TRAVEL JAPAN – Floating On Pow – No Crowds No Lines

March 19th, 2013


Rusutsu is only a 40 minute drive from Niseko, yet offers an escape from the crowds that choke the better known resort Image:: Rusutsu Ski Resort

Mountainwatch | Caitlin Reid

The secret is out! Japan gets almost 5 times as much snow as Australia over its winter season. The crowds are flocking to resorts from Hakuba to Niseko, but with fresh tracks the ultimate prize, why ride tracked out snow? Check out these incredible resorts on Japan’s northern island, Hokkaido, where you’ll ride fresh tracks on your last run.

Rusutsu Ski Resort
Rusutsu is an easy access, slightly well known deep powder destination. A cruisy 40 minute drive from Australia’s favourite resort, Niseko, Rusutsu caters to all levels. Traditionally, Japanese riders rarely stray from the piste, guaranteeing fresh tracks in tree runs and open ridges. This quieter mountain attracts local tourists, but lift lines are rarely long. Passes are about $60 AUD and include lunch. Powder under gondola lines and tree runs funnel into the valleys, leading you back to the chairlifts, so you can’t get lost! A huge range of terrain, with the option of steeper piste and sidecountry makes Rusutsu a welcome change from Niseko’s very gentle gradient. Head there for a day trip on the bus from Niseko, or a short drive from Sapporo.


So close to Sapporo Sapporo Teine mainly attracts intermediate skiers from the city, with a little effort you can access some incredible sidecountry terrain Image:: Teine Highland Ski

Sapporo Teine
Little known resorts are where back country riding comes with a chairlift. Sapporo Teine is a simple 40 minute drive from Sapporo, a great city and the gateway airport to Hokkaido. A ‘gnarly’ resort, the off piste riding here is steeper, with tighter trees and drops and features everywhere. The piste is steep and fun, but there aren’t very many runs. Experienced riders will love the back country here, but a guide or experienced local is recommended as Its easy to get lost around the side ridges. Hiking out in powder is not ideal, and can end badly with the sunset at only 4:30 pm peak season, so plan your route!

Asahidake
Asahidake back country resort brings the lightest snow imaginable to Hokkaido. The highest peak on the island, its inland location means dryer, lighter snow with a huge amount of terrain. Asahidake’s ropeway, or cable car, adds an extra touch, and groomed runs are considered merely gateways to the incredible off-piste riding. Plus, Mt Asahi (no relation to the beer) is an active volcano, so this mountain is literally smokin’. Hostels and hotels are reasonably priced, and the lack of tourists makes for a truly Japanese experience.


With plenty of off hill activities Tomamu is a destination that suits more than just the skiers in the group Image:: Tomamu Hoshino

Tomamu Hoshimo
Less than an hour from New Chitose airport, Tomamu Hoshimo has it all. Deep powder, thrilling ridge lines and tree runs, plus ski in ski out accomodations at the base. Perfect for those wanting a true Japanese winter festival feel, check out the magical illuminated ice village, ice bar and restaurant. Mouth watering eateries and a little ice skating rink make the tiny village a winter paradise. Tomamu is perfect for a family holiday, or those looking for skiing plus a little extra fun.

But wait, there’s more!
Still not enough? Try these: Hakodateyama, Furano, Asahikawa, Moiwa, Kurodake and Kiroro. With so many resorts on Hokkaido, why not road trip between them. You’ll experience true Japanese culture, food, and courtesy without the loud mouthed Westerners and pushy tourists. Plus, you’ll stimulate the local economy, which in the last few years has been hit hard after natural disasters. Japan’s northern island is a ski and snowboarder’s powder playground. Forget Niseko, the powder at these mountains will blow your mind. Remember, off piste riding is not patrolled, so keep your game face on, and ride with all necessary avalanche safety equipment and terrain tools. Explore other resorts, ask locals where to ride and you’ll have the time of your life!

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