Land at New Chitose Airport (CTS), the gateway to Japan’s northern frontier. We’ll meet you there and head north to Asahikawa, Central Hokkaido’s powder capital. The drive is an easy two hours through snow‑buried fields and onsen towns trailing clouds of steam. As the Daisetsuzan peaks emerge ahead, it hits you: this isn’t just a ski trip. It’s a pilgrimage to the Mecca of powder riding.

Accommodation & Meals

• 7 nights accommodation at 3 stars hotel in Asahikawa
• 1 night in Sapporo at a city hotel (departure nights)
• All breakfasts included

Ski touring

• 7 days of certified local ski guide

Transfers

• Airport pick-up and drop-off, transfer to Asahikawa, and daily transportation to tour starting point and arrival point with 4x4 van

Extras

• Esploro Travel trip leader throughout the journey
• Assistance with special dietary requirements (please notify in advance)
• Free time for visiting Asahikawa onsen, shopping centers and japanese restaurants

• All lunches, dinners, and additional food and drink
• Gas for rented van (shared between participants)
• Ski passes (if needed)
• Ski equipment and avalanche safety gear
• Travel insurance (mandatory)
• International flights to/from New Chitose Airport (CTS)
• Tips and personal expenses

Advanced

This trip is designed for experienced skiers and splitboarders comfortable riding very deep powder and climbing 800+ vertical meters per day with skins, for several consecutive days. Solid fitness, backcountry awareness, and prior touring experience are essential.

From January to February, Central Hokkaido is at the peak of its legendary powder season. Daytime temperatures in Asahikawa average –6 to –12 °C, while the higher elevations of the Daisetsuzan range often drop well below –15 °C. Storms roll in frequently from Siberia, delivering the dry, bottomless snow that makes Hokkaido famous worldwide. Between storms, crisp bluebird days open up perfect conditions for ski touring — from mellow tree runs to open bowls.

Ski Gear

• Your own ski (105mm minimum width) or splitboard
• Touring bindings and ski crampons
• Skins in good condition
• Telescopic poles
• Ski touring or splitboard boots
• Ski helmet
• Two pair of goggles for different light conditions
• Crampons and light axe optional depending on itinerary

Safety gear

• ARTVA avalanche transceiver
• Shovel and probe
• Avalanche airbag backpack optional but recommended
• Personal first aid kit

Travel Essentials

• Travel insurance covering: ski touring, avalanche rescue, medical evacuation, repatriation
• Power plug/adapter for Type A (same as US) 
• Reusable water bottle
• Cash to be withdrawn at the airport
• Medications regularly taken or required

Snow & Conditions

Q: What level of ski/splitboard experience do I need?
A: This trip is for intermediate+ to advanced skiers/snowboarders. You should be confident in riding very deep powder, and to hike up 800d+ for multiple days in a row.

Q: What kind of terrain can I expect?
A: The terrain in Central Hokkaido ranges from sheltered larch forests and playful tree lines for stormy days, to wide-open alpine bowls and volcanic ridges when the skies clear.

Q: Do I need to bring my own ski/board/avalanche gear?
A: You can rent everything in Asahikawa, but having your own gear is strongly suggested.

Q: Do I need an avalance backpack?
A: The snowpack in Hokkaido is relatively stable and the avalanche backpack is not mandatory but strongly suggested. 

Logistics

Q: How do I get to Hokkaido?
A: Fly into New Chitose Airport (CTS), Sapporo’s main international hub. From there, a private rented van will take you directly to Asahikawa, the gateway to Central Hokkaido’s backcountry.

Q: How many people are in the group?
A: We keep it small and riding-focused, maximum 5 + our tour leader. This means more flexibility, more untracked powder, and a more personal atmosphere.

Q: Is this trip suitable for solo travelers?
A: Absolutely. Most of our guests come solo.

Life in Hokkaido

Q: What’s the accommodation like?
A: We’ll stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel in the heart of Asahikawa, within walking distance of local restaurants, izakayas, and shops — the perfect base to explore Central Hokkaido’s powder capital.

Q: What’s included in the food and drink?
A: Breakfast is included at all hotels. Lunches are usually simple packed meals picked up from local konbini and enjoyed during our backcountry tours. Dinners are reserved for exploring the rich and diverse flavors of Japanese cuisine.

Q: Is there internet access?
A: Yes, the hotel has wifi, but we suggest to buy a local sim at the airport or, even better, to buy an e-sim before leaving.

Practicalities

Q: Do I need travel insurance?
A: Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is required, including coverage for backcountry skiing, outdoor activities, and medical evacuation.

Q: What’s the best time of year to go?
A: The best time of the winter is between January and February, when the magic of Japowder happens.