Example Itinerary

Piste-Carving and Storm-Chasing in Japan

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
Interests
Skiing
Destinations
Japan

Ski enthusiasts often argue the age-old question: which is better - Hakuba or Niseko? But there is no need to choose when you can discover the highlights of both of Japan’s finest ski destinations on this 13-day adventure. From the fascinating city of Kyoto, travel to Hakuba for its fluffy powder and long mountain runs. From the bright lights of Tokyo, ride an overnight sleeper train to Niseko to take advantage of its gorgeous back-country skiing. Besides during Chinese New Year, when our selected resorts are very busy with tourists, these destinations offer plenty of space and a myriad of options whether you are an expert or beginner. Get well off the beaten track with a journey to Asahikawa, a centrally-located mountain town with access to at least six different resorts from which you can choose, based on the weather. Enjoy days spent on the slopes, carving up the powder, and evenings sampling delicious food and soaking in natural hot springs.

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

• Habuka: Ski the long mountain slopes of Hakuba, a village in the Japanese Alps just outside Nagano.

• Niseko: The myriad of runs in Niseko, Japan's most famous ski resort, are known for an abundance of light powder snow.

• Asahikawa: Go storm chasing from your base in Asahikawa, Hokkaido's second-largest city, to find the best snow in the region - then warm up with a steaming bowl of Asahikawa ramen.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Map

Kyoto »

Touch down in Tokyo where you will be met by your guide and whisked seamlessly off on a bullet train ride to Kyoto where the journey truly begins. For tonight, relax and bed down in your comfortable hotel.

Hotel Options

Day 2

Map

Hakuba

Spend the day exploring the culturally rich city of Kyoto, home to countless beautiful temples and Shinto shrines. Sample local delicious delicacies before re-boarding the bullet train for your first ski destination, Hakuba, in the Japanese alps. Relax here for the night in your comfortable, family-run accommodation.

Hotel Options
Hakuba
Hakuba

Day 3

Map

Hakuba

Spend the day getting to know the slopes, all of which are within easy reach of your hotel. Your guide will lead you to some of the finest mountain skiing spots in Japan and you can enjoy Hakuba’s long, sweeping runs. In the evening, relax your aching muscles in a traditional Japanese onsen.

Day 4

Map

Hakuba

Now that you’ve got your ski legs, spend the day carving up the slopes and reveling in Hakuba’s fluffy piste. Alternatively, if you prefer to take a break and get into nature, take a trip to Jigokudani to visit the wild monkeys who play in its hot springs. Treat yourself with another rejuvenating soak to round off the day.

Day 5

Map

Tokyo »

Spend the morning getting in a few final runs on the slopes of Hakuba before boarding the train direct to Tokyo. Hit the town this evening for delicious Japanese cuisine and the chance to see the city’s bright lights. Immerse yourself in the action and bustle of Shibuya and Shinjuku before a good night’s sleep at your luxurious hotel; we recommend the beautiful Aman Tokyo.

Hotel Options
Tokyo
Tokyo

Day 6

Map

Tokyo »

Today you will have the chance to explore the fascinating delights of Tokyo, from the madness of the fish market and the glamor of Ginza’s fashion district to the Meiji shrine and the Imperial Palace. After sunset, sample Tokyo's internationally renowned restaurant culture – from succulent pork tonkatsu to the perfect bowl of street ramen. 

Day 7

Map

Niseko »

Rise early this morning and board your short, 90-minute flight from Tokyo to the New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido. After your arrival, your Remote Lands guide will escort you to your two-hour overland transfer to the charming ski town of Niseko. Arriving at midday, you will have the afternoon to unwind or, if you like, hit the slopes just outside the hotel. Your guide can introduce you to the best runs in the resort to ensure a great day of skiing. Relax in the evening with dinner and a soak in an outdoor hot springs.

Hotel Options

Day 8

Map

Niseko »

Continue to explore Niseko’s myriad of runs. Access the back-country slopes or take the lift to the very highest point from which you can hike upwards another 30 minutes to the very top. Here, the views are astounding, and your choice of runs is endless.

Niseko
Niseko

Day 9

Map

Niseko »

Spend the day perfecting your turns and form, or – if you like – take the 90-minute drive to Rusutsu and try your hand at a new set of runs.

Day 10

Map

Asahikawa

This morning, journey north to Asahikawa. While not a ski resort itself, this centrally-located town enjoys access to six other neighboring resorts from which you can choose. Your expert guide will help you select the best depending on the day’s weather.

Hotel Options

Day 11

Map

Asahikawa

Wake up bright and early for a discussion with your guide about where the best skiing can be found today. The locals call it storm-chasing and the vast array of options in varying climates allows you to find the best snow, within easy reach.

Asahikawa
Asahikawa

Day 12

Map

Asahikawa

Spend a final day storm-chasing from your base in Asahikawa and in the evening, celebrate your achievements on the slopes with a grand dinner of delicious local fare.

Day 13

Map

Departure

Say your farewells to the alps of Japan this morning as you board your domestic flight to Narita International airport in Tokyo, ready for your journey onwards or homewards.

Why Remote Lands?

Exclusively Asia

With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

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