There is a saying that says: “backcountry skiing in Japan starts and ends in Tatayema”. Nestled in the heart of Japan’s Northern Alps, Tateyama offers a unique and unparalleled experience for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of untouched snow-covered landscapes. With its towering peaks of more than 2,500m, pristine powder, and a rich mountain lodge and hot springs heritage, Tateyama beckons skiers to explore the backcountry like never before. Join us as we embark on an unforgettable journey into the untamed wilderness of Tateyama, where the silence of the mountains is broken only by the swish of your skis and the rhythm of your heartbeat.
Tateyama offers a wide range of terrain for backcountry skiing, from mellow runs to steep alpine descents. Whether you’re an experienced backcountry enthusiast or a novice looking to explore the wilderness, there are options for everyone.
The Area
Tateyama is part of the Chubu Sangaku National Park, encompassing the Northern Alps of Japan. The region is celebrated for its dramatic mountain landscapes, deep valleys, and abundant snowfall during the winter months. It’s accessed through the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, a system of electric buses, ropeways, and cable cars that give access to Murodo, at the base of the Tateyama crater (2,450m). During spring is possible to visit the famous Tateyama Snow Wall, a massive corridor of snow that reaches incredible heights.
2-Nights / 3-Ski Days
Included
- 2-night room shared accommodation at Raichoso lodge. Breakfast and dinner included. (Reservation only)
- Pick-up/drop-off at Madarao, Myoko, Nagano station and transfer to Ogizawa
- Local Japanese guide and English/Spanish/Japanese speaking tail guide (3 days)
Not included
- Alpen Route fee (around ¥10,000) to be paid at the counter
- Accommodation and meals to be paid at the mountain lodge (¥12,000 per person / per night)
- Insurance
- Lunch – recommended to bring snacks, gels, energy bars, water, or money to purchase bento at the lodge
- Ski bag is required to transport skis inside the bus/ropeway
Required equipment
- 10 point crampons
- Ice axe
- Avy kit (transceiver, probe, shovel)
Daily Itinerary
DAY 1
- Meeting at the designated point and transfer to Ogizawa
- 8:00am: Arrival at Ogizawa. Check gear, and purchase Kurobe Alpine route tickets to access Murodo.
- 8:30am: Board the first departing bus at Ogizawa
- 10:00am: Arrival at Murodo. Meet the lead guide and head to Raichoso lodge.
- 11:00 – 11:35am: Check-in at Raichoso lodge. Backcountry tour preparation
- 11:40am: Start backcountry tour in the area following guide recommendations
- 3:30pm: End of the tour. Return to Raichoso lodge
- Enjoy hot spring bath and dinner
DAY 2
- 6:00am: Breakfast
- 7:00am: Start backcountry tour in the area following guide recommendations
- 3:30pm: End of the tour. Return to Raichoso lodge
- Enjoy hot spring bath and dinner
DAY 3
- 6:00am: Breakfast
- 7:00am: Check out Raichoso and departure to Murodo
- 7:30am: Store belongings at Murodo bus station lockers
- 8:00am: Start backcountry tour in the area following guide recommendations
- 3:00pm: End of the tour. Return to Murodo
- 3:30pm: Board last bus departing Murodo
- 5:00pm: Arrival at Ogizawa. Transfer to the designated drop-off points.
PACKAGE COST
¥55,000
- Price for 1 person. Strictly limited to 6 people, on a first-come first-serve basis.
- Accommodation and Kurobe Alpen Route transportation are to be paid for by each participant.
- Tour subject to the snow conditions at Tateyama. Fully refundable due to lack of snow.
| 2023-24 TRIP SCHEDULE |
| November 21st, 2023 – November 23rd, 2023 |
| April / May TBD |
