Backcountry Skiing in Japan - Alumni

Join NOLS on this pilot trip to Japan's Hokkaido island for world class powder, unspoiled backcountry, and Japanese cultural forays.

Hokkaido is home to some of the world's largest snowfall and when combined with the steep terrain common on volcanic islands it creates a playground that is becoming legendary amoung backcountry ski enthusiasts worldwide. Days will be spent working hard to get up high before enjoying the unmatched thrill of first tracks in deep powder.

This trip is not for beginners, skiers who are advanced and have avalanche training will likely enjoy the trip the most. Additionally, while lifts might be used on a couple of days to gain access to the mountains, participants will need to be in good shape to spend many hours skinning up hills and skiing in deep powder. The reward of skiing down is well worth the effort and days often end with a Japanese onsen (hot thermal bath).

If this is the trip you have been dreaming of, give us a call and sign up soon. We anticipate this trip will be a popular one!

Activity Rating*:

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