Guide diaries: Alexa Hohenberg
When it comes to local secrets, there are no better experts than our guides here at Niseko Photography & Guiding. We’re spending the next few weeks asking each of them a series of questions. Next up is Alexa Hohenberg, our lead cat ski guide. Alexa is a fully-qualified Heli Ski US Mechanised Guide and Canadian Operations 1 Avalanche professional. The last 5 years have seen her graduate from a professional freestyle snowboarder to a big mountain rider.
Where did you grow up, Alexa?
Born and bred in South London, UK. But call Manly Beach, Australia home.
How did you start boarding?
Age 8 I went on my first ski holiday and then age 11 started snowboarding. I begged my parents to let me stay with friends with a chalet in Morzine, France. Keen to get rid of me, I spent multiple Easter holidays building kickers in their garden and launching myself off stuff. Snowboarding was all I’ve ever wanted to do since those early days.
Favourite local spot to ski or board:
You can’t beat Mt. Yotei for the great fall-line skiing, long ride and interesting finger-like terrain features and gulleys. I also love the ‘Stacks” area of our Cat Ski terrain.
Favourite thing to do on a day off:
This year I have been surfing off the north and south coast. Outrageously cold but such an incredible experience. The waves here are excellent… and no one out!
Favourite place to eat:
I like exploring the smaller local restaurants in Kutchan. It still has that small-town Japanese vibe. I love the coffee shop Sprout. I go there every day for my cafine addiction.
Favourite piece of guiding or photography equipment:
Niskeo gets so cold. When ski touring I feel it the most, especially in my hands. The Black Diamond “Guide Glove” has been a life/hand saver. I’ve brought several pairs as gifts for friends as they are so good.
It’s a powder day! What do you do first?
Check the weather, make a plan, grab a coffee.
What do you love about Japan?
The snow would be the obvious answer so I’ll say the onsens especially the ones with ice baths, anything made from Yuzu which is a Japanese citrus fruit that is amazing in a liquor, and the kindness of the people. In no other country in the world would a restaurant owner take a surfboard he shaved himself off his wall, and give it to me to ride. The Japanese are incredibly kind.
What do you wish you knew about Japan before you got here?
I wish I was prepared for how cold it gets. This year is my 5th season so I’m pretty well acclimatised now but the first couple of years were a learning experience. Ditch anything made of cotton, get good quality thermals and socks and invest in a great down-jacket. You will need it!