Trip 1 – ski & culture in the Japanese Alps (Nagano area)
program info
- Duration: 9 days / 6 ski days / 1 day in Tokyo / 2 travel days
- Best season: January – mid March
- Group: max 6 + IFMGA certified mountain guide
- Level: intermediate to advanced / freeride & ski touring
- Location: Japan
Trip 1 – ski & culture in the japanese alps (nagano area)
An immersive journey into the deep snow and rich culture of the Nagano region. We’ll ski the best backcountry areas around Myoko, Shiga Kogen, and Nozawa Onsen, guided by an expert who knows the terrain in depth. Evenings in traditional ryokan and onsen, for a truly Japanese experience.
Trip Outline
- Day 1 – Flight and arrival in Tokyo or Nagano
- Day 2 – Transfer to mountain base (e.g., Nozawa Onsen)
- Days 3-8 – 6 full days skiing in:
- Myoko Kogen
- Nozawa Onsen
- Shiga Kogen
- Touring and off-piste routes
- Day 9 – Tokyo: free day in the city, overnight in hotel
- Day 10 – Flight back
info and materials
Included:
- Full-time UIAGM/IFMGA mountain guide
- 6 full ski days (freeride or ski touring)
- Accommodation in lodges, ryokan, or guesthouses, twin/shared rooms
- Breakfast and some dinners (depending on location)
- All domestic transfers (train, private van, shuttles)
- Local assistance and translation when needed
- Pre-departure briefing and MountainFree staff support
- Access to onsen (Japanese hot springs) when available
- 1 night in Tokyo or Sapporo, central hotel with breakfast
Not included
- International flights (we’re happy to advise routes)
- Domestic flight (if needed, e.g. Tokyo–Sapporo)
- Lunches and some dinners
- Travel and rescue insurance (mandatory)
- Lift passes for freeride days on ski resorts (if applicable)
- Gear rental (skis, beacon, shovel, probe, touring pack)
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks, extras)
Technical requirements:
- Good fitness and solid skiing ability
- Comfortable in deep snow / off-piste terrain
- Familiarity with touring equipment (skins, crampons)
- Able to manage 500–1200 m daily elevation gain
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak Japanese or English?
No worries – the guide speaks Italian and there’s always translation/help available.
Can I rent gear locally?
Yes, ski touring and safety equipment are available for rent in all areas.
Is insurance mandatory?
Yes, all participants must have mountain/travel insurance that includes off-piste rescue.
What kind of accommodation is used?
We stay in traditional ryokan or ski lodges, often with onsen. Shared rooms (2–3 people).
How much luggage can I bring?
One soft duffel bag + ski touring pack. Skis count as special baggage. Internal baggage shipping in Japan is possible to travel light.
