Trip 3 – Hokkaido: Japanese powder between volcanoes & forests
program info
- Duration: 9 days / 6 ski days / 1 city day / 2 travel days
- Best season: January – February
- Group: max 6 + IFMGA certified mountain guide
- Level: intermediate to advanced / freeride & touring
- Location: Japan
TRIP 3 – HOKKAIDO: JAPANESE POWDER BETWEEN VOLCANOES & FORESTS
Hokkaido offers world-famous powder, calm forests, and active volcanoes – the dream terrain for backcountry skiers. Based in Niseko or Furano, we’ll explore a new area each day, guided by an experienced UIAGM mountain guide who knows where to find the best conditions.
Highlights include the ascent of Mt. Yōtei, ski runs in Asahidake, and secret stashes in Tokachidake. Evenings in traditional hot springs and meals in authentic Japanese lodges.
A perfect mix of skiing, culture, and exploration, finished with a day in Sapporo or Tokyo to soak up the atmosphere of Japan’s urban side.
Trip Outline
- Day 1 – International flight, arrival in Tokyo or Sapporo
- Day 2 – Transfer to ski base (Niseko or Furano)
- Days 3–8 – 6 full ski days, including:
- Mt. Yōtei (volcano ski tour)
- Niseko backcountry
- Asahidake & Daisetsuzan National Park
- Rusutsu, Tokachidake zones
- Day 9 – Travel to Sapporo or Tokyo, free time in the city
- Day 10 – Return flight
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.
