Welcome the snow and the new year with Polestar! This issue features Higashikawa, the gateway to Daisetsuzan; a look at recent Japanese educational reforms; a handy checklist for new ALTs to get ready for their new positions; and a look at the (many) HAJET officer positions open – as well as finishing off our series of beginner hiking trails from last issue. Head on over to the Polestar page and check it out!