Powder Skiing in the Hakuba Valley.

A powder hounds dream ski trip to the deepest and steepest slopes of Japan.

INFO

DATES: January and February (email to enquire about specific dates)

PRICE: $3950

Max People: 15

ABOUT THE HAKUBA VALLEY

Why choose the Hakuba Valley, you might wonder? Well, a ski trip to Japan is unlike any other you've experienced. Here, you'll find a wide range of skiing terrain, from beginner-friendly slopes to challenging expert runs. Your days will be filled with warm bowls of ramen for lunch and evenings of endless sushi and sake. Japan's unique mountain landscape, with its volcanic peaks, offers a plethora of rejuvenating hot springs to soak in after a day of exhilarating skiing. And let's not forget about the captivating snow monkeys – a day trip to see them is an option worth considering.

When it comes to powder skiing, Japan is world-renowned, with many Japanese ski resorts receiving an average of 10 to 20 meters of snow per season. If you're a dedicated powder hound or aspiring one, skiing in Japan should definitely be on your bucket list. The Hakuba Valley, in particular, is famous for its cold, dry, fluffy powder!

INCLUDED

10 Breakfasts
Accommodation in twin rooms
Max 15 travelers
Exclusively for millennials
8 day Hakuba Valley lift tix
2 hosts + 1 area expert
Shuttle to and from resorts
Transport to and from Hakuba Valley train station

NOT INCLUDED

Airfare and transportation to Hakuba
Lunches and dinner
Personal clothing and equipment
Medical, baggage and trip cancellation insurance
Taxes and gratuities

ABOUT THE ITINERARY

Experience the convenience of ski-in-ski-out access to our luxurious slopeside chalet in Hakuba. Each day, you can ski right onto our patio, where you can kick off your boots, warm up by the fireplace, and then head into town for some exquisite Japanese cuisine. Begin each morning with a hearty breakfast and a cup of hot coffee before gliding down to the Tsugaike Gondola. The town is nestled in a valley surrounded by the magnificent Japanese Alps, with ten distinct ski areas in the vicinity.

Just like any ski trip, the itinerary is likely to change from day to day as our hosts and area experts decide on the best skiing and riding options. Fortunately, our chalet is centrally located, allowing us to quickly hop in the van and reach any of the other nine resorts in less than 30 minutes.

Hakuba's diverse terrain caters to skiers of varying skill levels. This isn't a "guided" ski trip where you'll follow a professional guide around all day; instead, it's an opportunity to ski with our fantastic hosts, as if they were part of your own ski crew. We have a wealth of knowledge about this area and its terrain and are eager to share it with you.

Please remember to book separately.
Arrive at Hakuba Valley train station after 2pm, where one of your hosts will pick you up and take you to the chalet.
To access Tsugiake's finest off-piste tree runs, make your way to the Tsuga No.2 Pair Lift located at the resort's summit. Navigate toward the tree skiing area on the skier's left of the Shirakaba piste. This terrain faces north, remains shaded, and, as a result, boasts consistently excellent snow conditions.
The off-piste terrain at Happo is defined by undulating landscapes and enchanting gullies adorned with beautiful tree lines.
What truly distinguishes Cortina from other destinations is the exceptional tree skiing and off-piste terrain found both within the resort's boundaries and beyond, accessible through the three designated access gates.
Whether you label it a rest day or a day for rejuvenation, the snow monkeys beckon, ready to impart their wisdom on the art of relaxation and recovery.
For those planning an extended stay, you'll discover an abundance of terrain here that can easily be integrated with visits to other resorts in the Hakuba Valley over the course of several days on the mountain.
The backcountry terrain here is top-notch, and the prime access point is when the Tsugaike Ropeway opens. This cable car whisks skiers from the base of the Tsuga No.1 lift into the heart of the backcountry terrain, known as the Tsugaike Highlands or "Kogen" in Japanese.
We have a strong feeling that Cortina's access to slack country will capture your heart, and you'll find yourself wanting to come back time and time again.
By this stage of the trip, we anticipate that you'll have discovered some favorite spots you'll want to revisit. We're here to accommodate your preferences, so we'll load up the vans and shuttle you and your crew to wherever you'd like to ski.
We have a multitude of recommendations if you're eager to embark on a tour or carve up the groomers at Happo One. It's yet another day filled with exciting options to choose from.
Commence your return journey to Tokyo, from where you'll eventually catch your flights back home.

DAY 1

DAY 5

DETAILED ITINERARY

Today you will embark on a classic journey incorporating planes, trains, and automobiles. Your adventure begins as you plan to arrive at the Hakuba station after 2pm. Upon your arrival, one of our experienced guides will be waiting to greet you and accompany you to your accommodation. To get to Hakuba, you will enjoy a scenic bullet train or bus journey from Tokyo to Nagano, followed by a comfortable 1-hour shuttle bus ride to the Hakuba station. If you have any queries or require assistance with making travel arrangements, please don't hesitate to contact us.

On average around day 5 of our journey, we provide an option for a well-deserved break to relax weary legs by offering a unique chance to observe the renowned snow monkeys. The outing entails a scenic 3-hour drive each way, followed by a brief hike. Subsequently, you find yourself in the midst of these captivating creatures, witnessing their charming onsen rituals.t these amazing creatures as they embark on their version of the onsen.

DAYS 2 - 10

FLY HOME

Embark on the thrill of chasing powder in the breathtaking Hakuba region. With 10 resorts just a stone's throw away from our ski chalet, each offering unique terrain, vibes, and daily possibilities, the adventure never ends. Every morning during breakfast, our guides will discuss the day's options with you. After gathering in the vans, we ski to our hearts' content, pausing some days to rejuvenate at the valley's onsens before returning to the chalet for a refreshing shower. Cap off your ski days with dinner at one of Hakuba's dining spots of your choice, transported there by our trusty vans. Repeat for the next 8 days!

Day 11 signals the commencement of your return to reality. To ensure a smooth transition, we suggest an early start, particularly if your departure flight from Tokyo is scheduled for the day. Following our transport to the Hakuba station, you will continue independently. Opting for the Nagano shuttle, and subsequently the bullet train to Tokyo station, is advisable. As we bid farewell, our minds are already envisioning future adventures in this remarkable country.

Other Important Info

Fly in and out of either Haneda (HND) or Narita (NRT) both have access to the bullet train to Nagano.
Kindly note that the itinerary, activities, and hotel arrangements may be subject to alterations. These adjustments may occur with minimal notice, often due to factors like availability, inclement weather, seasonal transitions, or unforeseen circumstances. Please rest assured that we are committed to minimizing any disruptions to your overall experience. Additionally, on occasion, we may introduce modifications to your itinerary to explore new concepts and maintain a fresh and stimulating adventure.
Arrival any time after 2pm to the Hakuba train station. Your hosts will be waiting to pick you up.
It takes a minimum of 4 hrs to get from Tsugaike back to Tokyo via bus, followed by bullet train. We recommend a late evening flight home to ensure you have plenty of time. We also highly recommend a night or two in Tokyo on the front or tail end.
Yes! There are tons of rental shops in the Hakuba Valley with great options for skis and boards.