Looking to make your first tracks in Japan's legendary powder snow? This tour is designed for intermediate skiers and snowboarders ready to explore powder for the first time. Learn in a fun, supportive environment and experience the magic of Japow!

Depending on the snow conditions and the resort you are staying, With over 20 resorts to choose from, discover the diversity of terrain and powder that this incredible region has to offer.

What to Expect:

• Intro to Powder: Our experienced instructors will teach you how to ride in powder, from the basics of technique to adjusting your stance, or how to get back on track when you fall into deep snow.
• Dedicated gear: You will learn how to use fat skis. While a +110mm width ski may look intimidating, you will get familiar with the skis, boards, and poles used in powder conditions, and you’ll quickly find that with the right gear, floating in powder is much more fun than carving on groomed slopes.
• Tailored Learning: Whether you're completely new to powder or have some experience, we’ll guide you step by step to help you build confidence in powder snow conditions.
• Hassle-Free Experience: We provide transportation from your accommodation or Nagano station to the resort with the best powder conditions on that date. After your powder session, relax in a local hot spring to rejuvenate.

Resorts Covered:

While we will prioritize our home base of Madarao-Tangram, since it is the ski resort with more ungroomed terrain of all Nagano, we will consider other resorts with ungroomed slopes suitable for beginners such as Akakura, Myoko Suginohara, Seki Onsen, Lotte Arai, Nozawa Onsen, Ryuoo, Shigakogen, Yamaboku. Drive times to the resorts vary from 25 to 60 minutes.

Conditions:

• Flexible Scheduling: No set dates—it can be any day of the week, pending guide availability. Booking at least 48 hours in advance is recommended.
• Locations Served: This tour is available for guests staying at Madarao Tangram, Akakura, Suginihara, Ikenotaira, Seki Onsen, Lotte Arai, Kurohime, Togakushi, Nozawa Onsen, Togari Onsen, Kijimadaira, Ryuoo, Shigakogen and any other area in between. 
• Tokyo Option: For those interested in a one-day ski trip, the Shinkansen Hakutaka departs from Tokyo station at 6:28 am and arrives at Iiyama station at 8:16, meaning that you can be on the slopes of Madarao in 2h:30min from Tokyo! The last shinkansen from Iiyama station to Tokyo departs at 21:36. 
• Number of people: This is a private tour with a maximum of 6 participants

Disclaimer:

We track powder conditions daily across more than 20 ski resorts. However, due to changing snow cycles and winter conditions, there might be days when fresh powder isn't available. In such cases, you'll still have the opportunity to train with fat skis on variable snow conditions, helping you build confidence with the gear and improve your technique in different snow types.

7:30 AM – Pickup at Accommodation or Iiyama Station

• Your guide will meet you at your accommodation or Iiyama Station if you’re arriving via the early morning shinkansen. We’ll get you comfortable in our transport and begin the journey to the chosen ski resort.

8:00 - 8:30 AM – Arrive at Selected Ski Resort

• Upon arrival, your guide will give you a quick overview of the day, including safety tips, the resort layout, and any specific terrain to focus on. We will adjust the rental gear bindings to your boot size, and give you advice about the shape and length of the skis.

9:00 AM – Morning Ski/Snowboard Session

• Early morning is the best time to enjoy powder and find fresh lines.  Your guide will lead you to the best powder stashes and will give you tips and advice all the time so you have the best shredding experience.  

12:00 PM – Lunch Break at a Local Restaurant

• Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of our favorite restaurants, sampling Japanese mountain cuisine like ramen, katsu-curry, or other local specialties.

1:00 PM – Afternoon Ski/Snowboard Session

• While most of the fresh powder will be gone, you will hone your skills using fat skis in variable snow, an tracking the powder is left. 

4:30 PM – Wrap-Up Ski Session

• Wind down the day with some final runs, and if conditions allow, take in some scenic views.

5:00 PM – Onsen (Hot Spring) Visit

• After a day on the mountain, head to our recommended onsen for a well-deserved soak. Relax in the natural hot spring water, soothing your muscles and rejuvenating your body.

6:30 PM – Dinner & Drinks with Your Guide (Optional)

• If time allows, you can add a cultural stop, such as a stroll through a historic town to experience Japan’s rich heritage.

7:30 PM – Return to Accommodation or Iiyama Station

• After the onsen and cultural visit, relax as we drive you back to your accommodation or drop you off at the designated Station in time to catch the Shinkansen back to Tokyo.

*Timings are approximate and may vary depending on conditions and the resort chosen.

• Ski or snowboard Guide (max 1:6 guide to guest ratio)
• Pick up and drop off at your accommodation in North Nagano, Iiyama train station or snow shuttle drop-off point.
• Transfer to recommended hot springs (Onsen) 
• Lift Ticket
• Rental Powder skis & Poles or powder snowboard with bindings (boots not included)

• Insurance
• Breakfast, Lunch, dinner or snacks.
• Hot springs entry fee
• Shinkansen tickets