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Our tour is designed with flexibility and convenience in mind. Based in the picturesque coastal city of Otaru, you'll enjoy the perfect blend of access to top ski destinations and the charm of a historic town. Each day, we'll choose a resort based on the best conditions and the group's preferences and abilities, ensuring you get the most out of every run. Whether you're an advanced skier seeking challenging slopes or a beginner eager to improve your skills, there's something for everyone.
Affordable and Accessible Accommodation
One of the highlights of this tour is the ability to avoid the exorbitant prices of ski-in/ski-out accommodations typical of Hokkaido's high-end resorts like Niseko or Rusutsu. By staying in Otaru, you not only save on lodging costs but also get to experience the town's rich cultural heritage, delicious seafood, and vibrant nightlife. This strategic base allows for easy daily commutes to various ski resorts:
- Niseko: Renowned for its deep powder, extensive off-piste areas, and vibrant après-ski scene.
- Rusutsu: Offers a mix of groomed runs and tree skiing, with breathtaking views of Mount Yotei.
- Kiroro: Known for its consistent snowfall and excellent powder conditions.
- Sapporo Teine: A hidden gem offering diverse terrain and fewer crowds.
- Otaru Tenguyama: Combines great skiing with panoramic views of Otaru and the Sea of Japan.
- Sapporo Kokusai: Popular among locals for its reliable snow and varied slopes.
- Asarigawaonsen ski resort: A small and hardly visited ski resort with great back- and side-country terrain.
Why Choose This Tour?
Cost-effective: Enjoy great skiing without the premium prices of resort accommodations.
Variety: Ski a different resort each day, tailored to the best conditions and your preferences.
Local Experience: Stay in Otaru, a charming town known for its historical sites, seafood markets, and lively atmosphere.
Flexibility: Adapt your skiing itinerary daily to find the best powder and least crowded slopes.
Join us for a ski tour that balances adventure, affordability, and authenticity, allowing you to experience the very best of Hokkaido's legendary powder in a way that's both flexible and enriching.
DAY 1
Upon landing at New Chitose Airport, Hokkaido, you'll begin your journey to Otaru. The most convenient option is the direct JR Rapid Airport train, which departs every 15 minutes and takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach Otaru Station. The train ride offers stunning views of Hokkaido’s snow-covered landscape, making it a scenic start to your adventure.
- Alternative: If you prefer private transportation, we can arrange a comfortable transfer service to your accommodation in Otaru. Simply let us know in advance.
Upon arrival at Otaru Station, we will coordinate your pick-up. If your hotel is within walking distance, we will send you detailed walking directions and assist with any luggage transfers.
Check-in & Gear Inspection: After check-in at your hotel, you’ll meet your guide, who will go over your gear and provide you with essential information about the snow conditions and weather forecast for the week. This is also a great time to ask any questions or make special requests.
For those eager to hit the slopes immediately, optional skiing or snowboarding sessions are available at nearby resorts such as Otaru Tenguyama Ski Resort, known for its night skiing. (Lift tickets are not included)
DAY 2-6
Each day, your guide will choose the optimal ski resort based on current snow and weather conditions, ensuring you get the best experience. Enjoy full-day access to the selected resort, with your guide ensuring you make the most of each day based on conditions.
- Après-ski activities: After a day in the snow, relax and unwind in a different outdoor hot spring (onsen) each evening, renowned for their natural healing properties and stunning views.
- Dinner: You’ll have the chance to explore Otaru’s diverse culinary scene each night.
- Cultural Experiences: Visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, or take a stroll down Sakaimachi Street, where you'll find historical architecture, glass workshops, and artisanal shops.
DAY 7
On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel and take some time to explore Otaru if you wish. You can visit the picturesque Otaru Canal, a favorite photography spot, or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs, such as locally crafted glass or sweets.
We will arrange your drop-off at Otaru Station, where you can take the direct train back to New Chitose Airport.
- 6-night accommodation at Otaru Hotel. Breakfast included.
- All ski resort transfers.
- Scheduled transfers from Otaru Station to/from hotel (arrival and departure day)
- 5 days of lift passes
- English/Spanish & Japanese speaking mountain guide for ski an apres-ski (5 days)
- Avalanche safety training (This will give you the confidence to use your equipment with the aim of giving you more skills and knowledge to take away with you at the end of the trip.)
- Transfer from Shin-Chitose airport to Otaru
- Insurance
- Additional activities
- Lunch/dinners
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