A Guided and Hosted Ski and Snowboard Trip for the side-country powder hound
The Hokkaido Storm Chaser is a 7-day guided off-piste ski road-trip that hits 6 different Hokkaido ski resorts for each of the 6 ski days. We base out of two main hubs--the ski town of Furano and the port-side town of Otaru. Where we go each day isn't set in advance; it depends on where the weather report is indicating the best pow will be.
From the trip description by Japan Ski 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: With your guide
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 included
Professional coaches lead the group, select suitable terrain, and provide instruction and personalized feedback to help you improve.
- 6 days on snow with staff
- Resort guiding7 days, 6 ski days, 2 bases, 1-to-4 guide/client ratio, with a maximum group size of 8; 2 English speaking guides per group of 8, 1 lead and 1 tail guide
- 1 guide : 4 guests
Terrain, ability and who it is for
- Advanced+ powder skiers and snowboarders.
- Public groups contain mixed abilities; experts may wait occasionally.
- Intermediate powder riders are advised against joining because the terrain and pace are likely to be too challenging.
- Off-piste powder and lift-accessed sidecountry, with around 70% of skiing out of bounds depending on conditions.
- Guided backcountry touring is not included; the sidecountry focus does not require AT touring gear.
- An avalanche safety set — backpack, beacon, shovel and probe — is required.
- Sport
- Ski + Snowboard
- Max group size
- 8 guests
From the trip description by Japan Ski Tours
What the price includes
Included
- Lodging
- Lift pass
- Meals · partly
- Transfers
- Three nights of 4-star and three nights of 3-star accommodation. Our lodging is based on shared twin room accommodation
- All lift tickets at 6 different resorts for each of the 6 ski days
- 2 English speaking guides per group of 8; 1 lead and 1 tail guide
- Our guides will navigate you to the best off-piste/side-country powder possible on any given day. We spend 70% of our time in the side-country/off-piste and only ride groomers in and out of off-piste powder stashes.
- Large daily buffet breakfasts featuring Hokkaido specialties with both Japanese and western options available.
- Door to door private vehicle transportation, beginning with an airport pick up at Asahikawa Airport (AKJ) near Furano and ending with a CTS airport drop off.
- Daily dinner reservations -- the restaurants are chosen for their authenticity, deliciousness, local specialties. (participation optional but highly recommended!)
Not included
- Lesson
- International flights to/from Hokkaido.
- Any rentals of ski, snowboard gear or avalanche safety equipment. We recommend Rhythm rentals in Furano.
- Avalanche safety sets are required for any type of off-piste guiding and are available to rent for an additional 25,000 yen (approx US$150). Rental avalanche safety set includes backpack, beacon, shovel and probe.
- Guided backcountry isn't included in this trip. We specialize in lift accessed side country that doesn't require AT touring gear. Backcountry options can be accommodated for private trip reservations.
- Lunch, dinner, drinks and snacks are at your own discretion for this trip.
- Travel insurance is required for this trip: we recommend travel insurance with World Nomads
Day by day
- Day 1: Meet and GreetThere are two options to meet the group: Meet at the Asahikawa AKJ airport at 2:45pm at the 1st floor arrivals area by entrance 3 or Meet in the lobby of the La Vista Furano Hotel, at 6:15pm ready to go to dinner.
- Days 2–3: Storm Chase Furano Area
- Day 2: 3 are spent skiing the best possible resorts on any given day including Furano, Tomamu, Sahoro, Asahidake (if conditions permit), and Kamui Ski Links. The exact date we ski any one of these resorts depends on conditions and will be determined based on the upcoming forecasts and recent snow reports.
- Day 4: Storm Chase Furano Area/Transfer to OtaruAfter our third ski day in the Furano area, we transfer bases to southern Hokkaido, saying farewell to our Furano based guides. The drive to Otaru can take 3 - 4 hours depending on road conditions, so we always plan on departing Furano by 2pm.
- Days 5–6: Storm Chase Out of OtaruFollowing the format of the first 3 days, your guide will select the best possible options to ride out of the Japow buffet of Sapporo Kokusai, Teine (site of the 1998 winter Olympics), and Kiroro with a possibility of exploring the utterly untracked and tiny hills of Tenguyama and Asari if conditions are favorable.
- Day 7: Final Day of Skiing and Drop-offsOn day 7, the group snags one last day of skiing before heading to CTS airport for the drop-off. With all the logistics to be done, the ski day ends slightly early, between 1:00-2:00pm. Drop off is at CTS Airport at 5:00pm.
From the trip description by Japan Ski Tours
Where you stay
On the Hokkaido Storm Chaser you will stay in western-style modern, clean accommodation which is centrally located and walking distance to downtown amenities.
Furano Hotel: La Vista Furano Hills Hot Springs
Otaru Hotel: Dormy Inn Premium
Pricing and occupancy are based on shared twin rooms. This means that you will be sharing your room with another person in the group and yes, you will have separate beds!
If you'd prefer to have your own room, please select this option during checkout. Single rooms are subject to availability and incur an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) cost per person.
Each room has its own private toilet and shower.
Daily buffet breakfasts featuring western and Japanese options.
Both of our hotels feature in-hotel Onsen hot springs complete with a sauna!
Getting there
Getting there
Option 1: Meet at the Asahikawa AKJ airport at 2:45pm at the 1st floor arrivals area by entrance 3.
Option 2: Meet in the lobby of the La Vista Furano Hotel, at 6:15pm ready to go to dinner.
Getting back
Note that the ending point is different from the starting point on this trip!
This trip ends with a drop off at Sapporo's CTS airport at 5pm on the final day.
Equipment Rentals
High quality rental gear is available through our partners at Rhythm Snow Sports.
Book departing domestic flights no earlier than 6:00pm, or international flights no earlier than 6:30pm. The return transfer does not drop off in Sapporo or Chitose city.
If meeting at La Vista Furano, collect rental equipment before the 6:15pm meeting; there is no rental pickup time after dinner.
Rhythm rentals must cover 7 days, including one day for return by post after the 6 ski days. Obtain a ski bag suitable for mailing; return postage costs an additional ¥5,000, subject to change.
From the trip description by Japan Ski 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 3 – Jan 9, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Sold Out | Book on company website |
| Jan 4 – Jan 10, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Available | Book on company website |
| Jan 7 – Jan 13, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Available | Book on company website |
| Jan 11 – Jan 17, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Sold Out | Book on company website |
| Jan 13 – Jan 19, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Available | Book on company website |
| Jan 17 – Jan 23, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Sold Out | Book on company website |
| Jan 18 – Jan 24, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Sold Out | Book on company website |
| Jan 21 – Jan 27, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Sold Out | Book on company website |
| Jan 22 – Jan 28, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Sold Out | Book on company website |
| Jan 25 – Jan 31, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Sold Out | Book on company website |
| Jan 26 – Feb 1, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Sold Out | Book on company website |
| Jan 29 – Feb 4, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Sold Out | Book on company website |
| Feb 1 – Feb 7, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Sold Out | Book on company website |
| Feb 2 – Feb 8, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Sold Out | Book on company website |
| Feb 5 – Feb 11, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Sold Out | Book on company website |
| Feb 9 – Feb 15, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Sold Out | Book on company website |
| Feb 10 – Feb 16, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Sold Out | Book on company website |
| Feb 14 – Feb 20, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Sold Out | Book on company website |
| Feb 16 – Feb 22, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Sold Out | Book on company website |
| Feb 19 – Feb 25, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Sold Out | Book on company website |
| Feb 23 – Mar 1, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Available | Book on company website |
| Feb 24 – Mar 2, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Available | Book on company website |
| Feb 28 – Mar 6, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 7 days | 565,000 JPY565,000 yen (approx US$3,550) per person, shared twin room; all prices include 13% taxes and fees; single room subject to availability at an additional 120,000 yen (approx US$800) per person | Available | Book 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 3, 2026.
Good to know
Secure your spot with a 50% deposit; the remaining balance is due on December 1 (October 1 for private trips).
All prices include 13% taxes and fees.
Riding off-piste powder is the main objective of this trip! For safety reasons, an avalanche safety set (backpack, beacon, shovel, probe) is required. If you don't have your own, you can rent one during the checkout process!
Travel insurance is required for this trip.
Cancellation policy - Up to 4 months before your trip date: 25% cancellation fee of entire trip price. 2-4 months before your trip date: 50% cancellation fee of entire trip price. Less than 2 months before your trip date: cancellations made with less than two months of advanced notice will not be refunded.
If you're planning on going into the side country (which is the same as backcountry terrain, just accessed by a lift), you'll need to know how to use an Avalanche Safety Set before you show up.
Your guide is not a ski instructor and will not be providing instruction on how to improve form, etc aside from perhaps a few anecdotal tips here and there.
Neither of our Storm Chaser trips include a "mountain host".
If a guide judges a guest unable to navigate off-piste terrain safely on a group trip, JST may direct them to on-piste skiing without a guide; no refund is offered.
From the trip description by Japan Ski Tours
