Deep powder & a unique mountain culture in the land of the rising sun…
Japan is known for its deep low-density powder and perfectly spaced birch forests. The amazing hot-spring network & incredible food also contribute to the uniqueness of this cultural ski experience. Join us and explore this mythical ski paradise as we return to Hokkaido in Jan 2025.
Hokkaido is the Northern island of Japan, David will be running two separate trips in late Jan 2025. The focus will be on sampling backcountry terrain near the various resorts and road access venues. Our daily excursions will include a mixture of classic open birch forest skiing along with open alpine terrain with possible ski peaks.
Both trips are exciting week-long programs including 6-7 days of ski touring. We will stay at a B & B in the valley from where we will do ski touring day trips in the backcountry near various ski resorts & road accessible venues. We will drive you in a Van to and from the various touring locations, all venues range from a 20 to 50-minute drive. At the end of the day, we will relax in one of the many amazing traditional Japanese hot-springs (onsen) before going out for a group dinners. Contact us for additional details.
Venues in the Niseko area include:
- Nito & Iwao areas
- Chisenupuri
- Mount Yotei
- Mount Shiribetsu-dake
- Kiroro Backcountry
Venues in the Furano area include:
- Asahi Dake
- Furano-Nishi
- Mt Sahoro
- Kamui backcountry
- Tokachi-Dake
- Kurodake Backcountry
- Mt Tomamu
Venues in Northern Hokkaido include:
- Rishiri Island
- Horokanai
- Shimo Pass
- Mont Kamajiri area
- Kiritachi Pass
Advanced downhill skills preferred, previous powder ski touring experience required.
Niseko & Furano are located on the North Island of Hokkaido. It is about a 2hrs drive West of the city of Sapporo to Niseko & 2hrs East of Sapporo to Furano by Vehicle. Sapporo (CTS) is the place to fly to. From North America, it takes 2days to fly to Sapporo however, it is possible to return to North America in 1day after your trip. Transportation options from the airport to Niseko or Furano include; shuttles (private or public) and regional train.
Japan’s weather is generally mild and wet as it is a maritime climate. In the mountains, however, mid-winter daytime temperatures will hover between -7C & -12C.
Visibility may be poor or whiteout conditions when snowing heavily or clear on bluebird days. Ensure you are dressed for all variations as temperatures, wind, precipitation can change within the day.
Where can I rent Ski touring and safety equipment?
There are a few outdoor stores in Niseko and Furano that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment however ski touring rentals here are limited. We can provide some avalanche equipment if needed, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.
Skis, Telemark or Split Boards?
Which should you use? If you are a downhill skier then you should use Alpine Touring gear. Only if you are already an advanced Telemark skier or Snowboarder should you bring Telemark or Split Board gear. All types of gear can be rented in Nelson prior to your day trip. There are three types of backcountry systems you can use:
Alpine Touring skis are essentially downhill skis with a special touring binding which allows the heel to lift whilst going uphill or across the flats and then ‘locks down’ to become a regular downhill safety binding. We recommend this system to anyone with a background of downhill skiing who is not already an advanced telemark skier.
Telemark skis. These should only be used for this program if you are at least an intermediate telemark skier with some backcountry experience. This system is more difficult and less forgiving than others.
Snowboarding with a Split Board is the most effective way to snowboard in the backcountry. On this touring weeks, guests must be using a split board system as snowshoes are limiting for group travel.
