity: 30 people
■How to apply: Please apply using the QR code on the left.
■Application deadline: Monday, February 16th
■申し込み・問合せ／保健福祉課保険医療係 TEL 0136-56-8840
Niseko Town Mini Orchestra OK NISEKO (Okeniseko) Participants Wanted
Why not join OK NISEKO, a mini orchestra aimed at everyone, professional or amateur, to have fun playing instruments?
■ Participation conditions /
・Those in the fifth grade or above who own an instrument (excluding percussion instruments)
・Those who can participate in full practice sessions twice a month
・People who like Niseko Town
*Instruments are not available for rental. Please bring your own.
■ Instruments wanted: Oboe, clarinet, alto saxophone, horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, violin, viola, cello, double bass, percussion
■ Schedule/
● Practice day [Venue: Town Hall Large Hall]
- Twice a month from April to October (or early November) (one meeting in April)
1. Weekend: Saturday or Sunday 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM (alternating Saturday and Sunday every other month)
2. Weekdays: 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM, 1 session
*Individual and group practice will be conducted as appropriate.
●Concerts: At the Niseko Town Cultural Festival held every year from late October to early November, we perform in ensembles and groups, as well as participate in town events.
■Membership fee/year (April to November)
Adults: 7,000 yen, High school students and younger: 3,000 yen
■How to apply: 1. Enter using the QR code on the left.
2. Please send a self-introduction to the email address listed in the inquiry on the left, including your name (with furigana), the name of your instrument, your instrument experience, and if you are a student, the name of your school and the town where you live.
■Application deadline: March 15th (Sun)
■Inquiries: Okeniseko
Mail:enigmapj@outlook.jp
TEL 090-8507-0877
Every time I speak
The four islands will be closer again
February 7th is “Northern Territories Day”
■Inquiries/Northern Territories Reversion Alliance Shishi Local Branch
倶知安町北1条東2丁目（後志総合振興局内）TEL 0136-22-0216
International Exchange Communication Vol.35
On December 21st of last year, Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs) held a boiled dumpling cooking class to celebrate the winter solstice, one of China's 24 solar terms. In northern China, it is customary to eat boiled dumplings on the day of the winter solstice. This time, while explaining the origins of the traditional Chinese dish known as dumplings, participants made boiled dumplings with pork and Chinese cabbage, as well as steamed dumplings with shrimp, carrots, and wood ear mushrooms from scratch.
We received comments such as, "I want to make this at home!" and "It was fun interacting with the other participants," which made us very happy. We were really happy to hear everyone say, "It's delicious!" We will continue to introduce foreign cultures to everyone through cooking classes, so please come and join us!
〈TEL〉 0136-56-8837
〈EMAIL〉kokusai@town.niseko.lg.jp
Sports
Soccer class by Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo alumnus, Junki Yokono
With the aim of encouraging and encouraging further growth in children who are interested in soccer, we will be holding a soccer class with Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo alumnus Junki Yokono as coach. Why not take this opportunity to participate?
For more information, please see the flyer on the town's website.
Date and time: Tuesday, February 17th, 5pm - 7pm
■ Location: Niseko Elementary School Gymnasium
■Contents: Passing and shooting practice, mini games, etc.
■ What to wear/bring: Comfortable clothing (uniform, jersey, etc.), indoor shoes, towel, drink (if necessary)
■ Coach: Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo OB Yokono Junki
■ Target: Children in grades 4 to 6
■ Capacity: 25 people
■How to apply: Please apply using the QR code on the left.
■Application deadline: February 15th (Sunday)
*Children belonging to the Niseko Youth Soccer Club do not need to apply.
■申し込み・問合せ／保健福祉課保険医療係 TEL 0136-56-8840
culture
Arishima Long-tailed Tit Goods Review Now on Sale
Icing cookies and palm-sized dolls of the Arishima Long-tailed Tit are on sale in front of the museum reception desk. They are made by the cafe and handmade goods shop "Olive Leaf."
They are all handmade and each one has a slightly different expression, so try to find your favorite one.
■Products for sale/
・Cookies: 550 yen each
・Doll: 770 yen each
※くらしの情報「文化」コーナーについての問合せは有島記念館まで TEL 0136-44-3245
Riko Sasaki's Claire Paris News vol.05
When I first arrived in April, the exchange rate was around 152 yen to the euro, but as I write this article at the end of December, it has risen to 185 yen, and I am amazed every day by the sudden depreciation of the yen.
This is an increase of about 30 yen in just eight months.
I'm often asked about the cost of living in Paris, and even taking into account the weak yen, it's certainly more expensive than in Japan. Personally, I think that if something feels "expensive" when converted at 1 euro = 100 yen, then it is expensive.
For example, a lunch set at a restaurant near my office costs around 15 to 20 euros. Converted to 100 yen, this comes to 1,500 to 2,000 yen, which seems expensive. However, it's actually 185 yen, so it comes to 2,775 to 3,700 yen. Dinner costs about twice that, so eating out every day is a tough reality.
On the other hand, breads are relatively cheap in France, with baguettes (also known as French bread) costing around 1.25 euros and croissants around 2 euros. This is because there are regulations in place to protect quality and tradition and ensure fair competition. Thanks to this, you can always eat cheap, delicious bread at bakeries all over Paris.
There's also a convenient service that's popular among expatriates like us. It's an app called "Too Good To Go," which allows you to purchase food that would otherwise be thrown away at two-thirds or even half the retail price. For example, you can get large quantities of leftovers from a hotel breakfast buffet or unsold bread and cakes from a bakery at a low price. Supermarkets sometimes also sell fresh foods and prepared meals that are close to their expiration date.
This app is used in other EU countries besides France, and I hear it will soon be available in Japan. It's a wonderful system that's not only easy on the household budget, but also contributes to reducing food waste, and I feel grateful for it every day.
hello mayor
Since taking office, I have been invited to attend town planning meetings as well as local gatherings such as the neighborhood association's New Year's party, and have been making appearances in various places. I have once again come to realize that it is the activities of the neighborhood association members, who are responsible for daily monitoring, events, disaster prevention, and so on, that support the lives of the people of this town.
It is in these everyday settings, not just conference rooms, that the town's true feelings and realities can be found. If there are any future community gatherings, please let the town's General Affairs Division know. We also hope to have not only the mayor but also staff members attend, and to value face-to-face relationships on a daily basis. We aim to create an organization where anyone, not just the mayor, can be heard and accepted by the entire town office.
Niseko Town Taketo Tanaka
If you are enrolled in National Health Insurance or Medical Insurance for the Elderly, don't forget to declare your income!
For National Health Insurance and Medical Insurance for the Elderly, insurance premiums and the maximum self-payment limit for high-cost medical expenses are calculated based on the previous year's income.
Unless you declare your income, we cannot make a correct judgment, so please be sure to declare it.
You need to file even if your income is 0 yen!
People who had no income in the previous year, or who only have tax-exempt income such as disability pensions, survivor pensions, or unemployment benefits from employment insurance, must declare that their income is "0 yen."
If you don't declare your income...
*Reductions in national health insurance tax and medical insurance premiums for the elderly are not applicable.
Without declarations from the subscriber and head of household, income cannot be determined, so reductions that should be available cannot be determined, and the reductions will not be applied.
〇It is not possible to determine the maximum amount of copayment for high-cost medical care expenses.
If even one member of the insured person's household has not filed a declaration, the maximum co-payment limit for high-cost medical care expenses and the co-payment ratio for elderly people (70 years old and over) cannot be determined. As a result, the maximum co-payment limit may be determined to be higher than it actually is.
The following people do not need to file a tax return:
・I have already filed my income tax return and town/prefectural resident tax (resident tax) return.
・Employees have only salary income and their employer has submitted a salary payment report to Niseko Town
・Your income is solely from public pensions (excluding disability and survivor pensions) and your public pension payment report has been submitted to Niseko Town
・Students under the age of 18, etc.
■Inquiries/
・国民健康保険制度・後期高齢者医療制度について／保健福祉課保険医療係 TEL0136-56-8840
・所得の申告・国民健康保険税について／税務課税務係 TEL0136-56-8838
Disaster prevention radio automatic start training
The town will be conducting an automatic start-up drill for disaster prevention radios in conjunction with the nationwide simultaneous information transmission test of the J-ALERT (National Instantaneous Warning System). In order to quickly notify residents of emergency information announced by the national government, the disaster prevention radios will be automatically activated in conjunction with JALERT.
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.
Date and time: February 6th (Friday) 11:00 AM
■問合せ／総務課防災係 TEL0136-56-8835
Announcement from telecommunications carrier NTT Docomo
"FOMA" and "i-mode" 3G services will end on March 31, 2026.
As a result, all services for 3G models will be suspended.
Additionally, some 4G models purchased before 2021 will experience issues such as being unable to make voice calls. For more information, please contact the Docomo Shop Yotei (Kutchan Town).
■Inquiries: Docomo Shop Yotei (Kutchan Town) TEL 0120-680-797
JA Hokkaido Welfare Federation Niseko-Yotei Regional Kutchan Hospital Public Lecture
This health seminar will be taught by a registered dietitian, a physical therapist, and a public health nurse. The theme will be "Tips for a Long and Healthy Life: Diet, Health, Metabolic Syndrome, and Frailty." This seminar is recommended for those who have recently experienced a loss of appetite or have experienced weight gain or loss.
Date and time: February 27th (Friday) 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
■Location: Niseko Yotei Regional Kutchan Kosei Hospital Life Therapy Center
■ Instructors: Registered dietitians, physical therapists, public health nurses
*No application required
■問合せ／ニセコ羊蹄広域倶知安厚生病院総合支援センター TEL0136-23-2185
Get ready for heavy snow
The snow season has officially arrived. The silvery white scenery on sunny days is beautiful, and it's the perfect time to enjoy winter sports.
On the other hand, heavy snow can also have a major impact on our lives. Heavy snow occurs when various weather conditions, such as winter pressure patterns and developed low pressure systems, come together. Heavy snowfall can have an impact on transportation, such as cars and trains being unable to move. When heavy snow is expected, it is important to prepare early, such as by considering changing your route to your destination and refraining from unnecessary outings.
The Meteorological Agency will issue a heavy snow warning when there is a risk of serious disasters due to heavy snow. In addition, snowfall forecasts and snow accumulation conditions are published on the website. Please check the latest information frequently to spend a safe winter.
■Japan Meteorological Agency website (future snow)/
■Sapporo District Homepage (Snow accumulation in Hokkaido)/
Attorney Tsuchiya's
We will solve your worries!
●This month's theme: Prison sentences
Many people have probably heard the phrases "The defendant is sentenced to three years in prison" or "The defendant is sentenced to five years in prison." Both imprisonment and incarceration are criminal penalties that involve detention in a penal institution, but "incarceration" means that the defendant is obligated to perform specified work, while "incarceration" means that the defendant is not obligated to perform specified work.
However, currently, both penal servitude and incarceration have been abolished, and a new unified punishment called imprisonment has been created.
Previously, prisoners were primarily tasked with prescribed work until the end of their sentence. However, with the introduction of the incarceration system, inmates are now required to undergo not only prescribed work but also necessary training, such as correctional treatment programs. This is to promote rehabilitation and prevent recidivism, tailored to the individual characteristics of each inmate. For example, inmates aged 70 or older who have difficulty living independently due to dementia or other conditions are provided with treatment to maintain and improve cognitive function through regular advice and guidance from occupational therapists. Furthermore, within the prescribed work, various courses are now offered at the discretion of each prison, such as agricultural business courses focusing on crop production, product processing, and sales planning, and sustainable work courses in which inmates learn the skills of local artisans to create traditional crafts.
Penalties are evolving to become an effective system suited to modern society.
Park Front Law Office Niseko Office
141 Hondori Niseko Town
TEL.0136-44-3800 FAX.0136-44-3801
The contract results are posted on Niseko Town official website.
Documents circulated along with public relations materials can be viewed on the website.
heart gift
We received your donation.
thank you for your kindness
《Niseko Town Social Welfare Council Reception》
"Please use it for social welfare." Junichi Yoshimoto, Chairman of the Hokkaido Shinkin Bank Himawari Foundation
"Please use it for social welfare." Yukio Takagi, Chairman of the Niseko Sapporo Beer Association
Public housing vacancy information
If there are any rooms that were not filled in the January public offering, we will recruit for vacant rooms in February. Please see our website for details.
●Application period: February 2nd (Monday) to February 16th (Monday)
●Eligibility and application method/Please inquire for details.
■問合せ／都市建設課住宅管理係 TEL0136-56-8846
★Advance reservation is required
Acceptance of final tax return
You can file your tax return at the city hall from Monday, February 16th to Friday, March 13th.
*You can file your tax return at any time at the Kutchan Tax Office.
important!
Advance reservation is required for final tax return
Please make a reservation in advance for your desired date and time to file your tax return, and come to the office with plenty of time to spare.
For advance reservations, please contact us by phone or email at least one day before your desired date.
It can get very busy right before the end of tax return filing, and we may not be able to accommodate your reservation. We recommend making your reservation early.
TEL0136-56-8838
mail:zeimu@town.niseko.lg.jp
*If you file at the tax office,
Please purchase an "admission ticket" in advance.
You need to get it.
National Tax Agency Official LINE Account
Tickets will be issued in advance at the account or distributed at the venue on the day.
Available now
We may refuse your application.
If you do not make a reservation in advance, you will not be able to file your tax return at the city hall. Also, even if you have made a reservation in advance, if you are not feeling well on the day, please do not force yourself and file again at a later date.
File your e-Tax return from home using My Number Card and smartphone!
In the "Tax Return Creation Corner," you can create a tax return by simply entering amounts, etc., and the calculations will be automatic. Furthermore, by linking with My Number Portal, you can automatically enter information such as salary, medical expenses, and hometown tax payments.
The benefits include 24-hour availability, the ability to check the contents from the receipt notification, no need to submit attached documents (with some exceptions), and early refunds. Take this opportunity to use e-Tax to file your tax return on your smartphone.
■Tax return preparation corner/
■ My Number Portal Linkage/
■Watch the video of your tax return/
You can file for a refund any time within five years!
If you are filing a tax return to receive a refund for overpaid income tax (adding deductions for medical expenses, donations, life insurance, etc.), you do not need to file by March 16th. Refund returns can be filed for five years, so you can file for the 2025 tax year at any time up until December 31st, 2020.
Tax offices and city halls are busy during the tax return filing season. If you are filing to get a tax refund, consider filing at a later date or using e-Tax.
If you are not sure whether you need to file a tax return
If you are unsure whether you should file your tax return yourself, please feel free to contact us.
When contacting us, please prepare the following documents that show your income and expenses for the past year.
■ Reference documents (example)/
・Withholding tax slip for salary and pension
・Receipt of medical expenses (total amount paid out-of-pocket)
・Life insurance deduction certificate, etc.
■問合せ／税務課 TEL0136-56-8838
Consultation on capital gains and gift taxes
If you need individual consultation with a tax office employee regarding capital gains or gift tax, specialized staff will be available for online consultation every Monday, Tuesday, and Friday until March 16th. If you would like to receive a consultation, please obtain an "admission ticket" before coming to the office.
■問合せ／倶知安税務署 個人課税部門 TEL0136-22-1192
clean station
The garbage station
Let's all manage it together!
Garbage stations are managed by everyone who uses them. During this time of year, it snows, and the roof and surrounding area of the garbage station can become buried in snow. If the area is buried in snow, it will be impossible to throw away or collect garbage. It can also damage the station, so please maintain the station by regularly removing the snow.
Also, if you throw away your garbage on days other than the designated days, the garbage stations may become full. Each type of garbage has a designated collection day, so be sure to throw it away at the station on the collection day.
■問合せ／町民生活課町民生活係 TEL 0136-56-8839
We ask for your understanding and cooperation regarding emergency vehicle operations and firefighting activities during the winter season.
With the snowfall season upon us, it's time to worry about frozen roads, snow accumulation, and traffic disruptions caused by snowfall. Emergency vehicles such as fire engines can run smoothly only with the cooperation of general vehicles.
Fire engines, ambulances, and other vehicles that receive 119 calls are allowed to arrive at the disaster site as quickly as possible and begin firefighting efforts and transporting injured people to medical facilities as quickly as possible. In order to do so, they are granted the right of way under the Road Traffic Act, which allows them to drive all or part of their vehicle on the right side of the road and enter intersections with red lights, among other things. If you are driving a private car or other vehicle and an emergency vehicle is approaching, please give way to it and cooperate with the following points so that we can reach the disaster site as quickly as possible.
(1)
If you are driving and an emergency vehicle approaches with its siren sounding, pay close attention to your surroundings, move to the left side of the road, and give way quickly.
(2)
If you are driving at or near an intersection, avoid the intersection, move to the left side of the road (or to the right if doing so would obstruct traffic), and stop temporarily.
(3)
If you are riding a bicycle or walking on a road without a sidewalk, please give way to other pedestrians as quickly as possible by moving as close to the edge of the road as possible.
Emergency calls tend to increase during the winter tourist season, which means there are often times when ambulances are not available in Niseko Town. When emergency calls overlap within Niseko Town, ambulances from neighboring towns and villages are dispatched, and at the same time, Niseko Fire Department dispatches a fire engine to the scene of the emergency, providing first aid and supporting the emergency team's activities.
We will be driving to the scene of an emergency with our sirens blaring, which may be confused with a fire, but we ask for your understanding and cooperation in order to save as many lives as possible. When calling 119, you may be asked to "please come without sounding the siren," but it is required by law that when driving to an emergency, you must always drive with your red warning lights flashing and your siren blaring, so we ask for your understanding and cooperation.
Additionally, parking cars near fire hydrants and fire water tanks during the winter, and dumping cleared snow into them, can be a major hindrance to firefighting activities, so please refrain from doing so under any circumstances.
■問合せ／羊蹄山ろく消防組合消防署ニセコ支署 TEL 0136-44-2354
Radio Niseko News vol.22
Multilingual information
With the cooperation of the Niseko Avalanche Research Institute, Radio Niseko broadcasts information on avalanches and the demand-responsive bus service "Nikotto Bus" that runs within Niseko Town, in multiple languages including Japanese, English, and Chinese.
Niseko Avalanche Information
Broadcast program: "Niseko Morning" from around 8:20 am
Language: Japanese, English
We will provide information on the temperature, snow conditions, and avalanche risk for each mountain in the Niseko area on that day.
*Please note that information will be provided as soon as it arrives, so there may be delays in providing the information.
About using the demand bus "Nikotto Bus"
Broadcast programs/live broadcasts. Information is provided mainly in the weather and traffic information sections.
Language: Japanese, English, Chinese
We would like to inform you of important points to note when using Nikotto Bus.
The open studio, hosted by local personalities, also has multilingual broadcasts. Be sure to tune in!
・ Niseko Town Coordinator for International Relations "International Radio"
・Matt Neyman "LUCKY FINGERS RADIO"
・John Burton "Niseko the Island"
If you have any other information you would like us to share in multiple languages, please contact Radio Niseko.
■Inquiries/Radio Niseko
TEL 0136-55-5762
Email : niseko762@radioniseko.jp
Niseko Town Crime Prevention Association
City Case Files
Incidents: There were no incidents in Niseko Town during December.
Traffic Accident: On December 4th, a traffic accident resulting in injury occurred while reversing within the building premises.
倶知安警察署／TEL0136-22-0110
General election of the House of Representatives and national referendum on Supreme Court justices
■ Election date: February 8th (Sunday)
■ Voting hours: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Voting will close at 6pm on election day.
■Voting location/Please vote at the designated polling station.
■ Who can vote? / People who are 18 years of age or older on the voting day and who have been registered in Niseko Town Resident Basic Register since before October 26, 2025
■ Tickets will be mailed to your address. Please check your voting location.
■Vote counting begins at 8:00 PM
Voting before the date
If you think you won't be able to vote on election day due to work or travel, you can vote early.
■ Period: Wednesday, January 28th to Saturday, February 7th
*Voting for the National Referendum on Supreme Court Judges will begin on Sunday, February 1st.
■ Time / 8:30 am to 8:00 pm
■Location: Town Hall 1st floor, multipurpose hall
■問合せ／ニセコ町選挙管理委員会 TEL0136-44-2121
Event
World Festival and the 12th Picture Book World held
Our annual "Picture Book World" will be held again this year, held every February. This year, we will also be holding the "World Festival" at the same time, allowing you to experience even more cultures from around the world.
At the World Festival, you can experience cultures from around the world through games, exhibits, crafts, dance and more.
There will also be a stamp rally and a raffle with fantastic prizes.
Date and time: Saturday, February 7th, 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
■ Place / Townsman Center
■問合せ／ニセコFRIENDS事務局 TEL0136-56-8837
Recruitment
Notice of Recruitment of Self-Defense Forces
●Self-Defense Force candidates (8th)
・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: Until February 19th (Thursday)
・Exam date: March 1st (Sunday)
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 TEL0136-23-3540
または自衛官募集相談員 TEL0136-44-2177
Istre x Brain Training Health Class Participants Wanted
We will be holding a health class aimed at preventing the need for nursing care, with instructor Junki Yokono, a former Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo player, as the lecturer. Even those who are not confident in their physical strength can easily participate.
For more information, please see the flyer on the town's website.
Date and time: Wednesday, February 18th, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
■ Place / Townsman Center
■ Contents: Chair-based stretching, brain training games using colored balls, etc.
■ What to wear/bring: Comfortable clothing (such as a tracksuit), towel, drink (if needed)
■ Target audience: People aged 60 and over (if there is space available, people of all ages can participate)
■ Capacity: 30 people
■How to apply: Please apply using the QR code on the left.
■Application deadline: Monday, February 16th
■申し込み・問合せ／保健福祉課保険医療係 TEL 0136-56-8840
Niseko Town Mini Orchestra OK NISEKO (Okeniseko) Participants Wanted
Why not join OK NISEKO, a mini orchestra aimed at everyone, professional or amateur, to have fun playing instruments?
■ Participation conditions /
・Those in the fifth grade or above who own an instrument (excluding percussion instruments)
・Those who can participate in full practice sessions twice a month
・People who like Niseko Town
*Instruments are not available for rental. Please bring your own.
■ Instruments wanted: Oboe, clarinet, alto saxophone, horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, violin, viola, cello, double bass, percussion
■ Schedule/
● Practice day [Venue: Town Hall Large Hall]
- Twice a month from April to October (or early November) (one meeting in April)
1. Weekend: Saturday or Sunday 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM (alternating Saturday and Sunday every other month)
2. Weekdays: 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM, 1 session
*Individual and group practice will be conducted as appropriate.
●Concerts: At the Niseko Town Cultural Festival held every year from late October to early November, we perform in ensembles and groups, as well as participate in town events.
■Membership fee/year (April to November)
Adults: 7,000 yen, High school students and younger: 3,000 yen
■How to apply: 1. Enter using the QR code on the left.
2. Please send a self-introduction to the email address listed in the inquiry on the left, including your name (with furigana), the name of your instrument, your instrument experience, and if you are a student, the name of your school and the town where you live.
■Application deadline: March 15th (Sun)
■Inquiries: Okeniseko
Mail:enigmapj@outlook.jp
TEL 090-8507-0877
Every time I speak
The four islands will be closer again
February 7th is “Northern Territories Day”
■Inquiries/Northern Territories Reversion Alliance Shishi Local Branch
倶知安町北1条東2丁目（後志総合振興局内）TEL 0136-22-0216
International Exchange Communication Vol.35
On December 21st of last year, Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs) held a boiled dumpling cooking class to celebrate the winter solstice, one of China's 24 solar terms. In northern China, it is customary to eat boiled dumplings on the day of the winter solstice. This time, while explaining the origins of the traditional Chinese dish known as dumplings, participants made boiled dumplings with pork and Chinese cabbage, as well as steamed dumplings with shrimp, carrots, and wood ear mushrooms from scratch.
We received comments such as, "I want to make this at home!" and "It was fun interacting with the other participants," which made us very happy. We were really happy to hear everyone say, "It's delicious!" We will continue to introduce foreign cultures to everyone through cooking classes, so please come and join us!
〈TEL〉 0136-56-8837
〈EMAIL〉kokusai@town.niseko.lg.jp
Sports
Soccer class by Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo alumnus, Junki Yokono
With the aim of encouraging and encouraging further growth in children who are interested in soccer, we will be holding a soccer class with Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo alumnus Junki Yokono as coach. Why not take this opportunity to participate?
For more information, please see the flyer on the town's website.
Date and time: Tuesday, February 17th, 5pm - 7pm
■ Location: Niseko Elementary School Gymnasium
■Contents: Passing and shooting practice, mini games, etc.
■ What to wear/bring: Comfortable clothing (uniform, jersey, etc.), indoor shoes, towel, drink (if necessary)
■ Coach: Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo OB Yokono Junki
■ Target: Children in grades 4 to 6
■ Capacity: 25 people
■How to apply: Please apply using the QR code on the left.
■Application deadline: February 15th (Sunday)
*Children belonging to the Niseko Youth Soccer Club do not need to apply.
■申し込み・問合せ／保健福祉課保険医療係 TEL 0136-56-8840
culture
Arishima Long-tailed Tit Goods Review Now on Sale
Icing cookies and palm-sized dolls of the Arishima Long-tailed Tit are on sale in front of the museum reception desk. They are made by the cafe and handmade goods shop "Olive Leaf."
They are all handmade and each one has a slightly different expression, so try to find your favorite one.
■Products for sale/
・Cookies: 550 yen each
・Doll: 770 yen each
※くらしの情報「文化」コーナーについての問合せは有島記念館まで TEL 0136-44-3245
Riko Sasaki's Claire Paris News vol.05
When I first arrived in April, the exchange rate was around 152 yen to the euro, but as I write this article at the end of December, it has risen to 185 yen, and I am amazed every day by the sudden depreciation of the yen.
This is an increase of about 30 yen in just eight months.
I'm often asked about the cost of living in Paris, and even taking into account the weak yen, it's certainly more expensive than in Japan. Personally, I think that if something feels "expensive" when converted at 1 euro = 100 yen, then it is expensive.
For example, a lunch set at a restaurant near my office costs around 15 to 20 euros. Converted to 100 yen, this comes to 1,500 to 2,000 yen, which seems expensive. However, it's actually 185 yen, so it comes to 2,775 to 3,700 yen. Dinner costs about twice that, so eating out every day is a tough reality.
On the other hand, breads are relatively cheap in France, with baguettes (also known as French bread) costing around 1.25 euros and croissants around 2 euros. This is because there are regulations in place to protect quality and tradition and ensure fair competition. Thanks to this, you can always eat cheap, delicious bread at bakeries all over Paris.
There's also a convenient service that's popular among expatriates like us. It's an app called "Too Good To Go," which allows you to purchase food that would otherwise be thrown away at two-thirds or even half the retail price. For example, you can get large quantities of leftovers from a hotel breakfast buffet or unsold bread and cakes from a bakery at a low price. Supermarkets sometimes also sell fresh foods and prepared meals that are close to their expiration date.
This app is used in other EU countries besides France, and I hear it will soon be available in Japan. It's a wonderful system that's not only easy on the household budget, but also contributes to reducing food waste, and I feel grateful for it every day.
hello mayor
Since taking office, I have been invited to attend town planning meetings as well as local gatherings such as the neighborhood association's New Year's party, and have been making appearances in various places. I have once again come to realize that it is the activities of the neighborhood association members, who are responsible for daily monitoring, events, disaster prevention, and so on, that support the lives of the people of this town.
It is in these everyday settings, not just conference rooms, that the town's true feelings and realities can be found. If there are any future community gatherings, please let the town's General Affairs Division know. We also hope to have not only the mayor but also staff members attend, and to value face-to-face relationships on a daily basis. We aim to create an organization where anyone, not just the mayor, can be heard and accepted by the entire town office.
Niseko Town Taketo Tanaka
Town Calendar 2FEBRUARY
February is the deadline for the 8th long-term care insurance premium payment
◆Deadline is Wednesday the 25th
If you use bank transfer, please check your balance.
■介護保険料の問合せ／保健福祉課 TEL 0136-56-8840
1st (Sun)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
2nd (Monday)
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~
Playbook closed day
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
3rd (Tue)
●Free legal consultation by lawyer/Town: 13:00~
Central warehouse group closed days
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
4th (Wednesday)
Wednesday Houkago Research Room/Town: 15:30~
●Japanese Salon/Kura: 16:00-17:30
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
5th (Thu)
●Mama Cafe/Town: 10:00~
●Asobukkurabu (Reservation required)/A: 15:00-
Open at night
6th (Friday)
●Automatic start-up training for disaster prevention radios / Role: 11:00~ See Living Information p19
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~
7th (Sat)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
●World Festival/Town: 12:00-16:00
8th (Sun)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
Monday 9th
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~
Playbook closed day
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
10th (Tuesday)
●Health exercise class/Town: 14:00~
11th (Wed) National Foundation Day
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
Playbook closed day
12th (Thursday)
●Asobukkurabu (Reservation required)/A: 15:00-
Open at night
13th (Friday)
After-school children's class/physical education: 13:30~
14th (Sat)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
●English conversation circle/o: 10:00~
15th (Sun)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
●Stuffed Toy Making Workshop / Town: 13:00-16:00
16th (Monday)
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~
Playbook closed day
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
17th (Tuesday)
● Yoji Centre opening hours/Kindergarten: 10:00~ See Niko Niko Hiroba p17
●Free legal consultation by lawyer/Town: 13:00~
Infant health checkups/town: from 13:00
●Soccer class / Niseko Elementary School gymnasium: 17:00~ See Living Information p25
Central warehouse group closed days
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
18th (Wednesday)
●Istre × Brain Training Health Class / Town: 10:00 ~ See Living Information p23
●Radio Niseko Interruption Broadcast/Role: 10:50~
●Japanese Salon/Kura: 16:00-17:30
●Oban desu Mayor's Office / Role: 17:00-19:00
19th (Thursday)
●Asobukkurabu (Reservation required)/A: 15:00-
Open at night
20th (Friday)
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~
21st (Sat)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
22nd (Sun)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
23rd (Monday)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
Playbook closed day
24th (Tuesday)
●Health exercise class/Town: 14:00~
Playbook closed day
Central warehouse group closed days
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
25th (Wednesday)
Parenting class "Playbook Puppet Show" / Preschool: 10:30 ~ See page 17 of the Smiling Plaza
Wednesday Houkago Research Room/Town: 15:30~
26th (Thursday)
●Magic Carpet/A: 15:00~
Open at night
27th (Friday)
After-school children's class/physical education: 13:30~
Public Lectures for the Community/Kutchan Kosei Hospital: 14:00~ See page 20 of the Living Information
Playbook closed day
28th (Sat)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
●English conversation circle/o: 10:00~
March 1st (Sun)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
Niseko High School Graduation Ceremony / Niseko High School: 10:00 (scheduled)
2nd (Monday)
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~
●1st Niseko Town Regular Meeting (Opening) / Role: 10:00~
Playbook closed day
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
3rd (Tue)
●Free legal consultation by lawyer/Town: 13:00~
Central warehouse group closed days
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
4th (Wednesday)
Wednesday Houkago Research Room/Town: 15:30
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
● Emergency and sudden illness response at night and on holidays
Emergency reception 365 days a year
Available 24 hours a day
倶知安厚生病院 TEL 0136-22-1141
◆Deadline is Wednesday the 25th
If you use bank transfer, please check your balance.
■介護保険料の問合せ／保健福祉課 TEL 0136-56-8840
1st (Sun)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
2nd (Monday)
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~
Playbook closed day
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
3rd (Tue)
●Free legal consultation by lawyer/Town: 13:00~
Central warehouse group closed days
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
4th (Wednesday)
Wednesday Houkago Research Room/Town: 15:30~
●Japanese Salon/Kura: 16:00-17:30
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
5th (Thu)
●Mama Cafe/Town: 10:00~
●Asobukkurabu (Reservation required)/A: 15:00-
Open at night
6th (Friday)
●Automatic start-up training for disaster prevention radios / Role: 11:00~ See Living Information p19
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~
7th (Sat)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
●World Festival/Town: 12:00-16:00
8th (Sun)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
Monday 9th
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~
Playbook closed day
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
10th (Tuesday)
●Health exercise class/Town: 14:00~
11th (Wed) National Foundation Day
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
Playbook closed day
12th (Thursday)
●Asobukkurabu (Reservation required)/A: 15:00-
Open at night
13th (Friday)
After-school children's class/physical education: 13:30~
14th (Sat)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
●English conversation circle/o: 10:00~
15th (Sun)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
●Stuffed Toy Making Workshop / Town: 13:00-16:00
16th (Monday)
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~
Playbook closed day
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
17th (Tuesday)
● Yoji Centre opening hours/Kindergarten: 10:00~ See Niko Niko Hiroba p17
●Free legal consultation by lawyer/Town: 13:00~
Infant health checkups/town: from 13:00
●Soccer class / Niseko Elementary School gymnasium: 17:00~ See Living Information p25
Central warehouse group closed days
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
18th (Wednesday)
●Istre × Brain Training Health Class / Town: 10:00 ~ See Living Information p23
●Radio Niseko Interruption Broadcast/Role: 10:50~
●Japanese Salon/Kura: 16:00-17:30
●Oban desu Mayor's Office / Role: 17:00-19:00
19th (Thursday)
●Asobukkurabu (Reservation required)/A: 15:00-
Open at night
20th (Friday)
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~
21st (Sat)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
22nd (Sun)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
23rd (Monday)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
Playbook closed day
24th (Tuesday)
●Health exercise class/Town: 14:00~
Playbook closed day
Central warehouse group closed days
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
25th (Wednesday)
Parenting class "Playbook Puppet Show" / Preschool: 10:30 ~ See page 17 of the Smiling Plaza
Wednesday Houkago Research Room/Town: 15:30~
26th (Thursday)
●Magic Carpet/A: 15:00~
Open at night
27th (Friday)
After-school children's class/physical education: 13:30~
Public Lectures for the Community/Kutchan Kosei Hospital: 14:00~ See page 20 of the Living Information
Playbook closed day
28th (Sat)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
●English conversation circle/o: 10:00~
March 1st (Sun)
Niseko Kids Park / Available: 10:00-16:00
Niseko High School Graduation Ceremony / Niseko High School: 10:00 (scheduled)
2nd (Monday)
After-school children's class/town: 13:30~
●1st Niseko Town Regular Meeting (Opening) / Role: 10:00~
Playbook closed day
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
3rd (Tue)
●Free legal consultation by lawyer/Town: 13:00~
Central warehouse group closed days
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
4th (Wednesday)
Wednesday Houkago Research Room/Town: 15:30
Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum Closed Days
● Emergency and sudden illness response at night and on holidays
Emergency reception 365 days a year
Available 24 hours a day
倶知安厚生病院 TEL 0136-22-1141
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（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。
A large Japanese elm tree enduring the snow and wind. Photographer: Mori-chan
Hondori 2 Neighborhood Association New Year's Party Photographer: Niseko Globe Manufacturing
Illuminated Niseko Station in winter. Photographer: Public Relations Section
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（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。
A large Japanese elm tree enduring the snow and wind. Photographer: Mori-chan
Hondori 2 Neighborhood Association New Year's Party Photographer: Niseko Globe Manufacturing
Illuminated Niseko Station in winter. Photographer: Public Relations Section
Central Warehouse Group News vol.38
We look forward to your continued support in 2026!
Hello! This is Director Matsuda. How did you spend the New Year holidays?
On January 10th, we held the Niseko Central Warehouses Mochitsuki Festival, which we also held last year! This year, with the help of the Niseko Future Support Team NPO and Jugobaa, we think the event was a little more powerful than last year. What did you all think? Once again, thank you to everyone who came out on the day! There may have been some shortcomings, but we hope to continue this as a regular Central Warehouses event at the beginning of the year, so we appreciate your support.
As winter deepens from January to February, we expect to spend more time indoors. For those of you who are spending more time indoors, we have set up "Mini Asobook" collections of books from our Asobook collection in our indoor social space. We have added around 30 new books for January, so please come and enjoy some reading time inside the library.
Niseko Central Warehouse Group (Former Starch Factory)
Opening hours / 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Closed/every Tuesday
TEL:0136-55-5538 FAX:0136-55-5596
Hello! This is Director Matsuda. How did you spend the New Year holidays?
On January 10th, we held the Niseko Central Warehouses Mochitsuki Festival, which we also held last year! This year, with the help of the Niseko Future Support Team NPO and Jugobaa, we think the event was a little more powerful than last year. What did you all think? Once again, thank you to everyone who came out on the day! There may have been some shortcomings, but we hope to continue this as a regular Central Warehouses event at the beginning of the year, so we appreciate your support.
As winter deepens from January to February, we expect to spend more time indoors. For those of you who are spending more time indoors, we have set up "Mini Asobook" collections of books from our Asobook collection in our indoor social space. We have added around 30 new books for January, so please come and enjoy some reading time inside the library.
Niseko Central Warehouse Group (Former Starch Factory)
Opening hours / 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Closed/every Tuesday
TEL:0136-55-5538 FAX:0136-55-5596
DATA OF NISEKO TOWN
The situation of radiation dose in the town
Measurement date: 1 month up to January 15th
Maximum value 0.058μGy/h
Minimum value: 0.020μGy/h
Average value 0.029μGy/h
Space radiation dose rate is normal level
Movement of people (as of the end of December)
Population 5,659 people (+379 compared to previous month)
Male: 2,919 (+212 from the previous month)
Female: 2,740 (+167 from the previous month)
Number of households: 2,381 (+373 from the previous month)
Of these, 1,197 are foreigners
Of these, 1,013 are foreign households
Measurement date: 1 month up to January 15th
Maximum value 0.058μGy/h
Minimum value: 0.020μGy/h
Average value 0.029μGy/h
Space radiation dose rate is normal level
Movement of people (as of the end of December)
Population 5,659 people (+379 compared to previous month)
Male: 2,919 (+212 from the previous month)
Female: 2,740 (+167 from the previous month)
Number of households: 2,381 (+373 from the previous month)
Of these, 1,197 are foreigners
Of these, 1,013 are foreign households
Editor's Note
I love mochi. I enjoy eating mochi regardless of the season, but I particularly love the mochi I eat at New Year's, especially when it's added to zoni. The taste and way of eating zoni varies depending on the region and the household. Apparently, my hometown is quite different from other regions, but the familiar zoni is the best at the beginning of the year.
As we approach the middle of January, the news begins to feature recipes for leftover mochi. Are there really any households with leftover mochi? Amidst all this, the mochi-pounding event held at the Niseko Central Warehouses this year was once again filled with people munching on freshly pounded mochi with gusto. I don't know the truth, but I couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie, thinking that the people who gathered must all love mochi. There are so many people who love mochi. Are there really any households with leftover mochi?
Well, that's all I've written about mochi. Of course, I'd be happy if a botamochi fell from a shelf somewhere, but I hope this year will be filled with unexpected good things and be filled with joy. (Ma)
As we approach the middle of January, the news begins to feature recipes for leftover mochi. Are there really any households with leftover mochi? Amidst all this, the mochi-pounding event held at the Niseko Central Warehouses this year was once again filled with people munching on freshly pounded mochi with gusto. I don't know the truth, but I couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie, thinking that the people who gathered must all love mochi. There are so many people who love mochi. Are there really any households with leftover mochi?
Well, that's all I've written about mochi. Of course, I'd be happy if a botamochi fell from a shelf somewhere, but I hope this year will be filled with unexpected good things and be filled with joy. (Ma)
Inquiries
- Niseko Town Hall
- TEL:0136-44-2121
- FAX:0136-44-3500