Overall Rating

Hokkaido Safari

Hokkaido Safari5/56
Hokkaido Safari5 out of 5 based on 6 reviews
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    100%
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Price p/p From price based on double-share room staying at La Vista Furano Hotel & Dormy Inn Premium Otaru; 4 on tour for 2024 season.
Base/invoice currency is in USD inc taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 4,335

GUIDED POWDER PROGRESSION ROAD TRIP
12 Days | Up to 11 Days Guided Skiing/Riding

Location: Japan | Tour Focus: Guided-Progression | Terrain Focus: Off-Piste, On-Piste, Backcountry, Sidecountry
Ability: Advanced to Expert
Price p/p From price based on double-share room staying at La Vista Furano Hotel & Dormy Inn Premium Otaru; 4 on tour for 2024 season.
Base/invoice currency is in USD inc taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 4,335
Explore multiple Hokkaido ski areas on this amazing powder progression adventure for advanced to expert skiers & boarders. Locations include the Otaru/Sapporo & Furano ski areas. Groups of up to 4 guests are guided by 1 guide. From price is based on twin share in deluxe western-style room.
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Hokkaido Progression Safari

This tour explores 2 distinctive zones in Hokkaido that are renowned for their abundant powder: the Otaru and Furano areas. This Hokkaido ski tour includes private transportation providing greater flexibility to visit the resort with the best conditions to ride at each day. You will get to explore up to 8 resorts during the 12 day road trip and immerse yourself in the amazing local Japanese culture.

Program Focus:

The main goal is to explore Hokkaido, skiing/riding as many ski areas and as much deep powder as possible. You will also be immersing yourself in local Japanese culture and enjoying the many culinary delights Japanese cuisine has to offer.

Education is the other vital component of the program. The focus is on avalanche safety and education and the guides will constantly reinforce these principles out on the mountain. The program starts with a mandatory, comprehensive avalanche safety training session which includes (but is not limited to): theory; single/multiple burial training; probing; strategic shoveling and snowpack testing and analysis.

Any skiers looking to improve their freeride technique can be given regular feedback on the mountain and we can get out the video camera for some video analysis sessions. All in all, the program is very detailed and potentially rewarding on many different levels. You’ll have fun and probably learn a lot.

Group Size:

There is a maximum of 6 guests per group, led by 1 guide from The Adventure Project. There is a limit of 3 groups (of up to 6) per session.

Minimum Ability Level:

This tour is aimed at advanced to expert skiers and boarders. You should be comfortable riding in tighter trees and in deep powder (the powder is nice and light, with an average water content of only 4%). You should be comfortable riding double diamond terrain in variable snow conditions.

Mandatory Equipment:

Guests must have an avalanche beacon, shovel and probe (plus pack) and uphill capability (skis with touring bindings/skins or a splitboard/skins/collapsible touring poles or powder board with snowshoes/collapsible poles). If you’ve not used any of this gear before, then no problem, you will be given comprehensive training in their use.

How To Get There:

Your ultimate destination is to get to Sapporo Chitose for the start of each session. Most international flights will fly to Tokyo Narita International Airport and then you will take a connecting flight from the Tokyo domestic airport at Haneda, to fly to Sapporo New Chitose Airport. Relatively few international carriers outside of Asia fly direct to Sapporo. Your guides will meet & greet you at Chitose airport & transfer you to your accommodation in Furano.

Ski Areas:

You will be exploring some of the best powder zones in Japan for 12 days using private transportation.

The first part of the trip is based in Furano where you can access ski areas including Furano, Kamui & TomamuSahoro, Mt Racey & the Daisetsuzan National Park.

The second part of the trip is based in Otaru where you can access ski areas including Kiroro, TeineKokusai, Tengu & Asari.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival Day

Arrive Sapporo, New Chitose Airport (CTS). Pickup by The Adventure Project. Drive to Furano (125 km – 1 hr 55 min drive)

For the next 6 nights you will stay at the ski-in/ski-out New Prince Furano Hotel.

Furano is a nice blend of traditional Japanese culture and a Western ski resort feel and is the ideal base for our exploration of northern Hokkaido and is considered to be the capital of the Hokkaido Powder Belt. Furano has amazing skiing and it’s worth spending several days exploring the resort. Furano boasts long runs with decent vertical (959m 0r 3,146ft) and has some great terrain. There’s plenty of fun tree skiing and secret stashes in the resort but our favorite area has to be the “Premium Zone”, an awesome area of open bowls and trees accessed by a quick 25 minute hike. The powder stays fresh in this zone for days and we’ve had some epic turns in this area in the past.

Day 2 – Ski/Ride Furano

AM Avalanche safety training and then warm up skiing / riding at Furano ski area.

Day 3- 6 Ski/Ride Furano Area

For the next 4 days you will chase the best conditions in the Furano area which might include Kamui Links, Tomamu & Asahidake.

Day 7 – Transfer to Otaru (150 km – 2hr 33 min drive).

Potential to ski a resort on the way to Otaru and then on to your accommodation (Grand Park Hotel Otaru) for the next 4 nights.

Otaru is a beautiful port city in the west of Hokkaido on Ishikari Bay. It is famous for it’s canal that runs through the center of the city, lined by many shops, restaurants and converted warehouses. It is the ideal location for exploring the ski areas closer to Sapporo and getting a really traditional Japanese experience.

Day 8 - 10 – Ski/Ride Otaru area

For the next 3 days you will ski and snowboard around the Otaru area. Options include Kiroro, Tiene Highlands, Sapporo Kokusai.

Day 11 – Potential 1/2 day skiing on-route to Sapporo

Subject to conditions and group consensus, it may be possible for a last chance to ski/ride at one of the ski areas nearby on-route to Sapporo where you will spend your final night (35 km – 37 min).

The last night of accommodation is not included in the package however there are many inexpensive options available.

Day 12 – Departure Day

Transfer (58 km – 51 min) to New Chitose Airport (CTS) for return home. This is not included in the package due to the varying times when people need to depart however it is an inexpensive and easy transfer by bus or train to the airport.

* This schedule is subject to change and revision and you will be sent a specific itinerary for your trip, before departure. There are many different resorts that can be skied during the trip. Ski areas will be chosen based on the motivations of the group and the conditions of the day. Having private transportation allows maximum flexiblity.

Accommodations

The Adventure Project have selected the best hotels for the tour based on price, quality and location.

Otaru is a beautiful port city in the west of Hokkaido on Ishikari Bay. It is famous for its canal that runs through the center of the city, lined by many shops, restaurants and converted warehouses. It is the ideal location for exploring the ski areas closer to Sapporo and getting a really traditional Japanese experience.

Furano is a nice blend of Japanese and Western cultural experience. It is a ski town that still has plenty of charm and hasn’t been overrun by Western visitors. It is the ideal base for the exploration of northern Hokkaido where you can access more than 5 different resorts.

Otaru

With option 2, you will be staying at the Otaru Grand Park Hotel which is right on the bay. Rooms have ocean views in front and mountain views behind.

The hotel has several restaurants including the all day dining Terrace Brasserie, the Bay Lounge and the Marina Bar and Restaurant.

The buffet breakfast (included) is a sight to behold!

You will enjoy spacious twin-share rooms with private en suite & free wi-fi.


Otaru Grand Park Hotel

Lovely western rooms

Fabulous restaurant with views

With option 2 you'll be staying at the Dormy Inn Premium Otaru.

Furano

With option 1 you will be staying at the New Furano Prince Hotel which is close to the bottom of the Furano Ropeway in the Furano Zone and features ski in and ski out access.

The hotel is well-appointed with 4 restaurants, 2 bars, 3 cafes and a bakery. There is a hot spring complex in the hotel that includes an indoor bath, outdoor bath and a sauna. You can get a massage and use the relaxation lounge.

Your room is a well appointed twin-share western-style room with with private en suite. The room as table/sitting area, TV & free wifi.


New Furano Prince Hotel

Western twin rooms

A lovely hot spring complex

Option 2 is to stay at La Vista Furano Hotel

2024 Rates, Inclusions & Add-Ons

Rates

Session   Twin Room  Single Room  Double Room*
 Option 1 with New Furano Prince Hotel & Grand Park Otaru Hotel  $4,625  $5,105 $4,725
Option 2 with La Vista Furano Hotel & Dormy Inn Premium Otaru  $4,335  $4,415  

Notes:

  • prices displayed are per person
  • invoice/base rate is in USD
  • *double rooms are pending availability
  • costs are based on a minimum of 4 people in the group. If there are less than 4 people it's still possible for the session to run, then the price will be higher.
  • rates include all taxes
Inclusions
  • An experienced & qualified guide / host for the duration of the tour
  • 10 nights twin share accommodation including buffet breakfast
  • Private ground transport in 8-seater bus for duration of tour
  • Daily resort guiding (1 guide to 4 guests) with up to 11 guided days
  • Comprehensive avalanche safety training
  • Pick up and drop off at the New Chitose Airport (at a scheduled time)
  • Opportunity to explore local restaurants & cultural sites after skiing/riding
Add-ons
  • Private group can be greater than 4; inquire for a quote
Not Included

The Adventure Project Terms & Conditions

1. Booking

  • (a) The Adventure Project (TAP henceforth) will provide you with written confirmation by email of your application upon the receipt of the following signed and completed documents:
    • Release and Indemnity form;
    • COVID/Infectious Disease Warning and Waiver (if required).
  • (b) By sending in the deposit, you agree to ALL of the following stipulations outlined in the Terms and Conditions below.
  • (c) Your acceptance as a guest is subject to your skiing/boarding capabilities, medical condition and fitness being to the standard deemed necessary by The Adventure Project.

2. Suitability
By sending in your deposit, the Client (the Guest) agrees to the following:

  • They are at least the minimum standard listed for each trip (intermediate, advanced or expert).
  • That they are in sound physical fitness and capable of operating (skiing, riding or hiking) at potential high altitudes (depending on the destination). You will sign a disclaimer saying that you have the physical fitness to undertake these activities and do not suffer from altitude sickness.
  • If your medical or physical fitness changes before or during the trip, then you must notify us immediately in writing.
  • That they can get up by themselves after a fall. The Adventure Project is not responsible for helping guests get up after a fall.
  • You should have powder-centric skis or snowboards that will give you extra flotation in deep snow, if skiing or riding off-piste.
  • You must be familiar with the use and operation of all of your gear, prior to the commencement of your trip. Ski and snowboard boots should already be broken in and not the cause of any blisters or other discomfort.
  • You must carry your own (basic) first aid kit and spare parts for your skis or snowboards.
  • If you cannot keep up with the majority of the group, then for your own safety, you might be asked to stay out of the off-piste areas (if the majority of the group wants and is capable of, skiing or riding in that terrain/snow). That could also mean riding by yourself in the resort if you cannot keep up with the majority of the group.
  • The Adventure Project does not guarantee complete compatibility of all group members. Whilst we try our best to put the right level of people together in our groups but we cannot guarantee the compatibility of all group members. The Adventure Project is not responsible for any mismatches in group ability therefore.
  • If a Client is not compatible with a group, then they can hire a separate local guide or instructor, but they will be responsible for those additional costs. No refund or reimbursement of any costs already paid, will be offered.
  • There is only 1 guide per group in Chile and Japan. If a guide gets sick or injured (circumstances beyond our control) and cannot continue the trip, then no refund will be offered for any time spent without a guide or if the trip has to be cancelled or altered in any form. You must have travel insurance to cover yourself for any losses.
  • You will be asked to sign a liability release form that indemnifies The Adventure Project from the obvious risks of riding in avalanche terrain. People have been killed in avalanches within ski areas and in side country/backcountry areas outside of the ski area. Avalanches can and do happen both within the ski areas and outside the ski area boundaries. We cannot guarantee your safety at any time when skiing or riding within the ski area or outside the ski area. No slope can ever be deemed 100% safe and free from avalanche risk.

3. Travel Insurance

  • Travel insurance is mandatory for all Clients. You must purchase your travel insurance as soon as you have paid your deposit.
  • Clients must have travel insurance that covers them for TRIP CANCELLATION (sometimes called "Cancel for Any Reason" Insurance).
  • Clients might need to be tested for COVID prior to departure for their destination. If you receive a positive result and cannot travel to the destination, then you would not be entitled to any refund. You must have travel insurance to cover you for any loss.
  • Clients might need to be tested for COVID prior to departure to their home country. If this is the case, you should have insurance that covers you for any additional costs if you are delayed return back to your home country if you receive a positive test result.
  • Clients must have comprehensive travel insurance with a high level of cover for (but not limited to): off-piste skiing (if necessary); all medical costs; emergency evacuation; search and rescue costs (the guest is responsible for any additional search and rescue costs); trip delay or cancellation; loss or delay of baggage; stolen or missing equipment.

4. Media Release

  • (a) The Client agrees: 
    • That they give TAP permission to use all media obtained during the trip that might feature the Client.
    • This media could include (but is not limited to): photographs of the Client; video's of the Client; written accounts featuring the Client; for use in TAP marketing.
    • This media could be used on (but not limited to): the TAP website; TAP Instagram posts; TAP Facebook posts; TAP blog (both website blog and non-website blogs) and other social media posts.
  • (b) The Client has the right to refuse inclusion in any marketing media as listed above, but IF they request to be excluded from said media, then it must be in writing, at least 2 weeks prior to commencement of the trip.

5. Payment Terms

  • (a) Deposit– The deposit for all trips is $1,000 USD for all trips, unless otherwise agreed upon. The deposit is strictly non-refundable and cannot be transferred to another trip without the express written consent of The Adventure Project.
  • (b) Payment– Deposits and final balances can be paid by cash, personal check, bank check, money order, bank transfer, international wire, Venmo or Zelle. More detailed payment instructions will be sent out prior to sending in the deposit. When paying by check or money order, please make any payments to “The Adventure Project LLC.”
  • (c) Credit cards– currently we cannot accept payment by credit card.
  • (d) Due date– each trip has a final payment due date. Please consult your information sheet or the TAP website for details.
  • (e) Prices– all prices quoted are in $USD and is based on the number of people in the group. Price can vary if the minimum number of participants (4) has not been reached.

6. Pricing

  • (a) Changes to pricing: TAP reserves the right to make changes to pricing prior to departure for your trip, at any time. Prices are not guaranteed therefore until final payment of all monies owed has been made by all group members. If more people are added to the group after the final balance payment due date, then no refund will be issued for any differences in subsequent final price.
  • (b) Reasons for pricing change: TAP reserves the right to change pricing at any time (but are not limited to) due to fluctuations in local currency, increased local or government costs and other unforeseen reasons. Prices can also change due to fluctuations in group participants. Any changes to the cost will be given to you in writing and you will have 2 weeks to make any additional payments.
  • (c) Exclusions from pricing: each trip has its own separate inclusions and exclusions. They are listed on the website and in the program information sheet for each trip. It is your responsibility to read and understand the individual exclusions that you are required to pay at your own expense.

7. Cancellation Policy

  • (a) Cancellation by the Client:
    • You may cancel your trip at any time prior to the earliest departure of the guide(s) by providing written notice to TAP.
    • If you cancel your trip at any stage the deposit is non-refundable.
    • If you cancel your trip more than 120 days prior to the earliest departure of the guide(s), then you will be entitled to a full refund minus the deposit.
    • Should you cancel your trip 90 days or less before departure, you will be entitled to a refund of all moneys paid (less the deposit) SUBJECT TO TAP FINDING A REPLACEMENT GUEST. In the event a replacement guest is NOT found, the ENTIRE price paid by you will be forfeited. Guests MUST have travel insurance that covers trip cancellation, to protect themselves from any loss.
    • Should you cancel your trip less than 60 days before the earliest departure of the guide(s) the entire price paid by you will be forfeited. Guests MUST have travel insurance that covers trip cancellation, to protect themselves from any loss.
  • (b) Cancellations by The Adventure Project:
    • TAP reserves the right to cancel your trip either prior to the earliest departure of the guide(s) or during the trip for reasons including (but not limited to)
    • (i) Prior to earliest departure of the guide(s):
      • A change in your medical condition or fitness.
      • Your failure to disclose details of your medical condition or fitness prior to departure.
      • In the event that insufficient guests are booked on a particular trip.
      • In the case of termination PRIOR to the earliest departure of the guide(s), TAP shall refund the price (MINUS the deposit) within fourteen (14) days of written notification from TAP of the cancellation. Guests MUST have travel insurance that covers trip cancellation, to protect themselves from any loss.
    • (ii) During the trip:
      • Should you fail to comply with the directions of TAP staff or their agents;
      • Should TAP determine that you should not participate any further.
      • In the event of termination during the trip the entire price paid by you will be forfeited. Guests MUST have travel insurance that covers trip cancellation, to protect themselves from any loss.