Yu

I am a backcountry ski guide with JMGA hiking level 2 and ski / snowboard guide level 2 certifications, based in Hakuba.
I was born in Aichi prefecture in Japan and started snowboarding in my early teens. Before I knew it, I was snowboarding everyday in the winter and in my final year of high school, I moved to Iwate prefecture in Tohoku (northern tip of Honshu, known for big snow falls) to freeride everyday. I became a professional snowboarder, and since 2002, I have been a ski / snowboard guide based in Hakuba.

I wanted to share the experience and fun I have had in the mountains with many other people in a safe manner with the right education and so I started my own backcountry guide company in 2012.

Myself and all the other guides at my guide company are on splitboards and so we welcome snowboarders and skiers alike. Given my snowboarding background, I know how difficult it could be for a snowboarder to follow a skier's line!!

I'm also trained and certified by Japan Avalanche Network and Wilderness First Aid, and am a member of Japan Emergency Rescue Team.

When I'm unavailable the guides at my guide company that I trust, with sufficient Avalanche training, Wilderness First Aid as well as much guiding experience at my guide company (some with JMGA certification as well) will be able to guide you.

Please contact me if you're in Hakuba and want to explore the backcountry of the beautiful North Japan Alps, away from the ski resorts!!