It's 24+ hours of travel. Tips for layovers in Dubai/Doha and how to arrive fresh for the slopes.
The Endurance Test There is no direct flight from SA to Japan. You are going through the Middle East or Asia. The Reality: If you try to do CPT -> DXB -> NRT -> CTS -> Niseko in one push, you will be broken. Your first 2 days of skiing will be ruined by exhaustion. --- 1. The "Middle East" Break Emirates/Qatar: Break the trip. Spend 24 hours in Dubai or Doha. Sleep in a real bed.
Swim in a pool. The Gear:: If you check your ski bag through, make sure you keep your boots with you or ensure the airline has a good track record. 2. The "Tokyo" Buffer Don't fly into Tokyo and immediately jump on a domestic flight to Sapporo. The Strategy: Stay 1 night near Haneda/Narita. Use the Yamato Transport counter to ship your skis to Niseko immediately. The Result:: You fly to Sapporo the next morning feeling fresh, carrying only a backpack. 3.
Hydration Strategy Plane Air: It is 10% humidity. Japan Hotel Air:: It is 20% humidity. Yuki's Rule: Drink 1 cup of water for every hour of flight. No alcohol on the plane. Save the drinking for the Izakaya. --- Treat the travel as part of the holiday, not just a hurdle. A night in Tokyo or Dubai adds to the adventure and saves your legs.