It can, however, just as easily overwhelm, meaning most visitors can get their fill simply by sticking to the "Central" region. Here, modernity rubs lightly up against traditional Japanese ryokans (or guesthouses) and an abundance of natural beauty. Come winter, this region-specifically Niseko-becomes an international ski resort, boasting world-class powder snow. In summer, however, the snow lifts like a serviette from a picnic, and Hokkaido is transformed with cinematic national parks, sprawling flower fields, and volcanic hot spots.
When you think of Colorado mountain towns, skiing hotspots like Aspen, Vail, or Breckenridge might come to mind. But amid the rugged San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, the former mining community of Durango, Colorado, is one of the last bastions of affordable skiing in the state-with easy access to fresh powder and all the Old West charm you could ask for.
Beartooth Basin, a summer-only ski area, opens on May 28, offering unique skiing experiences at high altitude for diehard fans and summer sports enthusiasts.
It's funny how these things stay ingrained in our brains. They seem so random, even insignificant, yet there they are. I've forgotten many of the chemistry lessons, mathematical equations, and historical facts that moved in and out of my brain like conveyor belt sushi.