Skiing Trips in Japan

The legendary powder of Japan’s north island, Hokkaido, has been a well-kept secret for some time now--but not anymore!

For 2012 International Mountain Adventures will focus our attention on Japan. Japan has received much attention in the recent months with both the Tsunami and earthquake but the north island, Hokkaido, has not been affected by the natural disasters. For more information regarding the Tsunami and earthquake effects in Hokkaido, click here.

There are three simple reasons why we love skiing in Japan-- powder, culture and food.

Japan is a cold snowy place and gets meters of snow. Looking at its position geographically and the weather patterns, low pressure systems sweep down from Siberia crossing the Sea of Japan and unload its moisture on Hokkaido. It is one of the snowiest places on earth. You would think that being an island its snow would be heavy, but it is light and dry. Angel dust or diamond dust is what the locals call it.

There are two main areas we visit in Japan-- the Daisetsuzan National park, which is located in the central region area of Hokkaido, and Niseko, located in the southern region of Hokkaido.

The Daisetsuzan National Park circles the mountainous region of central Hokkaido. The trips we offer to these destinations are mostly backcountry by nature. A lift may be used to access a variety of terrain but we are always in the backcountry with all the essential equipment.

"I was introduced to Hokkaido several years ago and I have continued to go back year after year searching for the deepest snow I can find. The Daisetsuzan National Park has provided me with just that and my deepest days ever have been recorded in this part of the world. At last I can offer what I think is the jewel of the crown for powder skiers." -Ross Matlock

If you like skiing quality powder, eating great food, soaking in hot springs and don’t mind working for your turns -- check out the Double Dake and the Triple By Pass trips.

The town and resort of Niseko receives 16 meters of snow during the winter months and boasts 4 major ski resorts. With that amount of precipitation it has quickly become one of the powder capitals of the world. The Niseko area has been a well-kept secret for some time and as a powder ski destination most North Americans over look it. The variety of terrain you can access both inbounds and in the side country through the gate system is mind blowing. The options are limitless.