If Japan is not on your “Bucket List”, it should be!
Japan has the most consistent snowfall anywhere in the northern hemisphere. Imagine skiing waist deep powder, summiting volcanoes, soaking in natural hot springs, and enjoying great authentic Japanese food.
The amazing skiing and cultural experience will make this the trip of a lifetime. Don’t expect to be skiing in one place for the entire trip, we will be traveling to the absolute best locations throughout Hokkaido.
The main goal is to take you away from the crowded ski hills and explore the backcountry where even the locals rarely ever go.
Our Guides all have over 10 seasons of exploring and guiding Hokkaido, exclusively in the backcountry. With this knowledge and experience you’ll be sure that you will be skiing the best and the deepest powder that Japan has to offer.
Duration: 8 days
Daily Elevation: 800m - 2000m
Difficulty: Intermediate/Advanced
Guide to Guest Ratio: 1 : 6
Favourite Run: Yotei crater
Number of Onsens: 6
This trip is designed for those seeking an authentic backcountry skiing experience in Hokkaido. Our focus is on exploring remote, untouched terrains, far from the crowded resort slopes. Embracing the ethos of “#NoTracksNoPeople,” we prioritize areas where the snow is pristine and the landscapes are serene.
Participants should be prepared for full days of ski touring, involving ascents and descents in unmarked territories. This approach not only offers unparalleled skiing opportunities but also immerses you in the natural beauty of Hokkaido’s wilderness.
All our guides are certified by the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG) or equivalent associations internationally recognized through the IFMGA. Their rigorous training in avalanche safety, navigation, and client care ensures your backcountry adventure is safe, personalized, and unforgettable.
With over 10 seasons of experience guiding exclusively in the backcountry of Hokkaido, you can be confident you’ll be skiing the best and deepest powder that Japan has to offer.
We understand that venturing into the backcountry can feel daunting, especially for those new to this terrain. Our guides are not only experts in navigation and safety but also in fostering confidence and efficiency among our guests. If you’re a fit, intermediate skier or snowboarder capable of handling deep powder, you’re an ideal candidate for this trip. Our goal is to challenge you appropriately while ensuring you feel comfortable and supported throughout the journey.
Through personalized guidance and encouragement, our guides will help you develop the skills and confidence needed to navigate the backcountry with assurance. By the end of the trip, you’ll not only have experienced some of the best powder runs but also gained a deeper understanding and appreciation for backcountry skiing.
We schedule our Guides roughly 3-4 month before the trip start date. As soon as we have the Guide scheduled to your trip they will reach out and introduce themselves
We are proud to have used the Gooseberry Lodge for our base for over 10 years.
Owned and operated by Kochi and Yukari along with their dogs, it is a located far from the tourists and crowds of Niseko. The location is perfectly situated to central to all the best backcountry locations.
It is tradition to have a "family" dinner on our last night at the lodge. Great memories 😀
We only offer double occupancy at the Gooseberry Lodge. We can upgrade you to single occupancy while in Sapporo upon request for an additional upgrade fee.
We always finish our Hokkaido powder adventures with a bang in Sapporo’s vibrant Susukino district.
As Japan’s largest entertainment district north of Tokyo, Susukino boasts over 4,000 bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, many open 24/7, ensuring the city never sleeps. You’ll find everything from cozy izakayas and fresh seafood spots to karaoke lounges and sleek cocktail bars.
We stay in a comfortable hotel right in the heart of the action, so you can step out and explore neon-lit streets, indulge in local miso ramen at Ramen Yokocho, or toast the trip with a Sapporo beer under the iconic Nikka Whisky sign. It’s the perfect way to celebrate an unforgettable week in the mountains
Hokkaido is a culinary paradise, renowned for its fresh seafood, rich dairy products, and hearty comfort foods. Each evening, after a rejuvenating soak in a local onsen, we venture out to savor the region’s diverse cuisine. From the savory miso ramen of Sapporo to the interactive experience of grilling jingisukan (lamb barbecue), every meal offers a taste of Hokkaido’s unique flavors.
On our final night, we gather at Gooseberry Lodge, where our gracious hosts prepare a memorable home-cooked feast. This communal meal, often highlighted as a trip favorite, provides a warm and intimate conclusion to our culinary journey.
To ensure comfort and convenience, we recommend bringing an onsen bag with a change of clothes. This allows you to freshen up after the hot springs before heading directly to dinner, making the most of each delightful evening.
Hokkaido’s onsen (hot spring) culture is a cherished aspect of Japanese tradition, offering both relaxation and a deep connection to nature. With over 200 onsen scattered across the Hokkaido, each provides a unique experience, from rustic mountain baths to elegant resort spas.
In Hokkaido, the volcanic activity contributes to a variety of onsen, each with distinct mineral compositions.
Participating in onsen bathing involves specific etiquette to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for all. Guests are expected to thoroughly wash and rinse their bodies before entering the communal baths. Swimsuits are not permitted; instead, bathers use a small towel for modesty, which should not touch the water.
Experiencing an onsen in Hokkaido is more than just a bath; it’s an immersion into a time-honored ritual that rejuvenates both body and spirit. Whether nestled in snowy landscapes or overlooking serene lakes, these hot springs offer a tranquil escape and a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
For those with tattoos, it’s important to note that some onsen may have restrictions due to traditional associations. However, our Guides are familiar with the establishments that are more accommodating.
All members of the team will have to sort out their own airfare to Japan and land at the New Chitose airport (CTS) in Hokkaido.
We recommend landing one day early. Most flights arrive to New Chitose in the evening.
Once you arrive head directly towards the Chitose Airport Onsen and book yourself in for the night. The price is an extremely affordable. Here you can relax and soak your travel exhaustion away. If you arrive early enough you can even get a massage!
This Onsen does not allow visitors with tattoos.
Have a read here for more information: HERE
THE NEXT DAY
You will need to exit the Onsen at 9am so they can do their daily clean. The Onsen opens again at 10am. You can take your skis/snowboard bag to the baggage storage located in the Departure Terminal C for an affordable place to keep your gear while you wait. Japan is a VERY safe country and theft is very uncommon.
MEETING TIME & PLACE: 2PM SUNDAY AT THE ONSEN ENTRANCE, LOCATED ON THE 4TH FLOOR OF THE AIRPORT
MEET DAY IS ALWAYS A SUNDAY.
After meeting at 2pm we pack up the van and depart the airport at 230pm.
It is a 2 hour drive to the Gooseberry Lodge. We take our time, visit an onsen, a 711 for road snacks, and even stop at a restaurant for dinner on the way.
We arrive around 8pm to the lodge
A detailed risk management briefing and thorough rescue training session will prepare you for the day and week ahead.
In addition to an Avalanche Safety Briefing and Companion Rescue practise we will discuss other risk management topics such as:
Efficient Transitions
Proper Bag Contents
Optimized Layering
Food and Water
Pacing and Guiding Techniques
Our goal is to start you off right and have you develop into a safer, more efficient backcountry user by the end of the week.
The first day is not usually strenuous. It is usually a tour close to the lodge followed by a soak in a natural hot spring called an Onsen.
However, we have been know to get after it right away if the group is keen 😜
Today, we set our sights on the majestic Mount Yotei, often referred to as the “Mount Fuji of Hokkaido” due to its near-perfect conical shape. Standing at 1,898 meters, this dormant volcano offers the longest vertical descent in the region, with runs extending up to 1,500 meters. On clear days, we aim for the summit, which involves a challenging 5–8 hour skin up, rewarding us with the unique opportunity to ski into the crater and enjoy expansive powder turns on its flanks. If weather conditions are less favorable, we adapt by exploring the sheltered tree runs on the lower slopes, ensuring an exhilarating day regardless of the summit attempt.
SUSHI!
Post-adventure, we uphold the cherished tradition of dining at the Yotei Sushi Bar in nearby Kutchan. Whether or not we reach the summit, this culinary experience serves as a fitting celebration of the day’s endeavors.
Just a reminder. This is an EXAMPLE ITINERARY. Yours will may be different due to conditions, weather, and group ability.
We journey approximately an hour to Kiroro Resort, renowned for its abundant snowfall, averaging over 17 meters annually. Utilizing the resort’s gondola, we ascend to the base of Mount Yoichi (Yoichi-dake), the highest peak within Sapporo’s city limits at 1,488 meters. From here, we embark on a traverse that offers a cumulative descent of around 1,500 meters, navigating through pristine backcountry terrain back to our awaiting van.
The day concludes with a rejuvenating soak in a local onsen before returning to the Niseko area.
Just a reminder. This is an EXAMPLE ITINERARY. Yours will may be different due to conditions, weather, and group ability.
A short drive from the lodge brings us to Mount Shiribetsu, an extinct volcano offering steep, fall-line skiing with gradients reaching up to 46 degrees. Our ascent via the north western slopes rewards us with exhilarating runs through untouched powder along with magnificent views of Mount Yotei. Following the day’s exertions, we unwind in a quaint local onsen before heading to Gooseberry for the much anticipated "family dinner night"
Just a reminder. This is an EXAMPLE ITINERARY. Yours will may be different due to conditions, weather, and group ability.
Departing the Gooseberry Lodge, we opt for a scenic route to Sapporo, exploring lesser-known backcountry zones that are often overlooked by other groups. This approach allows us to experience hidden gems of Hokkaido’s terrain before arriving in the vibrant city of Sapporo, where we settle into our accommodations in the lively Susukino district.
Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort is a hidden gem for backcountry enthusiasts seeking deep powder, varied terrain, and convenient access. Located just an hour from downtown Sapporo, this resort offers an ideal blend of accessibility and adventure.
The backcountry terrain includes open alpine bowls, steep gullies, and well-spaced tree runs, providing options for skiers and snowboarders of intermediate to advanced levels. The area’s consistent snowfall ensures fresh tracks and excellent conditions throughout the season.
Just a reminder. This is an EXAMPLE ITINERARY. Yours will may be different due to conditions, weather, and group ability.
Our final day on the slopes is based out of Sapporo, with options including Sapporo Teine and Sapporo Kokusai. Teine offers a mix of steep, powder-filled runs and historical significance as the site of the 1972 Winter Olympics. Kokusai is known for its consistent snowfall and diverse terrain. We’ll choose the destination based on the best snow conditions to ensure a memorable conclusion to our skiing adventures.
In the evening, we celebrate the trip’s culmination with a festive night out in Susukino, indulging in Sapporo’s renowned nightlife.
Just a reminder. This is an EXAMPLE ITINERARY. Yours will may be different due to conditions, weather, and group ability.
As your trip comes to an end, please ensure all bags are packed and ready to go by 9am. It is a 1.5 hour drive to the airport from the hotel. We will drop everyone off at the airport at 11am.
If you have an early flight you will need to make you way to the airport by your own means. Departing via Sapporo Station is the most efficient way to get to the airport.. it's even faster than driving and take about 45 min via the airport express line.
You want to take the Rapid “Airport” line. There are six operations per hour from 9 am to 4 pm!
Click here for more details
Travel Tips
MONEY
Japan is still very much a cash country. Credit cards are becoming more popular but don’t be surprised if some places only take cash. We recommend having at least 50000 YEN available to you.
DRIVERS LICENSE
If you plan on driving in Japan before or after our trip you MUST HAVE an international drivers license.
THE LANGUAGE
Have Google Translate downloaded on your phones and download the offline function.. this is handy when you need it.
GETTING AROUND
If you are planning to travel Japan before or after the trip I also recommend purchasing the JR pass for all trains. It’s a one-time pass for tourists and it can only be purchases when you are outside the country. It gives you fee train passes to all JR trains. http://www.japanrailpass.net/en/
DOGS
The Gooseberry Lodge that we stay at has very nice dogs that you will most likely encounter. If you have any extreme allergy to dogs please let us know so that we can notify the owners to keep them out of the main house during your trip.
Tattoos
We have mentioned this a few times now. Onsens are becoming more strict and traditional over the last few years. If you have any tattoos you may be denied entry to the onsen. Please just communicate this to your guide when you meet them, this will help them plan for onsens that are more tolerant to westerners.
Food Allergies and Food Neuroses
Japanese cuisine is deeply rooted in tradition, with a strong emphasis on seafood, meat, and ingredients like soy sauce and dashi (fish-based broth). While this culinary landscape offers rich and diverse flavors, it may present challenges for those with specific dietary restrictions or preferences.
In Japan, it’s uncommon for restaurants to accommodate individual dietary modifications, especially in rural areas. Ingredients such as fish stock are often integral to dishes, making them difficult to exclude. Therefore, guests with strict dietary needs—such as vegans, individuals with severe seafood allergies, or those with particular food aversions—may find limited options.
To ensure a comfortable dining experience, we recommend that guests with specific dietary requirements who are not able to adapt to Japanese culinary culture prepare accordingly. This might include purchasing supplemental snacks or meals from convenience stores, which offer a variety of options. Being proactive and adaptable will help you enjoy the culinary aspects of your trip while respecting local customs and practices.
Black Cat Luggage Service
The Yamato “Hands-Free Travel” service is a convenient luggage forwarding option available at major airports and hotels across Japan. Perfect for travelers with bulky ski gear or multiple bags, this service allows you to ship your luggage ahead to your next destination, so you can travel freely and comfortably without the burden of carrying it yourself. Whether you’re heading from the airport to your hotel or between towns, it’s a reliable and efficient way to simplify your journey. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO
Greetings & Polite Expressions
Hello / Good afternoon: こんにちは (Konnichiwa)
Good morning: おはようございます (Ohayō gozaimasu)
Good evening: こんばんは (Konbanwa)
Goodbye: さようなら (Sayōnara)
Thank you: ありがとうございます (Arigatō gozaimasu)
You’re welcome: どういたしまして (Dōitashimashite)
Excuse me / I’m sorry: すみません (Sumimasen)
Please: お願いします (Onegaishimasu)
Basic Communication
Yes: はい (Hai)
No: いいえ (Iie)
I don’t understand: わかりません (Wakarimasen)
Do you speak English?: 英語を話せますか？ (Eigo o hanasemasu ka?)
I don’t speak Japanese: 日本語を話せません (Nihongo o hanasemasen)
Dining & Shopping
It’s delicious: おいしいです (Oishii desu)
How much is this?: これはいくらですか？ (Kore wa ikura desu ka?)
The bill, please: お会計お願いします (O-kaikei onegaishimasu)
I would like this, please: これをください (Kore o kudasai)
Useful Travel Phrases
Where is the station?: 駅はどこですか？ (Eki wa doko desu ka?)
Where is the bathroom?: トイレはどこですか？ (Toire wa doko desu ka?)
Please speak slowly: ゆっくり話してください (Yukkuri hanashite kudasai)
Please repeat that: もう一度言ってください (Mō ichido itte kudasai)
To secure your trip, a 25% non-refundable deposit is required.
8 Days in Hokkaido
ACMG Ski Guide
All transportation
All accommodation
Lift tickets when required
Breakfast
Alcohol
Lunch and Dinner
Flights
Onsens
We strongly encourage you to bring as little as possible. During travel days we have to be able to fit everything into our Vans so if you have too much stuff this can be difficult and very uncomfortable with 6 people.
EQUIPMENT
Touring skis and Poles (we actually recommend strong non-adjustable poles because light adjustable pole always break)
Skins
Boots
BACKPACK STUFF
Transceiver
Probe
Shovel
A proper day touring backpack.. 30-40 litres
Headlamp
Ski straps
TECHNICAL CLOTHES
Down jacket - for when you are cold
Gore Tex jacket - for going down
Soft Shell jacket - for going up
Gore Tex pants - because you need pants
Long underwear x2 (top and bottom)
Ski Socks x4 - stinky feet
Thin Gloves
Medium gloves
Thick cold temperature gloves
Face mask or Buff
Goggles with extra lens (its deep snow and goggles get foggy )
Sunglasses
Toque - Its a beanie, warm hat, something you put on your head when cold.
Helmet
AFTER SKI STUFF
Light Travel Towel
Small Onsen bag - for a change of clothes you bring daily
5 comfortable evening outfits.
Toiletries
SNOW BOOTS
City Shoes
This is about all you will need for your 8 days. If you are traveling with a lot of “stuff” we will probably have to ship it with Black Cat Luggage Service.
We strive to ensure the highest levels of safety on all our trips. However, it is essential to recognize that no adventure, especially those involving backcountry travel and sea voyages, can ever be entirely free of risk.
Promising absolute safety would diminish the very essence of the experiences we offer, which include excitement, exploration, and a degree of unpredictability.
Our guides are certified by associations under the International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations (IFMGA), ensuring a high level of expertise.
Each day our guides assess current weather conditions, terrain risks, avalanche potential, group abilities, and other critical safety factors. While some objectives are planned in advance, they may change on the day of the trip based on real-time conditions and the guide's judgment. By participating in our trips, you voluntarily assume the inherent risks, dangers and hazards associated with backcountry travel and skiing, including but not limited to avalanches, tree wells, rapidly changing weather, and variations in terrain. Other hazards include cliffs, extreme terrain, trees, crevasses, rockfalls, open creeks, and hidden obstacles. Participants are responsible for skiing or riding within their skill level.
You are responsible for maintaining the necessary physical fitness, dexterity, and skills required to navigate a full day of travel over varied terrain in winter conditions.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RISK
You acknowledge that you are aware that guided backcountry and sea travel involve significant risks, dangers, and hazards and you agree to participate knowing these risks, dangers and hazards and you freely accept and fully assume all such risk, dangers and hazards and the possibility of personal injury, death, property damage or loss resulting therefrom. You further accept responsibility for your own safety and well-being. Furthermore, you agree to follow the instructions of the guides and crew at all times, stay alert to hazards, act prudently throughout the trip and notify the guides and crew of anything you perceive as unsafe in a timely manner.
PLEASE READ THE ABOVE STATEMENT CAREFULLY BEFORE BOOKING.
RELEASE OF LIABILITY, WAIVER OF CLAIMS,
ASSUMPTION OF RISKS AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT
All participants must review and agree to the Waiver as a condition of participating in this trip. PLEASE READ THE WAIVER CAREFULLY!
By signing you will waive or give up certain legal rights, including the right to sue for negligence, breach of contract, or breach of any Occupiers Liability Act or claim compensation following an accident. The form of Waiver can be viewed here WAIVER.
PLEASE READ THE ABOVE STATEMENT CAREFULLY BEFORE BOOKING.
Participation Agreement
All participants must also complete the Participation Agreement as a condition of participating in this trip.
Group Bookings
If a booking is made on behalf of a group, the person completing the reservation assumes responsibility for sharing all necessary documentation—including waivers, participation agreements, and this info package—with the other participants. It is essential that each group member reviews and completes the required forms prior to the trip. Failure to do so may result in denied participation without refund.
The Participation Agreement can be viewed here PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT.
We're here to help you and answer more questions if you have them! For any inquiries or assistance with booking, feel free to reach out:
Contact Us Here: BOOKING INQUIRY
Our team is available 24/7 to assist with bookings, itinerary changes, and any questions you may have. Let us help you make your JaPow dream trip a reality!