Backcountry Skiing in Hakuba & Myoko: Ski JaPOW!

Things to know

• What’s included?

  Included:

  • • An experienced, ACMG or IFMGA ski guide with extensive knowledge of the area
    • 7 days of backcountry and slackcountry skiing in Hakuba and Myoko (depending on which itinerary you choose)
    • 8 nights of lodging in a superb private lodge and chalet based on double occupancy (depending on which itinerary you choose)
    • Breakfasts while in Myoko lodge
    • Lift tickets for 7 or 8 days (depending on which itinerary you choose)
    • 8-seater 4WD van and drives to skiing locations, onsens, restaurants and in the grocery shops
    • Transfer to your accommodation upon arrival in Hakuba
    • Travel instructions and options for getting to Hakuba and Myoko from Narita or Haneda (Tokyo Airports)

  Not included:

  • • Transportation to Hakuba and/or Myoko (airfare to Tokyo and train ride to Hakuba/Myoko)
    • Most meals (you’ll be able to cook food bought in grocery stores and enjoy dinners in local restaurants)
    • Backcountry skiing equipment and other personal gear (can be rented)
    • Insurance — highly recommended, available to add at checkout
    • Guide gratuities — optional
• How fit do I need to be?

  To fully enjoy this guided backcountry skiing adventure in Japan, a reasonable level of fitness is essential. What’s even more crucial, though, is having a solid foundation of backcountry skiing experience. You should be proficient in both uphill skiing and downhill backcountry powder skiing in deep snow conditions. Participants should be able to spend 4 to 6 hours a day on their skis.

  In the Japanese snow environment, technique plays a vital role in efficiency and safety. Struggling on the skin track or falling down in deep powder can be physically demanding and pose risks. Your guide will always be there to ensure your safety and enjoyment, setting the skin track through deep powder and maintaining a comfortable pace for the group, allowing for a “walk and talk” approach.

  This adventure is tailored for intermediate to expert skiers with substantial backcountry experience. While you won’t need avalanche decision-making skills (since your expert guide handles this aspect), having a strong foundation in skiing skills is essential.

  To prepare for this adventure, dedicate time to improve your skiing skills, focusing on uphill and downhill techniques. Additionally, practice your fitness by engaging in activities that enhance your endurance and strength in weeks leading to your adventure, as this will help you thrive in the Japanese snow.

  Having a guide by your side throughout the journey offers numerous advantages. Your guide will continually assess your skill level, monitor your technique, and provide guidance when needed. At the tour’s outset, they’ll organize an avalanche rescue refresher course to ensure everyone is prepared for different scenarios. Your guide will also select appropriate terrain based on weather conditions, avalanche risk, and your skill level, prioritizing the safety of your group while delivering an exciting and memorable experience.

• What do I need to bring?

  For technical backcountry ski touring gear, you will need to bring:

  • • Powder-specific touring skis (with a waist size od +105mm) or splitboard with skins (can be rented)
    • Touring boots and poles with powder baskets — avoid heavy slackcountry or crossover binding (can be rented)
    • Avalanche safety equipment (can be rented):
      • Digital, 3-antenna avalanche transceiver or beacon
      • Lightweight snow shovel
      • Avalanche probe (3m)

  For personal items, we recommend bringing:

  • • Helmet
    • Ski goggles (two pairs recommended)
    • Gloves and hat
    • Wind and waterproof shell jacket with hood (Gore-Tex recommended)
    • Ski pants (Gore-Tex recommended)
    • Down jacket or vest
    • Synthetic or wool base layers, underwear and socks
    • A couple of buffs
    • Repair kit and Leatherman for your equipment (can be shared between several people)
    • Leisurewear for when you’re not skiing
    • Swimsuit (for onsens)
    • Toiletries and medication
    • Water bottle
    • Thermos for a warm beverage — optional
    • First aid kit
    • Sunscreen
    • Daypack large enough to carry all items listed (around a 30-40L backpack)
    • Camera — optional (but recommended!)

  Hakuba and Myoko experience cold temperatures in January and February, often ranging from 16°F to 5°F (-9°C to -15°C). The region receives abundant snowfall during these months, with temperatures remaining consistently low. Proper clothing layers, including a down jacket, are essential to stay warm and protected from the cold, dry climate. Additionally, be prepared for occasional snowfall and ensure you have suitable face protection to shield against the cold air and snow in the face (from all the champagne powder!)

• Can I rent equipment?

  All mandatory gear can be rented if you don’t have your own. You can rent:

  • • Avalanche safety pack, including backpack, beacon, shovel and probe from your guiding service (for an additional fee)
    • Powder-specific skis, touring boots and poles with powder baskets can be rented from your guiding service (for an additional fee)
    • Splitboards can be rented from your guiding service (for an additional fee)

  You can arrange ski rentals from your guide prior to or upon booking. If you need to rent gear, let us know and we can help make arrangements.

• Terrain and skiing conditions in the Japanese Alps

  In the Japanese Alps, all backcountry skiing dreams come true with exceptional snow, terrain diversity, and remarkable stability. Unlike coastal regions, here, the snow is incredibly dry, falling at frigid temperatures. This consistent cold snowfall creates a stable base, making steep skiing the norm.

  The Japanese Alps are a geological wonder, featuring a classic mountain range with volcanoes. Peaks reach 8,900 to 10,500 feet (2,700 to 3,190 meters), in contrast to Hokkaido’s lower volcanic mountains. Erosion has created intriguing terrain, making for captivating skiing.

  Central Japan’s hero powder is born from unique weather patterns. Cold air from distant regions crosses the Sea of Japan, creating moisture-laden air. The result? A staggering 36 feet (11 meters) of snow in the period between December and February.

  Hakuba Valley houses ten ski resorts within the Japanese Alps, offering extraordinary lift-accessed backcountry terrain. The result is that you can expect quick access to thrilling verticals with minimal effort. Abundant snowfall and varied topography make for endless adventures.

  North of Hakuba Valley lies Mt. Myoko, an active stratovolcano with equally impressive terrain. Its northern side features rock-walled couloirs and birch forests, offering serene tree skiing. Minimal backcountry traffic ensures solitude and pristine conditions.

• Cuisine and culture of central Japan

  The culture of central Japan is a captivating blend of tradition and modernity, creating a unique backdrop to your backcountry skiing adventure. It’s a place where ancient customs seamlessly coexist with contemporary life, offering an enriching experience beyond the slopes.

  Immerse yourself in a society built on values of peace, honor, and respect. The Japanese commitment to mastery is awe-inspiring, from their precision in traditional tea ceremonies to the efficiency of the Shinkansen (bullet train) contrasting with serene temple visits.

  Venturing beyond the bustling cities means discovering an old-world landscape shaped in equal parts by nature and human hands. Ancient rice paddies and apple orchards nestle amidst forest-clad mountains and old farmhouses stand beside centuries-old temples and roadside shrines.

  No trip to Japan is complete without savoring its delectable cuisine. Your adventure promises authentic culinary experiences, from delightful Izakaya, offering Japanese tapas, to savoring tempura, soba, yakitori, nabe, and sushi (the cost of a meal is usually between $10 and $20 without drinks). Delight your taste buds with a diverse array of flavors, each dish a reflection of Japan’s rich cuisine.

  Your journey is made even more memorable by connecting with expats fluent in Japanese. Accommodation in Morino lodge and chalet also ensures you access the best restaurants and local insights. It’s your gateway to the heart of Japanese culture, offering an authentic experience.

• Group sizes and age requirements

  Group sizes and prices:

  • • For these group adventures, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 6:1.
    • It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate.

  Backcountry skiing in Myoko and Hakuba can be arranged for larger and private groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

  Min. age requirements:

  • • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
    • Minors are not permitted to join these adventures.
• Getting there and meeting location

  To get to Hakuba, the starting point of your adventure, most people fly into Narita International Airport or Haneda International Airport (in Tokyo), which are 4-5 hours away (Haneda is closer). From there, we suggest you take train rides (mostly first to Nagano and then to Hakuba). Japan is known for its high-speed trains called Shinkansen and taking one of them is by far the best way to arrive in Hakuba. Alternatively, you can take buses or arrange a private airport transfer with your guide.

  You will meet your guide at the bus or the train station on Day 1 and you will go to your accommodation together. You will get a chance to discuss arrival options and logistics with your guide prior to the trip.

• Safety measures in Japan

  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.

• Deposits and cancellation policy

  Deposits

  Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.

  Cancellations

  Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.

  Basic

  • • If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
    • If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
    • If canceled within 59 days of departure, no refund will be issued.

  Flexible

  • • If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
    • If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
    • If canceled 30-59 days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
    • If canceled within 29 days of departure, no refund will be issued.

  Super Flexible

  • • If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
    • If canceled 30 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
    • If canceled within 29 days of departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.