Three Weeks Since Opening Ceremony! December 30 2009, 10:04am via thevaleniseko.com

NISADE Chairman Jonathan Martin enjoys the moment at the opening ceremony three weeks ago.

Jonathan Martin bows respectfully to Shibata San, the former owner of Snow Universe, the ski-in ski-out onsen hotel which stood on the spot of The Vale Niseko being been demolished just 18 months ago to make way for NISADE’s masterplan project. Several timbers were rescued from the old hotel and have been used to make the reception desk and onsen door - much to the surprise and delight of Shibata San.

NISADE President Kal Bragg, thanks sincerely the construction partners whose have shown committment to the project throughout and placed their confidence in NISADE that we could deliver on our objectives.

Jonathan and several Shacho (CEOs) of our partner firms smash open an enormous sake barrel to start the evenings festivities.

Sake to glasses for all the 140plus invitees in attentendance.

Amongst many flowers in water we received from members of the local business community (as is custom in Japan when a new business opens in an area) we received some flowers in ice, which still grace our ain entrance today.

The day began with a traditional Japanese Shinto ceremony. Just as the local Shinto priest blessed the development site at the ground breaking ceremony, he returned to bless the finished building as we embark on our first year of business.

The crowd were wowed by a very unique tribal dance from an authentic Ainu tribe. The Ainu are the indiginous tribe of Hokkaido, and feature in much of the comissioned artwork through the building. We were honored to have the tribes chief come with his tribe and partake in our opening cermemony.

The partying truly began after a powerful 12 person Japanese Taiko drumming performance accompanied by an exciting fire spinning performance. After property tours of stunning condominiums upstairs, an open bar and three course meal at the polished and professional Vale Bar & Grill (VBG) went down a treat with all.

NISADE staff at the party, proudly wearing their uniforms, excited about welcoming out guests to Niseko this winter!