As high as a kite in Annupuri
If you are driving near the Annupuri ski resort around dawn or dusk during the summer months you may have noticed a strange yellow object in the sky. It is the Niseko Balloon and recently I got the chance to check it out. I headed out to the Niseko Annupuri Ski Resort at 4pm as I wanted to see the whole process of setting up a hot air balloon.
![set up Step 1: lay out your balloon](/sites/default/files/styles/property_image_gallery_large/public/2021-04/imgp1271_0.jpg?itok=HZRrgvV2)
![Filling the Balloon Step 2: Use a big fan to fill balloon](/sites/default/files/styles/property_image_gallery_large/public/2021-04/imgp1272.jpg?itok=5s3EyVGA)
![Inside Balloon Step 3: Stand inside the balloon](/sites/default/files/styles/property_image_gallery_large/public/2021-04/imgp1279.jpg?itok=n929Yv68)
![Heating up Step 4: Turn up the heat](/sites/default/files/styles/property_image_gallery_large/public/2021-04/imgp1298.jpg?itok=WD_bgB7l)
![we have lift off Step 5: Keep heating until the balloon rises](/sites/default/files/styles/property_image_gallery_large/public/2021-04/imgp1281.jpg?itok=Isl43TLx)
![Success Step 6: Yatta! & don't forget to tie it down](/sites/default/files/styles/property_image_gallery_large/public/2021-04/imgp1288.jpg?itok=FF49aKAr)
Interesting but obvious fact: The temperature of the air at the top of the balloon is around 100 degrees Celsius. The Niseko Balloon operates mornings and evenings from June 1st to October 12th weather permitting. The balloon is tethered so you won't accidentally fly away and will take you to a height of 30m providing great views of the surrounding area.
![Pack up All good things come to an end](/sites/default/files/styles/property_image_gallery_large/public/2021-04/imgp1303.jpg?itok=40g2ef8X)
A big thanks to the great Niseko Balloon staff (I owe you a beer)