Beyond Niseko: Japan’s Secret Ski Resorts
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As one of the few Asian countries with a long history of skiing, the slopes of Japan have options for both families and adrenaline junkies.
Ski resorts have been experiencing a powdery renaissance in northern China, South Korea, and India in recent years, and with the sport on the rise all over Asia, there are more opportunities than ever to slalom the slopes of the East.
Japan, unlike its neighbors, has a relatively long tradition of winter sports, reaching back to 1911 when Major Theodor von Lerch of the Austrian Army first introduced skiing to the nation, and that spirit is very much alive in the town of Niseko on the Russia-adjacent Hokkaido Island. Skiers hoping to get off-piste and away from the crowds in Japan can easily hit up Furano, the family-friendly Kiroro, or go heliskiing at the Rusutsu volcano.
For those who like a little adventure in their powder, Kyrgyzstan’s Karakol is delightfully isolated but still manages to provide a level of service commensurate with Western resorts – an exciting area with wooden cathedrals and distinct cultural appeal. Travelers will find alpine bowls and even glacier skiing in Kashmir’s Gulmarg, which features the highest ski lift in the world, the Gulmarg Gondola, at 13,054 feet above sea-level.
From beginners to Olympic-level pros, the diverse slopes of Asia are a chance to get off the beaten track and on-piste.
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
As one of the few Asian countries with a long history of skiing, the slopes of Japan have options for both families and adrenaline junkies.
After landing in Kyrgyzstan, skiers might be tempted by the proximity of Bishkek, but there is much to compliment the slopes of Karakol, including a level of resort-style service that won’t be available elsewhere.
Avid skier or snowboarder who loves traveling the world, there’s never been a better time to plan a skiing trip in South Korea
This challenging, seven-day ski expedition through remote Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan promises to excite even the most skilled of backcountry skiers. Engaging in this adventure requires visitors to be in excellent physical condition and to possess at least one year of backcountry skiing experience. You must bring fat powder skis 0.6 inches + underfoot or more. If you are a snowboarder, you must have a split board.
This exciting seven-day ski expedition promises to bring your senses to life as you adventure across the snowcapped peaks of Karakol, Kyrgyzstan. Admire brilliant works of historically-significant architecture and challenge your skiing prowess as you take in every aspect of this beautiful corner of the world.
Immerse yourself in the different faces of China in this exciting journey of cities and slopes. Split your time in this magnificent country between the bustling metropolis of downtown Beijing and the peaceful winter wonderlands offered by the area’s best ski resorts.
Travel from snowy ski slopes to steaming hotsprings on this magical 9-day luxury journey through southern Hokkaido. You’ll spend time in one of the world’s best ski resorts, meander through Sapporo’s Christmas market, and see the region on ski, snowmobile, or perhaps even horseback, while staying at luxury hotels.
Experience the best winter activities South Korea has to offer on this exhilarating 7-day luxury trip. You’ll carve up the slopes at the nation’s largest ski and snowboard park, Yongpyong Ski Resort, skate on the massive rink at Lotte World, and soak in hot springs surrounded by snow and ice in Asan.
This seven-day itinerary is an ideal mix of the old and new, combined with brains and brawn. Travel from futuristic Tokyo into the forest and mountains of rural Japan, before hitting the striking backdrop of Nozawa Onsen and three days on the ski slopes against the backdrop of the 1998 Winter Olympics site.
Take to Japan’s gorgeous snowy peaks on this 13-day journey of skiing and adventure. From culture-rich cities to alpine resorts, you will explore this fascinating and beautiful country as you travel by bullet train to carve up the runs in Hakuba and Niseko and explore the slopes around Asahikawa.
Hit the slopes of beautiful At-Bashy Valley in Kyrgyzstan’s rugged, mountainous central region. You will need fat powder skis for this eight-day adventure that takes you from Bishkek to Naryn and into the snowy backcountry to ski, snowboard and sleep in a traditional yurt.
Get off the beaten piste and head to the mountains of Kyrgyzstan on this eight day adventure. Hit the gorgeous, powdery slopes of this beautiful nation’s backcountry, camping overnight in a traditional yurt. Start and finish with a little local culture as you tour Karakol and Bishkek.
This 14-day excursion takes you through a major ski area in the Tohoku Region while also giving you the opportunity to explore some of the other local attractions. You’ll ski the powder-heavy slopes of Mt. Hakkoda and Mt. Zao and explore plenty of natural sites and traditional temples. There are also two snow festivals, and you’ll have the chance to sample plenty of great food.
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