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DATES

Week 1 [backcountry excursion optional]: January 12 - 18 (5 days on snow Jan 13 - Jan 17)

Week 2 [includes backcountry excursion]: January 19 - 25 (5 days on snow Jan 20 - 24)

Week 3 [includes backcountry excursion]: January 26 - February 1 (5 days on snow Jan 27 - Jan 31)

Week 4 [backcountry excursion optional]: February 2 - February 8 (5 days on snow Feb 3 - Feb 7)

REQUIREMENTS

  • This is an age 20+ retreat - Must be able to confidently ride blue and black terrain
  • Tree riding and powder experience is encouraged [required for backcountry excursion]
  • Beacon/Shovel/Probe are required [weekly rental available for $120]
  • Optional backcountry add-on available for weeks 1 & 4. Simply add this to your cart during checkout to include the backcountry experience.
FAQ

Welcome to an exhilarating adventure in the powder filled landscapes of Niseko, Japan – a snowboarders paradise! Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Hokkaido region, Niseko boasts an ideal blend of powder-perfect slopes, captivating landscapes, and rich cultural experiences.

You'll find endless slopes adorned with the finest, light-as-air snow that Niseko is renowned for. With 50+ feet of annual snowfall, this destination offers an unparalleled canvas for your snowboarding dreams. Our snowboarding retreat is your gateway to some of the finest powder riding on the planet.

But Niseko is more than just a snowboarding haven – it's a cultural expedition like no other. Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the local community, savor authentic Japanese cuisine, and unwind in soothing onsen baths after an incredible day on the mountain. The fusion of adrenaline-pumping adventure and serene relaxation creates an experience that lingers in your heart long after the snow has melted.

Beyond the slopes, we’re committed to creating cherished memories and fostering lifelong connections. Join us in January for an adventure that transcends traditional snowboarding - where you’ll forge unforgettable memories, ride powder with a tight-knit group, and immerse yourself in the culture of NISEKO, JAPAN.

Reserve Your Spot

What's Included

This is an all inclusive trip that will be based out of HIRAFU, Hokkaido aka. NISEKO or the POWDER CAPITAL of the world.

Here's what will be provided

- 6 nights of accommodation near the slopes of Hirafu

- Transportation to and from the resort (and other activities)

- 5 days of lift tickets (Hirafu/Hanazono, Niseko Village, Annupuri, Moiwa, Rusutsu)

- 3 Planned Lunches and 6 Planned Dinners

EXCLUSIVES

- Exclusive T-shirt

- Professional quality digital photographs as a souvenir

What is NOT included

- Airfare

- Transit to and from Shin-Chitose airport (~$30 USD)

- Breakfasts

- 2 Lunches

- Spending money for snacks, souvenirs, onsen, or alcohol

Snowboarding in Niseko

Where We're Staying

Situated near Hirafu, the heart of Niseko, our exquisite accommodations are more than just a place to rest your head – they're a retreat of exceptional comfort and style.

Our chalets offer an experience that seamlessly blends traditional Japanese style with the warm embrace of alpine coziness.

Keep in mind, we will be set up for 2 or more guests per room. We will do our best to accommodate groups if you choose to book with a friend.

Questions? Ask Here

Snowboarding in Japan consists of cold and powder-filled days on the mountain. Here is a list of items to help make sure you are best prepared for the week:

What to Bring

- Snowboard, Bindings, & Boots

- Snow Pants/Bibs (Bibs recommended)

- Waterproof Jacket

- Beacon/Shovel/Probe (weekly rental available for $120)

- Backpack

- Base Layers (Top/Bottom/or ninja suit)

- Midlayer/hoodie

- Helmet

- Goggles (Low Light Lens Recommended)

- Warm Gloves / Mittens (2 pairs recommended)

- Glove liners (recommended if you plan to film on your phone)

- Plenty of Snowboard Socks (5 pairs recommended)

- Casual layers for exploring Hirafu

- Winter boots/shoes for exploring Hirafu (skate shoes not recommended)

- Facemask

- Water Bottle

- Toiletries

- Spending Cash (¥en for snacks/alcohol/onsen)

Secure Your Spot

Your Hosts

  • TJ | @boardarchive

    • Lead host, here to make your Japow dreams come to life
    • OG board nerd
    • The guy you know from YouTube

  • Yuji | @fujiyujiyama

    • The man putting a camera in your face when you least expect it
    • This guy is always vibing

  • Daisuke | @gradai_niseko

    • Certified Niseko local, born and raised in waist high snow
    • Pro snowboarder for K2
    • Hosting during Weeks 1 & 4
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Questions You May Have

Are all 4 weeks the same?

No. For 2025, weeks 1 and 4 will have identical itineraries, and the backcountry tour will be optional. Weeks 2 and 3 will include a guided, snowmobile accessed, backcountry excursion on private land. This is the reason week 2 and 3 are slightly more expensive and why powder/tree riding experience is required.

What airport do I fly into? 

The main airport for international flights to Hokkaido is Chitose/Sapporo. For our North American guests, flights will land in Narita or Haneda airports (Tokyo), layovers typically are 90 minutes or so, followed by a 2 hour flight to shin-Chitose. 

Transit between Shin-Chitose Airport and Niseko

Shuttles between Chitose airport and Niseko are inexpensive and efficient. There are 3 main shuttle services available:

Chuo Bus (most affordable option)

Hokkaido Resort Liner

White Liner

Please make sure you reserve your shuttle arriving in Niseko (Hirafu Welcome Center) on the arrival day for your booked trip, and departing before 10am on your departure day unless you plan to extend your travels in Hokkaido.

What if I have an EPIC or IKON pass?

We suggest to use your FREE day passes with the partner resorts if you have an EPIC or IKON pass.

If you have a pass that covers days of riding at any of these following resorts - NISEKO UNITED, MOIWA or RUSUTSU - we will refund the cost of the lift tickets if you choose to use the days provided on your Epic or Ikon Pass.

What should my ability be? 

We suggest that you are able to confidently ride BLUE and BLACK terrain.

Powder and tree riding experience is encouraged. We suggest you start not skipping leg day in the gym.

What board should I bring? 

We suggest bringing your favorite powder/freeride board to float on the deepest powder snow in Niseko. If you only have a park twin board, you will still be able to ride, however, a directional freeride board will enhance your over-all powder experience.

What is the backcountry excursion like?

The backcountry excursion will be a guided day of snowboarding on private land and accessed via snowmobile.

You can expect to ride well spaced tree runs and open powder fields on this day with a small group.

We will need to alternate being towed back up to the top of the runs with a rope behind a snowmobile. Some runs you'll sit on the sled, some runs you'll be towed. You can expect to be towed 1 or 2 times.

Check out this video segment from our friend David to see what to expect.

Photo and video captured during the day will be available for sale at the end of the day by our guides.

What is the guest to host ratio?

You can expect no more than 4 or 5 guests per host.

What’s the weather like? 

In the month of January, frigid Siberian winds sweep over the Sea of Japan collecting abundant moisture as they advance inland, resulting in the renowned phenomenon known as Japow. Temperatures in Niseko tend to be in between -5 to -15 degrees celcius (23 to 5 degrees fahrenheit).

Sunshine makes infrequent appearances, making it advisable to opt for goggles with yellow, rose, or clear lenses. It's prudent to have an extra pair on hand as a contingency. Additionally, we strongly advise the use of a face mask or a neck warmer/buff to stay well-protected from the elements.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

After purchasing a spot on the tour, you will be sent a google form sheet which has a section for you to fill out any dietary restrictions you may have.

We will do our best to accommodate your needs however, this cannot be guaranteed.

*Cancellations made within 90 days of arrival will incur a 90% cancellation fee. Cancellations made outside of 90 days before arrival will incur a 50% cancellation fee.

**Flight and transportation costs will not be refunded or reimbursed.

***This is an age 20+ retreat, and ultimately you are responsible for your actions and well-being. We are not responsible for any injuries or lost/damaged/stolen goods. Travel insurance and travel health insurance are strongly recommended.

****Snowboarding is weather dependent and weather days are a possibility.

Questions? Ask here