We are currently only able to book guiding tours for guests who have already booked accommodation with Samurai Snow.
Our Nozawa backcountry tour features easy access and great tree riding. Some of the best hot springs in Japan make Nozawa the first choice location for backcountry adventures.
The resort tops out at 1650m with bottom lift starting at 550m. The terrain allows for a plethora of route options ranging from lift access short hike powder bowls to long run touring. We have something for all levels and styles.
Typically the season starts early January and the best snow lasts until late Feb, but there are always a few surprisingly good days in March.
The route will be chosen and customised by your guide to match the skill and experience of your group.
Routes and Skill Levels
Whether you are a newbie to backcountry looking to learn how to use all the gear and access some untracked powder, or a veteran of the BC looking for something steep and deep, we will find a group of others that have a similar amount of BC experience to you.
If you are looking for especially big days with big terrain, ask us about our private tours!
2023 / 24 Prices
Pricing for the upcoming winter season will be confirmed soon.
In the meantime, please refer to the 2022 / 23 season pricing as an approximation.
2022 / 23 Prices
¥15,000 to ¥20,000 per Person
Departure / Return Location
Nagasaka Gondola Ticket Office, Nozawa
Season
Jan 15th – March 15th
Meeting Time
Please arrive by 8:00
Return Time
Approximately 16:00
Requirements
A minimum of 2 people are required to run a group tour. Single person tours are available for ¥40,000 until a second person joins. The minimum age to join our group tours is 15 years old. Participants under 18 need a guardian to be present on the tour. Participants under 20 need a signature from a guardian.
A minimum level of fitness and downhill skiing/riding ability is required for our tours.
Please refer to our Ability Levels.
Bring
Ski/snowboard, boots, ski clothing, gloves, helmet, goggles, ski poles with BIG baskets, lunch, plenty of snacks and water
Included
- Professional guide
- Avalanche transciever
- Probe
- Shovel
Not Included
- Ski/Snowboard equipment
- Lift ticket
- Lunch
Lift Tickets
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.
Itinerary
- 8.00 AM – 8.30 AM: Orientation Organise and check gear for the day Discuss days conditions and planned routes with guides Fill out mountaineers card
- 8.30 AM – 9.30 AM: Lifts Take the lifts to the BC access point for the day and do basic beacon checks.
- 9.30 AM – 10.00 AM: Hike 1 A short hike will take you to the first powder area of the day.
- 10.30 AM – 10:45 AM: First run of the day Time to crank that smile and enjoy the powder that “Snowzawa” is famous for.
- 10:45 AM – 11.15 AM: Hike 2 A short hike and lift ride will bring you back to the top of out BC area.
- 11.15 AM – 11.45 AM:Second run Another pristine powder field ready for you to make your mark.
- 11.45 AM – 13.00PM: Hike and lunch Another short hike, lift and then lunch before we take on the afternoon.
- 13.00PM – 15.30PM : More powder Nothing better for after lunch than chomping into some more powder. Guides will make the most of conditions by choosing routes perfect for your group.
- 15.30PM – 16.30PM : Homeward bound Time to head back to base camp, return gear and have a beer with your guides.
We are currently only able to book guiding tours for guests who have already booked accommodation with Samurai Snow.
If you submit a booking request and have not already booked accommodation with Samurai Snow, we will do our best to respond to your enquiry but this will not always be possible.