TO THE MOUNTAINS TRIPS: SOUTHERN HOKKAIDO
Pricing Details
$2,724
per person based on double occupancy (single occupancy price: $3,759)
incl. taxes, excl. airfare and based on double occupancy
50% deposit due at time of booking; final payment due 90 days from departure date.
You're in Good Hands
Gabriela Mastrocola
Call Gabriela Mastrocola
800-908-5000 ext 3038Only a limited number of rooms are available, so book early before they’re sold out!
Best Suited For:
Intermediate to expert powder skiers and snowboarders who are also adventurous travelers.
Expert
Intermediate
Dining
Spa
Don't take our word for it.
"Simply put, The Southern Hokkaido Guided Ski Trip is an experience that's equal parts powder & culture without the typical hassles."
Jan. 20–27, 2024
RESERVE SPOTJan. 27–Feb. 3, 2024
Join The WaitlistTrip Details
7 nights in Niseko, Japan
Round-trip transportation between the New Chitose Airport (Sapporo) and Niseko.
7 nights of ski-in/ski-out lodging in Niseko at The Green Leaf Niseko Village.
6 days with English-speaking, local ski and snowboard guides in Niseko, Rusutsu, Kiroro and Moiwa, with access to side country terrain.
Breakfast daily, one traditional Japanese dinner, welcome reception and farewell reception.
About the Green Leaf Niseko
With a ski-in/ski-out location in Niseko Village, the Green Leaf offers home-away-from-home comforts, an incredible Onsen and pool, delicious breakfast options and unobstructed views of Mt. Yotei.
Top Amenities Include:
- Ski-in/ski-out location
- Onsite onsen (hot spring)
- Spa
- Restaurant
- Bar/lounge
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
About Southern Hokkaido
Southern Hokkaido is home to the world-famous "Japow." Receiving 600+ inches of snow on average per season, Southern Hokkaido is truly the powder paradise it’s rumored to be. But it’s not only Hokkaido's powder that’s the best in Japan; for expert skiers and riders, nothing competes with Niseko, Rusutsu or Kiroro's off-piste side country skiing.
Located 62 miles from bustling Sapporo, Niseko is quite convenient for both international travelers and city site-seers, which is why we base Japan Tour there. The resort is close to Rusutsu and Kiroro ski resorts, and the stunning Mt. Yōtei or “the Mt. Fuji of Hokkaido."
What to Expect
Travel
Depending on whether you're traveling from eastern or western North America, the flight to Japan can take anywhere from 11 to 14 hours. Once you've arrived in Tokyo, you a two-hour domestic flight to Sapporo. We have relationships with the airlines and can add flights to your trip, sometimes with a discounted fare, or you're welcome to make those arrangements yourself.
Terrain
Generally, the ski terrain you can expect in Southern Hokkaido, Japan is lower angle, often with perfectly spaced Japanese Oak trees and blanked by an average of 600" annually. Much of the guided skiing is in the country and requires varying amounts of traversing. Because of this, it’s common for us to try to separate skiers and snowboarders into separate groups.
Culture
Southern Hokkaido is the best for uninitiated travelers. English is widely spoken, especially in Niseko, due to the prevalence of Australian skiers. There are still plenty of traditional Japanese restaurants and cultural and culinary attractions, including onsens (hot springs) soaks (a perfect way to restore and relax before or after your day on the mountain) and local Japanese whiskey and sake tastings. Learn more.
Our Guides
With many seasons under their belt and several working with Ski.com and our skiers, our Niseko-based ski guides provide the highest level of safety, knowledge and fun. These highly certified, seasoned, professional guides understand local storm cycles and constantly monitor the weather to determine the best resort to ski each day. If your ski day is not in Niseko, your guide will pick you up at the hotel in their private van.
Equipment
Niseko receives 600" of snowfall annually, so powder skis (101+ mm) are highly recommended. If you don’t have a ski like this in your personal quiver, we can arrange for you to rent the perfect pair to ensure the best possible experience in Japan. Backcountry packs, with beacon, probe and shovel are required and available for rent, as most of the guided skiing takes place in uncontrolled, off-piste zones.
What to Pack
Temperatures in Hokkaido in January range from 12°F to 28°F, so it's imperative to dress appropriately. In addition, since it snows so much in Hokkaido during the winter months, stormy conditions and strong winds are often present. Boot heaters, hand warmers and face protectors, like Buffs, are highly recommended. Our best practice is to come prepared with several layers you can use depending on conditions. See our full packing list.
Frequently asked questions
Flights, lunches and five dinners. To maximize flexibility, lift tickets also aren’t included. Niseko is on the Ikon Pass, Rusutsu is on the Epic Pass and day tickets range from $50 to $75 depending on the resort.
Looking for a custom Japan trip or different dates?
Please fill out the below form if you have any questions or if you would like to explore building a custom itinerary.
