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2025/2026

Powder Safari Backcountry Camp

Embark on a bucket-list snowboarding experience in Japan, where Hokkaido’s legendary champagne snow awaits. Surf through neck-deep powder with expert local guides in Niseko, Asahikawa, and Sapporo.

Hokkaido, Japan

Powder Paradise
18th January 2026
10 Nights + 9 Days Snowboarding
Two Separate Accommodation Bases
5250
Legendary Champagne Powder
Bucket-List Trip
UIAGM Mountain Guide
Group 26

Intro


Join us for a bucket-list adventure for some of the best lift accessed off-piste snowboarding that Japan has to offer. This is not just a trip; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure combining epic backcountry snowboarding with the rich cultural tapestry of Japan.

Our epic journey around Hokkaido will take us to the many resorts located within a short drive of the cities of Furano and Asahikawa, offering a perfect blend of thrilling off-piste experiences and authentic Japanese culture. The advantage of two separate accommodation bases gives us a huge choice in where to ride each day based on the best conditions, and ensures plenty of time to enjoy Japanese food, onsens, izakayas, and local culture in the evenings.

We are thrilled to announce that your guide for the week will be the one and only David Gladwin. The big mountain legend that is David has been part of the MINT team since 2010, although has been off the radar for the last 3 years busy surfing. David has previously guided several MINT trips to Hokkaido and with his big smile and friendly character is the ultimate provider of a great off piste adventure. Additionally, another member of the MINT Team will assist with logistics, work as a tail guide, and ensure everything runs smoothly.

This trip is designed to be more than just snowboarding. It’s an opportunity to experience the heart and soul of Japan, guided by experts who understand the local snow, culture, and cuisine. From the world-class champagne powder to the rich cultural encounters, join us for an unforgettable adventure that blends epic backcountry snowboarding with the enchanting allure of Japan. Make your dreams a reality and be part of this extraordinary journey.

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Is it for me?


The Hokkaido Powder Safari is suitable for strong intermediate to advanced level riders with a few weeks of previous off piste experience enabling you to get the most out of this trip. This should include riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including tree runs and steeper slopes. You will have a good level of fitness, enabling you to do continuous full days of riding as well as the ability to hike to reach good lines.

If you are interested in joining us in Japan 2026 but are not sure if it would suit you, please get in touch. We will ask you questions to check your snowboard level and experience and let you know if this course is suitable for you (and suggest alternatives if it is not).

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What's Included

  • 9 days professional guiding
  • All ski passes (9 days riding)
  • 10 nights accommodation (Furano, Asahikawa & Sapporo)
  • Transport to and from the lifts each day
  • A second of the MINT team to support the group during your stay.

Powder Safari Backcountry Camp

18th January 2026
5250€
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MINT = Awesome Snowboarding

I’ve done a few backcountry trips with MINT (Avoriaz, Grand Massif, Zinal, Engelberg, Japan). They always deliver a fantastic experience. Great adventures & always felt safe.

MINT Snowboarding is my Favorite company. I’ve done a few off pistes/backcountry trips with them (Avoriaz, Grand massif, Zinal, Engelberg, Hokkaido (!!!) )… They always deliver a fantastic experience. Great adventures & always felt safe. Thank you Dave, Thank you Tammy. Next stop could be Norway :)
Viet
Viet

Once in a lifetime trip!

The 2025 MINT Japow trip didn't disappoint! Fantastic group of fellow boarders, great guides, and excellently hosted. Once in a lifetime trip!

I just came back from the 2025 MINT Japow trip and it didn't disappoint! Fantastic group of fellow boarders, great guides, and excellently hosted. We had a great time exploring three different areas of Hokkaido during our 10 day trip and experiencing the beauty of the Japanese mountains was amazing - once in a lifetime trip!
Sean
Sean
Group 55

The Accommodation

Two Separate Accommodation Bases

The accommodation throughout this trip is bed & breakfast hotels and based on twin shared rooms.

 

Furano: Furano Natulux Hotel (5 nights)

The Natulux Hotel is a a calm and comfortable hotel with spacious rooms and an in-house spa . The hotel is conviently located within a short walk of the city centre, allowing you to easily explore the city’s vibrant restaurants and shops.

 

Asahikawa: OMO7 Asahikawa (4 nights)

Located in the heart of Asahikawa, OMO7 offers stylish rooms and modern amenities, providing a comfortable and convenient base. With easy access to local dining and cultural spots, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in authentic Japanese experiences after a day of riding.

 

Sapporo: ANA Crowne Plaza Chitose (1 night)

This elegant hotel, located in the heart of Sapporo, offers comfortable rooms and top-notch amenities. This hotel gives easy access by train or taxi to New chitose Airport for your return journey.

18th January 2026 - 29th January 2026
Group 207

Structure

Day 1, Sunday 18th January: Arrival Sapporo Airport. Transfer to Furano

Days 2 – 6: Ride Furano and surrounding resorts (including Furano, Tomamu, Sahoro, Minami Furano, Kamoidake)

Day 7 – 10: Ride resorts around Asahikawa (including Asahidake, Kamui Links, Kurodake, Wassamu, Horotachi, Hinata, Pippu)

Day 11, Wednesday 28th January: Departure from Sapporo Airport

The exact itinerary of this Japan snowboard tour remains flexible to allow for variations with the weather and snow conditions.


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Gallery

Related

Frequently
Asked
Questions

  • What equipment do I need for backcountry snowboarding?

    You’ll need avalanche safety gear (to include transceiver, probe and shovel) along with a backpack with straps for carrying a snowboard. We also recommend appropriate clothing to include waterproof jacket & pants which are ideally a thin shell under which you can fit plenty of layers. Consider packing extra layers in your backpack, such as a lightweight down vest & inner gloves, in case the weather changes unexpectedly.

  • Can I join a snowboard camp as a solo-traveller?

    All of our snowboard camps are designed with solo-travellers in mind or those travelling in a small group. They are a great way to spend a week progressing your snowboarding, with others of the same level… you are guaranteed to end the week with a bunch of new snowboard friends having had a ton of laughs along the way! The vast majority joining our snowboard camps are booking alone.

  • What is the age range on a snowboard camp?

    Anyone age 18 & up is welcome to join our adults snowboard camps. The participants on our camps are generally aged from early twenties to mid sixties! Our camps are always a complete mix of ages and nationalities which help make them so fun.

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