BACKCOUNTRY TOURS
NOZAWA, MYOKO, MINAKAMI
Bookings for green season tours now open!
We are closed cafe AWA at Okutama base
Unlock Japan's Secret Powder Stashes: Epic Backcountry Ski Adventures with Canyons
Experience the thrill of untouched powder and breathtaking alpine landscapes with Canyons, your trusted backcountry ski experts in Japan for over 20 years. Our seasoned international guides possess unparalleled knowledge of the terrain, ensuring an unforgettable adventure tailored to your skill level.
Discover Hidden Gems:
Nozawa: Dive into legendary tree runs and secret back bowls.
Myoko & Minakami: Explore diverse terrain, from mellow slackcountry to challenging alpine lines.
No matter your experience, we'll find the perfect powder playground for you.
Why Choose Canyons Backcountry Tours:
Small Groups: Maximize your riding time and fresh tracks.
Expert Guides: Benefit from local knowledge and safety expertise.
Personalized Experience: Tailor the terrain to your group's ability.
Multiple Day Options: Explore hidden gems at nearby resorts.
Ready to elevate your Japan ski adventure?
Embrace the adventure, and let Canyons guide you to Japan's ultimate backcountry ski experience!
Toshi Shiokawa
Head Guide
Toshi is a keen mountaineer with a wealth of experience in Japan and has been our backcountry guide for 3 seasons in Canyons. His passion for the outdoors and backcountry is contagious! Not only will you have an awesome day but your knowledge will be taken to the next level!
JAN - Japan Avalanche Network Operational Level
WFR - Wilderness First Responder
Pete Ozich
Head Guide
Pete has been working with us in Nozawa for several years. He is a well-established guide in New Zealand and Japan. When he's not touring, Pete runs avalanche awareness courses and enjoys climbing and kayaking
| Backcountry Tour Details | |
|---|---|
| Tour duration | 7 hours |
| Price | 90,000JPY private tour * *Price based on a 4 person tour, 22,500JPY/extra person (max of 8 people) Ask us about multi day discounts for private tours! |
| Registration & Payment | @Nozawa Onsen Ski School (Hikage Gondola) on the day before tour (or earlier) OR Using online booking form below (recommended) @Canyons Minakami base (Tenjin tours) |
| Meet time | 8:00 @ BC meeting area |
| Includes | Guide fee, Transceiver, Probe, Shovel |
| Additional costs | Lift ticket, rental equipment (Lift tickets are not included in the price of the tour. Please wait until the morning of the tour to purchase lift tickets so that the guide can advise you on the type of ticket required.) |
| Participation requirements | Age 13 and older (Participants under 20 must have signature of guardian or parent.) We require all participants to be at least level 1 on the downhill ability level chart below. |
| Fitness | Please be aware that a certain level of fitness is required for our backcountry tours. Typically there will be 10-20 minutes of hiking per every minute of skiing. We require all participants to be at least level 1 on the fitness level chart below (and level 3 if you wish to use snowshoes on a group tour) |
| Bring | Ski/snowboard, boots, ski clothing, gloves, helmet, goggles, ski poles with BIG baskets, drink, snacks, sandwich/food Snowshoes & poles OR Split board/touring skis and skins |
| Season | Jan 15th – March 15th |
| Note | Tours to other resorts are only available as private tours. Tours including a participant aged 15 or under are only available as a private tours. Private tours are based on the cost of 4 people. |
| Backcoutry rental equipment | Backpack 1000yen Snowshoe & Poles 1000yen Poles with big baskets 1000yen Touring skis and skins 5000 yen Split board and skins 5000 yen Note: Touring skis and splitboards are strongly recommended. Snowshoes can be used as an alternative to touring gear. |
| Insurance | Insurance is not inlcuded in tour so we recommend ALL tour participants have travel insurance. |
Backcountry Tour Flow
All participants sign up, organise BC rental equipment and guides check everyone’s gear.
The group takes the gondolas and lifts to the top of the mountain, then leaves the ski area to head to the deep snow.
The guide(s) assess everyone’s ability and choose appropriate routes, maximizing POW time.
Time to refuel for the afternoon session.
More BC bliss!
Everyone returns rental gear, then off for a refreshing beverage.
Need more Information?
Please feel free to contact us with any other questions you may have and we will be happy to help at nozawaskischool@gmail.com