Located in the heart of the Powder Belt, Madarao is famed for its abundant snowfall and diverse terrain, making it an ideal destination for backcountry skiing.

Our guided tour takes you beyond the groomed slopes of Madarao Ski Resort and into its untouched wilderness. Please note that backcountry tours require the use of climbing skins. For lift-accessed off-piste terrain or areas reachable by bootpacking, please book our Freeride Tour.

With the expertise of our seasoned guides, you'll navigate deep powder fields, world-class treelines, and scenic ridgelines—discovering the very best of Madarao's backcountry. Each tour is tailored to the group’s skill level, ensuring a challenging yet rewarding experience for all participants. Transportation back to the resort is included when required.

Safety is paramount. All tours include a briefing on avalanche safety and the use of essential equipment such as beacons, shovels, and probes. Our local guides speak Japanese and are highly knowledgeable about the terrain, snowpack, and weather patterns, ensuring a secure and memorable adventure in the backcountry.

Join us for an early-morning first run of the day on freshly groomed snow or powder starting at 8:30 AM sharp—or choose a time that better fits your schedule.

Operating year-round at Madarao-Tangram, we trail run and hike the Madarao area and surrounding mountains during the summer, scouting new lines to offer access to more terrain than any other guiding operation in the area.

For a sample of the terrain we cover, check our "Ultimate Madarao Backcountry Guide". We will tailor the itinerary to match your ability:

• Beginner: Access to fun skiing and great snow. Average 1000m of elevation gain or less
• Intermediate: Explore diverse terrain and more challenging descents. Average 1200m of elevation gain.
• Advanced: For experienced skiers and boarders looking to go further and ski exciting lines. Average of 1500+m elevation gain.

Half-day tour: 3h. Tipical routes include a lift accessed ascent to the abandoned Toyota Ski Resort, or one ascent/descent in the Mt. Hakamadake area.

Full-day tour: 5h-7h 

Flexible meeting points at both Madarao and Tangram ski resorts. Contact us for arranging transportation if you plan to join our tour from a different resort.

• Guide fee
• 30min briefing the day before at Madarao or before starting the tour to cover the snowpack situation, weather forecast, planned route, and check the gear.
• Backcountry ski/splitboard and avy safety rental* discount at La Colina Gear
• Access to discounted Madarao Mountain Pass lift tickets (if required)
• Transportation back to Madarao - Tangram ski resort (if required)

* Ski touring boots not available for rental

• Pick-up/drop-off outside Madarao-Tangram area*
• Lift tickets
• Insurance
• Lunch, or snacks.

*Pick-up/drop-off shuttle service from ¥10,000