Japan is home to some of the best powder skiing on the planet, with an astonishing 10 to 18 metres of light, dry champagne snow falling each season. As Japan backcountry skiing experts, our passion lies in discovering hidden stashes and little-known gems. From perfectly spaced birch forests to remote alpine bowls, Japan offers endless backcountry adventures for off-piste skiers and ski touring enthusiasts. But that’s not the only reason you’ll fall in love with it…
Beyond the slopes, you’ll experience a rich culture, warm hospitality, and an adventure like nowhere else. Our on-the-ground concierge service unlocks the real Japan, curating unique experiences both on and off the snow. Cap off your ski day with a soak in a traditional onsen, a visit to a local whisky distillery, or the freshest sushi on Hokkaido’s less-travelled West Coast after a day of CAT skiing.
At Mabey Ski, we don’t just plan ski trips – we live and breathe them. Our entire team has first-hand experience skiing, exploring, and immersing themselves in Japan’s culture, so we know exactly how to craft an authentic, seamless, and truly unforgettable adventure tailored for you.
Let us show you the Japan few skiers ever see – where adventure meets authenticity in a way you’ll never forget.
More adventures
— Our guides know where to find the fluffiest powder snow in the world
— Experience a traditional meal in an 8-seater izakaya
— Immerse yourself in the tastes, smells and experiences of Japanese ski culture
Whether you're bouncing through perfectly spaced birch trees, carving down beautifully groomed runs, or dropping into fresh tracks off-piste, Japan offers an incredible range of skiing experiences. The country’s terrain is as diverse as its snow, from the steep slopes of Honshu, perfect for those seeking a thrilling challenge, to the deep powder in Southern Hokkaido, where the snow is light, dry, and simply dreamy. January and February are the best months for these areas, with the powder at its peak and the conditions ideal for fresh tracks.
But for those who crave something wilder, Central Hokkaido awaits. Known for its alpine bowls and steaming volcanoes, it offers a more rugged and remote backcountry experience that feels untouched by time. This is an area where the terrain is untamed and exploration is a true adventure. And for those who enjoy longer ski days in the spring, Central Hokkaido is an ideal destination for ski touring in March and April, thanks to the colder temperatures and abundance of blue-sky days.
On the mountain, you can savour a steaming bowl of hot ramen to warm up after a long day on the slopes or refuel with a quick onigiri (rice ball) on the go, perfect for a snack between powder runs.
For adventurous foodies, a trip to the coast is a must. Sample fresh sushi prepared from fish caught that very day, often in hidden gem restaurants far from the usual tourist spots. It's a true taste of Japan's coastal culture, where you’ll experience seafood at its freshest and most authentic.
From quirky vending machines dispensing everything from hot drinks to instant noodles, to slope-side food trucks serving up hearty bowls of ramen, Japan’s ski resorts offer a blend of convenience and culinary delight. After a thrilling day on the slopes, warm up your muscles in a traditional onsen (hot spring), where you’ll find local freeriders and skiers relaxing in the soothing waters – a true slice of Japanese culture that offers both relaxation and rejuvenation.
For those looking to dive deeper into Japanese nightlife, we’ve discovered that sake and Japanese whisky provide excellent karaoke courage. Whether you’re belting out your favourite tunes in a local karaoke bar or sipping a fine dram of whisky, Japan’s vibrant après-ski scene offers a lively and memorable way to cap off your day.
