Hokkaido Backcountry & Resort Skiing Tour: Explore Japan’s Best Powder Snow
Experience the best powder skiing in Japan with a Hokkaido backcountry skiing tour. Ski iconic areas like Niseko, Furano, and Asahidake, guided by expert locals, with cozy lodges, onsens, and unforgettable terrain.
Group
Daisetsuzan
8 Days
Jan, Feb
High
Advanced
Highlights
- Ski in the famous powder snow regions of Niseko, Furano, and Asahidake.
- Enjoy a mix of resort and backcountry skiing with expert local guides.
- Relax in natural hot springs and stay in cozy mountain lodges for the ultimate après-ski experience.
Description
Discover the best of Hokkaido’s world-renowned powder on this 8-day backcountry and resort skiing tour. Explore legendary ski areas like Niseko, Furano, and Asahidake, where you’ll enjoy both lift-accessed slopes and off-piste backcountry terrain, all guided by an expert local JMGA guide Aki Tachimoto.
This adventure combines the thrill of resort skiing with the excitement of untouched powder, offering a perfect balance for intermediate to advanced skiers. Your certified guide will ensure you have the best experience, whether you're carving through Niseko's famous powder or venturing into more remote terrain in Furano and Asahidake.
After a full day of skiing, relax in cozy accommodations, enjoy traditional onsens, and savor local Hokkaido cuisine. This is the ultimate Hokkaido ski tour, blending adventure, culture, and world-class powder.
This tour is perfect for those seeking to explore the legendary Hokkaido powder while being guided by someone who knows the mountains like no one else.
Ready for the ultimate Hokkaido ski experience? Book your adventure today!
Price includes
- Accommodation included
- Guiding fee
- Breakfast
- Transport during the trip
Price details
- Included: 7 nights accommodation | All breakfasts and selected dinners | Daily ski guiding with certified mountain guides | All ground transportation | Cultural experiences (onsens, regional cuisine)
- Not Included: International flights | Lift tickets (Ikon Pass valid) | Lunches, drinks, and meals not listed | Travel/medical insurance | Personal expenses
Meeting point
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Sapporo & Transfer to Otaru
Meet your host, check in to the hotel, gear check, and welcome dinner.
Day 2: Resort Skiing at Sapporo Kokusai
Lift-accessed powder laps and sidecountry tours.
Day 3: Backcountry Day near Otaru
Touring the coastal ranges and exploring glades with sea views.
Day 4: Niseko Lift-Access & Sidecountry
Skiing Niseko’s famous powder, gates, and sidecountry terrain.
Day 5: Rusutsu Resort & Touring Zones
Explore Rusutsu’s playful terrain and nearby backcountry zones.
Day 6: Transfer to Asahikawa
Travel through scenic Hokkaido valleys, stop for lunch in Sapporo.
Day 7: Kamui Ski Links & Optional Touring
Ski at Kamui Ski Links with lift-access terrain and optional backcountry.
Day 8: Departure
Breakfast and transfer to Asahikawa Airport for departure.
Details
Accommodation
Boutique Guesthouses in Otaru & Asahikawa with authentic Japanese character and onsen access.
Hotel in Niseko for easy access to ski lifts and backcountry gates.
Traditional Ryokan Experience (optional, depending on availability) with tatami rooms and local cuisine.
More info
- Add-ons like private room upgrades and avalanche safety kit rentals are available.
- Rental gear is available in Niseko and Furano upon request.
- Optional heli-skiing day (subject to availability).
Equipment you will need to bring
Ski & Safety Equipment: Touring skis or splitboard (with touring bindings) Climbing skins (pre-cut and tested) Adjustable ski poles Ski or snowboard boots (compatible with your setup) Avalanche beacon (3-antenna, with fresh batteries) Probe (minimum 240 cm) Shovel (metal blade) Backpack (30–40L, with ski/snowboard carry system) Helmet Goggles (low-light and sunny lenses)
Technical Clothing: Base layers (top and bottom – merino or synthetic) Insulating mid-layer (fleece or light puffy) Waterproof & breathable shell jacket (Gore-Tex or similar) Waterproof shell pants or bibs Down or synthetic insulated jacket (for rest breaks) Ski socks (2–3 pairs, wool or synthetic) Neck gaiter or buff Warm hat / beanie Lightweight gloves (for touring) Insulated gloves or mittens (for descents) Liner gloves (optional) Sunglasses (with UV protection)
Lodge & Après-Ski Clothing: Comfortable clothes for the lodge Slippers or sandals Swimsuit (for onsen / hot springs) Lightweight towel (optional – some onsen provide them) Toiletries & personal medication Travel-size first aid kit Earplugs (recommended for shared accommodations)
Optional & Extras: Avalanche airbag backpack (optional but recommended) Snow study kit (for advanced users) GPS/watch with altimeter Camera or GoPro Power bank (cold drains battery fast) Japanese plug adapter (Type A/B, 100V)
FAQs
Do I need prior backcountry experience?
Yes, this trip is designed for skiers with intermediate to advanced skills and backcountry experience.
What happens if the weather changes during the tour?
The itinerary is flexible, and guides will adapt daily based on weather conditions.
Is rental gear available for the trip?
Yes, rental gear is available in Niseko or Furano upon request. Make sure to inform us in advance if you need rental equipment.
What is the expected temperature during the trip?
The expected temperatures will range from -5°C to -20°C. However, weather conditions in Hokkaido can change rapidly, so it’s important to be prepared for a variety of conditions.
What type of gear will I need to bring for the backcountry portion of the trip?
You’ll need to bring avalanche safety gear (beacon, probe, shovel) and your own touring skis or splitboard if you have them. Rental options for these items are also available in Niseko and Furano.
When will I receive the pre-departure checklist?
A final pre-departure checklist will be sent to you 10 days before the trip. This will include essential information to ensure you're fully prepared for the adventure.
About the guide
Esnativa
5.0
(1)
Mountain Guide
EsNativa Backcountry is a guiding service based in Santiago and Patagonia, Chile-Argentina. Founded in 2020, we have a team of certified guides from UAIGM, ACGM, and AGCM. We are passionate, certified, and professional, with many of our guides having over 10 years of experience with us.
We specialize in backcountry touring and ski trips, offering an exclusive service for small groups. We are 100% locally owned and operated.
As local operators, we focus on the Andes mountains, where we have extensive experience in the best backcountry skiing locations. Our aim is to provide a personalized experience for our clients, from our base of operations to the guides, ensuring they have the best cultural and sporting experience in the Andes.
Languages
English | French | Spanish
Certificates
IFMGA | AAGM
What people are saying about Esnativa
Waclaw
Great Company for exploring Chile with skis !
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