Aizu to Minakami Golden Snowmads
ENQUIRE NOWGolden Snowmads Aizu to Minakami
The Ultimate Japan Experience for our Golden Snowmads! P/P
Repeat Customers Discount
2nd Feb - 12th Feb, 2027
Hosted by Mountainwatch own – Reggae Elliss. This is not just your normal ski holiday, the Golden Snowmads Tour combines epic skiing and boarding with that incredible Japanese culture and cuisine. Staying in luxurious accommodation with western beds in Aizuwakamitsu & Minakami daily breakfast, some dinners and incredible onsens in the regions!
Our guides will use their local knowledge to give you the best Japanese experience possible!
This will be our first time heading to Aizuwakamitsu Region a traditional Japanese town rich in history from the Edo period and some amazing quiet resorts around the area, Reggae Ellis our tour guide will be leading this years Golden Snowmads Weeks accompanied by Ken our Local guide who has skied in most areas of Japan and has been guiding our tours for the past few years. You can expect to hit a different resort each day in Aizuwakamitsu and Minikami and on the rest day in Aizuwakamitsu to explore a town rich in History with sake distilleries that have been operating since the Edo period.
While skiing and boarding is the main objective of this tour, and we’ll be doing plenty of it, we want to make sure you get the full, Japanese experience. This is why we have added a bunch of great additions to do after each day’s riding. Think of traditional Japanese dinners, and daily visits to different onsens and sightsee locations! All the while staying in comfortable accommodation with western beds, en-suite bathrooms and breakfast included. Experience the taste of Japan with some dinner experiences, sake tasting and wine pairing. This truly is the Golden Japan experience!
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
Feb 02 - Day 01
Welcome to Japan! Make your way over to Aizuwakamitsu at your own leisure. The easiest way to get to Aizuwakamitsu is by shinkansen. From Tokyo, take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Koriyama Station, which takes 75 minutes. Once you arrive to Koriyama station you need to switch to the Ban Etsu – West line in the same station this takes another 60 Minutes. Once you arrive at Aizuwakamitsu Station ou guides will be there to pick you up and take you to the hotel.
After checking in spend the rest of the day exploring the hotel, unwind in the stunning outdoor onsens, or go on a relaxing stroll around the town before meeting your guide and the group for dinner.
- Accommodation Onyado Toho Onsen, Japanese Western Rooms – Twin Share (Western beds)
- We can arrange transport from Aizu station if you arrive before 10pm.
Feb 03 - Day 02
First day on the slopes! After a delicious breakfast, meet your guide(s) in the lobby and get ready to be shown to some of the hidden gems of Japan. Even though the snow and weather will decide where we ride each day, the goal today is to head to Nekoma Ski Resort. A fun, Japanese ski resort offering great terrain for all riders including beginners, intermediates, moguls, and some fun tree runs! It’s the perfect resort to warm up the legs, get a feel for your guides and fellow Snowmads. We’ll have a full day guiding today, but at any time feel free to explore the resort at your own leisure. Having 2 guides will also mean we can split the group up if need be, but we’ll always aim to meet up for lunch, and for apres drinks after riding and before heading back to the hotel.
After your day skiing, relax, have a drink, then jump in the van back to the hotel where you can relax in one of the many, incredible natural onsens. After some down time, meet in the lobby for dinner.
- Buffet Breakfast at Onyado Toho Onsen
- Full day guiding
- Lift pass
- Private Transfers
- Accommodation Onyado Toho Onsen, Japanese Western Rooms – Twin Share (Western beds)
Feb 04 - Day 03
With the legs well and truly warmed up, we’ll spend today venturing further into the Aizuwakamitsu region. One of the options for the day is to head to a popular ski resort for day Inawashiro. Inawashiro is about a 40 minute drive from the Hotel but offers some of the best views of the area of lake Inawashiro. There is wide open groomed runs long runs and powder spots with plenty of terrain to keep everyone entertained. With the increible amount of snow in this area and being off the beatean track its set up to be a day to remember.
After a long day Skiing we will head back to the hotel and freshen up then can go into town for dinner with the team to have a debrief of the day.
- Buffet Breakfast at Onyado Toho Onsen
- Full day guiding
- Lift pass
- Private Transfers
- Accommodation Onyado Toho Onsen, Japanese Western Rooms – Twin Share (Western beds)
Feb 05 - Day 04
With 2 full days riding under our belt it’s time to visit one of the hidden gems of the area Grandeco snow resort. This awesome little resorts is known for receiving a large amount of snow it is a quiet resort and about an Hour drive from the hotel but it guarantees a great day with no queues.
- Buffet Breakfast at Onyado Toho Onsen
- Full day guiding
- Lift pass
- Private Transfers
- Accommodation Onyado Toho Onsen, Japanese Western Rooms – Twin Share (Western beds)
Feb 06 - Day 05
The last day in Aizu, what better time to re-visit some of your favorite runs from earlier in the week. Together with your guide, and the group we’ll decide that morning where to go. Heading back to Nekoma the biggest resort in the area from day 1 would be a great choice, Your guides will keep a close eye on snow and weather forecasts and will advise where the best place to go will be.
Being the last night in Aizu, we can go for dinner at a delicious local restaurant in town to debrief of the area before heading to Minakami.
- Buffet Breakfast at Onyado Toho Onsen
- Full day guiding
- Lift pass
- Private Transfers
- Accommodation Onyado Toho Onsen, Japanese Western Rooms – Twin Share (Western beds)
Feb 07 - Day 06
Transfer day! We can take it a little easy today as we’ll travel to Minakami from Aizu. After a relaxing breakfast get ready for a slow day we will pack up the vans and head out. The journey to Minakami is only 3 hrs but on the way we can stop at a few different sightsee stops in Aizu, We could visit a local Sake Brewery in town that has been operating since the 1850s and on its eith generation, Can stop at the castle or go to where the Byakkotai fought there last stand.
In Minakami relax at your own leisure, and prepare for the next few days exploring some of our favourite resorts in all of Japan!
- Buffet Breakfast at Onyado Toho Onsen
- Full day hosting
- Private Transfers to Minakami
- Accommodation Aratashi Minakami Onsen, western room with western beds and ensuite. (twin share)
Feb 08 - Day 07
After a delicious breakfast, meet your guide(s) in the lobby and get ready to be shown to some of their favourite runs and stashes around the Minakami area. Even though the snow and weather will decide where we ride each day, the goal today is to head to Hodaigi Ski Resort. A fun, Japanese ski resort offering great terrain for all riders including beginners, intermediates, moguls, and some fun tree runs! It’s the perfect resort to warm up the legs, get a feel for your guides and fellow Snowmads. We’ll have a full day guiding today, but at any time feel free to explore the resort at your own leisure. Having 2 guides will also mean we can split the group up if need be, but we’ll always aim to meet up for lunch, and for apres drinks after riding and before heading back to the hotel.
After your day skiing, relax, have a drink, then jump in the van back to the hotel where you can relax in one of the many, incredible natural onsens. After some down time, meet in the lobby for dinner.
- Western Breakfast at Aratashi Minakami Onsen
- Full day guiding
- Lift pass
- Private Transfers
- Accommodation Aratashi Minakami Onsen, western room with western beds and ensuite. (twin share)
Feb 09 - Day 08
Day 2! With Aizu and the first day riding done and dusted in Minakami its time to visit one of the snowiest, and steepest resorts in all of Honshu – Tenjindaira. This awesome little resorts is renowned for receiving massive amounts of snow! Most people don’t come to Tenjin to ride in the little ski area; they come to check out the amazing side- and backcountry. A chairlift takes you to the ridge where endless opportunities await! Being steeper, snow filled terrain this also goes paired with some obvious dangers, so your guides will be on hand to make decisions on what runs are safe. Please listen to your guides as your safety is paramount!
After your day skiing, relax, have a drink, then jump in the van back to the hotel where you can relax in one of the many, incredible natural onsens. After some down time, meet in the lobby for dinner.
- Western Breakfast at Aratashi Minakami Onsen
- Full day guiding
- Lift pass
- Private Transfers
- Accommodation Aratashi Minakami Onsen, western room with western beds and ensuite. (twin share)
Feb 10 - Day 09
After the day at Tenjindaira we’ll spend today venturing further into the Minakami region. One of the options for the day is to head to a popular ski resort for day trippers from Tokyo – Gala Yuzawa. Reason for its popularity is it’s one of the only ski resorts that has its own shinkansen station! The gondola from the train station takes you up to the main Gala Yuzawa ski area which has some fun runs for any type of rider. Gala is also interconnected with Yuzawa Kogen, and Ishiuchi Maruyama. Combining the resorts, you can find plenty of fun terrain to keep you entertained for the whole day. Add the incredible amounts of snow this area receives and you know you’re in for a good time!
What better way to relax after a long day riding than visiting a traditional Japanese bathhouse. Located in Osenkaku, upstream of Tonaegawa. It follows the stream of Takaraga into the beautiful building surrounded by nature. We can spend hours here just looking at the beauty that surrounds the baths, listening to the relaxing sounds of the river and streaming water.
- Western Breakfast at Aratashi Minakami Onsen
- Full day guiding
- Lift pass
- Private Transfers
- Visit to Takaragawa Onsen
- Accommodation Aratashi Minakami Onsen, western room with western beds and ensuite. (twin share)
Feb 11 - Day 10
The last day in Minakami, what better time to re-visit some of your favourite runs from earlier in the week. Together with your guide, and the group we’ll decide that morning where to go. Your guides will keep a close eye on snow and weather forecasts and will advise where the best place to go will be.
- Western Breakfast at Aratashi Minakami Onsen
- Full day guiding
- Lift pass
- Private Transfers
- Accommodation Aratashi Minakami Onsen, western room with western beds and ensuite. (twin share)
Feb 12 - Day 11
What a trip it’s been. Filled with lifelong memories, new friends made and most likely, some tired legs. It’s time to say goodbye to Minakami, to your guides and to your new mates. Depending on what, or where, your next destination is either transfer to the airport, Tokyo or onto your next resort. Please let your consultant know where you’re heading as we can easily help you get there. If you are staying with us for the second week of snowmads take this day to say goodbye and rest up as we will have a whole new group joining us for the Minakami – Myoko Tour.
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- Western Breakfast at Aratashi Minakami Onsen
- Dropped off to Jomo Kogen station
This itinerary is just an example. We’ll have the freedom to decide per day what resort to visit depending on weather and snow forecast. We’ll aim to ride as many different resorts as possible or if snow if absolutely amazing at certain resorts we’ll ride the same resort multiple times. More Freedom = More Pow!
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Onyado Toho Onsen
Onyado Tōhō is a popular onsen ryokan located in the historic Higashiyama Onsen area of Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima. Combining traditional Japanese hospitality with modern comfort, the property offers spacious Japanese-style and Western-style guestrooms, spectacular panoramic hot spring baths overlooking the town, and a renowned buffet featuring local Aizu specialties. With its relaxing atmosphere, excellent facilities, and convenient access to Aizuwakamatsu's cultural attractions, Onyado Tōhō is an ideal choice for couples, families, and groups seeking an authentic Japanese ryokan experience.Features- Japanese Western Rooms - Twin Share (Western beds)
- Breakfast & Dinner included
- Multiple Natural onsen baths on site
- Centrally located to nearby ski resorts
Onyado Toho Onsen
Onyado Tōhō is a popular onsen ryokan located in the historic Higashiyama Onsen area of Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima. Combining traditional Japanese hospitality with modern comfort, the property offers spacious Japanese-style and Western-style guestrooms, spectacular panoramic hot spring baths overlooking the town, and a renowned buffet featuring local Aizu specialties. With its relaxing atmosphere, excellent facilities, and convenient access to Aizuwakamatsu's cultural attractions, Onyado Tōhō is an ideal choice for couples, families, and groups seeking an authentic Japanese ryokan experience.Features- Japanese Western Rooms - Twin Share (Western beds)
- Breakfast & Dinner included
- Multiple Natural onsen baths on site
- Centrally located to nearby ski resorts
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Aratashi Minakami Onsen
A stunning 4 star, Japanese hotel beautifully located on the river with large, natural onsens. All rooms are western rooms with ensuite and have a stunning view over the snowy forest or river. An excellent buffet breakfast provides fuelFeatures- Western room with ensuite - Twin Share (western beds)
- Breakfast & Dinner included
- Natural onsen baths on site
- Centrally located to nearby ski resorts
Aratashi Minakami Onsen
A stunning 4 star, Japanese hotel beautifully located on the river with large, natural onsens. All rooms are western rooms with ensuite and have a stunning view over the snowy forest or river. An excellent buffet breakfast provides fuelFeatures- Western room with ensuite - Twin Share (western beds)
- Breakfast & Dinner included
- Natural onsen baths on site
- Centrally located to nearby ski resorts
INCLUSIONS
- 11 Days hosting by Reggae Elliss
- 5x Nights accommodation Onyado Toho Onsen, Japanese Western Rooms – Twin Share (Western beds)
- 5x Nights accommodation in Aratashi Minakami Onsen – Western room, western beds with ensuite (twin share)
- Daily Breakfast
- Daily mountain guiding
- Private transfers to/from resorts
- 4x Lift in Aizu Region
- 4x Lift pass Minakami Region
- 1x Traditional Japanese Dinner
NOT INCLUDED
- Transfer from Tokyo/Airport to Aizu
- Transfers from Minakami to Tokyo/Airport/Other resort – Our travel consultants can help you book this if needed, please let them know
- All Meals unless specified above
- Flights
- Travel Insurance
- Additional Nights, Rentals or Add-ons
EXPERIENCE + GEAR
Not just your normal ski holiday, the Golden Snowmads Tour in Japan combines adventure, culture, comfortable accommodation and local knowledge to give you the best Japanese experience. Perfect for solo travellers, or small groups of mates who want to experience Japan, ski/board whenever they want and be with likeminded people their own age. This tour is open to anyone, but aimed more towards the golden generation, who don’t feel like trying to keep up with the young guns and their powder stress.
Open to advanced-intermediates to experienced skiers and boarders. No experience riding deep powder needed but we would recommend feeling comfortable riding all the groomers, also the black ones, at your local resort. That way you get the most out of your holiday.
If you want to venture out in the powder we recommend having a minimum of all mountain skis or board, but powder specific ones are preferred. More with under foot means more float means more fun! Let your consultant know if you’d like to rent some as we can add these to your package!
Groups Terms and Conditions
DEPOSIT: A NON-REFUNDABLE deposit for all bookings is required within 5 days of your confirmation to secure your booking, otherwise your reservation may be automatically cancelled. Some properties may a require deposit payment inside the standard 5 days and an increased deposit to secure the booking. Payment of a deposit indicates acceptance of these conditions. Tour leaders are responsible for checking all travel dates and arrangements are correct at time of confirmation. If there is a discrepancy Liquid Tours/Mountainwatch must be notified immediately. Subsequent changes may incur amendment and/or cancellation fees.
The deposit amount is:
• Tours to Japan: $1,000 per student
• Tours to New Zealand: $600 per student
• Tours to North America: $1,000 per student
PAYMENTS: Liquid Tours/Mountainwatch will accept payments by the following methods. Credit card, or direct deposit into our bank account. Agent payments can be made via direct deposit. Please note: there is a 1.5% charge when paying with Visa or Mastercard.
FINAL PAYMENT: Final payment is payable 90 days prior to departure date. A final invoice will be issued prior to the payment due date.
PRICES
All quotes are in Australian dollars unless stipulated otherwise and are subject to change prior to us accepting your booking request. Prices are based on the quoted itinerary including where applicable, coach transportation, economy class airfares, rail travel, multi-share accommodation, resort lift passes, rental equipment, instructors, etc. Prices are also subject to change in accordance with the following provisions.
Note: coach, airline, and rail fares are subject to change without notice at any time prior to full payment. All government taxes and charges imposed by suppliers beyond the control of Liquid Snow Tours/Mountainwatch (including ticketing fees and airline fuel surcharges) are payable by you and are subject to change. If there are any increases in such taxes or charges, or if you request any itinerary changes or the number or mix of passengers changes prior to you making payment in full, which increases the price of your booking, we reserve the right to change the price at any time by giving you notice. You must pay the additional charges prior to the date of your departure.
Unless otherwise stated, the cost of travelling to or from departure points, flights, visas, airport taxes, port taxes, city taxes, items of a personal nature, laundry, additional beverages and consumables are not included in the tour price.
Exchange rates are subject to change without notice (based on currency fluctuations) until final payment has been processed. Once a booking has been made on your behalf, your booking is subject to deposit and final payment being made by due dates as outlined on your statement or your booking may be cancelled.
CANCELLATION: In the event of cancellation more than 90 days prior to departure, Liquid Tours/Mountainwatch will charge $1,000 per student cancellation fee in addition to any airline or accommodation and supplier fees. For cancellation within 90 days but more than 30 days prior to departure, Liquid Tours/Mountainwatch will retain 50% of the total trip price in addition to any applicable airline, accommodation or supplier cancellation penalties. Cancellation within 30 days prior to departure will incur a 100% cancellation fee. No allowance or refund can be made for unused meals, accommodation, transport, vehicle rental, equipment hire, lift tickets, or any other unused package components once travel has commenced. If a person or persons cancel from Liquid Tours/Mountainwatch booking, they and the remaining people in the booking will be liable for the additional accommodation costs that result from the cancelling persons.
ACCOMMODATION: Liquid Tours/Mountainwatch reserves the right to substitute and confirm alternative accommodation of a comparable or superior standard if necessary should that described in the proposal not be available. Your consultant will communicate any possible changes prior to deposit payments being received.
NOT INCLUDED: All other costs, apart from those detailed in a quote/invoice, are at the clients’ own expense eg: passport and visa fees, inter-airport transfers (e.g. within Tokyo’s Narita airport to Haneda airport by bus), meals or any other items including those of a personal nature unless otherwise stated. If flight or other travel delays lead to missed connections, Liquid Tours/Mountainwatch cannot be responsible for train fares, taxis or other extra expenses.
RESPONSIBILITY: Liquid Tours/Mountainwatch acts only as an agent for the companies or persons (principals) providing or offering the means of travel, accommodation and other services (the principals’ services) and bookings are made subject to the terms and conditions under which the principal’s services are provided. Accommodation, flights, transportation and any other services are subject to availability at the time of booking. The principals reserve the right to change the prices of their services without notice. Confirmations and invoices are subject to re-issue if incorrect through error or omission and the passenger accepts liability to pay the correct costs for services. Liquid Tours reserves the right to cancel or withdraw any tour or passenger booking or to decline to accept or retain any person as a member of a Tour or passenger booking. This agreement is governed by the laws of the State of NSW, Australia.
LIABILITY: To the extent permitted by law, neither Liquid Tours/Mountainwatch nor anyone on its behalf can be held liable for any alterations, act or omission on the part of the service providers/principals for any consequential, loss, death, injury, accident, delay or damage occasioned to any person or their belongings (including baggage) in connection with the tour or holiday offers supplied by Liquid Tours/Mountainwatch whether or not such loss, injury or damage is due directly or indirectly to any default, negligent act, misrepresentation, breach of duty, or omission of the travel operator, their respective representatives, servants, contractors or agents. Matters outside the control of Liquid Tours/Mountainwatch may affect the services offered and Liquid Tours/Mountainwatch will not be responsible for any such matters. Programs, offers, tour prices, services and conditions are current at the time of publication of promotional material are subject to change without notice due to unforeseen circumstances, including increases in operating costs. Liquid Tours/Mountainwatch will not accept responsibility or liability for any traveller who contravenes the law or regulation of any country visited. Liquid Tours/Mountainwatch strongly advise against the use or possession of prohibited drugs in foreign countries and warns travelers that if found to be involved in the use or possession of illegal drugs on a Liquid Tours tour or travel package, we reserve the right to discharge the traveler from a tour. This is a zero tolerance policy.
FORCE MAJEURE: Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions, neither we nor any Third Party Supplier can accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance or prompt performance of our or the Third Party Supplier’s contractual obligations is prevented or affected by or you otherwise suffer any damage or loss as a result of force majeure. In these booking conditions, ‘force majeure’ means any event which we / the supplier of the service(s) in question / the Third Party Supplier could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include, whether actual or threatened, war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions, epidemics, fire and all similar events outside the control of the party concerned.
TRAVEL INSURANCE: We require all travellers to have travel insurance. Please ask your travel consultant about our comprehensive policies or click HERE for an online quote
I had an awesome time on the Snowmads tour. Definitely one of the best travel experiences I’ve had and no doubt the best in the last 6 years!
Colin and Steve were great guides. They were able to easily adapt and change the tour to suit the group’s needs when curve balls were thrown. And every decision was made with consideration of the whole group. They are both really top blokes as well. I’d be more than happy to travel on a tour they are leading again
Guy Golden Snowmads
Loved the Japan Tour! Terrain was amazing and Bart knew the area really well. It was great to be shown around every day and we scored some bottomless pow! Highly recommend
Chris Japan
Going on a trip with the crew was an epic experience. Having experienced riders guiding you through some amazing fun terrain, off the beaten track, with fun as a priority. As it should be. Off the hill was excellent to have someone with some local knowledge to show you around and keep you clued up. Basically, it's a rad fun crew to tour with and it was well worth it.
Gus Powder Culture
I’ve joined the Powder Culture Tour in Japan. It gave me memories that will stay with me forever. Bottomless snow, great culture, amazing food. Around every corner hid a secret that left an everlasting impression on me. It was organised perfectly, and even so, we were still flexible enough to move around the travel itinerary according to the best possible snow conditions.
Tim Powder Culture
Bart found the best spots on and off the mountain. Nipple deep powder and cheap laughs. It's been a blast going to Japan with them.
Jelle Japan
FAQ
You will be in very capable hands throughout the trip with Reggae Elliss, and our fellow Golden Guide(s) who have spend several seasons in Japan so knows the areas well and will be able to show you around all the best spots. Our guides will also be around to greet you on your arrival and be around to help you with anything you need when back at the hotel.
In the Minakami region we use a local guide that lives in the area and can cater each day perfectly to the group!
In Minikami we’ll be staying in western rooms – meaning western beds, and en-suites bathrooms.
In Minakami, the Matsunoi Onsen Resort is a stunning hotel, centrally located to some of the best resorts. It also boasts incredible onsens and baths.
In Myoko Kogen the hotel is one of the best on offer in Myoko Kogen with Japanese Bedding, Dont let the Futons scare you off these are thick Futons and never have any complaints. Mieko the Manager here goes above and beyond to accommodate all her guests.
Daily buffet breakfast is included in both.
Rooms are shared with other members on the tour. We aim to allocate rooms to guests of similar ages and genders.
Approximately 2-4 weeks prior to your departure you will receive detailed information on your trip which includes your travel vouchers, airline and airport transfer information (if applicable), information on the respective resort, etc. You will also have access to our 24hour emergency number if for any reason something goes wrong in your journey to the respective resort.
We can also add respective flights, corresponding airport transfers, Japan Rail Passes, etc. If you don’t have your own skis/snowboards or just prefer to travel without, we can arrange rentals in resort. And perhaps you would like to extend your stay at the resort, or explore a bit more of Japan such as Tokyo, Osaka or Kyoto, your consultant can assist with this and recommendations.
Our guides are on hand to assist with any queries/advice. Your guides will be staying at the same accommodation so will be available to help at any time. We strongly recommend arranging a Japanese sim card, global roaming, or pocket Wifi so you have access to internet during your time on the slopes. This way we might set up a group chat for the duration of the tour. At the end of each day we’ll catch up with the group to go through the day’s adventures, and outline the next day’s resort to be visited.
Our guides make calls on which resorts will be visited based on the best conditions. Calls can be made even the night before if there’s some unexpected weather conditions to be taken advantage of. If you had an epic day at one of the resorts make sure to tell the guide and if weather allows we can always head back there!
We offer full day guiding to give you the best experience and score the best snow possible. Of course you don’t have to stay with the group and are free to explore some further terrain, hit the powder stashes our guides have shown, or head back to town to enjoy an onsen or Asahi at your own leisure. Please make sure to tell the guide before heading off.
The Golden Snowmads Tour is open to solo travellers or small groups. Open to anyone but aimed towards the “golden Generation”. Ski with likeminded people your own age, without having to try to keep up with the young guns and their powder stress. Suitable for high intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders who feel comfortable riding around the whole mountain at their own resorts.
As this tour is mainly resort based, finding the best powder, the best groomers and the best snow we use a 1:5 Guide to Guest ratio. If the group is larger, we collect information relating to guests skiing/boarding levels, and the type of terrain they prefer to tackle. This information assists us in allocating guests into sub groups of usually 6-8 people. We aim to have guests of similar ability teamed together to maximise the experience on the slopes.
We insist on anyone joining a group tour to take out travel insurance, and recommend doing this at the time of booking, so you are covered against cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness or accidents. We can arrange a quote for travel insurance or you can click here for more info and an online quote. If you are using your own insurance please ensure it covers you for ski/snowboarding.
You will be in very capable hands throughout the trip with Reggae Elliss, and our fellow Golden Guide(s) who have spend several seasons in Japan so knows the areas well and will be able to show you around all the best spots. Our guides will also be around to greet you on your arrival and be around to help you with anything you need when back at the hotel.
In the Minakami region we use a local guide that lives in the area and can cater each day perfectly to the group!
Our guides make calls on which resorts will be visited based on the best conditions. Calls can be made even the night before if there’s some unexpected weather conditions to be taken advantage of. If you had an epic day at one of the resorts make sure to tell the guide and if weather allows we can always head back there!
In Minikami we’ll be staying in western rooms – meaning western beds, and en-suites bathrooms.
In Minakami, the Matsunoi Onsen Resort is a stunning hotel, centrally located to some of the best resorts. It also boasts incredible onsens and baths.
In Myoko Kogen the hotel is one of the best on offer in Myoko Kogen with Japanese Bedding, Dont let the Futons scare you off these are thick Futons and never have any complaints. Mieko the Manager here goes above and beyond to accommodate all her guests.
Daily buffet breakfast is included in both.
Rooms are shared with other members on the tour. We aim to allocate rooms to guests of similar ages and genders.
We offer full day guiding to give you the best experience and score the best snow possible. Of course you don’t have to stay with the group and are free to explore some further terrain, hit the powder stashes our guides have shown, or head back to town to enjoy an onsen or Asahi at your own leisure. Please make sure to tell the guide before heading off.
Approximately 2-4 weeks prior to your departure you will receive detailed information on your trip which includes your travel vouchers, airline and airport transfer information (if applicable), information on the respective resort, etc. You will also have access to our 24hour emergency number if for any reason something goes wrong in your journey to the respective resort.
The Golden Snowmads Tour is open to solo travellers or small groups. Open to anyone but aimed towards the “golden Generation”. Ski with likeminded people your own age, without having to try to keep up with the young guns and their powder stress. Suitable for high intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders who feel comfortable riding around the whole mountain at their own resorts.
We can also add respective flights, corresponding airport transfers, Japan Rail Passes, etc. If you don’t have your own skis/snowboards or just prefer to travel without, we can arrange rentals in resort. And perhaps you would like to extend your stay at the resort, or explore a bit more of Japan such as Tokyo, Osaka or Kyoto, your consultant can assist with this and recommendations.
As this tour is mainly resort based, finding the best powder, the best groomers and the best snow we use a 1:5 Guide to Guest ratio. If the group is larger, we collect information relating to guests skiing/boarding levels, and the type of terrain they prefer to tackle. This information assists us in allocating guests into sub groups of usually 6-8 people. We aim to have guests of similar ability teamed together to maximise the experience on the slopes.
Our guides are on hand to assist with any queries/advice. Your guides will be staying at the same accommodation so will be available to help at any time. We strongly recommend arranging a Japanese sim card, global roaming, or pocket Wifi so you have access to internet during your time on the slopes. This way we might set up a group chat for the duration of the tour. At the end of each day we’ll catch up with the group to go through the day’s adventures, and outline the next day’s resort to be visited.
We insist on anyone joining a group tour to take out travel insurance, and recommend doing this at the time of booking, so you are covered against cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness or accidents. We can arrange a quote for travel insurance or you can click here for more info and an online quote. If you are using your own insurance please ensure it covers you for ski/snowboarding.
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