1+ day Backcountry powder skiing on Honshu, Japan (near Nagano)

Come along with JMGA-certified guide Tadashi on a backcountry powder skiing adventure in Honshu, Japan and experience some of the best powder in the world.

Private

Japan Alps

+1 Day

Jan - Mar, Dec

Intermediate

All levels

Highlights

Tailor your Japanese ski trip according to your plans and your experience
Enjoy some of the best powder you’ll find anywhere on Earth
Experience the magic of Japanese culture as you tour around

Description

Skiing in Japan is pretty popular right now – and for good reason. Thanks to helpful weather systems, slopes across the country get awesome snowfall. And, that means it has some of the best powder skiing conditions in the world.

Plus, when you go on a skiing trip to Japan, you also get to enjoy delicious food, warm hospitality and interesting culture.

What to expect

This trip takes place in Honshu, Japan’s main island, where you’ll find Tokyo and other major cities and attractions. There are a lot of ski destinations across Honshu, from both smaller ski resorts to larger ones. This gives us lots of choice in our search for the best powder.

I’ll tailor the trip based on your group’s experience level so your trip is just right. Whether you are backcountry skiing pros or first-timers on the slopes, I’ll be able to organise a trip you’ll love.

Places we normally go to include Myoko and Joetsu, where we’ll find slopes to suit all levels. Joetsu benefits from some of the heaviest snowfall and it has a lot of accessible glade skiing.

If you want to keep your trip to one day, that’s not a problem. We have over 20 ski areas to choose from for day trips, including Myoko, Hakuba, Otari, Hiuchi, Umidani, Madarao and Nozawa Onsen.

If you want more time on the mountain, I can also arrange for full or partial board across multiple days. I’ll also help you organise lift access, more intensive backcountry ski tours and more.

Request to book now, and I’ll look forward to showing you great powder here in Japan.

If you’re a backcountry skiing enthusiast you’ll also want to check out this 10- day backcountry and powder skiing trip in Nagano and Niigata.

Price includes

Guiding fee
Permit and entrance fees
Mountain guide expenses

Price details

Not included:
It does not include the lift tickets.

FAQs

What backcountry skiing experience and fitness level do I need to join this tour?

You should have intermediate to advanced skiing skills and be comfortable skiing off-piste. No prior ski touring experience is necessary, but a good level of fitness is required to handle uphill climbs and deep powder conditions.

Will we be using lifts to access the backcountry, and do I need to buy a lift pass?

Yes, we will be using lifts to access the backcountry. Lift passes are not included in the tour cost, and it is recommended to buy them when we are together to ensure you get the correct pass.

What ski equipment and safety gear do I need?, and is it possible to rent equipment?

You should bring your own skiing gear, including clothing suitable for backcountry conditions. You will need skis with touring bindings, skins, avalanche transceiver, probe, and shovel. A backpack of about 20-30 liters should be sufficient to carry your gear. Most of this equipment is available for rent locally in the Hakuba area. A detailed checklist can be provided upon request.

How will accommodation and meals be handled on the mountain?

Accommodation and meals are not included in the tour price. There are various lodging options available in the Hakuba area, including hotels and guesthouses. Meals can be purchased locally, and it is advisable to carry some snacks and water for the day.

What happens in the event of bad weather?

In the event of bad weather, the tour plan may be adjusted to ensure safety. Alternative activities or routes may be considered depending on the conditions.

What is the guide-to-client ratio for this ski program?

The guide-to-client ratio is typically 1:6, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

What is the best time of the year for this tour?

The best time for this tour is from January to March when snow conditions are ideal for backcountry skiing.

Is this program suitable for both skiers and snowboarders, including splitboarders?

Yes, the program is suitable for both skiers and snowboarders. Splitboarders are welcome to join.

How can I get to the meeting point, and is public transportation an option?

The meeting point is in the Hakuba area, which is accessible by train and bus from Tokyo and other major cities. Public transportation is a viable option to reach the meeting point.

Do I need insurance to join this trip?

Yes, you should have travel insurance that covers backcountry skiing and emergency rescue. It is advisable to confirm with your insurance provider that you are covered for such activities.

Are kids allowed, and from what age?

The tour is generally suitable for adults and older teens. Please inquire directly for specific age requirements and suitability for younger participants.

What’s the timing of a typical day on this tour?

The day typically starts early in the morning around 8:00 AM and finishes by late afternoon. Skiing duration will depend on the conditions and the group's pace but generally includes several hours of skiing with breaks for rest and lunch.

About the guide

Tadashi

5.0

(13)

Mountain Guide

I am a JMGA mountain guide based in the seaside town of Miura in Kanagawa prefecture, offering a mix of outdoors guiding activities in both the mountains and the sea. What I value the most in guiding is to of course guide my clients safely but also for my clients to spend a quality time in the rich nature. Exposing yourself in the rich nature by taking part in outdoor activities, and by removing everything in between you and the nature, I believe that you’ll be able to experience the extraordinary. It could be the overwhelming feel from witnessing the change in landscapes through seasons, or that you learnt to speak to your own body and heart, or that you deepened the understanding of the local area, and of course it could be that precious moment where you can experience this together with other people!

I am also certified in Japan Avalanche Network (JAN) at Level 2.
In the summer, I guide in the mountains, mainly in the North Japan Alps, and sea kayak, and in the winter I take clients backcountry skiing.
Whatever the discipline, my focus is always for my clients to be able to “feel” and to be one with the nature. The integral part of the fun is to interact with the locals, to meet the local culture, and to breathe in the air there as a total package!
So, in the summer I like to take clients deep into the mountains accessed by using both the sea kayak and your climbing / hiking skills, as well as staying in tents at night. I think it is a pity if you only spend time in the mountains or only in the sea!
And in the winter, I’d like to show my clients that backcountry skiing is not all about chasing powder but it is about getting joy from the mountains in totality.

I am looking forward to meeting you and sharing a quality time in the land of varying seasonal beauties!

Languages

Japanese | English

Certificates

JMGA

Request more information

What people are saying about this trip

Anna

Excellent trip, I recommend it!

Kirsty

Tadashi is a knowledgeable guide who knows how to plan a great backcountry tour to find great snow, gorgeous views and stay safe throughout the day. I had an awesome trip!

Stephen

Tadashi Terada is an excellent guide. I asked him to take me up Mount Fuji by the Subashiri Trail in early May 2024, when there was still 1000 meters of snow and ice on the mountain and the trail ropes were buried. Tadashi was patient, professional, careful, loyal, funny, and excellent at route-finding (we descended through the snowfield and bush zone after dark because of my slow pace). The travel, food and lodging arrangements which Tadashi made after picking me up in Tokyo were also first rate. I very highly recommend him as a guide and person.

Justin

From the outset of our journey to the summit of Mt. Fuji, Tadashi proved to be an exceptional guide. His meticulous attention to detail was evident as he provided thorough instructions and assisted us with arranging all the necessary rental equipment for the climb. This preparation made us feel confident and ready to tackle the challenge ahead. Tadashi's commitment to safety and his considerate nature shone through as he allowed us to set our pace, especially when the altitude made breathing difficult. His ability to adapt to our needs without compromising safety was truly commendable. Moreover, Tadashi's kindness extended beyond the mountain; he offered us convenient transportation to and from Mt. Fuji, adding a layer of comfort and ease to our adventure. Throughout the climb, he was not just our guide but also an excellent photographer. He captured countless memorable moments, including a very special one—my proposal to my girlfriend (now my fiancée). Tadashi managed to capture the proposal in stunning detail, which made our engagement even more memorable. Choosing Tadashi as our guide was undoubtedly the best decision we made for our climb. His professionalism, expertise, and genuine care are what make him stand out. If you're seeking a guide who will not only ensure your safety but also enhance your experience with heartfelt dedication, Tadashi Terada is the one you want by your side on Mt. Fuji.

Yuen

Overall it was a really enjoyable hike. Guide Tadashi was knowledgeable and guided us in being equipped with the appropriate gear as it was our first time hiking in snow. It was especially tranquil during the off season period, and the views were magnificent.