Hokkaido, Japan, is renowned for its high-quality sushi, rich culture, diverse range of vending machines, and deep powder snow. The combination of frigid air from Siberia and moisture from the Sea of Japan makes Hokkaido one of the snowiest regions on the planet. Certain areas on the island boast an average of 25 meters of snowfall per winter. The heaviest snowfall occurs between mid-January and mid-February. After several weeks of exploration and successful private group guiding in recent years, Snowboard Arlberg is excited to share their passion with you. The primary objective of this journey is to revel in numerous powder turns and discover new locales. Given the relatively modest size of Japanese ski resorts, our plan involves visiting different ski resorts each day.
During the first two nights, we will be staying in Otaru. Otaru, a small city famous for its sushi, located about an hour driving north of the resorts Kokusai and Kiroro. After exploring central Hokkaido, our journey will take us further eastward to Furano. The Furano ski resort is part of the so-called Hokkaido powder belt. This region, more inland, boasts drier snow compared to resorts positioned closer to the ocean. For the duration of this freeride trip, we will stay in Furano for the next four nights. From Furano, we will also visit other resorts such as Kamui Links and Tomamu. On the final night, we will be staying in Sapporo to conclude the trip with a karaoke session and provide the option to depart for the airport earlier if necessary.
• Day 1: Arriving at Sapporo Chitose (CTS) and driving to the accommodation
• Day 2: Teine *
• Day 3: Kokusai *
• Day 4: Kiroro *
• Day 5: Furano *
• Day 6: Tomamu *
• Day 7: Asahidake *
• Day 8: Driving back to the airport Saporro Chitose (CTS)
* The exact order riding the resorts will depend on weather and snow conditions
• Backpack including beacon, shovel and probe.(rentals available) • Powder snowboard • Functional Clothing, Down jacket, Face mask, Spare lenses (yellow), Goggles. |
• Riders level: medium – advanced. • Condition: medium-advanced. • Group size 4 until 7 people. |
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Hokkaido is renowned for its deep powder snow and tree runs. Therefore, don’t expect steep high alpine lines. Our primary focus will be on riding tree runs with moderately steep terrain, offering knee to hip-deep powder. However, the key aspect is your ability to strategize your line in advance, which prevents getting caught up in the trees and navigating flat sections.
If the weather and snow conditions permit, we may also incorporate some splitboard tours as needed. If you’re uncertain whether your skill level aligns with the trip, feel free to reach out to me for clarification.
