Central Hokkaido Powder Ski Trip

The Resorts

Furano Ski Area
Furano is not like any ski town, it’s a country town that happens to have its own ski area. Things are changing as word gets out how good the ski area is, but it’s still relatively quiet most days and when we take you down into town you’ll experience an authentic Japanese night scene with lots of restaurant and bar options. On the mountain you’ll enjoy some of the best tree skiing in Hokkaido, with various backcountry access points leading you to steep faces, glades, and gullies full of fresh pow. The cold temperatures in Furano keep the 9 metres of annual snow light and dry and when its on, it is quite simply the best.

Tomamu
Tomamu strikes a cord with all who ride its mountains. With arguably the best in-bounds powder skiing in Hokkaido you’ll be wanting to come back for more. Mt. Tomamu at 1239m, offers skiers and snowboarders a wide variety of runs catering to all abilities. With 11 lifts, Tomamu has some great options.

Kamui Ski Links
Kamui is a small ski resort set on its own, 1 hour north of Furano. With 7 lifts accessing a network of wide open cruisers as well as powder filled trees and gullies, you’ll feel like your riding your own private mountain as crowds here a virtually non-existent – unless school kids on the beginner lifts count. Combine that with one of Japan’s most open ski area policies and there is enough here to suit every kind of skier and boarder.

Asahidake
Asahidake is one of the most popular touring locations in Hokkaido, due to the easy access to above tree line terrain given by the Ropeway at the bottom of the volcano (top height 1600m) and the fame of the mountain itself, which at 2290m is the highest in Hokkaido. Short hikes are often required along the ridges at the summit and there is the option of hiking around the volcano. Expect chutes, alpine bowls, massive pillows and epically deep powder. Once at the bottom, all roads lead to the Ropeway. A post ski onsen here is a must!

Tokachi Sahoro Resort
Sahoro is a resort full of surprises. From short fun shots between the lifts to a short boot pack hike to Mt Sahoro where you can enjoy a full vert tree run down to the road. With its newly expanded terrain it will  be sure to impress! It’s well protected too and is a good option when weather is variable.

Pippu
A quiet mountain and a good option when the storms are coming in. Plenty of trees to ski through, good pitch and virtually no crowds off-piste. This is a great mountain when everywhere else is busy or clapped out due to low vis or high winds.

Overview

Day 1
Upon arrival at Sapporo’s Chitose Airport, you will be transferred to Hotel Edel Warme by coach where you’ll be greeted by Hotel Munin staff, located nearby. You’ll then meet the rest of the team over sushi and drinks with your guide, who will provide a weather briefing, answer questions and run through the tour. If you wish to rent ski/snowboard equipment, it is advised that you arrive with enough time to be fitted.

Days 2-4
During the snow days, you will be issued with any avalanche rental gear (pre-booked) and taken through a safety briefing. The first two days will be spent exploring Furano with your guides, skiing and hunting for powder stashes. A Japanese welcome dinner party will be held after the first day of skiing. You may also have the opportunity to take a day tour to Kamui Ski Links, where you can soak in a famous volcanic onsen on the way back. Your guides will then show you around Furano where you can enjoy a fresh locally-sourced meal. Travel to Sahoro for a day of secluded tree skiing and a sneaky road drop.

Day 5
Today is an optional cultural or rest day, where you can choose to hike or relax in the onsen.

Days 6-10
For your final snow days, you will have the opportunity to ski Asahidake, Pippu, and Tomamu. After an early start, your group will head to Asahidake – the highest mountain in Hokkaido, standing at 2,290m. The ropeway offers an easy bump up to 1,600m, where you can access powder-filled ridges and chutes. This is also the perfect location to get your touring gear out if you have it with you. If you enjoy tree skiing, you will love the powder skiing at Pippu, and there are no crowds here either! You’ll have the chance to explore the small resort of Tomamu, which is great for its short hikes and deep north-facing backside – a powder-lover’s dream. For your last day, you’ll ski the local hills of Furano, where you can ski your favourite lines or go on a mission into the backcountry. Finish up the week with an all-you-can-drink karaoke dinner party!

Day 11
It’s time to say goodbye to your guides and new friends as you make your way back to Sapporo New Chitose Airport.