This transformational journey is not just about skiing but offers the opportunity to learn about the beautiful Japanese culture and way of life. From powder skiing in Hokkaido to arts, crafts and ancient shrines in the cities of Tokyo and Kyoto, you'll experience the very best of this country on an enthralling tailor-made adventure. This is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure not to be missed.
Travelling to Japan offers an exciting blend of adventure, culture, and beauty. Whether you’re carving through world-renowned ski areas or exploring the bustling streets of ancient cities, Japan offers an unforgettable journey from the powder-filled slopes of Kiroro and Niseko to the vibrant urban landscapes of Tokyo and Kyoto.
In collaboration with our sister company, experiential travel specialists Explorations Company, we’ve curated a once-in-a-lifetime journey that combines the best of Japanese culture with exhilarating snow sports. Over two weeks, you’ll experience world-class skiing, indulge in Japan’s culinary delights and deep dive into the world of ancient arts and crafts.
Each adventure is completely bespoke and tailored to your interests. Below is a glimpse of what this epic journey could look like.
Kick off your adventure in Kiroro, a snowy paradise on Hokkaido Island home to some of the world’s most pristine powder. Averaging an astounding 21 metres of snow annually, Kiroro is quieter and more serene than its popular Hokkaido counterparts, offering powder lovers endless off-piste opportunities while providing a peaceful relaxing environment.
You have the option to immerse yourself in Kiroro’s serene winter landscapes on scenic snowshoe treks or embark on guided ski tours that explore both the slopes and backcountry. The main ski area at Kiroro is spread across two main peaks, Asari and Nagamine, offering an impressive variety of runs suitable for every level of skier. For more adventurous skiers, thrilling off-piste adventures await, while families can delight in the snow park’s variety of activities, from snow rafting and banana boating to mini snowmobiling and snow buggy rides.
Beyond the slopes, dive into Japanese culture with a private onsen experience, followed by a tour of Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery. Here you’ll learn about the whisky-making process from grain to glass and end your visit with a tasting of their award-winning whiskies.
A short 30-minute drive brings you to the charming port town of Otaru, nestled on Hokkaido’s western coast. Known for its beautifully preserved architecture and picturesque canals, Otaru boasts a rich local culture. Visit the Otaru Glass Studio or Kiataichi Glassworks, where skilled artisans craft delicate glassware, and even try your hand at creating your own masterpiece. Afterwards, head to the city’s famous sushi street to sample some of the fresh high-quality seafood on offer. Follow this up with a tour of the Otaru Sake Brewery or explore the enchanting Otaru Music Box Museum, where an extensive collection of intricately designed music boxes from around the world awaits.
This ski-in/ski-out “condo-hotel” combines alpine design with Japanese aesthetic precision. It effuses cosy elegance from the moment you step into the reception, where floor-to-ceiling windows offer unobstructed views over pristine snow.
Stay in stylish, spacious, luxury suites in the heart of nature and enjoy hearty breakfasts and signature Hokkaido dishes at Yukashi Restaurant. With a ski valet at your service, you won’t need to lift a finger during your stay.
Around an hour’s drive away, your next ski destination awaits. Set against the backdrop of Mt Yotei on the northern island of Hokkaido, Niseko is one of the most popular resorts in Japan. With around 15–18 metres of fresh snow per season, it’s a mecca for powder enthusiasts. The four interconnected resorts – Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village, and Annupuri – offer something for every skier, from wide, groomed trails to tree-lined powder bowls. Spend your days skiing or snowboarding Niseko’s varied terrain, and don’t miss the chance to enjoy night skiing at Grand Hirafu.
If you’re feeling adventurous or looking for a serious challenge, consider a guided ascent of Mount Yotei. After an arduous five to eight-hour hike to the summit, you’ll have the rare opportunity to ski into the crater of this active volcano. Alternatively, embark on a guided heli-skiing adventure through Niseko’s untouched backcountry, or spend the day exploring the tamer Niseko Village and Annapuri ski areas.
On your final day in Niseko, continue to explore the ski area, enjoy a thrilling “Snow Drifting” driving experience, or enjoy a change of pace by learning the secrets of Japanese cultural traditions by partaking in a cooking lesson.
Offering elegant serviced apartments at the base of Grand Hirafu, Setsu Niseko pairs contemporary luxury with sweeping views of Mt. Yotei. It is particularly renowned for its exceptional culinary and wellness experiences.
Fly from Sapporo to Tokyo, Japan’s vibrant capital. Check into the Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, where you can relax in style. In the evening, indulge in a private sake masterclass or unwind with a spa treatment to rejuvenate after your time on the slopes.
It’s time to immerse yourself in the magic of Japan’s buzzing megalopolis. Visit the famous old fish market, Tsukiji Outer Market, accompanied by an expert sushi master, or try your hand at a fun Taiko drumming lesson, learning the art of this majestic ceremonial instrument. Spend time exploring Tokyo’s neighbourhoods. From the fashion flagships of architectural nirvana Aoyama, the edgily rainbow-bright fashion tribes of trends-hub Harajuku, to the narrow lanes, old-school kimono shops, and temples, Tokyo is a feast for the senses.
A visit to Japan would not be complete without taking the bullet train to Kanazawa, renowned for its exquisitely preserved samurai houses and ancient tea houses in the only living geisha quarter outside of Kyoto. Visit Kenroku-en - one of Japan’s greatest gardens, and learn about gold-leaf making craft, before sitting down to tea in an ancient tea house.
After exploring the city’s cultural gems, you’ll drive to the nearby hot spring area of Kaga Onsen. Stay at Benijya Mukayu, one of the finest traditional ryokans in the region and enjoy a beautiful kaiseki dinner in the evening. Spend the following day at leisure or go hiking with a mountain master, visit local artists specialising in pottery, paper making and woodwork or take a cooking class.
Travel by train to the ancient capital of Kyoto and the Ritz Carlton where you’ll spend your final three nights.
Explore this captivating city by bicycle and learn about its ancient crafts from sword-making and textiles to pottery and traditional umbrella-making. A morning highlight of this trip is surely a predawn visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine for a soul-nourishing, invigorating hike to the summit of Mount Inari and the pilgrimage circle around the shrines near the top. Finish the day with a trip to the ancient capital of Nara, home to the stunning Todai-ji Temple and the deer-filled Nara Park, a peaceful contrast to the energy of Tokyo.
This transformational journey is not just about skiing but offers the opportunity to learn about the beautiful Japanese culture and way of life. By embarking on this adventure, you will experience the charm of this nation’s history, cultural practices and longevity secrets, not to mention world-class powder and snowsports. This is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure not to be missed.
Contact us to start planning your bespoke "Journey Through Japan"
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