Itinerary
Hokkaido Powder Unlimited
Hokkaido is, in our opinion, the best place in the world for the committed powder-hungry skier or rider. In the path of consistent weather systems that bring the cold air across the Sea of Japan from Siberia, this results in a blanket of deep white snow enveloping the entire island. And because it is dry snow, it's perfect snow!
Focusing on the deep powder resorts of Hokkaido Island, this itinerary includes several contrasting resorts and backcountry utopias: international ski-Mecca Niseko; peaceful Rusutsu; authentic Furano and wild Asahidake. We've got you catching your breath in Sapporo mid-way through, but this could to omitted if you have a compulsion to keep your ski boots on. Alternatively, you could extend your itinerary with time in Tokyo or Kyoto on the way home.
Day-By-Day Itinerary
Suggestions & Variations
With no set departures or fixed dates this itinerary can be extended, or even curtailed, to suit your available dates or match your budget.
There are two regions to explore on Hokkaido Island - the western resorts (Niseko, Rusutsu, Moiwa and Kiroro) and then the central resorts (Furano, Kamui, Tomamu, Sahoro and Yubari). They are quite different from each other and your balance of time between these two regions should reflect your objectives and preferences.
Western Hokkaido has some great terrain, the goods can be easily accessed from the lifts, there are several cat ski operations and it's all on a plate. But its busy, the is Japan-ski-central, and it's more difficult to find fresh tracks, most especially during December and January.
Central Hokkaido is quieter, the mountains (well, volcano's) just bigger and the rewards greater. But you have to work for it - there is some travelling to get around the region and you're pretty helpless without a ski guide.
This is our home turf. This is our back yard. Talk to us.
What would this holiday cost?
Obviously, cost depends on which accommodation you choose, how many excursions and activities you want to book, whether you wish to include ski hire and local backcountry guides, etc.
An indicative lead-in price for this 13-day itinerary would be from circa £3,500 per person, including on moderate accommodation (mid / low season), transfers, lift passes, Japanese domestic flights and economy class flights from the UK.
However, this doesn't include ski guides, which would be considered essential for several days at the vey least if you are going to get the most form your time. Budget for circa £550 per day for a private guide, sharing this cost between however many of you there are.
We don't have to include international flights. However, by keeping it all within one package, your arrangements are protected by ATOL.
Different Snow strive to offer the most competitive prices in all instances. However, we pride ourselves first and foremost on quality - we are an independent specialist tour operator and, therefore, are not beholden to any supplier. We make our decisions based only on who's best in each and every instance.