Backcountry Skiing in Japan - Western Hokkaido - Alumni

Japan’s Western Hokkaido region is home to one of the world’s deepest snowpacks. Hokkaido is a playground that is becoming legendary among backcountry winter enthusiasts worldwide. NOLS will take you to untouched ski areas for first tracks in some of the most famous powder terrain in the world. Join alumni, friends and family on this incredible trip to Western Hokkaido for a world class experience coupled with unique cultural traditions.

Photo by: Matthew Balestrieri

The goal of this trip is to ski the best and safest off-piste snow in the region; the backcountry in Japan is not for beginners. Skiers/boarders who are advanced, proficient in powder, and have avalanche training will likely enjoy this trip the most. While we do use lifts on a couple of days to gain access to the mountains, participants will need to be in good physical shape to spend many hours skinning up hills and skiing/boarding in deep powder. The reward of a downhill run is well worth the effort and days often end with a Japanese onsen (hot thermal bath).

Photo by: Brandon Miller

The trip begins in Kimobetsu in the shadow of Mount Yōtei. The sight of this awe inspiring volcano will accompany us throughout the trip. We will meet for orientation on the first day and then spend our first couple days reviewing group travel and map reading skills on the exceptional slopes that rise above this quaint town reviewing. After a few days, we will leave Kimobetsu behind and start our tour of other areas that give us access to pristine mountain snow.

Photo by: Ed Barbanell

Learning and living Japanese culture is a significant part of this trip. Days will often end soaking at onsens and sleeping in tatami-mat rooms at the ryokans. Over the centuries Hokkaido has had a relatively low population density compared to the rest of Japan. The island is more rural than other parts of Japan; farming and fishing are Hokkaido’s major industries. We will have the chance to dine on fresh local seafood, specialty ramen, soba noodle dishes, different types of crab, and local dairy products.

Photo Credit: Dylan Hatch

Each morning will start with instructors assessing the weather and snowpack stability. Where we actually ski each day is based on that assessment so the schedule is flexible. Some days we’ll take lifts to access the backcountry, while others we will start hiking straight from the parking lot.

Days will be spent working hard before enjoying the unmatched thrill of first tracks in deep powder. Evenings will be relaxed and restful. For those looking for physical challenge, cultural immersion, and great group atmosphere this is a trip to put on your radar.

Overall Difficulty*:

*You will be spending lots of time skiing uphill and then downhill in deep powder, top physical shape is a must!