Japan

Bespoke Ski Guides Presents: An 8-Day Hokkaido Ski Adventure

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Overview

Experience the magic of Japan's northernmost island on this 8-day Hokkaido Ski Adventure, hosted by Bespoke Ski Guides—your trusted, AMGA-certified guides to the world's most extraordinary skiing destinations. From the powder-filled slopes of Niseko to the untouched backcountry in Otaru, this trip is a powder hound's dream come true. And, for an extra thrill, cap off the trip with an exhilarating day of helicopter skiing through Hokkaido Backcountry Club.

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‍Day 1: Arrival in Sapporo

• Arrive at New Chitose Airport, Sapporo.
• Transfer to Niseko depending on time of arrival. If after 1900hrs a private transfer will likely need to be arranged.  If arrival is very late we may suggest an airport hotel for the evening before an early morning transfer to Niseko
• Settle into your accommodation and have a welcome dinner with a local Hokkaido food

Day 2: Niseko Sidecountry Introduction

• Avalanche Gear introduction/refresher with Beacon, Shovel, and Probe
• Warm up day skiing the gates and sidecountry of the Niseko United resorts (Annupuri, Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village).
• Evening onsen (hot spring bath) experience.
• Local meal depending on the interest level of the group

Day 3: Mt. Yotei Tour

• Full day of touring and skiing the iconic Mt. Yotei.
• Descend into the Yotei crater if conditions allow.
• Evening relaxation and dinner in Niseko.

Day 4: Moiwa and Beyond

• Explore the lesser-skied Mt. Moiwa and its surroundings.
• Night skiing at Niseko for those with energy left.
• Traditional Japanese izakaya (pub) dinner.

Day 5: Helicopter Skiing on Shiribetsu-Dake with Hokkaido Backcountry Club

• An unforgettable day of heli-skiing in pristine zones accessed by Hokkaido Backcountry Club.
• Celebrate the day's adventures with a gourmet dinner.

Day 6: Transfer to Otaru

• We will pack our things and hit the road, skiing one of the resorts local to Niseko or hitting one on the way to Otaru depending on where the skiing is the best for the day.
• Afternoon transfer to the coastal town of Otaru.
• Evening walk along Otaru Canal and seafood dinner.

Day 7: Otaru Backcountry Exploration

• Ski tour in the mountains surrounding Otaru.
• Discover hidden powder stashes and enjoy views of the Sea of Japan.

Day 8: Kiroro Sidecountry

• A short drive brings you to Kiroro Resort.
• Explore the extensive sidecountry and backcountry terrain around Kiroro.
• Evening return to Otaru and enjoy a sushi feast.

Day 9: Optional Day

• Depending on your group's energy and interests, you could:
• Have another ski day in a selected area.
• Explore Otaru's historic architecture, museums, and glassworks.
• Relax and soak in an onsen.

• Farewell dinner in Otaru.

Day 10: Departure

• After a breakfast we will begin to make our way towards Chitose
• We are able to stop along the way as desired to pick up souvenirs, depending on the time of departures

This itinerary is a representation of what we will try to accomplish.  Given the microclimates in Hokkaido, your guide will often choose the best location for skiing for the day based on where the most snow has fallen.  It is required to have backcountry touring gear, as after the resort begins to get tracked out for the day, we can venture out into the backcountry 

Adjustments can be made based on exact dates, group preferences, and snow conditions.

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