This is the ultimate ski trip experience in Japan, known for its remoteness and the harsh, windy, and icy conditions. The best time to attempt it is from March, when the weather improves just enough to make the adventure feasible. Those bold enough to take on this challenge will be rewarded with excellent snow and an array of gullies and couloirs to explore.

Before taking the ferry to Rishiri for two days of intense backcountry riding, we’ll spend a couple of days warming up in the Hokkaido Powder Belt, including sessions at Daisetsuzan National Park and the Teshio mountain range.

This trip is designed for intermediate to advanced backcountry skiers who are experienced in navigating avalanche terrain and seek to immerse themselves in the wilderness and remoteness of nearly untouched Hokkaido slopes.

The Hokkaido Powder Belt not only has the most coveted ski areas for finding the elusive champagne powder snow, it is also the area to escape from the crowds of Niseko and Rusutsu, and have an authentic experience chasing pow.

Conveniently based in Asahikawa or Furano, each day you will visit a different ski resort based on the best conditions of the day, including the unique ropeway-accessed resort of Kurodake in the Daisetsuzan National Park if the conditions are favorable.

This trip caters to beginner to advanced skiers who wish to experience Hokkaido in a different way, with quality on-piste and lift-accessed off-piste terrain.

Discover Hokkaido’s Premier Ski Resorts: A Powder Lover’s Dream.

Experience the ultimate ski adventure in Hokkaido’s most popular area, where world-renowned ski resorts like Niseko, Rusutsu, Kiroro, Sapporo Teine, Otaru Tenguyama, and Sapporo Kokusai await. Each resort boasts its own unique charm, offering diverse terrains, abundant powder, and stunning landscapes that promise an unforgettable skiing experience.