Hokkaido, Japan - Winter Tales

The first night's sleep while traveling (HOKKAIDO WINTER WANDERINGS) is always restless, don't you agree? For me, as a solo traveler, it's a mix of excitement, adjusting to new surroundings, and maybe a hint of horror movie scenarios playing in my mind - haha! I hardly slept, alone in a new place, managing only about three hours before rising early to shower and layer up in winter clothes, eager for the buffet breakfast. 

The breakfast spread was a tantalizing mix of Asian, Japanese, and Western delights, offering a tempting array of salads, egg dishes, and other mouthwatering treats. I made sure to fuel up with energy-packed foods, gearing up for the adventures that awaited.

Speaking of adventures, the options were laid out: skiing, snowmobile rides, or a relaxing day at the hotel. But in Hokkaido, known for its wild beauty, there was no hesitation - I craved adventure! Both skiing and snowmobile rides were on our own tab, separate from the tour package.

Opting for the snow mobile ride, I embraced the thrill of the unknown. While skiing enthusiasts headed to conquer the slopes of Hilton Niseko Village, our group set off for an exhilarating snowmobile escapade in a nearby area.

Goodness me! Winter in Hokkaido during its peak season - it was quite the challenge! I found myself in a dilemma, wondering if I could handle this hefty, solid mobile contraption, whether you call it a scooter or anything else. Everyone else was already paired up and ready to go. Thanks to a fellow tour buddy who encouraged me with a "You can do it, Ms. Nava!" I geared up with boots, gloves, and helmet, and nervously took the lead, to kick-start our ride.

Honestly, it was a struggle. The mobile was four or five times heavier than me, and at one point, I thought I had reached my limit and should just give up. But somehow, I maneuvered through the narrow, snow-filled uphill path, with snowflakes swirling around like crazy, until we reached the top. After a much-needed 10-minute break, the others were signaled to go ahead, and I ended up being the last one to set off. Self-doubt crept in - why did they let others go first? Was my confidence shattered?

I was also the last to return downhill, greeted by cheers, laughter, and applause from my fellow tour buddies. They clapped for me, and in that moment, I felt like a champion! What an exhilarating experience - there were moments when I feared tumbling off a cliff. Yet, for this lady, it was an achievement I still proudly cherish to this day.

What might seem effortless for others, whether on social media or in stories, the reality of handling that snowmobile in winter was like facing a monstrous challenge. Trust me, if you've ever ridden a snowmobile, you'd understand - it demands determination and a relentless spirit of never giving up.

 

Amidst the giggles and laughter that seemed endless, we made our way to a tiny stall next door for some steaming hot milk. I was so thrilled that I couldn't stop talking excitedly, keeping everyone entertained until it was time to move on.

After all the excitement, we headed to a small restaurant for lunch. The spread was already laid out beautifully, each dish presented with care. A pot of steaming broth simmered with seafood and Japanese vegetables over a gentle flame, accompanied by rice, bento box sides, and hot Japanese tea - a meal that awakened the senses.

Later in the evening, we returned to Hilton Niseko Village. Despite my eagerness to explore, the snow and wind deterred me, and thoughts of the snowmobile ride kept lingering in my mind. Eventually, I settled for a leisurely walk around Nilton Niseko Village until it was time for dinner at Yotei Restaurant. I enjoyed a light meal, bid goodnight to everyone, and retired to my room.

To be continued...