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Madarao-Tangram: Japan’s Hidden Powder Playground
With abundant ungroomed tree runs and open access to off-piste terrain, Madarao and Tangram are rare exceptions in Japan’s typically restrictive ski resort scene. Only Niseko and Hakuba Cortina offer a similar level of freedom, but Madarao-Tangram remains far less crowded, making it a top destination for those seeking untracked powder and world-class tree skiing.
From easily accessed sidecountry zones to resort-secured powder routes, you’ll find terrain for every level. Confident riders can bootpack to the summit of Mt. Madarao for expansive tree runs, while intermediates can explore gentle glades right from the lifts. The sheer variety of terrain and access options makes Madarao-Tangram ideal for skiers and snowboarders of all levels looking to ride fresh snow all day.
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.
Half-day tour: 3h
Full-day tour: 6h + 1h lunch
Flexible meeting points at both Madarao and Tangram ski resorts.
- Guide fee
- Powder ski/snowboard and avy safety kit rental discount at La Colina Gear
- Access to discounted Madarao Mountain Pass lift tickets
- Pick-up/drop-off from your accommodation at Madarao-Tangram*
*Contact us to book transportation from other ski resorts in the area. Fees apply.
- Lift tickets
- Insurance
- Lunch or snacks
Kim– :
I had spent two days warming up on my own at Madarao when I decided to book the Madarao Tangram Freeride Guide to push me out of my comfort zone. My guide was not only professional but genuinely passionate and very intuitive about my skill level.
We stayed within the resort boundaries, but I was able to ride waist-deep powder in areas I never would’ve found by myself, even though I had unknowingly passed them several times in the previous days.
He even had to dig me out twice after I fell head-first into the deep stuff!
Thank you, La Colina. You’re now my top recommendation to all my riding friends back in Singapore.
Rachel– :
We’ve been dreaming about Japow for years, and this tour made it a reality. Madarao and Tangram are such hidden gems. No crowds, playful terrain, and absolutely buried in snow when we went. Madapow, locals call it. The guide adjusted the day based on our level (we’re advanced intermediates) and helped us with our first time on 120mm reversed camber powder skis. Game changer! Everything from booking to drop-off was smooth, personal, and professional. Thank you La Colina team!!!
James– :
Booked this day tour with my partner and a couple of mates and honestly, it exceeded all expectations. Waist-deep pow, hidden tree zones, and even some under the rope sidecountry lines that felt like a dream. We got local ramen for lunch and wrapped the day with a backcountry adventure to a mountain onsen. Our guide was super chill but sharp when it came to safety. If you really want to explore what Madarao and Tangram have to offer, this is your golden ticket.
Sebastien– :
Forget the big-name resorts, if you want authentic freeride in Japan, this is it. Our La Colina guide lives right next to these mountains and knew exactly where to go after the storm. We rode terrain that wasn’t even on the map and didn’t see another soul until we popped back into the resort at the end of the run.
When one of our friends snapped a pole mid-line, the guide quickly coordinated with the team and had a spare one ready for us by the next lift. Unreal service.
The attention to detail, the local knowledge, and the powder quality? Just insane. Will be recommending this to every serious rider I know.
Luke– :
I’ve skied all over BC and Europe, but nothing prepared me for the face shots I got with La Colina’s freeride crew in Madarao. From the moment we got picked up at our lodge, everything was dialed in. The guides knew every tree run, every untouched stash, and had this sixth sense for where the snow would be best. No lift lines, just endless turns. And the views over Lake Nojiriko? Unreal