We left Hirafu on our way to Otaru, a modest city 60km north of Niseko. We had time to visit the markets and canals of Otaru and to take in the spectacular ice and snow sculptures from the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival.

After 2 hours exploring the traditional streets of Otaru, it was time to jump in the bus and head to the house where the dinner would take place.

The house was stunning, true to the romantic vision of Japanese architecture, complete with multiple roofs, Japanese tiles, shoji screens and tatami floors - everything you wish to see!

We entered the gigantic tatami room and after a quick toast we could start the delicious kaiseki dinner, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner.

After a few bites, the entertainment began as the Geisha entered the room, introduced themselves and started dancing to the sound of the three stringed shamisen. The Geisha’s kimonos were immaculate, their dances precise, a truly fantastic show.

We continued to delve into Japanese tradition, with copious amounts of sake and more courses of food, while playing entertaining games with the Geisha and listening to their stories and songs.

We spent 4 hours there but nobody wanted it to end.

We said our goodbyes and got back on to bus to head back to Niseko with glowing smiles all round and everyone ready for another day on the mountain and another adventure.