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The Japow Experience: Guided Powder Bliss

For intermediate and above riders looking to take the guesswork out of your trip.

Embark on the ultimate JaPow experience! Experience true Hokkaido and discover the bottomless powder that
the region is famous for on expertly led tours by local guides.
Whether you’re new to riding pow
or feel at home in the backcountry, there’s a trip for you.

Package Inclusions

7 nights of accommodation (see options here)
3 days of Professional Guiding in Niseko
- including 2 days of lift-accessed backcountry guiding
2 days of lift-accessed backcountry guiding at Other Resorts
3 days of All Mountain Lift Pass
2 days of Passes at Other Resorts
5 days of Premium Rentals
Private Airport Transfer

Please note: the above are recommended inclusions. 
Feel free to customize the package to your preferences.

Japow Experiences for Everybody

Our Japow packages are designed to show you why Japan’s snow is so famous all across the world – get ready for the face shots! If you‘re an intermediate rider, you will be introduced to deep powder techniques within the resort boundaries before heading through Niseko’s iconic gate system. Advanced riders can dive straight through the gates in search of the deepest powder, before exploring Rusutsu, Kiroro, and Moiwa. And for those who prefer to earn their turns, our expert guides will lead you to the finest snow in Niseko’s remote backcountry daily. Embark on the ultimate BC adventure with us this winter!

Useful Information

  • What dates are the trips operating?
    Dec 16 - March 31
  • Requirements
    Skill Level: Recommended for an intermediate level rider and up. We can cater the powder experience to your level, however if you are not a strong intermediate rider, we will instead focus on building your powder skills in less challenging terrain. Ages: This experience can be booked for all ages 7 and up; however we are unable to take kids under 13 years old into the backcountry. If your group includes this age group we will modify your tour to be resort accessed powder only.
  • Inclusions
    Lift Passes: 3 All mountain lift passes for 2 people at Niseko United Resort + 2 full day lift passes at a Day Trip Resort as needed. Accommodations: 7 nights accommodations Transfers: Private return airport. Guide: 5 full days of professional guiding including a private vehicle for 2 days to visit surrounding resorts. Rental: 5 Days of premium rental equipment, avalanche safety equipment for 3 days when needed. Backcountry touring gear if needed on 2 days. Multi Resort: Explore the four resorts of Niseko United & 2 days at either Moiwa, Kiroro or Rusustu Resort.
  • Exclusions
    Meals: Breakfast (unless specified as offered by the specific accommodation), Lunch, dinner, snacks. Apres is not included. Others: Onsen tickets & any additional entertainment. Lift Ticket: If you decide to ride on the 6th day you can purchase your own pass or we can arrange one for you in advance. Guide: The 6th day is a self tour day. However if you want a guide for this day we can upgrade your day. Flights: Return international & domestic flights. Travel Insurance: Not included. Daily Transfers to the Resort. Note: Daily transfers to the resort will be provided by your accommodation.

Sample Itinerary

Day 1

It’s go time! When you land at Sapporo New Chitose Airport your private transfer will be waiting to take you on the final 2 hr 30 mins journey to Niseko. Take some time to get settled into your hotel before Rhythm picks you back up. We’ll then head to our Base store for your gear fitting so you’re ready to hit the mountain the next morning. If you’re lucky it might be happy hour at our cafe, the perfect time to grab your first Classic of the trip.

Day 2

First day on the hill is our Niseko United Resort Tour. Your guide will meet you at your hotel or on snow, with your lift tickets. They will take you to all the best pow spots in Niseko United. In the process you'll have some time to get your ski legs back and as our guides are all fully qualified instructors, they will be able to offer you some powder riding tips if needed.

Day 3

Let's head out the gates! Today we will make a beeline for wherever the conditions are best for the day. Your guide will meet you with your avi pack and go through a safety briefing with all the avi gear before we get started. The typical areas that we aim to explore via the gate system are either the Backbowl or Osawa bowl of Annupuri, or depending on the snow we might head for the North Face & Hanazono facing East Ridge.

Day 4

Building off yesterday's adventures, we’ll be heading back out the gates. We usually switch it up from the day before and make our way out into the BC through different areas, meaning you get the chance to experience as much of the Niseko United backcountry as possible!

Day 5

Adventure day! Time to jump in the car as we head off to either Rusustu, Kiroro or Moiwa Resort. One of our favorite resorts in the area is Rusutsu, a quirky resort only 30 minutes away from Niseko, known for its fun tree skiing and valleys of deep pow. With 14 lifts and 3 gondolas spread out across three valley peaks, Rusutsu is a must see for all guests visiting Niseko. Your guide will make a call on where is best, depending on conditions, your style and your preference. This day can also be switched out for a backcountry touring day if you feel like earning your turns and want to get deep into the Niseko BC.

Day 6

Rinse and repeat. For your second day trip, we recommend including a day trip to Kiroro. Another local favorite, Kiroro Resort is located an hour north if Niseko and is famous for having the lightest and driest powder in the area. With a similar backcountry gate system as Niseko,Kiroro is sure to provide deep days for powder hunters. It’s also important to finish off the tour in traditional Hokkaido style with a visit to a local onsen at the end of the day. Your muscles will thank you!

Day 7

This one is totally up to you. You’ll be free to independently explore all of your new favourite spots you discovered during your time with your Rhythm guide. Or you could just take the day off and relax.

Day 8

Before you know it, it’s time to head home. When you checkout of your hotel you can leave your rental gear there and we will arrange the pick-up for you, zero hassle. Take some time to enjoy your last breakfast and enjoy the final views of beautiful Mt Yotei before you’re picked up in your private transfer to head back to Sapporo New Chitose Airport.