You will never forget these 5 days (6 nights) in Rishiri with Toshiya, local JMGA certified mountain guide. Ski touring here is simply incomparable!
5 Days
Jan - Mar
Intermediate
Beginner
Looking for a quiet and beautiful destination for ski touring in Japan? Rishiri is a circular island with one large mountain. It is located in northern Japan, off the coast of Hokkaido. Join me for 5 days of ski touring and splitboarding that you will never forget!
Rishiri's mountain, with its many ridges and bowls, has no chairlifts. It is thus ideal for backcountry skiing, and it is in fact the only way to ski down the most beautiful slopes!
There is a snowmobile available to travel longer distances as long as they are rather flat. This will allow us to explore a vast portion of the island. In fact, joining for 5 days is a great option if you want to make the most of your trip. There are so many options to ski in Rishiri!
I run a hostel with my family, which is where we will stay during this adventure. It is warm and cosy, and it has an onsen. Besides, we serve breakfast and dinner so you will get to experience true Japanese cuisine. As I recommend to arrive the night prior to the start of the program and leave the day after we finish the ski trip, I included 6 nights for this 5-day trip. If you want to combine it in a different way, have a look at this other program.
As I am a local, I know all the best spots in the island and I will certainly enjoy taking you to all my favourite secret places.
If this program tempted you, don't hesitate to book it and let's set a date! I would love to guide you in this island that I call home.
I also organize this trip in 3 days or 4 days, check out those options if you don't have enough time! Or you can choose a backcountry skiing day trip without accommodation.
More info
You will have to arrive on Rishiri island the night before and it is recommended to leave the day after the tour.
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:
Insurance: please ensure that each member of your group is covered by an appropriate insurance policy that also covers mountain rescue operations.
Meeting point
Not sure whether to go for the 3, 4, or 5-day backcountry trip. How can I decide?
You have the freedom to select the duration that best suits your preferences and schedule, whether it's 3, 4, or 5 days. Your choice can be based on your convenience. For additional information about the 4-day Backcountry skiing trip, you can refer to this link:
I prefer splitboarding. Can I use a splitboard instead of skis?
Absolutely! Using a splitboard is completely acceptable.
What is covered in the tour price?
The tour price includes expenses for accommodation, breakfast, dinner, and guide fees. Please be aware that snowmobile fees are separate and should be paid in cash on the morning of the tour.
Do I need to bring specific gear like crampons or ice axes?
Ski crampons are frequently used on Mt. Rishiri, so it is advisable to bring them along. If you already have crampons or an ice axe, please bring them. Additionally, you need to bring items such as avalanche gear, backpacks, and airbags, and your skiing or snowboarding equipment.
There are no backcountry equipment or rental shops on Rishiri Island. Everyone brings their own gear.
What is the tour schedule, and how do we begin?
Typically, the tour sets off in the morning from Pension Lelamoshiri. Snowmobiles are employed for the approach, and the associated fees may vary.
Can I rent any equipment or gear in Rishiri?
No, unfortunately there are no backcountry equipment or rental shops on Rishiri Island. You need to bring your own gear, which you can rent in other places in Japan if you don't want to bring it from your home country.
What are some recommended accommodations near our adventure location?
4.8
(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
Mikko
5
Outstanding service in pension and guiding.
Ben
5
Had a great time on Rishiri with Toshi. He really knows how to make the best out of all weather conditions. Had some of the best skiing of my life, plus the food was great!
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