Prepare yourself for the bucket-list ski adventure of a lifetime! Spend a week in Central Hokkaido in search of the best powder skiing in Japan. Each morning, we will brief the many options (on piste, side country, human-powered backcountry, summit attempts) for the day based on preferences and conditions.
When not on skis, prepare to enjoy our curated Onsen (hot spring bath) tour, indulge in amazing cuisines like sushi, ramen, and local Hokkaido Wagyu beef, sip on a cold Sapporo or Japanese whiskey, and explore all that Furano and Central Hokkaido has to offer. As always, the trip is yours and we are happy to customize per request.
Highlights
ski the famous Japow with knowledgable guides
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not being tied to a tight day-to-day itinerary
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enjoy Central Hokkaido's culinary highlights
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stay in a private Japanese lodge
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soak in healing onsens
2022 dates
December 26 – January 1
January 2 – 8
January 9-15
January 16-22
January 23 – 29
January 33 - February 5
February 6 – 12
February 13 – 19
February 20 – 26
We have traveled the world with our skis. On most of the trips we budget enough time to be able to do the research and figure it all out on our own once we are there. And of course Mother Nature ultimately has the final say in it all. When it came time for a trip to Japan with a limited window of time, we realized we could spin our wheels and squander precious days wading through logistics. Fortunately we were pointed toward Third Eye. From knowing where to go given the conditions, whether it be backcountry or sidecountry, to the onsen-a-day apre ski, to the best food Furano has to offer, we were able to maximize our trip window. This would not have been possible had we done it on our own. Thank you Third Eye, we'll be back.
Mary Lewis and Jeff Hollenbaugh
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an average day look like?
Each day's objective will depend on snow and weather conditions as well as your personal preferences. Our guides closely monitor conditions and will present options to you each morning. A centrally located base (Furano) allows us the flexibility to adjust each day to maximize skiing and minimize crowds.
Expect your days to look something like this:
Discuss and decide as a group over some hot tea and coffee
Enjoy a traditional Japanese or western style breakfast
Ski like gluttonous powder pigs all day
Relax and soak in an onsen
Indulge in some top notch sushi, shabu-shabu, ramen, teppanyaki, or Japanese curry for dinner
I see a lot of roadtrip style ski trips in Japan. Why would I want to stay in Furano only?
We also love a good roadtrip; however, when it comes to harvesting that famous Japanese powder, we believe a centrally located home base is the best way to go. Furano is known as the belly button of Hokkaido. Why should you care about belly buttons? That means it is smack dab in the middle of the island with quick access to a number of nearby ski zones (resort and backcountry). Without a strict roadtrip schedule, we can play it by ear and assess for the best possible option every day aka chase the snow.
But what about Niseko?
Niseko has a lot to offer - a big reputation, a bustling après scene, and some of the deepest snow totals in the country. What it also offers - crowds, expensive food, a lot of Aussies, and heavy maritime snowpack.
Can I bring a non skiing friend?
Yes! The add-on price for a non-skiing guest is $2,100. This price still includes lodging and meals.
One week isn't long enough!
Don't worry! We can help you extend your trip in Furano or beyond to ensure you get your fill of Japan.
What is not included in the trip price?
Airfare / train to Asahikawa
Backcountry gear - beacon, shovel, probe (available for rent)
Lunch, Alcohol
Trip Insurance (required)
Lift tickets
Gratuities
What are the payment terms?
We ask for a $1,000 deposit upon reservation. The remainder is due 60 days prior to the trip. Please see our Program Policies page for more information.