Snowy mountains are just as romantic as a scenic sunset, with everything blanketed in white amidst softly falling snow. This couple chose to embed the story of how they met into their bridal portraits, having met while on a ski trip, and the groom-to-be later popping the question right here in Niseko, Japan.
These beautiful bridal portraits were taken by Niseko Photography, professional ski and action photographers who managed to capture the couple’s wide smiles despite the heavy snowfall and cold temperatures on the day of the photoshoot.
Interested in something similar? Here are some tips and information that might be useful.
Which is the best month to be photographed in Niseko? Both summer and winter in Niseko are spectacular but completely different! In winter, January and February definitely have the most snow, but it is also the busiest month and it doesn’t really stop snowing during that period. Snowy days can provide a spectacular result; however, if you do want more sunshine for photos and fewer people, then March might be a safer option. In summer, the best time would definitely be July to September. There are flowers and fresh produce everywhere, and there is also a really nice cultural vibe during that time of year, with many local festivals and events occurring.
What is the best way to travel to Niseko? The best way is via a flight to Sapporo. There are direct flights to Sapporo from many countries, or you can fly via Tokyo or Osaka. Once in Sapporo, you can catch a bus, train or private taxi to Niseko. Most accommodation providers will help customers to organise their transfers.
Are there any other skiing mountains that you can recommend besides Niseko? Rusutsu is a great mountain, with lots to do and some great photography locations. In the summer, they have a theme park, with a petting zoo and carousel. There are also some great mountains closer to Sapporo, including Kiroro, Kokusai and Teine. We offer tours and photography services at all of these mountains and more.
Would a couple who don’t know how to ski be able to do a photoshoot like this? Most of the shots that we take are not on the mountain, so I would very much recommend anyone who’s interested to do their pre-wedding photographs in Niseko… or even have their wedding here! There are many beautiful places to visit, including stunning locations with Mt Youtei as a backdrop, forests, steamy onsens, shrines and temples, snowy fields and farmland, and even lakes and sometimes waterfalls.
Do you have any tips for couples who might be interested? Get in touch with us and we can help you to plan everything. Also, book well in advance! Niseko is very busy in the winter so if you want to get accommodation and a photographer, it is best to book as soon as possible. I also very much recommend bringing some form of waterproof boot or gumboot. High heels are useless in Niseko in the winter.
KYLA & CHOON {Japan}
Photography by Niseko Photography & Guiding / Additional Image Editing Kyla (Bride) / Location Hirafu, Niseko, Hokkaido
{Read more about this in the magazine}