Typhoon Fitow, which is barrelling into China's east coast packing winds of more than 200km/h, has killed at least five people and impacted three million.

The secretary-general of North Korea's ski association views the sprawling alpine landscape before him with unabashed pride.

Two words go far in Japan's ski towns, finds Kieran Nash.

"Pro! Pro!" The honking, nasal call is quickly absorbed by the uncomfortably moisture-heavy forest canopy. We scan the dense tangle of tree trunks and twisted vines, waiting for a response.