We had a beautiful winter experience at the Tenjin Lodge. We had some unfortunate (and apparently rare) low snowfall totals during our visit, but our guide Kiernen did everything he could to make up for it. He went out of his way to take us to different resorts. We were able to explore spectacular outdoor onsens we would have never seen. We went to some hidden restaurants that had truly unique and excellent food. Kiernen was excellent at keeping touch with us as we had to change some of our plans around. Even with the low snow we were still able to hit some trees and some hikes. Thank you for the adventure!
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During my three-week stay in Japan, I encountered unanticipated weather conditions, with record warmth leading to bulletproof snow. Initially, I felt somewhat disheartened about the trip, especially considering the less-than-promising weather forecast for my last week. However, my perspective shifted when Kieren, our guide, came through with an unexpected adventure.

Despite the challenging conditions, Kieren managed to find a resort where we could ski side country powder—a thrilling experience that revitalized my enthusiasm for the trip. We explored several other resorts before venturing into the backcountry, where Kieren's expertise led us to untouched snow, creating unforgettable memories that salvaged my vacation.

I want to express my gratitude to Kieren for his exceptional skills in locating great powder and for his ability to find pristine, untouched snow that truly enhanced our skiing experience. Moreover, Kieren went above and beyond by providing transportation services, picking up from the bus station and dropping me off at the train station, as well as guiding us to different onsens each night—an added touch that contributed to the overall enjoyment and relaxation of the trip.

Kieren's dedication, resourcefulness, and hospitality made a significant difference in my Japan experience, turning what could have been a disappointing vacation into a memorable and fulfilling adventure. His efforts, knowledge and attentiveness created an exceptional vacation experience.
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I knew Tenjindaira from PowderHounds for years. I always wanted to be there. I finally booked this backcountry tour and went there in mid Feb 2024.

I stayed in Tenjin Lodge for 4 days. Kieren was a professional guide. He was very familiar with not only Tenjindaira but also places nearby, like Kagura and Hondai. Kieren was so energetic and passionate. You would surely be motivated. Kieren was also a very responsible guide. You would feel your safety was secured in the snow mountains.

Tenjin Lodge was wonderful place to stay. It’s very close to Tenjindaira. It’s clean and warm. I enjoyed the bath, bar and food during my stay. I really need to emphasize that food prepared by the staff was amazing which was far beyond my expectation. Last but not least, you would meet a lot of friends there.

I stayed less than a week in Japan. Most of the day was crazy warm. Temperature was above 0 from the morning and could reach 10 degree centigrade at noon. So you can imagine what I would encounter… But Kieren did his best to find some untouched snow for us. I still had some good laps and a good vacation. I would not blame anyone for the temperature. No one can control the nature. Only together we can make a change. So I wouldn’t comment on the powder this time. And I have decided to come back in a good season to see the real Tenjindaira. Then I would add another review for that tour.

By the way, I used PowerHounds as reference for years. This was the 1st time I book tour from PowerHounds. Due to some email problem, I lost contact with Kieren for a while. Greg proactively asked and helped us to reconnect. I really appreciated that. Thanks for your help. I would highly recommend PowerHounds to everyone.
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Kieren & the crew at Tenjin Lodge openned my eyes to where the really awesome snowboarding is in Japan. The guides were very professional and welcoming with a focus on being safe in the mountains. Exceeded my expectations, looking forward to returning to Tenjindaira.
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I’ve ridden a lot of mountains and there’s no better place for powerhounds. Massive long runs, epic powder, very few/well spaced trees. There is awesome snow everywhere in Japan but I’ve never seen runs as long or as untouched as Tenjin.

I’d give the fun factor and guiding 6 stars if I could.

Kieren is a fantastic guide with invaluable experience. We had a pro snowboarder in our group one day. Even boarders or skiers who are experts can still benefit from knowing where it’s safe and where it’s not when you’re ridding a big mountain like Tenjin.

All of the runs (except the summit) involve a 2-20 minute walk. This is a small price to pay for runs you would normally have to take a helicopter to.

Not for beginners. Paradise for powerhounds. Highly recommend the guiding.
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Had a couple of days guiding with Kieren.
First day was perfect sunny weather which we used to get to the peak which I recommend. Although snow was a bit slushy especially down low, Kieren still managed to find the best spots and his experience of the mountain and guiding itself is top notch.
Second day weather was a bit hit n miss but tried to make the most of it anyway and finished off with a trip to the local outdoor Onsen.
Can’t recommend Kieren and Tenjin highly enough, but come prepared in skill level and equipment.
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This is one for those who want to have a chance to get the amazing lines.

Dinner at the lodge is not why you stay there.

Coffee at the lodge is not why you stay there.

Slack country runs that blow your mind are why you stay there.

The people involved also make it a fantastic journey.
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Kieran and his guides provided for an epic 3 days guiding around Tenjin. Highlight was summiting and scoring epic lines on Tanigawadake! Fantastic rooms, food, staff and service at his lodge also.
Highly recommend for experienced boarders.
Can’t wait to visit again next year!
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I am a regular visitor - this is not my first time at Tenjin, and it won't be my last. I've seen Tenjin on snowier days, but despite the warm weather and the relative lack of fresh snow (by Tenjin standards), we found pockets of great untouched powder, all within easy access from the backcountry gate. Tanigawadake is a dangerous mountain, but Kieren knows the area extremely well and plans his routes in great detail, with lots of attention given to safety. Every tour I've ever been at in Tenjin was safe, enjoyanble, and fascinating enough to want to come back. I certainly will, and I can't recommend this place enough.
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Kieren was an excellent guide, very patient, safety was his top priority while trying to get us the best lines with the deepest pow. He has a great knowledge of the area and I will be coming back to test it some more.

The lodge is a comfortable, relaxed, social environment that has everything that you need. It isn't luxurious but has everything that you need.

I definitely recommend Kieren's guiding and the lodge. I will be back!
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