Ski touring and freeride skiing in Hakuba

A fantastic week in Hakuba and a sweet mix between ski touring and off-piste skiing in the Japanese alpine scenery, among powder and unique culture!

Japan: a country of traditions very untraveled by ski touring. This year, I propose to discover the spot of Hakuba. Located in Honshu, Japan, the central Island, this region is extraordinary to be alongside the Japanese Alps. Extremely wild territory with never ending mountains. There are ski resorts where backcountry skiing is the dominating sport.

Between these stations, the territory is huge for ski touring. As on Hokkaido island, the powder in January covers all the territory. It is light and unique. The evening, coming back we go to an onsen, small inn in the forest with hot springs.

What ski level do you need to do ski touring in Hakuba?

The first priority is to love skiing in powder snow. It is unique there. You’re not obliged to do all the trips. Or you can practice off-piste skiing.

Good physical condition is required to enjoy all days.

Daily altitude change between 800 and 1200 meters. We can also choose for off piste skiing days according to your motivation. We will be 2 mountain guides, so we can make different choices and make 2 groups.

The daily ski touring program in Hakuba

Days 1 – 2 – Hometown – Tokyo – Toyama – Hakuba

Regular flight to the capital. Then an internal flight to the small city of Toyama. 2:30h transfer by bus to Hakuba village.

Overnight at Hotel. Beautiful hot springs.

Day 2 – Tsugaike – Nakatsuchi

Safari ski from Tugaike small resort and superb descent to Nakatsuchi. Back by train to our Onsen.

Day 4 – Onagiyama

Ski touring in Nagiyama and long descent on Yamada Ryokan.

Day 5 – Kamikochi

Our journey continues a little further east in the Japanese Alps. We change valley and go to Kamikochi. On the road we can visit Matsumoto old castle. That day we can put the skis on for a short hike behind the lodge.

Day 6 – Yakedake

Ski touring on a beautiful volcano. Night in Nakanoyu. Small onsen, for our pleasure.

Day 7 – Abo Pass

Ski touring in Abo Pass depending on Jyukkokuyama conditions. Then we go to Hida, a small traditional mountain village in Japan to stay in probably the most magical place of the week: Hokayama

Day 8 – Shirakawago

Short ski touring day in Shirakawa and transfer to Toyama. Meal in Toyama to taste the best products of the Japanese sea.

Day 9 – Toyama – Tokyo – Ville d’origine

Return home!

The route above can be modified for safety reasons or unforeseen events. It can be adapted according to the participants level. In this case, we will do everything to offer you the best solution by adapting the original route.

A beautiful exotic adventure awaits you! Contact me and let’s discuss it! I will be happy to guide you on these beautiful Japanese mountains that I appreciate so much.