1-day Backcountry Ski Tour in Hakuba, Japan
4.8
(8)
Join Yusuke, a JMGA-certified alpine and ski guide on this backcountry ski adventure in Japan! On this 1-day trip in Hakuba, you will have an active and relaxing day all at once.
Private
Japan Alps
+1 Days
Jan - Mar, Dec
High
Intermediate
Highlights
- Small, private group of 6 people maximum
- Learn about Japanese culture and techniques to stay zen while skiing
- Backcountry ski in the beatiful powder of the Japanese Alps!
Description
Have you always wanted to backcountry ski in the Japanese Alps? Then join me on this 1-day backcountry ski tour in beautiful Hakuba!
Located about an hour outside of the Nagano Prefecture, Hakuba is an ideal destination for backcountry skiing in Japan. Nestled between powdered mountains and steep inclines, Hakuba sits inside of the idyllic Chubu Sangaku National Park, and offers over 12 meters of powder in some parts.
This trip is particularly special because you will not only receive a guided tour of Hakuba, but also because one of our instructors will be using techniques derived from the art of zen practice. Our instructor will guide you on the mountain, providing you with safety instructions and general tips, you will feel the transcendence of calm. More still, should you be adventurous and want to hike a little, you will find yourself at the bowls of Happo, which ebb along the beautiful north-facing slopes of Mt. Karamatsu.
This adventure is organized as a private trip, and has an individualized guide ratio of 6:1. And Hakuba offers a variety of route options, which we will select based on your skill level. I am certified snowboard guide as well, so snowboarders/splitboarders are also welcome!
Request to book this trip if you have always wanted to ski in the beautiful Japanese Alps!
Price includes
- Guiding fee
- Mountain guide expenses
Meeting point
FAQs
Is this trip suitable for snowboarders? Are splitboards required?
Yes, I am certified snowboard guide so welcome to have snowboarders! Preferably splitboard, but snowshoes are fine. There are rental stores you can rent splitboards in the village.
Can you take a mixed group of skiers and snowboarders?
Yes, no problem to take a mixed group. Ideally snowboarders need to have splitboards (if not, snowshoes are ok). The skiers also need to have alpine touring skis with skins.
What equipment do I need to bring? Can I rent it there?
You should bring your ski gear, including skis or snowboard, boots, skins, and safety equipment like an avalanche beacon, shovel, and probe. Rental shops are available in Hakuba for equipment needs. A backpack of 30-40 liters is recommended. Alpine touring boots and bindings are preferred for skiers; splitboards or snowshoes for snowboarders.
When is the best time to do this activity? When are conditions the best?
The offer period for this tour is from December to March. The best time is mid-January to February for optimal snow conditions. Weekdays are less crowded compared to weekends and holiday periods.
What is the guide to guide ratio?
It trip has an individualized guide ratio of 6:1.
What backcountry skiing experience, and how fit, do I need to be to join this tour?
Previous off-piste and ski touring experience is required. You should be of intermediate skill level and comfortable skiing on various types of snow, including powder. You should be able to handle resort slopes rated black (advanced) and be fit enough to hike uphill for extended periods, ascending 700-1000 vertical meters in a day.
How far in advance should I start training and what kind of training do you suggest?
Training should start at least a few months in advance. Focus on cardiovascular fitness, leg strength, and endurance. Activities like running, cycling, and hiking with a weighted backpack are recommended.
Will we be using lifts to access the backcountry? Are they included in the cost?
Yes, lifts will be used to access the backcountry, but lift passes are not included in the cost. You need to buy a lift pass, and it is recommended to purchase it in advance or at the resort.
Are meals included?
Meals are not included, so bring your own snacks and lunch.
What happens in the event of bad weather?
In case of bad weather, I will assess the situation and decide whether to proceed, modify the route, or cancel the tour for safety reasons.
Are there any other special requirements such as permits/insurance/vaccines that we need to consider before the tour?
No special permits or vaccines are required, but having travel and rescue insurance is recommended.
How can I get to the meeting point? Is it possible to get to the meeting point with public transportation?
The meeting point is in Hakuba, accessible by public transportation. Detailed directions will be provided upon booking.
What’s included in the price I’m paying here? Will there be other costs I’ll need to cover? If yes, which are these?
The price includes the guiding fee and mountain guide expenses. Additional costs include lift passes, equipment rental, and personal expenses.
Are kids allowed? From what age can they make it?
The tour is not recommended for children under 16 due to the physical demands and safety considerations.
What’s the timing of a day? When do we start? When do we finish? For how long are we going to ski?
The day typically starts early in the morning and finishes by late afternoon. Exact timing will be coordinated with me. Skiing duration depends on conditions and group pace.
About the guide
Yusuke
4.9
(41)
Ski Guide
I was born in Tokyo and grew up skiing in Hakuba, Japan. Throughout the years, I have visited Alaska, Peru, Patagonia, New Zealand, Nepal and Canada for winter climbing and backcountry snowboarding.
In 2012, I became the first Japanese person to pass the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides's ski guiding course on a Snowboard. I have been guiding in Japan (Hakuba Nagano and Mt. Fuji), New Zealand and Canada for over 15 years.
Languages
Japanese | English
Certificates
JMGA
What people are saying about this trip
Ross
While the initial comms with the guide was slow, pre trip comms, planning and the actual day was fabulous. We had flexibility to do what we wanted according to skill level and weather/snow conditions. Felt challenged but safe at the same time.
Anthony
Highly recommend Yusuke. We were 2 in our group of intermediate to advanced skiiers with light backcountry experience. We sought out a guide who could help us explore the backcountry / sidecountry with minimal risk, and who'd support our own ongoing avalanche education. - He's very knowledgeable about the Hakuba area and terrain - He's very knowledgeable about snowpack, and willingly talked us through his risk assessment - this helped us feel comfortable and also practice putting some of our knowledge and skills to use which enriched our experience - He is a good communicator, clearly letting us know what he needed from us to minimize risk during the trip (for example traveling on ridge-top terrain) - He paced the trip appropriately for our level of fitness and skiing ability - He's a talented photographer and captured fun moments
Richard
Chris
Yusuke was very experienced and it was a pleasure to spend the day with him. One of the most Remembrall days snowboarding I have had...Thank you Yusuke!
Rydr
Well organised. Knowledgeable and friendly guide. Great place. Couldn’t have been better.
You may also like
Find more off piste skiing trips
Join our newsletter!
Stay up-to-date on the best adventures.