Over the few years we’ve been traveling for ski mountaineering with Freetouring, one thing has become clear at every destination: the undeniable impact of climate change on snow coverage. Yet, as with every rule, there is an exception — and in this case, it’s Japan. Thanks to its unique geography and exceptional climatic conditions, the country is literally buried in snow, with seasonal totals often exceeding 10 meters!
In January 2026, I had the privilege of once again traveling with Allworldskiing on an 11-day journey to the extraordinary landscapes of Japan, in the Tohoku region. The experience was exceptional from beginning to end, offering a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and world-class skiing.
Naturally, our primary focus was the snow — and it delivered beyond expectations. Over the course of eight days on the mountain, conditions were outstanding. Aside from a single rainy day, we enjoyed remarkable weather, including consistent snowfall on six days, creating ideal powder conditions and unforgettable moments on the slopes.
Every day we headed into the mountains and moved through fresh snow ranging from 30 to 60 centimeters.
This particular snow quality, known among skiers as “champagne powder” (due to its lightness and almost zero cohesion, resembling the foam of champagne), required strength and energy from the guides to break trail during the ascents , as well as strong motivation from all participants. And truly, no one lacked enthusiasm! Especially during the descents, where the continuous deep turns in this kind of snow filled us daily with euphoric emotions and pure skiing satisfaction.
According to Freetouring standards, an authentic travel experience goes far beyond skiing in remote mountains with minimal tourism. It must also embrace the cultural elements that connect us to the traditions, heritage, and true spirit of the places we visit.
After each day in the mountains, we returned to traditional hotels where the restorative warmth of the onsen baths eased our bodies and prepared us for the evenings to come. What followed exceeded every expectation. From exquisitely curated traditional dinners to unforgettable meals at exceptional restaurants led by renowned chefs, each culinary experience reshaped our understanding of Japanese gastronomy.
The days passed quickly, and soon we reached the end of the journey. On our return to Tokyo, while on the Bullet Train, we had already decided that we would come back! We must relive and share this experience again. A big thanks to our Japanese colleague guide and friend Hiro, whose many years of experience and connections made this special trip possible.
In 2027, we will visit Japan again, combining the regions of Hokkaido and Tohoku in Northern Japan.
If deep powder is more than a preference — if it is your element — and if you seek authentic mountain experiences far from overtouristed resorts, then this journey to Japan is designed for you. Ski legendary champagne powder, move through pristine backcountry terrain, recover in traditional onsen, and immerse yourself in a culture where precision, respect, and refinement shape every detail. This is not simply a ski trip. It is a carefully crafted expedition that blends performance, adventure, and cultural depth into one unforgettable experience.
Join us in Northern Japan — and experience winter at its purest.
