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4-day Backcountry skiing in Rishiri (accommodation included)

4-day Backcountry skiing in Rishiri (accommodation included) | Japan

Join Toshiya, local JMGA certified guide, ski touring or splitboarding during 4 fantastic days (5 nights) in the Japanese island of RIshiri.

Private

4 Days

Jan - Mar

Occasional

Beginner


Description

I invite you in this occasion backcountry skiing in the magical island of Rishiri during 4 days (5 nights). In the north of Japan, off the northern coast of Hokkaido, Rishiri stands out with one very large mountain. Trust me and come to "get lost" in this ski touring paradise!

As I live in Rishiri (and I was actually born here as well) I know the island like the back of my hand. The mountain in this circular island hides extremely varied terrains of different difficulties and always of an outstanding beauty.

Ski touring and splitboarding are the the norm in the island, since there are no chairlifts. Therefore, you might imagine that it is not exactly a crowded destination. If you are looking to enjoy the solitude as you go up and down the slopes, Rishiri is ideal!

We will stay in the guesthouse that I own and manage together with my family. It is a beautiful place to unwind and rest each evening, very peaceful indeed. It has an onsen (hot spring bath) to relax. Besides, you will taste our delicious cuisine.

I recommend to come the day before the skiing starts and leave the day after it ends, which is why I included 5 nights in this 4-day trip. If you would prefer another option, check out this more general program in Rishiri.

We will use a snowmobile to cover flat and long distances. In that way we will gain access to more remote locations, to then ascend with the skins on. The exact itinerary will depend on the weather and snow conditions, as well as your level.

We will divide the group in 2 and each subgroup will spend the day with a different guide. There are no rental places in the island, so please remember to bring all your equipment (including safety equipment).

Interested in joining me in this beautiful Japanese island for the best backcountry ski? Then please book this trip so we can make the final arrangements!

I also offer a 3-day and a 5-day option with accommodation included, check them out! Or you can also choose a backcountry skiing day trip in Rishiri.

Price includes

- Accommodation included

- Guiding fee

- Breakfast

- Dinner

Price details

The price will depend on the number of people joining (whether you came as a group or you are joining an existing one).

Please note that for this 4-day trip, 5 nights of accommodation are included (with breakfast and dinner).

Bath Tax is included in the price


Details

More info

You will have to arrive on Rishiri island the night before and it is recommended to leave the day after the tour (therefore there is 1 more night of accommodation included in the price).

As we will be 2 guides running the program, we will split the group by friends or by level.

Price: the price at the time of booking depends on the group size at that time. If the group size changes on the actual day, then the difference will be refunded (if more clients) or will have to be covered by the clients (if fewer clients).

I can help you with the transportation from the ferry terminal or the airport to the lodge.

Please note that there will be additional cost as below to be paid directly to me on the spot:

  • Onsen tax: JPY 150 per person per night, if you are staying at my guesthouse
  • Snowmobile cost: JPY 1,000-3,000 per person per day depending on the route chosen for the day

Insurance: please ensure that each member of your group is covered by an appropriate insurance policy that also covers mountain rescue operations

Meeting point

You can fly from Sapporo's Okazu Airport to Rishiri Airport or from Haneda Airport to Wakkanai Airport, where you can come to Rishiri Island by ferry from Wakkanai. If you come by ferry we'll be able to pick you up at the ferry terminal for free.

FAQs

I am unsure about whether to opt for the 3, 4, or 5-day backcountry trip. How can I decide?

You have the flexibility to choose the duration that suits you best, whether it's 3, 4, or 5 days. Your choice can be based on your preferences and schedule. For more details on the 5-day Backcountry skiing trip, you can visit this link: https://www.explore-share.com/trip/5-day-backcountry-skiing-rishiri/

Is it possible to join an existing group for the backcountry trip?

Absolutely, you can join an existing group for the backcountry trip, and I'll assist you in making these arrangements.

I prefer splitboarding. Can I use a splitboard instead of skis?

Certainly! Using a splitboard is perfectly fine.

What's included in the tour price?

The tour price covers accommodation fees, breakfast, dinner, and guide fees. Please note that snowmobile fees are separate and should be paid in cash on the morning of the tour.

Do I need to bring specific equipment such as crampons or ice axes?

Ski crampons are commonly used on Mt. Rishiri, so it's recommended to bring them along. If you have crampons or an ice axe, please bring them as well. Additionally, items like avalanche gear, backpacks, and airbags are available for rent. However, participants must bring their sliding equipment (skis or snowboards).

What is the tour itinerary, and how do we get started?

Typically, the tour departs in the morning from Pension Lelamoshiri. Snowmobiles are used for the approach, and their fees may vary.

About the guide

Guide profile image

-Toshiya

4.90

(22)

Ski Guide

I was born on the island of Rishiri in 1969. I still live here today! Since my childhood, I have spent most of my time in the sea, going fishing, and in the mountain going skiing. I’m a ski guide (level 2) from the Japanese Mountain Guide Association. I’m the only one on the island. I have reached the summit of Rishiri more than 500 times… It’s my great pleasure to guide here and let people from all around the world discover this beautiful island all year round. Please feel free to get in touch with me if you are looking for a local expert to guide you in Rishiri. Besides mountain guiding, I'm managing a family hostel here so I can help you with the accommodation as well.

Languages

Japanese | English

Certificates

JMGA

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What people are saying about this trip

Chris

5.00

Toshi and his staff are great! Very knowledgeable of the local terrain. Definitely recommend bringing a group of people with similar abilities and objectives. If you end up in a mixed group they do their best, but they have to slow the pace to the least experienced people in the group. The accommodations at the pension were very comfortable and the staff was excellent as well. Food was fantastic, including several unique and authentic Japanese dishes.

Bruce

5.00

I recommend this trip for any backcountry skier who likes to ski Japan powder. Toshi has a great set up with snow mobiles for initial access and a large variety of steeper terrain for skinning up and skiing down. Can suit a range of wind directions and conditions. The accommodation is new and comfortable and the Japanese dinners and breakfasts are great if you like seafood. There is also an onsen there. Unfortunately we were there at a time when there was no new snow however this was compensated for with the magnificent views we had if Rishiri mountain and surrounding islands.


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