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Where to Ski in Japan

Where to Ski in Japan: Hokkaido Backcountry Adventure

Welcome to Japan's ski touring and splitboarding haven, the Hokkaido Backcountry Tour, which is guided by PowderQuest with lift assistance. Hokkaido is a legend in the backcountry skiing community because of its world-class powder, which is produced by a special mix of meteorological circumstances that result in almost daily snow dumps. You can fully immerse yourself in Japan's rich culture while exploring this enchanted snow wonderland on our advanced-to-expert-focused ski tour.

Two key locations serve as the foundation for this backcountry trip: the rural community of Furano and the historic coastal city of Otaru. The tour includes off-piste powder laps, backcountry skiing, and splitboarding, and it offers access to eight Hokkaido ski resorts. PowderQuest's qualified ACMG and IFMGA guides lead the journey. Since the goal is to chase the fabled Hokkaido powder, daily itineraries are flexible enough to let you ski the best spots based on overnight snowfall and conditions.

Key Highlights of the Trip

  • Local Culture & Expert Guidance: Two PowderQuest guides host meals every evening with assistance from a Japanese-speaking guide, ensuring you discover new tracks while exchanging perspectives on Hokkaido's local culture.
  • Small Group Advantage: With only six people per trip, you can move through the mountains more quickly and complete more powder laps.
  • Enjoy a week of versatile skiing at Kiroro, Teine, Sapporo Kokusai, Furano, Tomamu, Kamui, and Asahidake in the backcountry and in secret locations with the Powder Chasing Itinerary.
  • Relaxation & Wellness: After a day on the slopes, unwind in cozy lodgings with calming onsen hot spring spas.
  • Culinary Experiences: Refuel every evening at our guides' preferred local eateries with delectable Japanese fare, locally made beer, and sake.

Where You’ll Stay

Enjoy comfortable accommodations in Otaru and Furano, with cozy rooms, private bathrooms, and soothing onsen baths to relax after a day on the slopes.

Otaru

The Otaru Canal, the shopping area, and the Otaru City Art Museum are all easily accessible by foot from the carefully chosen 4-star hotels where visitors stay. After a day on the mountain, guests can unwind in the spas and private baths in each room.

Furano

Furano offers carefully chosen 4-star hotels with cozy beds, private bathrooms, and traditional Japanese onsen spas. While room options include twin-bed arrangements, larger double beds for couples, and single room upgrades, social areas let you interact with your group.

Conclusion

Hokkaido provides a once-in-a-lifetime skiing experience for both culture-vultures and powder-hounds. The PowderQuest Hokkaido tour offers the perfect balance of luxury, adventure, and Japanese cultural immersion, with everything from deep backcountry lines to relaxing in hot springs and enjoying local food. Hokkaido offers countless powder and life-changing experiences, whether it's your first visit to Japan or your second visit to pursue the fabled JAPOW.


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