Tips
Tips for Your Trip
- Book with an established provider in the region. It is possible to go to Japan and hire a guide for the day, but getting the most out of your time in the country will require more than just a sidecountry guide. Established providers will make transportation easy and seamless. They will help with understanding cultural norms, and help you navigate the busy cities. A larger group/company will also make sure to incorporate cultural outings as part of your trip. Trust us, there's a good reason to book something more all inclusive.
- Book more than 8 months in advance. January and February are very popular months in Japan. Although there are many providers and regions to explore, which makes it easier to find availability, the best providers in popular regions fill up fast. If you wait until later in the year to book, the time frame you are hoping for might not be available.
- Plan for a longer stay. 5 days simply won't be enough. You may not ski ever single day of your trip, but you will want additional time for visiting Tokyo, going to cultural sites, eating, exploring, etc. What makes Japan such a unique ski destination is the culture that surrounds the skiing. Make the long flight worth it and book 7-12 days for your trip.
- Expect to do a lot of side country skiing. This means you will often start inbounds at a resort, and then your guide will take you out of bounds beyond the resort boundary. This is a common way to explore the backcountry in Japan, so lift tickets will often be part of your overall trip expense. Don't worry though, most are very affordable.
