Hokkaido Sampler - New for 2026
If you are limited with time and want to pack in as much powder skiing as possible in Hokkaido, the Hokkaido Sampler takes in three of Hokkaido's iconic powder zones: Otaru; Niseko; and Central Hokkaido. You'll stay in ski towns and cities where you can sample some of the local culture.
The Hokkaido Sampler is a guided lift-accessed and lift-assisted (ie some skinning required) backcountry adventure that is guided by certified local expert Aki Tachimoto in partnership with Teton Bros., and supported and tail guided with an experienced guide from Esnativa Backcountry.
This 7 night road trip gives you a taste of the three key Hokkaido powder zones. It starts in the coastal town of
Otaru where the region gets pounded by massive snowstorms, and you'll get to experience the famed backcountry and ski areas such as
Sapporo Kokusai, Kiroro or
Sapporo Teine. Your host will then drive you to the
Niseko area which is also known for its abundant snowfall, and enjoy lift-assisted backcountry at Niseko and either the lift-accessed powder zones of
Rusutsu or the nearby backcountry. Heading via the city of Sapporo for lunch, your host will then take you north to
Central Hokkaido to the city of
Asahikawa, from where you'll access a local ski area or backcountry option, or a day trip to Asahidake or Furano could be on the cards depending on the snow and weather conditions.
As to be expected, you'll also get to sample plenty of local cuisine at restaurants selected by your local guide, and do apres ski Japanese style, with opportunities for a soak in the onsen (hot springs).
You will ski/ride with a local certified Japanese mountain guide plus tail guide, in groups of up to 3 guests per guide.
Group Type
You can join the fixed-date tour as a solo traveller or small group looking to join a group. The tours requires a minimum of 3 participants to run and has a maximum of 6.
Please get in contact if you have any questions.
Ability & Fitness
You'll need to be an advanced skier or rider with powder experience and be very comfortable in amongst trees and keeping a strong traverse. Some experience with touring equipment would be of benefit.
Whilst the lifts will be utilised to assist with gaining vertical, you'll also need to use your touring gear to get into the fresh powder and away from the ski areas. It's difficult to determine how much skinning will be involved on the tour, as it will depend on the snow conditions and the objectives of the group.
Equipment
You'll need avalanche safety equipment for this tour to head into the backcountry. You'll also require a touring set up, either skis with touring bindings with skins, or splitboard with skins, along with extendable poles. This equipment can be rented if you're not able to BYO.
You'll be provided with a comprehensive gear list prior to the list, but
please get in contact if you have any questions.
Guiding & Hosting
You will have an experienced local guide/host for the duration of the tour who will be available 24/7. The guide ratio is 1:3 guests. The minimum number of skiers/boarders for a tour to go is 3 and the maximum is 6.
For your safety, all guides are certified and qualified.