The northern Japanese island of Hokkaido, home to many of the country’s most famous resorts and one of the snowiest places on earth again this winter is celebration a century of skiing in 2012.

At Niseko, each of the four linked resorts are hosting a variety of celebratory events, including fireworks, a visit from the Australian Chamber Orchestra, and Niseko's 2nd Annual Winter Festival from March 10-18.

“Both Grand Hirafu and Niseko Annupuri resorts are open right through to May 6 this year, so don't hesitate to make a booking for late season (we get plenty of snow and lots of blue-sky days in March) or spring skiing through April,” said a statement from the resort.

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