Hokkaido Sampler evoTrip

Hokkaido Sampler evoTrip

Experience the best of Japan's North Island, including Niseko, Furano, Rusutsu, and more.

Niseko & Furano, Japan
Group Trip
Ability level: Intermediate, Advanced
Select Your Trip Package:

Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590

Questions? Connect with an evoTrip expert. Contact us here.


Two of Japan's greatest ski destinations, one legendary trip. Back-to-back — the way it was always meant to be done. 

 

Experience the most extraordinary skiing and snowboarding on Japan's north island. Our Hokkaido Sampler combines the two crown jewels of the island's ski scene into a single, seamless 9-night itinerary: three riding days in the understated gem of Furano, followed by four riding days in legendary Niseko. From resort riding to world-class lift-accessed backcountry, this trip delivers the full Hokkaido experience — with incredible food, culture, and local stashes woven throughout.

We'll base the first half of your trip in the heart of central Hokkaido, where Furano's Siberian-dry powder, authentic Japanese culture, and lift-accessed gates await — plus a day exploring another area resort like Sahoro. Then we transfer to Hirafu village at the foot of Niseko, where you'll enjoy the resort's four interconnected mountains, an optional backcountry day through the famous Niseko Gate System, and a day at nearby Rusutsu.

Please note: This trip is designed and recommended for intermediate and above skiers and snowboarders, meaning you are comfortable on most blue runs, can link turns in powder snow, can make a variety of turn shapes, and can traverse & hold speed. See our FAQs for more information about ability level requirements.

 

Got an IKON pass or a group of friends? See FAQs for trip discounts and details.

Plans may evolve with weather & guides' judgement, we strive to find the best conditions each day

ITINERARY

Optional Early Arrival

You may choose to arrive at New Chitose Airport the day before your trip begins and check into the hotel of your choice. We recommend the Air Terminal Hotel, especially if you are arriving late in the evening. You'll have time to relax and explore Chitose before meeting up with the group the next morning.

This night is optional - you can stay overnight in Haneda or Narita and fly in on your trip start date, as long as your flight is scheduled to arrive by 11:00 am.

Welcome to Japan! Arrival & Transfer to Furano

For guests arriving at CTS today, please ensure your flight lands no later than 11 AM local time. After you arrive, make your way to the south end of the terminal, where you’ll meet your trip host and fellow travelers at 11:30 AM.

We'll then board a private coach for a scenic 2.5-hour journey to the resort village of Furano, where you'll check into your accommodations at the Chalet Burlap Furanui. Upon arrival, we’ll unload, settle in, and get a brief overview of the area.

This is also the perfect time to pick up any rental gear from Rhythm Furano, if needed. You’re welcome to spend the rest of the afternoon unwinding at the lodge, perhaps having a soak in the lodge's onsen (hot springs baths) or strolling through charming Kitanomine village. We’ll end the day with a group welcome dinner.

Furano Debut

Meet for breakfast, fuel up, and gear up — it's your first day on snow in the central Hokkaido gem of Furano. We'll head to the Kitanomine Zone side of the resort and start getting a feel for the mountain's layout across its two interconnected zones. You're welcome to stay with the group or explore independently — though out-of-bounds terrain requires a guide. After a day of riding, relax at the lodge before heading out for dinner at a local izakaya.

Sahoro or Kamiodake Explorer Day

Today we'll venture out to another area resort day, with weather, conditions, and group preferences informing your guides' recommendation. Sahoro is a favorite: exceptional snow, phenomenal tree skiing, and virtually no crowds. Kamiodake is another outstanding option, offering fun tree skiing and sightseeing on the way.

Lift-Accessed Backcountry via Furano Gates

Today we make the most of Furano's renowned gate system, with your guides leading the way into off-piste and slackcountry terrain via the lifts — no touring gear needed, though avy equipment is required and can be borrowed. This is it — your last day to charge Furano's slopes. Dive into familiar terrain, hit those favorite lines one more time, and chase every turn like it's the last of the trip (because it is). Refuel with your go-to mountain-side lunch, ride hard into the afternoon, and don't stop until your legs are burning and your face is covered in snow. After an epic day, raise a glass to Furano, pack up your gear, and join the group for dinner in town -- tomorrow, we are Niseko bound.

Transfer Day -- Furano to Niseko

We bid farewell to Furano and board a private coach for the scenic drive to Niseko, Hokkaido's most iconic ski area. Once we arrive, we'll check in to our accommodations at Hakuunso Lodge and settle in. Your trip leader will provide an overview of the resort and the days ahead. This afternoon is yours to explore the vibrant ski village of Hirafu or pick up your rental gear from Rhythm Hirafu (conveniently located mere steps from the lodge). We'll wrap the evening with a group welcome dinner.

Welcome to Niseko United

After breakfast and a quick briefing, it's time to ride. We'll head to whichever Niseko United resort received the most fresh snow — and at Niseko, that's a very high bar. You're welcome to ski with the group or explore on your own; just remember that out-of-bounds terrain requires a guide. We'll pick an optional group lunch spot on the mountain, then wind down with après drinks in the village and a group dinner in town.

Lift-Accessed Backcountry -- Niseko Gates

Today we explore Niseko's celebrated Gate System, splitting into two groups by interest and ability to access the resort's off-piste and slackcountry terrain — all via the lifts, no touring setup required. Avalanche safety gear is required but can be borrowed from the team. After a hard day in the goods, we'll reconvene for group dinner and cap the night with a round at Bar Gyu, Hirafu's infamous tiny 'fridge bar.'

Rusutsu Explorer Day

We get up early and make the 45-minute drive to Rusutsu, one of Japan's most beloved 'secret' resorts. Expect shorter lift lines, incredible off-piste terrain, and some of the best tree skiing on the island — all with that signature Hokkaido powder quality. After a full day on the mountain, we return to Hirafu for small group dinner reservations.

Niseko United

Savor your final day riding at Niseko United. Explore new terrain through the gate system and take in your last turns on the mountain. In the evening, enjoy a grand finale group dinner at a fantastic local izakaya, then soak up your last night in Hirafu. Raise a glass to one another and celebrate the epic week you've shared together in the mountains of Hokkaido.

Departure

Wake up early, bid farewell to your gracious lodge hosts and guides, and board a private coach back to New Chitose Airport. As it is approximately a 2-hour transfer to CTS, we ask that your departing flight leave no earlier than noon. From here, you can begin your journey home or continue on with your travels.

What’s Included

  • Nine nights accommodation (4 nts at Chalet Burlap Furanui in Furano, 5 nts at Hakuunso Lodge in Niseko), based on double occupancy rooms.
  • Support from two guides & one trip host
  • Nine breakfasts and one group dinner
  • Optional group dinner reservations
  • Airports transfers 
  • Ground transportation between Furano and Niseko
  • Seven days of guided riding in Niseko, Rusutsu, Furano and/or other area resorts, including two days of optional backcountry guiding accessed via the gate systems in Niseko and Furano
  • Seven days of lift tickets
  • Gift from Oyuki 
  • One-time 20% off discount code for evo.com (some exclusions apply) 
  • 10% discount on rentals & retail from Rhythm Japan
  • evo Members earn $100 in points to shop on evo.com (sign up here) 

Not Included

  • Airfare to New Chitose Airport
  • Single supplement (see FAQ for details)
  • Backcountry touring or guiding (can be added onto your trip) other than our two days using the gate systems in Niseko and Furano
  • Rental equipment (can be reserved through Rhythm Hirafu location, close to lodges)
  • Travel insurance (we recommend World Nomads) 
  • Lunches and eight dinners
  • Any additional guide or backcountry services
  • Guide gratuity
Questions? Connect with an evoTrip expert. Contact us here.

What’s Included

  • Nine nights accommodation (4 nts at Chalet Burlap Furanui in Furano, 5 nts at Hakuunso Lodge in Niseko), based on double occupancy rooms.
  • Support from two guides & one trip host
  • Nine breakfasts and one group dinner
  • Optional group dinner reservations
  • Airports transfers 
  • Ground transportation between Furano and Niseko
  • Seven days of guided riding in Niseko, Rusutsu, Furano and/or other area resorts, including two days of optional backcountry guiding accessed via the gate systems in Niseko and Furano
  • Seven days of lift tickets
  • Gift from Oyuki 
  • One-time 20% off discount code for evo.com (some exclusions apply) 
  • 10% discount on rentals & retail from Rhythm Japan
  • evo Members earn $100 in points to shop on evo.com (sign up here) 

Not Included

  • Airfare to New Chitose Airport
  • Single supplement (see FAQ for details)
  • Backcountry touring or guiding (can be added onto your trip) other than our two days using the gate systems in Niseko and Furano
  • Rental equipment (can be reserved through Rhythm Hirafu location, close to lodges)
  • Travel insurance (we recommend World Nomads) 
  • Lunches and eight dinners
  • Any additional guide or backcountry services
  • Guide gratuity
Questions? Connect with an evoTrip expert. Contact us here.

Location Details

Niseko is located on Hokkaido, Japan's north island, and it's one of the snowiest places on earth — with a seasonal average snowfall approaching 700 inches, it epitomizes the concept of Japow. Your home base is Hirafu village, at the foot of Niseko's largest mountain and in the center of the resort's vibrant dining and après scene. Niseko United's four interconnected resorts offer exceptional in-bounds riding across all ability levels, plus the famous Niseko Gate System for lift-accessed backcountry exploration — one of the most accessible and rewarding slackcountry setups anywhere in the world. The nearby resort of Rusutsu rounds out the area with top-tier tree skiing and fewer crowds.

Sitting in the heart of Hokkaido, bordered by Daisetsu-Zan National Park, Furano is one of Japan's finest and most authentically Japanese ski destinations. Siberian storm systems roll across the Sea of Japan and deposit the lightest, driest powder imaginable across the resort's 3,000+ feet of vertical, serviced by 11 lifts across two interconnected zones — Kitanomine and Furano. Unlike Niseko, Furano remains wonderfully uncrowded and refreshingly un-westernized, offering untracked lines, a world-class gate system for slackcountry access, and a genuine taste of Hokkaido culture. Nearby resorts like Sahoro add even more terrain to the mix.

Since 1961 and the opening of the Niseko ski resort, family-owned and operated Hakuunso Lodge has welcomed guests to this coveted corner of Hokkaido. This ryokan (Japanese-style inn) offers 20 rooms with comfortable amenities. The property offers a range of facilities, including luggage storage and laundry facilities. Enjoy incredible access to the slopes, with the Grand Hirafu ski lift only a 5 minute walk away.

For a wonderful, authentic experience in Furano, look no further than Chalet Burlap Furanui. Centrally located in the town of Furano this refreshingly small hotel offers comfortable guest accommodations and excellent access to restaurants, bars, and shops as well as the Kitanomine Zone of Furano Ski Resort. Comfortable guest rooms boast understated charm, each with its own private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, kettle, and fridge. Common areas include a guest lounge for you to relax with your crew, as well as an on-site onsen to soak after your day on the ski hill.  

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FAQs

Is my trip guaranteed to run?

Yes, these trips are guaranteed to run! Regardless of which trip you book, please wait to finalize travel plans until you receive a confirmation email from evoTrip.

I'm ready to book. What next?

To secure your spot, you can either pay the full amount now or contact Customer Care at 1.866.386.1590 if you prefer to only pay your $1,000 per person deposit. Note that regardless of paying full payment or deposit at time of booking, we will consider $1,000 to be a non-refundable deposit in accordance with our terms and conditions. Full payment is due 60 days prior to departure.

I've got a crew! What kind of pricing can you offer for me & my party of 6 or more people?

Awesome! We are pleased to offer discounted pricing for groups of 6-12 people. For a group of 6-7 (including you), the trip price is $4550 per person. For a group of 8-9, it's $4450 per person. For a group of 10-12, it's $4350 per person. Please email [email protected] if you have a group and we can happily arrange a custom, discounted booking for you.

When and how do I meet up with the group?

If flying into New Chitose Airport (CTS) on Day 1, please select a flight that arrives by 11am. We'll meet as a group at 1130AM on Day 1. If possible, we do recommend arriving the day before the trip starts so you can get some rest (and get ahead of jet lag) before our adventure. We recommend the Air Terminal Hotel if you do arrive the night before, but there are plenty of other options. Any questions, just let us know!

What skill level is required for this trip?

We recommend this trip for everyone from intermediate to advanced & expert skiers and snowboarders, as your trip leaders will group participants by skill level, pace, and objective. "Intermediate" means you feel comfortable on most blue runs, and can link turns in powder snow, can make a variety of turn shapes and can traverse, hold speed and are adventurous when skiing and snowboarding the entire mountain. Familiarity with riding off-piste is highly beneficial on this trip. If you are not intermediate or above, you are welcome to join the trip -- we can recommend lessons and/or you are always welcome to do your own thing! Please reach out to [email protected] if you have any questions about ability level.

What are the accommodations like?

Hakuunso Lodge: Since 1961 and the opening of the Niseko ski resort, family-owned and operated Hakuunso Lodge has welcomed guests to this coveted corner of Hokkaido. This ryokan (Japanese-style inn) offers 20 rooms with comfortable amenities. The property offers a range of facilities, including luggage storage and laundry facilities. Enjoy incredible access to the slopes, with the Grand Hirafu ski lift only a 5 minute walk away. Centrally located in the Kitanomine village (nearest village to the resort), this refreshingly small hotel offers comfortable guest accommodations and excellent access to restaurants, bars, and shops as well as the Kitanomine Zone of Furano Ski Resort. Comfortable guest rooms boast understated charm, each with its own private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, kettle, and fridge. Common areas include a guest lounge for you to relax with your crew, as well as an on-site onsen to soak after your day on the ski hill.

Can I choose my roommate?

Yes. If you have a roommate request, please let us know. By default, we will place two people of the same gender in a room with two beds.

Can I book a private room? Will there be a single supplement?

Yes, though single rooms are first come, first served and subject to availability. Please note an additional cost (known as a single supplement) of $1200 will apply. Please check in with Customer Care before booking if this will determine your participation.

What if I'm a solo traveler that would like a roommate but none are available?

If you are a solo traveler that would like a roommate, we do our best to pair you with another solo traveler of the same gender. However, if no roommate option is available and you must be assigned your own room, you will be asked to pay 50% of the single supplement to cover the cost of your room. In this case, as the single supplement is $1200, you would be responsible for $600 extra. Please note roommates are paired on a first come, first served basis, so the earlier you book the less likely you will be "forced" into a single room.

Is there a discount if I already have an Ikon Pass?

Yes, if you have an Ikon or Ikon Base pass we will provide a discount of $300 after booking in the form of a refund. Additionally/or, if you have an Epic Pass we can provide a $50 discount as Epic covers Rusutsu Ski Resort (we typically ski 1 day at Rusutsu). Please let us know after booking if you do not need lift tickets.

What gear should I bring?

We will send out a comprehensive recommended gear list before your trip. Please let us know if you have any questions around recommended equipment.

Are rentals available?

Yes! Our partners at Rhythm in Niseko can help take care of all your ski and snowboard rental needs. More information on rental inventory at www.rhythmjapan.com/rentals. We are happy to offer guests 10% off rentals booked for their evoTrip. Please use the following link to make your reservation and receive your discount https://tinyurl.com/Rhythm-Rentals

What is the backcountry situation? Are there opportunities to go touring?

Your trip package includes two days of backcountry guiding accessed via the resort lifts and the gate systems in Niseko and Furano. If you are interested in a full day ski or splitboard tour, backcountry day trips can be arranged through our partners at Rhythm for an additional cost.

Will we be able to wash our clothes?

Yes, our accommodations have laundry facilities.

I am going to come early / stay longer; can I do something with my gear?

Japan has an incredible luggage delivery service (Black Cat) that you can take advantage of for about $50. If you arrive early, you can send your snow gear to the lodge from the airport. If you are staying longer, you can have your luggage delivered to the airport ahead of your arrival. We can give you all the information to coordinate this.

Can my dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Yes! For meals provided by the lodge/evo (breakfasts and one dinner), there will be options available. Gluten Free: It is difficult to avoid gluten in Japan, but it is possible. We recommend that you bring your own soy sauce and some snacks, as you will eat a lot of rice dishes. Being a vegetarian in Japan is easy. We will provide you with a card that will alert restaurants/grocers to your needs and most locations will be accommodating. Halal & Kosher: while there are a limited number of Halal and Kosher restaurants in Japan, there will be many meal options available by avoiding meat. For all dietary restrictions, we recommend that you bring some snacks just in case.

Can I (or my partner) come even if I don’t ski or snowboard?

Yes. The primary activity on these trips is skiing/snowboarding; however, there may be options if you or your loved one does not currently participate. Our partners at Rhythm Rides also do offer lessons and rentals (we can help book this). For folks not interested in learning to ski / snowboard, we may be able to help coordinate other activities, such as visits to a spa, yoga or snow shoeing.

Should I purchase travel insurance?

YES! While it is not required, we always recommend purchasing travel insurance for all trips. Travel insurance allows you to seek reimbursement if you are forced to cancel your trip for unforeseeable reasons, or if you need to cover medical help, emergency transport, theft and/or accidental damage while traveling. We recommend World Nomads.

What if I need to change or cancel my trip?

If you cannot or no longer wish to join your scheduled trip, we offer the option to forward your deposit to a future evoTrip, up to 60 days prior to departure date. However, if you need to cancel, the deposit for the trip is non-refundable and cancellations will be subject to a cancellation fee (see policy below). For this reason, we recommend purchasing travelers insurance, which will cover the cost of your trip in extenuating circumstances. All cancellations must be submitted to evo in writing, are effective as of the date we receive them according to our internal records, and will be subject to a cancellation fee as follows (amounts are per person and only apply to amount paid after the $1,000 non-refundable deposit amount): Cancellation 60 days or more prior to trip departure - Non-Refundable $1,000 Deposit charged. Cancellation between 30 and 59 days prior to trip departure - 50% of total booking cost charged. Cancellation less than 30 days prior to departure - 100% of total booking cost charged. Cancellation policy for custom trips may differ from these terms and will be communicated prior to booking. No refunds will be made if you voluntarily leave a trip for any reason after the trip has begun. The same applies if you leave a trip or cannot fully participate in a trip due to injury or illness. Refunds will be at the discretion of the Company if you are involuntarily forced to leave a trip for any reason. No refunds will be made for any accommodation, transport, sightseeing, meals or services not utilized.

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