Tateyama is part of the Chubu Sangaku National Park, encompassing the Northern Alps of Japan. The region is celebrated for its dramatic mountain landscapes, deep valleys, and abundant snowfall during the winter months. It’s accessed through the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, a system of electric buses, ropeways, and cable cars that give access to Murodo, at the base of the Tateyama crater (2,450m). During spring is possible to visit the famous Tateyama Snow Wall, a massive corridor of snow that reaches incredible heights of more than 16m.

What Makes This Special:

• Access to untouched powder bowls and technical alpine terrain
• Traditional mountain lodge accommodation with authentic Japanese hospitality
• Spring tours feature the world-famous Tateyama Snow Wall – towering corridors of snow reaching 15+ meters
• Small group sizes (maximum 6 participants) ensure personalized attention and safety
• Professional certified guides with extensive local knowledge

Tour Details:

• Duration: 3 days depending on conditions and group ability
• Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced backcountry experience required
• Physical Demands: Good fitness essential for 1,000-1,500m daily elevation gain
• Group Size: 2-6 participants 
• Accommodation: Traditional mountain lodge with hot spring access

Required Equipment:

• 10+ point crampons
• Ice axe (suitable for alpine conditions)
• Avalanche safety kit: transceiver, probe, shovel
• Touring skis or splitboard with climbing skins
• Appropriate winter mountaineering clothing system
• Headlamp and backup lighting

NOTE

• Groups of at least 4 friends will receive a 10% discount.

DAY 1

• Meeting at the designated point and transfer to Ogizawa
• 8:00am: Arrival at Ogizawa. Check gear, and purchase Kurobe Alpine route tickets to access Murodo.
• 8:30am: Board the first departing bus at Ogizawa
• 10:00am: Arrival at Murodo. Meet the lead guide and head to Raichoso lodge.
• 11:00 – 11:35am: Check-in at Raichoso lodge. Backcountry tour preparation
• 11:40am: Start backcountry tour in the area following guide recommendations
• 3:30pm: End of the tour. Return to Raichoso lodge
• Enjoy hot spring bath and dinner

DAY 2

• 6:00am: Breakfast
• 7:00am: Start backcountry tour in the area following guide recommendations
• 3:30pm: End of the tour. Return to Raichoso lodge
• Enjoy hot spring bath and dinner

DAY 3

• 6:00am: Breakfast
• 7:00am: Check out Raichoso and departure to Murodo
• 7:30am: Store belongings at Murodo bus station lockers
• 8:00am: Start backcountry tour in the area following guide recommendations
• 3:00pm: End of the tour. Return to Murodo
• 3:30pm: Board last bus departing Murodo
• 5:00pm: Arrival at Ogizawa. Transfer to the designated drop-off points.

• 2-night room shared accommodation at Raichoso Lodge. Breakfast and dinner included.
• Pick-up/drop-off at Madarao, Myokokogen or Nagano station and transfer to Ogisawa (Nagano side of the Kurobe Alpine Route). 
• Alpen Route fee
• Local English/Spanish & Japanese speaking mountain guide (3 days)
• Discount on backcountry equipment rental at La Colina Gear (Touring boots not available)

• Shinkansen transfer to Nagano station
• Insurance
• Ski bag to transport skis inside the bus/ropeway (plastic bag can be purchase at around ¥1,000)
• Additional activities
• Lunch
• Snacks, beverages, etc