Ready to level up your skills and dive deep into Japan’s powder paradise?
This tour is designed for intermediate skiers and snowboarders (4A & 4B level) who want to build confidence on-piste and take their first proper steps into the world of powder riding. But this isn’t just a ski holiday—it’s a full immersion into Japanese culture, terrain, and tradition.
From the trip description by Japan Powder Culture Tours
On-snow support
- Independent: Below this trip's level of support
Ski or ride independently, without trip staff accompanying you on the mountain.
- Hosted: Included
Trip hosts ski or ride with the group, help everyone get oriented, and share local knowledge.
- Guided: Included
Professional guides lead the group and select suitable terrain and routes based on conditions and ability. Instruction is not included.
- Coached: Not confirmed
Professional coaches lead the group, select suitable terrain, and provide instruction and personalized feedback to help you improve.
- 8 days on snow with staff
- Resort guidingQualified ski guide/instructor (maximum 1:6 guest-to-instructor ratio); groups managed to keep skill levels aligned
- 1 guide : 6 guests
Terrain, ability and who it is for
- The first two days focus on habits affecting powder riding. Instruction is optional.
- Groups are matched by ability; assess your skills honestly to avoid a mismatched pace.
- Skiers and snowboarders may mix if the minimum of four per discipline is not met; otherwise groups are separated by discipline and ability when possible.
- Nagano resorts selected for snow quality, quantity and quietness; daily choices follow weather and snow, and the same resort may be visited more than once.
- Possible Shiga Kogen areas: Oku Shiga Kogen, Yakebitaiyama, Ichinose, Giant, Yokote and Kumanoyu.
- Other possibilities: Madarao and Tangram tree runs, Togakushi powder, and Nozawa Onsen.
- Resort drives take 25–50 minutes, depending on destination and road conditions.
- At many Japanese resorts, terrain beyond marked runs is out of bounds.
- Sidecountry/slack-country routes typically run between marked trails and reconnect to groomers leading to the lifts.
- Off-piste guests must be competent and confident in ungroomed conditions and carry appropriate avalanche safety equipment.
- All off-piste guests receive an introduction to avalanche gear before heading out.
- Priorities: safety first, fun second, improvement third.
- Sport
- Ski + Snowboard
- Adults only
- No, all ages
From the trip description by Japan Powder Culture Tours
What the price includes
Included
- Lodging
- Lift pass
- Meals · partly
- Transfers · partly
- 9 nights in twin, triple, or quad-share rooms (Japanese or Western style)
- Single supplement available at each property
- Deluxe room upgrades offered at Hotel Omodaka
- Daily breakfasts
- 2 in-house dinners
- 8 full days of guided skiing or snowboarding
- Qualified ski guide/instructor (maximum 1:6 guest-to-instructor ratio)
- 8 daily lift passes
- Mountain transport to the best snow conditions each day
- Transport to the Snow Monkey Park (early access for guests at Yumoto and Omodaka)
- Evening performance with a second-generation Geisha
- Magic and comedy show (interactive)
- Interactive performances featuring Karate, Taiko drumming, Shamisen guitar, and Lion dance
- Daily access to rejuvenating onsens (including sauna at Hotel Omodaka)
- Optional karaoke night
- Option to take a rest day, with access to one of our self-guided cultural excursions: Snow Monkeys & Shibu Onsen; Obuse town & Hokusai Gallery; Zenkoji Temple & 1998 Olympic Museum
- Plus: plenty of hidden gems we’ll introduce along the way
Not included
- Flights
- Travel to/from Yudanaka
- Travel insurance (required)
- Lunches, snacks, alcohol
- Dinners (except the two specified)
Not confirmed by the company: Lesson.
Day by day
While this itinerary offers a general outline, we remain fully adaptable throughout the tour. Each day is shaped by weather, snow conditions, and where the powder is falling best. Evening highlights—such as Geisha performances, Taiko drumming, Karate demonstrations, and magic shows—are included, however the exact nights these occur may shift slightly depending on availability and scheduling.
- Day 1: Arrival in YudanakaArrive via Japan’s world-class train system or pre-arranged shuttles from Narita or Haneda airports. We’ll pick you up at Yudanaka Station or your designated shuttle drop-off. Check in to your traditional ryokan-style accommodation. While we don’t include a group dinner on this night (to accommodate varied arrivals), we’ll head out to a local sushi train restaurant or one of Yudanaka’s standout eateries for a relaxed first night.
- Day 2: Shiga Kogen & Geisha NightWelcome to Shiga Kogen, the birthplace of skiing in Japan and Asia’s largest ski area, offering 18 interlinked resorts and Japan’s highest lift access at 2,307m. After your first epic day, soothe your legs in an onsen and unwind with a drink. Tonight's dinner is in-house, followed by an unforgettable performance by a second-generation Geisha.
- Day 3: Madarao (Madapow) + Okonomiyaki Dinner OptionToday we head to Madarao, a hidden gem with its own snow-laden microclimate. Known for its accessible tree lines and playful terrain, it delivers in both powder and personality. On the way home, we’ll stop at a local Okonomiyaki restaurant—a savoury pancake specialty from Osaka and Hiroshima—for a well-earned meal.
- Day 4: Nozawa Onsen or Cultural Rest DayIf conditions align, we visit Nozawa Onsen, a resort steeped in charm and tradition with 50km of skiable terrain and a lively town full of shops and snacks. Not feeling up for riding? Today is also a great day to take a cultural rest day—with self-guided options that include the Snow Monkey Park, historic Shibu Onsen, and more.
- Day 5: Shiga Kogen (Round 2) & Magic ShowBack to “Old Faithful”—Shiga Kogen—for deeper exploration of its vast terrain. Tonight, we dine out locally, then settle in for a hilarious and mind-bending magic and comedy show by Fred, a 30+ year veteran magician.
- Day 6: Togakushi Ski + Shrine WalkToday we ride at Togakushi, home to towering cedar trees and the legendary Okusha Shrine. After riding, take a peaceful walk to the shrine nestled at the base of Mt. Togakushi. Dinner tonight is at your leisure with new friends.
- Day 7: Shiga Kogen (Yokoteyama) & Cultural FinaleOne last return to Shiga—this time to Yokoteyama, the highest lift-served peak in Japan. Tonight’s in-house dinner is followed by a full cultural finale: an interactive karate session with a Grand Master, plus a live Taiko drum, shamisen, and lion dance performance.
- Day 8: Madarao + Tangram & Karaoke NightWe head back to Madarao, and if conditions allow, link across to the adjoining Tangram resort for fresh terrain and deep snow. After dinner, it’s time to go out in style with our legendary karaoke night.
- Day 9: Final Powder DayLike déjà vu in the best way: we chase the best snow at one of the resorts you've come to know and love. Whether it’s Shiga, Madarao, Nozawa, or Togakushi, we’ll pick the place where conditions are prime and end on a high.
- Day 10: Departure & Snow Monkey FarewellTime to say goodbye to your hosts and newfound mountain family. But before you leave, there’s one last treat: a visit to the iconic Snow Monkey Park, where wild macaques bathe in natural onsens. Our properties offer early drop-offs to beat the tourist rush.
From the trip description by Japan Powder Culture Tours
Where you stay
Ryokan Yumoto (Deluxe): We’re incredibly honoured to work with Ryokan Yumoto, the oldest inn in the region, with a heritage stretching back over 300 years. Yumoto offers just five rooms, keeping the atmosphere intimate and quiet: Japanese-Western Room: 2 Western beds + 8 tatami mats; Standard Japanese Rooms: 14.5 tatami mats; Family Japanese Room: 18 tatami mats. Each room includes a private toilet, with bathing enjoyed in the traditional shared onsen house. You'll enjoy a multi-course traditional Japanese dinner, thoughtfully prepared and served in the ryokan’s dining room by your private waiter. Breakfasts, also included, are equally memorable.
Hotel Omodaka (Premium): Perched in the heart of Yudanaka Onsen, Hotel Omodaka has long been cherished for its tranquil atmosphere, stunning views of the Five Mountains of Hokushin, and genuine hospitality. Twin, triple, and quad-share rooms feature tatami flooring, futon bedding, and a private ensuite bathroom. The Deluxe Western Rooms are nearly double the size of our standard rooms, featuring two Western beds plus two futons to comfortably accommodate up to four people (available at an additional cost). The hotel boasts both an indoor Japanese bathhouse (onsen) and a scenic outdoor hot spring (rotenburo), plus an on-site sauna—a rare luxury in Yudanaka. Dinner is a highlight at Omodaka, with a multi-course traditional Japanese meal served in the dining room. Breakfast is also included and features a buffet-style spread with a mix of Western and Japanese options.
Snow Monkey Lodge (Economy): Just 200 metres from Yudanaka Station, Snow Monkey Lodge has become something of a local icon. Rooms feature tatami mat flooring, Western-style beds, and traditional yukata robes. Separate gendered onsens for men and women offer a classic Japanese bathing experience. Continental breakfast included daily (cereals, fresh fruit, toast, hot and cold drinks). The included dinners are hosted at Hotel Omodaka, where you’ll enjoy an elegant multi-course Japanese meal, served in the hotel’s dining room.
Getting there
Arrive via Japan’s world-class train system or pre-arranged shuttles from Narita or Haneda airports. We’ll pick you up at Yudanaka Station or your designated shuttle drop-off (please let us know your arrival details at least one day in advance).
Ryokan Yumoto provides free pickup and drop-off at the train station, and early shuttle service to the Snow Monkey Park. Hotel Omodaka provides complimentary pickup and drop-off at Yudanaka Station. They also offer early-morning shuttle service to the Snow Monkey Park.
Snow Monkey Lodge: while we don’t offer a pickup service, the lodge is just a short walk from the station and we’re happy to help arrange a taxi if needed.
Not included: Flights. Travel to/from Yudanaka.
Sitting 600 metres above sea level, Yudanaka is a central hub for exploring many of Nagano’s surrounding ski resorts. Drive times to the resorts range from 25 to 50 minutes.
From the trip description by Japan Powder Culture Tours
Pins show the approximate main trip area—not a route, meeting point, or full itinerary. Confirm exact locations in the company's trip details.
Dates and prices
| Dates | Season | Duration | From | Availability | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 17 – Dec 26, 2026Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 10 days | 549,000 JPY¥549,000 pp, Economy Snow Monkey Lodge male/female dormitory; twin share ¥569,000; Premium Hotel Omodaka from ¥589,000; Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto from ¥649,000. | Limited | Enquire on company website |
| Dec 25, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 10 days | 549,000 JPY¥549,000 pp, Economy Snow Monkey Lodge male/female dormitory; twin share ¥569,000; Premium Hotel Omodaka from ¥589,000; Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto from ¥649,000. | Limited | Enquire on company website |
| Jan 4 – Jan 13, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 10 days | 549,000 JPY¥549,000 pp, Economy Snow Monkey Lodge male/female dormitory; twin share ¥569,000; Premium Hotel Omodaka from ¥589,000; Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto from ¥649,000. | Limited | Enquire on company website |
| Jan 14 – Jan 23, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 10 days | 549,000 JPY¥549,000 pp, Economy Snow Monkey Lodge male/female dormitory; twin share ¥569,000; Premium Hotel Omodaka from ¥589,000; Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto from ¥649,000. | Limited | Enquire on company website |
| Jan 24 – Feb 2, 2027Choose these datesDate row "24th Jan to 2nd Feb 2027 SOLD OUT". | 2026/27 | 10 days | 549,000 JPY¥549,000 pp, Economy Snow Monkey Lodge male/female dormitory; twin share ¥569,000; Premium Hotel Omodaka from ¥589,000; Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto from ¥649,000. | Sold Out | Enquire on company website |
| Feb 3 – Feb 12, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 10 days | 549,000 JPY¥549,000 pp, Economy Snow Monkey Lodge male/female dormitory; twin share ¥569,000; Premium Hotel Omodaka from ¥589,000; Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto from ¥649,000. | Sold Out | Enquire on company website |
| Feb 13 – Feb 22, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 10 days | 549,000 JPY¥549,000 pp, Economy Snow Monkey Lodge male/female dormitory; twin share ¥569,000; Premium Hotel Omodaka from ¥589,000; Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto from ¥649,000. | Sold Out | Enquire on company website |
| Feb 23 – Mar 4, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 10 days | 549,000 JPY¥549,000 pp, Economy Snow Monkey Lodge male/female dormitory; twin share ¥569,000; Premium Hotel Omodaka from ¥589,000; Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto from ¥649,000. | Limited | Enquire on company website |
| Mar 5 – Mar 14, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 10 days | 549,000 JPY¥549,000 pp, Economy Snow Monkey Lodge male/female dormitory; twin share ¥569,000; Premium Hotel Omodaka from ¥589,000; Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto from ¥649,000. | Limited | Enquire on company website |
Prices, taxes and fees, required extras, inclusions, availability, and booking terms can change. Confirm the current price and trip details on the company website; details as of September 2, 2026.
Good to know
Optional Add-Ons: Avalanche safety gear rental: ¥3,000/day (includes beacon, probe, shovel, pack).
Full ski & snowboard rental store: includes clothing, helmets, goggles, boots, poles, carving and powder skis/boards (rates on request).
Private outdoor onsen and sauna rental: ¥10,000 per session (ideal for couples or small groups).
Single supplement: Snow Monkey Lodge ¥27,000; Hotel Omodaka ¥63,000.
Deluxe Western room upgrade at Hotel Omodaka: ¥81,000 per person.
Additional nights or private guiding: Please inquire.
Travel insurance (required).
Please enquire for tours between 15th March and 15th April; over this period the cultural evenings are based around a minimum of 8 guests, so if we do not attain that number the events do not proceed and the cost is refunded to guests.
A full pdf pack is available which includes tour details, FAQ's, pre trip information, reviews, terms and conditions and customer information spreadsheet.
This tour welcomes singles, couples, families, and groups, and flexibility is key.
From the trip description by Japan Powder Culture Tours
