Explore the mountains of Otaru, Hokkaido on a private backcountry ski or snowboard tour.

Otaru is surrounded by quiet mountains that receive some of the deepest snow in Japan. Our Hokkaido backcountry guiding offers access to untouched powder, scenic touring routes, and terrain suited to both first-time tourers and experienced backcountry riders.

Tours are private groups of 1–5 guests and are tailored to your experience, fitness and snow conditions.

Backcountry Guiding Options

Intro to Backcountry

Perfect for riders who are comfortable skiing or snowboarding anywhere in the resort but are new to backcountry touring.

This guided day introduces the basics of safe travel in the Hokkaido backcountry while enjoying powder riding in natural terrain.

What you'll learn

• How to use avalanche safety gear (beacon, probe, shovel)
  
  

• Basic backcountry equipment (touring skis, splitboards, skins, snowshoes)
  
  

• Route finding and terrain choice
  
  

• Where to find weather and avalanche forecasts
  
  

• Powder riding techniques in natural terrain
  
  

This is not a formal avalanche course, but a guided tour with an emphasis on building safe habits and confidence outside the resort.

    Full Backcountry Tours

For riders with previous touring or backcountry experience who want to explore deeper into the mountains.

These tours focus on finding the best powder conditions in the Otaru backcountry, accessing quiet terrain away from the resorts.

Expect:

• Longer hikes or touring routes
  
  

• Focus on riding
  
  

• Flexible objectives based on weather and snow conditions
  
  

Your guide will choose the best location on the day based on local snow conditions, weather and avalanche forecasts.

A Typical Backcountry Day

8:00 – Pickup in Otaru

• Plan the day based on weather and snow conditions
  
  

• Safety briefing and equipment check
  
  

• Transport to the trailhead
  
  

Morning

• Skinning or snowshoeing into the mountains
  
  

• Route finding and terrain discussion
  
  

Afternoon

• Powder riding in Otaru backcountry terrain
  
  

• Multiple runs depending on conditions
  
  

Finish

• Debrief at the vehicles
  
  

• Drop back at your  accommodation
  
  

Finish around 3:00 pm.

What's Included

• Full day private backcountry guiding in Hokkaido
  
  

• Transport in a private 4WD vehicle
  
  

• Local knowledge of Otaru backcountry terrain

    Not Included

• Splitboard or ski touring setup (rentals can be arranged)
  
  

• Lunch and snacks
  
  

• Avalanche safety gear (can be provided)
  
  

Price

¥115,000 - 150,000 per day – private group

Book Your Trip

For availability and trip planning enquiries, please contact us here

OPG Guiding Policy

Paramount for Otaru Powder Tours is the safety and well being of our guests. Our extensive experience in the mountains of Hokkaido gives us a profound respect for nature, and we may be forced to alter our plans if we encounter adverse conditions that may put our guests at undue risk.  Your safety is our top priority. Whilst we try to include our guests in the decision making process, ultimately the final decision rests with the guide and his/her decision is final.