Japan Trip 2023.
After nearly three years, I flew back to Japan for Hakuba Gay Ski Week.
The journey begins…
Waiting for my flight to Japan. 
It was a rookie mistake flying out from so close to the border. Didn’t realise the clock on my phone had changed, and I’ve been doing everything today an extra hour early.
The journey so far… Narita to Nozawaonsen.
First snowfall of the trip!
Penke Bar. My home away from home. Also, I found A walrus!
Hakuba isn’t ready for the three of us. May the shenanigans and tomfoolery begin!
Photo dump of the last few days. Hakuba Gay Ski Week has definitely been a vibe!
The Japanese alps looked stunning last night!
Seriously the beauty of this place never ceases to impress me.
Tiptoeing through the wasabi gardens.
Explored Matsumoto Castle. The structure dates back to the 1500s and is also known as the “Crow Castle” due to its black exterior.
Penke Lips Party. Running around in a dress all night was a vibe.
Onesie adventures on the slopes Iwatake. Stacked it several times, including taking down one of the fences. But at least my onesie looked good!
We visited the Japanese Snow Monkeys. They have a pretty good life chilling around the onsen all day.
The Zenko-Ji Temple. The architecture and gardens were absolutely breathtaking.
I tried snowboarding for the first time today and while I’ve got the skill of a drunken elephant, I kinda dig it over skiing.
The queers are here and we’re ready to climb Candy Mountain!
Everyone say “GAY!”
There’s something truly beautiful and inspiring about walking down the slopes and showing our pride for such a wondrous and diverse community! It’s these little moments that give me the feels!
So my time at Hakuba has come to an end and I find myself with a mixture of emotions. Hakuba Gay Ski Week 2023 was without a doubt one of the most special experiences of my life.
I caught up with some familiar faces, as well as some new ones and in the process made memories that will last a lifetime. I’d be lying if I didn’t say Penke Panke has become another home away from home, it was hard to hold back the tears today as I said some of my farewells. But I also take comfort in knowing I’ll be back again. So, for some, it’s just a “See Ya Later”
Lost in translation… Shinjuku is a vibe.
It was the perfect day to venture through the Shinjuku National Gardens. Absolutely gorgeous, and I definitely recommend doing it if you’re in town.
There is never enough time to explore this city!
My adventures in Japan are coming to an end tomorrow. Not quite ready, but I take comfort in knowing this isn’t the last I will see of this fantastic country.
As the saying goes, all good things come to an end. It’s a little bittersweet. It’s been one hell of a ride and can’t wait to return in the not too distant future.
