Included: An experienced & IFMGA/ACMG Mountain Guide with extensive knowledge of the area 11-day Hokkaido ski trip Accommodation for 10 nights in authentic ryokans, double occupancy All breakfasts and dinners All necessary transfers during the tour Taxes Group gear (altimeter, map and compass, GPS, snow study kit, snow and/or bush saw, group first aid kit, emergency tarp, emergency toboggan, group repair kit, radio & satellite phone) Not included: Transportation to Japan & starting/end point Lift tickets Lunches & drinks Personal expenses Insurance — available to add at checkout Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

In order to join this Hokkaido ski trip, you have to have prior backcountry skiing experience . You should be comfortable with daily elevation gains of 1,300-1,500 m (4.265-4,920 ft). Most ski runs will be of intermediate difficulty, but you can expect regular sections of advanced terrain, including steeper tree skiing and challenging alpine conditions such as hardpack and sastrugi. It’s also recommended to have taken an AST-1 course prior to the trip. For more ski adventures in Japan, click here !

Waiver and release of liability

Liability waivers are a standard part of all guided outdoor adventures. Recently, the requirements have become a bit more rigorous for ACMG guides—meaning that you’ll need to agree to the signing of the waiver at the time of booking. Prior to booking, we ask you to review the waiver . During the checkout process, you’ll have to acknowledge the risks and agree to the signing of the waiver. You are required to bring a printed copy on the trip. Please note that signing and agreeing to the terms of the waiver is required in order to join this adventure. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to us .

What do I need to bring?

You need to bring all of the following personal equipment for the Hokkaido ski trip. Please don’t bring extra equipment. If you’re not a fan of traveling by train with all your luggage, check out Yamato / Black Cat Luggage Services . Japan has an outstanding luggage transport service so you don’t have to drag your luggage along with you through the train stations. Clothing Wool or synthetic socks and liner socks Long underwear top — synthetic or wool Light fleece or wool sweater Wind shell — nylon or ‘Schoeller’ type jacket Waterproof breathable jacket Warm insulated jacket — down or synthetic Long underwear bottoms — synthetic or wool Multipurpose stretch nylon or ‘Schoeller’ type pants Waterproof breathable pants Warm hat — wool or synthetic Brimmed cap for sun protection Face warmer — scarf, neck tube or balaclava (optional) Light gloves — wool, synthetic or leather Insulated gloves or mitts with waterproof outer shell Spare gloves or mitts Handkerchief for blocking the sun (optional) Snow safety equipment Avalanche beacon with good batteries (and spares) Shovel Probe (2.8 m or longer preferred) Travel equipment Skis (100 to 125 mm in the waist recommended) or splitboard (a powder board, of course!) Ski strap Ski or snowboard boots Poles Climbing skins Skin wax (or a candle) Binding repair kit to fix your personal travel setup Ski helmet (optional) Personal equipment Ski pack (30-35 L) Sunglasses (both orange and dark lenses help for travel in all conditions) Goggles (orange lenses) Sunscreen and lip cream (SPF 30+) Headlamp with good batteries Insulated water bottle or thermos (1-2 L) Lunch bag or container Personal blister kit (e.g., Leukotape-P and Compeed/Second Skin blister pads) Pocket knife (optional) Camera (optional) Binoculars (optional) Utility cord for hanging items to dry (very helpful in your cabin) Prusik cord — 5 m of 6 mm (optional, for contributing to emergency toboggan construction) Apres ski, hotel/ryokan, etc. Duffle bag to contain your clothes in your room Shoes Comfortable clothing for travel and something nice for restaurants Personal medications and toiletries Ear plugs Reading material Chargers and adapters for electronic devices (Japan’s AC power is 100V and generally compatible with most chargers) Some Japanese yen in cash – it’s recommended to have about 20,000 yen, as many places in Japan still do not accept credit cards. You can exchange at the airport. Pillows, duvets, bed linen, and towels are provided at all ryokans and hotels. Slippers are also available at the ryokans.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and pricing For this Hokkaido ski trip , the usual client-to-guide ratio is 5 :1. The maximum group size is set at 10 participants . Hokkaido ski trips can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the Hokkaido ski trip on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has participants under the age of 18 , contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Getting there and meeting location

The starting point of your Hokkaido ski trip is New Chitose Airport (CTS) . At 10am, a shuttle bus will pick you up at arrivals (just outside the door by Column 5) and transfer you to Niseko. Alternatively, you can just meet your team in Niseko.

Safety measures and insurance

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout. Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

Check out Early bird options for best sellers here

A ski resort with a gondola and a volcano shape mountain in the background.

HOKKAIDO | JAPAN

Hokkaido Ski Trip, Japan: Niseko, Tokachidake, Asahidake

11 days | Moderate to Challenging | 4.67

From $4,950 ()

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Japan’s deep powder and fascinating culture have made it a bucket-list spot for skiers worldwide. But one downside of its popularity has been the erosion of the cultural experience. Tired of hearing “I was skiing tracked-out runs with a bunch of Australians,” I called up Jun Yanagisawa—a Tokyo-born-and-raised skier I met while heli-skiing in northern BC. With nearly 30 years guiding between Japan and Canada, Jun blends deep powder knowledge with deep cultural roots. So I said, “Let’s do a trip with real skiing and real Japanese flavor.” Jun replied, “Leave it to me, Tom-san.” The result? This 11-day deep dive into everything Japan, right in the heart of Hokkaido—a one-of-a-kind trip with just one date and limited availability!

Tom

IFMGA/ACMG Mountain Guide

Adventure Highlights

11 days in Hokkaido: This isn’t your average ski trip—it’s a full-on deep dive into Japan, crafted by someone who calls it home
JaPow, unlimited: We’ll enjoy 3 different ski areas, enjoying the deep, dry JaPow on some of the snowiest terrain on Earth
Onsens, sushi, and ryokans: Let’s experience Japan beyond the slopes! We’ll make sure to take our time relaxing in onsens and discovering local customs

Duration

11 days

Season

December through March

Group size

Up to 10 people

The adventure, day by day

Download itineraries

Japan’s legendary early winter powder is exactly why we’re heading to Hokkaido! This epic 11-day trip lets you carve the slopes and soak up the culture, all in one unforgettable adventure. We’ll take out time discovering three different areas—Niseko, Tokachidake, and Asahidake—and for après ski, we’ll head to onsens and cozy ryokans. This trip is a cultural experience you won’t forget, designed by a local passionate about sharing Japan’s authentic side. All lodgings, breakfasts and dinners, and transfers are included.

Day 1: Welcome to Japan!

Konnichiwa, and welcome to Japan! Arrival day on the island of Hokkaido. The trip begins at New Chitose Airport, where we’ll meet you at 10am in the arrivals area—just outside the doors by Column 5—for your shuttle transfer to Niseko. To make travel by train easier, you can ship your luggage to the hotel by courier, but you’ll need to arrive at least two days early (which is honestly a great idea anyway). We’ll have dinner together and discuss our upcoming days!

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Ryokan

Day 2-4: Niseko

Ski touring in the Niseko backcountry, based out of a quirky and truly authentic ryokan—complete with a traditional onsen hot spring. What makes it even better? The skiing starts right outside the door, with access to terrain in every direction!

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Ryokan

Day 5-8: Tokachidake

Ski touring around Mt. Tokachi’s legendary backcountry, based out of a high mountain ryokan—this is the hidden gem of Hokkaido skiing, where deep powder, epic terrain, and steaming outdoor onsens come together for the perfect alpine escape.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Ryokan

Day 9-10: Asahidake

Asahidake, Hokkaido’s tallest volcano, stands proudly with its smoking fumaroles adding to the wild, volcanic atmosphere. When storms roll in, the surrounding forests deliver some of the best tree skiing on the island!

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Ryokan

Day 11: Departure

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to New Chitose Airport by noon, with earlier shuttle options available upon request—just let us know in advance to reserve.

Meals: Breakfast

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Accommodation & food

Traditional ryokans

We will be staying in a carefully selected mix of authentic ryokans known for their exceptional hospitality and cuisine. Just as important is their proximity to some of the best skiing the Japan Alps has to offer!

Authentic dishes

While in Hokkaido, Japan, all breakfasts and dinners are included—and they’re an essential part of the experience. In the ryokans (traditional Japanese inns), expect beautifully presented multi-course meals called kaiseki, featuring seasonal ingredients, local specialties, and regional flavors. Dinners often include fresh seafood, mountain vegetables, and delicate broths, all served in a calm, traditional setting.

Breakfasts are typically Japanese-style too, with dishes like grilled fish, rice, miso soup, pickled vegetables, and tea. On some nights, we’ll dine at carefully chosen local restaurants, giving you a taste of everything from rustic izakayas to refined alpine cuisine. It’s more than just fueling up—every meal is part of the journey.

Adventure, packed to go

Hokkaido Ski Trip, Japan: Niseko, Tokachidake, Asahidake

Adventure Brochure

Adventure brochure

Download to share and explore full itineraries, key info, FAQs, and guide details.

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Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.

5.00

Tom

IFMGA/ACMG Mountain Guide

Tom is an ACMG/IFMGA-certified mountain guide who’s been guiding since moving to Canmore in 1995, the place he calls home. His winters consist of a mix of ski guiding at lodges, heli-ski operations, and remote backcountry destinations throughout western Canada. During the warmer months, Tom spends his days on water. He is a certified Paddle Canada Moving Water Canoe Instructor and Wilderness Canoe Guide.

5.00

Conrad

IFMGA/ACMG Mountain Guide

Conrad began climbing and skiing in 1994 and has been guiding professionally since 1997. He leads climbing, skiing, and paddling trips across Alberta, British Columbia, the Yukon, and Northwest Territories, with occasional international expeditions. He is a certified ACMG guide and a member of the Parks Canada Visitor Safety team, where he contributes to avalanche forecasting, highway avalanche control, and mountain rescue operations in Banff, Yoho, and Kootenay National Parks.

5.00

Konrad

IFMGA/ACMG Mountain Guide

Konrad was born and raised in Obergurgl, Austria, where he trained as an IFMGA/UIAGM Mountain Guide and has been guiding since 1996. He has spent most of his winters in Canada heliskiing, including many years with CMH as Lodge Manager at the Adamants and with Selkirk Tangiers. Summers take him guiding across the Alps, Nepal, Africa, and South America. He now lives in Revelstoke with his wife Kristen and their two children, Eve and Rio.

What others say about this adventure

4.67 (3 reviews)

Devon Fuller

Was a blast skiing with Tom!! Tom is a serious and very professional guid, I would be more than happy to take another trip with him. Thanks for all the fun turns.

Mike McMinn

I have been on multiple trips with Tom over the past 10+ years. Over that time Tom has always provided a safe and fun trip even in the worst of conditions. If there is ever a concern about a slope or terrain, Tom takes the time to explain to the group his decision making and make sure that everyone is on board. Tom strives to make sure that his clients have a good time and is willing to help them grow as backcountry enthusiasts as well!

Colin H.

|January 2026

Overall great. However our pre-trip communications did not manage to align our understanding completely. Backgrounds too different

Show all reviews

Devon Fuller

Was a blast skiing with Tom!! Tom is a serious and very professional guid, I would be more than happy to take another trip with him. Thanks for all the fun turns.

Mike McMinn

Colin H.

|January 2026

Overall great. However our pre-trip communications did not manage to align our understanding completely. Backgrounds too different

Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced & IFMGA/ACMG Mountain Guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 11-day Hokkaido ski trip
  - Accommodation for 10 nights in authentic ryokans, double occupancy
  - All breakfasts and dinners
  - All necessary transfers during the tour
  - Taxes
  - Group gear (altimeter, map and compass, GPS, snow study kit, snow and/or bush saw, group first aid kit, emergency tarp, emergency toboggan, group repair kit, radio & satellite phone)
Not included:
- - Transportation to Japan & starting/end point
  - Lift tickets
  - Lunches & drinks
  - Personal expenses
  - Insurance — available to add at checkout
  - Guide gratuities — optional
In order to join this Hokkaido ski trip, you have to have prior backcountry skiing experience.

You should be comfortable with daily elevation gains of 1,300-1,500 m (4.265-4,920 ft). Most ski runs will be of intermediate difficulty, but you can expect regular sections of advanced terrain, including steeper tree skiing and challenging alpine conditions such as hardpack and sastrugi.

It’s also recommended to have taken an AST-1 course prior to the trip.

For more ski adventures in Japan, click here!
Liability waivers are a standard part of all guided outdoor adventures. Recently, the requirements have become a bit more rigorous for ACMG guides—meaning that you’ll need to agree to the signing of the waiver at the time of booking.

Prior to booking, we ask you to review the waiver. During the checkout process, you’ll have to acknowledge the risks and agree to the signing of the waiver. You are required to bring a printed copy on the trip.

Please note that signing and agreeing to the terms of the waiver is required in order to join this adventure. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to us.
You need to bring all of the following personal equipment for the Hokkaido ski trip. Please don’t bring extra equipment. If you’re not a fan of traveling by train with all your luggage, check out Yamato / Black Cat Luggage Services. Japan has an outstanding luggage transport service so you don’t have to drag your luggage along with you through the train stations.

Clothing
- - Wool or synthetic socks and liner socks
  - Long underwear top — synthetic or wool
  - Light fleece or wool sweater
  - Wind shell — nylon or ‘Schoeller’ type jacket
  - Waterproof breathable jacket
  - Warm insulated jacket — down or synthetic
  - Long underwear bottoms — synthetic or wool
  - Multipurpose stretch nylon or ‘Schoeller’ type pants
  - Waterproof breathable pants
  - Warm hat — wool or synthetic
  - Brimmed cap for sun protection
  - Face warmer — scarf, neck tube or balaclava (optional)
  - Light gloves — wool, synthetic or leather
  - Insulated gloves or mitts with waterproof outer shell
  - Spare gloves or mitts
  - Handkerchief for blocking the sun (optional)
Snow safety equipment
- - Avalanche beacon with good batteries (and spares)
  - Shovel
  - Probe (2.8 m or longer preferred)
Travel equipment
- - Skis (100 to 125 mm in the waist recommended) or splitboard (a powder board, of course!)
  - Ski strap
  - Ski or snowboard boots
  - Poles
  - Climbing skins
  - Skin wax (or a candle)
  - Binding repair kit to fix your personal travel setup
  - Ski helmet (optional)
Personal equipment
- - Ski pack (30-35 L)
  - Sunglasses (both orange and dark lenses help for travel in all conditions)
  - Goggles (orange lenses)
  - Sunscreen and lip cream (SPF 30+)
  - Headlamp with good batteries
  - Insulated water bottle or thermos (1-2 L)
  - Lunch bag or container
  - Personal blister kit (e.g., Leukotape-P and Compeed/Second Skin blister pads)
  - Pocket knife (optional)
  - Camera (optional)
  - Binoculars (optional)
  - Utility cord for hanging items to dry (very helpful in your cabin)
  - Prusik cord — 5 m of 6 mm (optional, for contributing to emergency toboggan construction)
Apres ski, hotel/ryokan, etc.
- - Duffle bag to contain your clothes in your room
  - Shoes
  - Comfortable clothing for travel and something nice for restaurants
  - Personal medications and toiletries
  - Ear plugs
  - Reading material
  - Chargers and adapters for electronic devices (Japan’s AC power is 100V and generally compatible with most chargers)
  - Some Japanese yen in cash – it’s recommended to have about 20,000 yen, as many places in Japan still do not accept credit cards. You can exchange at the airport.
Pillows, duvets, bed linen, and towels are provided at all ryokans and hotels. Slippers are also available at the ryokans.

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Group sizes and pricing
- - For this Hokkaido ski trip, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 5:1.
  - The maximum group size is set at 10 participants.
Hokkaido ski trips can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the Hokkaido ski trip on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The starting point of your Hokkaido ski trip is New Chitose Airport (CTS). At 10am, a shuttle bus will pick you up at arrivals (just outside the door by Column 5) and transfer you to Niseko. Alternatively, you can just meet your team in Niseko.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
A 50% deposit is required at the time of booking, and the rest of the amount is due 4 months (120 days) prior to departure. Once the trip has been confirmed, your guide cannot refund any payments.

It is highly recommended buying cancellation insurance to cover your losses for the case that you can’t participate or have to interrupt your trip “for any reason”. If you need to cancel a reservation, please do so in writing.

Your guides do reserve the right to change guides, particular lodging or the itinerary or venue should unforeseen circumstances (guide sickness, hut or route closing etc.) force them to do so or should the physical condition of the participants, weather or mountain conditions make a continuation as planned too risky. Your guides will not be deemed to be in default for any delay or failure to perform their obligations under this agreement resulting from acts of God, the elements, war, acts of government, civil or military authorities, natural calamities, catastrophe, fire, flood, accidents, epidemics, shortage of transportation, or any other like events beyond our reasonable control.

Have more questions?

Our team is here to answer your questions and plan with you.

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