Backcountry Skiing in Hokkaido: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You
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Dive into the deep powder of Japan’s northernmost island!
Known for its incomparably deep snow and unique culture, Hokkaido is a top-tier destination for off-piste adventurers! Receiving a whopping 25 to 45 feet of dry powder per season, it is home to some of the most memorable and exciting backcountry runs on Earth!
Top backcountry skiing trips | Hokkaido
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FAQs: Backcountry Skiing in Hokkaido
What should I know about Backcountry Skiing Hokkaido?
The backcountry in Hokkaido and the terrain surrounding Mt. Yotei in the southwest are great for intermediate to advanced skiers, though backcountry beginners are sure to find routes perfect for their needs. Participants should be in reasonable physical condition and well-aware with the risks associated with backcountry skiing programs. Avalanche safety equipment and training is necessary, often included in certain programs. Some off-piste locations near the resorts can be crowded, so finding a guide for a program further off the beaten path can provide a more personal wilderness ski experience.
Why should I choose Hokkaido for my Backcountry Skiing adventure?
Endless Powder!
The relentless snowfall on the island is just one of the alluring qualities of Hokkaido. The backcountry from Niseko and Sapporo all the way up to Hirotachi and beyond has powder snow perfect for exploring. The ski culture across the island is dedicated to snow tourists and caters to the needs of even the most demanding excursions.
Beginners and Experts Alike Can Enjoy!
With Olympic-caliber runs for the seasoned veterans and just-off-piste access for greenhorns, Hokkaido accommodates whatever your dreams may be. The easy resort access accompanied by catskiing, heliskiing, and ski touring programs in untouched snow make it ripe for a life-changing ski adventure.
For the Culture!
Whether you want to add a beer tour in Sapporo on your way back from Niseko hot springs or include a wine tour in Furano after conquering the Tokachi lines, Hokkaido will embrace you with its distinct Japanese culture. It is an enriching experience on and off the mountain. The charming fishing villages along the Sea of Japan are a refreshing way to go all in on a backcountry expedition.
What can I expect from the weather during my Backcountry Skiing trip in Hokkaido?
Arriving in winter will be cold, but it provides arguably the best snow conditions in the world - it snows a lot! The powder is notoriously deep and dry, with certain backcountry areas gated to control access and preserve quality.
Which language is predominantly spoken in the Hokkaido region?
Japanese
What currency is accepted around Hokkaido?
Japanese yen
How many days should I allocate for my Hokkaido Backcountry Skiing experience?
Depending on your schedule, you can plan a few days of skiing to a few weeks. Dip your toes into the expansive backcountry on shorter guided trips to introduce yourself to the impressive mountain terrain. Many programs are easily accessible, so you can easily spend a week discovering great virgin runs and pioneering your way through a lifetime of pristine snow.
What's the country code for the Hokkaido region?
+81
When is the best time to travel to Hokkaido for Backcountry Skiing?
During the winter, from mid-December to March.
What people are saying about Backcountry Skiing | Hokkaido
Sascha
Hello there, I didn't go on a guided tour and it wasn't intended to go there on the 14th February. I still had been chating with the guide Wataru, about the dates and arrangements. At 14th February it was never intended to go on a tour. Sorry, maybe my fault, but this did go wrong. Actually I have no access the chating-protocol with Waturu anymore to proof that we were still trying to find a date. Due to an infect I'm not going to be able to go on a tour with Waturu before I leave. Would you please be so kind to consider a refund of my payment, as to the above mentioned reasons. Kind regards Sascha
Brooke
Toshi and his crew gave us a truly remarkable experience! From the food to the accommodations to the epic skiing: this trip was out of this world!
Toshi is world class from pick-up to drop-off. Very friendly, very professional and he knows Rishiri inside out. His guest house is outstanding and the food they serve like nowhere else. Will be back very soon!
Yasuko was very knowledgable about the area. She tailored our outings based on our requests, and we had great fun in the mountains near Rusutsu and Yotei.
our experience with Daisuke was outstanding. He knows very well the island and he managed to take us every day in places with fresh snow without tracks :-).
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