Nagano Powder Chaser

What is your perfect idea of a ski trip to Japan this coming season? Well, read on we may have the perfect solution for you.

Jules Adams 48 – Advanced Skiers – New Zealand – Jan 2023

“I took my 13 & 14 year old boys for first Japan ski experience Jan'24. I wanted it to be memorable to them for the fun & good vibes, powder and a little non-touristy genuine culture. Jase & his team delivered on all fronts. The guiding crew are great fun but also very good at their job including safety first, fun & good memories a close second. Jase has amazing energy running the show and legitimately wants his clients to have the best experience, he cares being naturally service oriented. He is very good at ensuring each day the skiing choice is made to maximise the day for all, which for advanced skiers like us was proven by our 5 days being fresh powder found every day despite no snow falls in between! The additional cultural shows were fantastic with genuinely impressive talent. I noticed repeat customers present in the wider groups which says something and the clients Jase has just seem good people so we enjoyed all the group. Jase is also very good at providing good information (including logistics) before hand to set a realistic expectation of what to expect and for help. Thanks Jase and team, you provided wonderful memories for myself and my boys more importantly.”

Overview

This flexible itinerary is designed for skiers and snowboarders with limited time who are unable to join our longer, fixed-date programs. It’s the perfect option for those looking to chase the legendary JAPOW across multiple premier resorts in Nagano.

We cater to two distinct ability tiers:

·       Advanced riders seeking deep powder and the thrill of exploring “slack country” terrain across diverse mountain zones

·       High intermediate skiers and boarders eager to build confidence in powder and refine their on-piste technique through practical tips and instruction from our experienced guides

Beyond the snow, each tour offers a rich cultural immersion — from traditional performances to local dining and interactions with the warm, welcoming people who make this region a truly unique winter destination. Ski hard, connect deeper, and experience Japan beyond the lifts.

Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto

Based on Twin/Triple/Quad Share for adults in Japanese/Western style room with own bathroom and includes breakfast and dinners as specified

3-night package - 2 days skiing per person (1 dinner included)

Twin ¥209,000 pp – Triple/Quad ¥199,000 pp

4-night package - 3 days skiing per person (1 dinner included)

Twin ¥269,000 pp – Triple/Quad ¥259,000 pp

5-night package - 4 days skiing per person (2 dinners included)

Twin ¥329,000 pp – Triple/Quad ¥319,000 pp

6-night package - 5 days skiing per person (2 dinners included)

Twin ¥379,000 pp – Triple/Quad ¥369,000 pp

(Single supplement upgrade based on the twin price is ¥7000 extra per night.  Japanese accommodation holiday rates apply at Ryokan Yumoto between 29th Dec 2025 and 3rd Jan 2026 so please enquire)

 Premium Hotel Omodaka

Based on Twin/Triple/Quad Share for adults in Japanese style room with own bathroom and includes breakfast and dinners as specified

3-night package - 2 days skiing per person (1 dinner included)

Twin ¥189,000 pp – Triple/Quad ¥179,000 pp

4-night package - 3 days skiing per person (1 dinner included)

Twin ¥239,000 pp – Triple/Quad ¥229,000 pp

5-night package - 4 days skiing per person (2 dinners included)

Twin ¥289,000 pp – Triple/Quad ¥279,000 pp

6-night package - 5 days skiing per person (2 dinners included)

Twin ¥329,000 pp – Triple/Quad ¥319,000 pp

(Single supplement upgrade based on the twin price is ¥6000 extra per night. Upgrade to deluxe western room ¥8000 per person per night. Japanese accommodation holiday rates apply at Hotel Yumoto between 29th Dec 2025 and 3rd Jan 2026 so please enquire)

 Economy Snow Monkey Lodge 

Based on Twin Share for adults in Western style room with shared toilet and onsen bathing and includes breakfast and dinners as specified 

3-night package - 2 days skiing per person (1 dinner included) 

Twin ¥149,000 pp  

4-night package - 3 days skiing per person (1 dinner included) 

Twin ¥189,000 pp  

5-night package - 4 days skiing per person (2 dinners included) 

Twin ¥219,000 pp  

6-night package - 5 days skiing per person (2 dinners included) 

Twin ¥259,000 pp  

(Single supplement upgrade based on the twin price is ¥3000 extra per night. Japanese accommodation holiday rates apply at Lodge between 29th Dec 2025 and 3rd Jan 2026 so please enquire) 

Tour Info

Tour Highlights

·       Ski or ride pristine powder in uncrowded, world-class resorts across Nagano

·       Refine your technique with practical guidance from experienced instructor-guides

·       Skip the guesswork — your guide selects the best terrain each day based on conditions

·       Unwind daily in traditional onsens for full-body relaxation after time on the mountain

·       Meet Japan’s iconic snow monkeys and explore a historic hot spring town with over 1,300 years of history

·       Enjoy seamless transportation between destinations thanks to our expert mountain drivers

·       Connect with fellow travellers and share stories over a glass of local sake, ale, or wine

·       Discover hidden cultural gems on your rest day with curated self-guided excursions

Skier/Boarder Ability

These tours are ideally suited for high intermediate (Level 4B) to advanced (Levels 5A) skiers and snowboarders. For guests seeking longer itineraries, explore our extended offerings:

·       Nagano Ski Buffet

·       Nagano Snowboard Buffet

·       Nagano Ski and Snowboard Powder Progression

·       Nagano Powder Zone

If you're just starting out, we recommend these beginner-focused options:

·       Nagano Beginner and Novice Package

·       Japan Ski and Culture for Beginners and Novices

To help us place you in the right group, please review our skier and boarder ability chart carefully. Accurate self-assessment is critical—overstating your skills may result in mismatched group dynamics, slowing down your experience rather than enhancing it.

Have a group of 4 to 6? We can custom-tailor a private tour to suit your needs. Family rates are also available on request.

 Tour Dates 2025/2026

These packages have no fixed start dates and can begin on any day of the week. Options are available for 3, 4, 5, or 6-night stays, and we’re happy to tailor a custom itinerary to suit your individual preferences or group requirements.

For tour dates falling between 29 December 2025 and 3 January 2026, please inquire directly for pricing, as room rates at both properties increase during the Japanese holiday period.

Rates and Inclusions

Accommodation 

·      Twin, triple, or quad-share rooms in Japanese or Western style

·      Single supplement available at each property

·      Deluxe room upgrades available at Hotel Omodaka

Meals & Dining 

·      Daily breakfasts • Dinners as specified in the itinerary

·      Optional dinner outings to local restaurants, including sushi train and okonomiyaki

Skiing & Instruction 

·      Guided skiing or snowboarding with a qualified instructor (maximum 1:6 guest-to-instructor ratio)

·      Lift passes for each ski day

·      Mountain transports each day to the resort with the best snow conditions

Cultural Experiences 

·      Transport to the Snow Monkey Park (early access for guests at Yumoto and Omodaka)

·      Walk through the historic Shibu Onsen town (over 1,300 years of history)

Optional evening performances including:

• Second-generation Geisha performance

• Magic and comedy show

• Karate demonstration

• Taiko drumming, Shamisen guitar, and Lion dance

Note: These cultural performances are scheduled for 10-day tours throughout the season and may not align with your chosen dates. Please inquire for availability when booking.

Relaxation & Extras 

·      Daily access to rejuvenating onsens (Hotel Omodaka includes sauna)

·      Optional karaoke night

Rest day option with access to self-guided cultural excursions:

• Snow Monkeys & Shibu Onsen

• Obuse town & Hokusai Gallery

• Zenkoji Temple & 1998 Olympic Museum • Additional local experiences and hidden gems revealed throughout the tour

Optional Add-Ons

·      Avalanche safety gear rental: ¥3,000/day (includes beacon, probe, shovel, and pack)

·      Full ski & snowboard rental shop includes clothing, helmet, goggles, boots, poles, carving and powder equipment (rates on request)

Single supplement

• Snow Monkey Lodge: ¥3,000 per night per person

• Hotel Omodaka: ¥6,000 per night per person

• Deluxe Western room upgrade at Hotel Omodaka: ¥8,000 per night per person

• Additional nights and private guiding: available upon request

What’s Not Included

·      Flights

·      Travel to/from Yudanaka

·      Travel insurance (recommended)

·      Lunches, snacks, and alcohol

·      Dinners (except those specified above)

Resorts

This tour gives you access to a curated selection of ski resorts across Nagano Prefecture, chosen specifically for their snow quality, quantity, and quietness—the core pillars of our riding philosophy.

Each day’s destination is determined by the weather and snow conditions, with the goal of delivering the best experience possible. Thanks to Nagano’s network of microclimates, don’t be surprised if we return to the same resort more than once—it just means the conditions there are unbeatable that day.

Transportation is provided by our private buses or vans, with groups mixed as needed to fill vehicles efficiently and keep things flexible.

Resorts we may ride include:

·       Oku Shiga Kogen, Yakebitaiyama, Ichinose, Giant, Yokote, and Kumanoyu (all part of Asia’s largest ski area, Shiga Kogen)

·       Madarao and Tangram, known for their accessible tree runs

·       The powder pockets of Togakushi

·       And the historic slopes of Nozawa Onsen

Drive times range from 25 to 50 minutes, depending on the destination and road conditions.

Accommodation

Ryokan Yumoto (Deluxe)

We’re incredibly honoured to work with Ryokan Yumoto, the oldest inn in the region, with a heritage stretching back over 300 years. Now passed down to the 13th generation of family ownership, the ryokan’s story is woven into the rich history of Yudanaka Onsen itself—an area that’s been welcoming visitors for over 1,300 years. This is where samurai once came to bathe after battle, and where pilgrims, priests, and artists would pause on their journey toward Nagano.

Yumoto is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience. Guests are instantly charmed by Yasuyo, your gracious host, whose warmth and gentle presence elevate every stay. The property radiates character, with spacious Japanese-style guest rooms that overlook a serene garden beside the hot springs. While not extravagantly built, the ryokan’s simplicity and craftsmanship speak for themselves.

Room Types

Yumoto offers just five rooms, keeping the atmosphere intimate and quiet:

Japanese-Western Room: 2 Western beds + 8 tatami mats

Standard Japanese Rooms: 14.5 tatami mats

Family Japanese Room: 18 tatami mats

Each room includes a private toilet, with bathing enjoyed in the traditional shared onsen house. Amenities include a flat-screen TV, mini fridge, kettle, and Wi-Fi throughout. You’ll also find a traditional yukata robe in your wardrobe—optional, but perfect for relaxing after a powder day.

Dining

Evenings at Yumoto are a highlight. You'll enjoy a multi-course traditional Japanese dinner, thoughtfully prepared and served in the ryokan’s dining room by your private waiter. Breakfasts, also included, are equally memorable—difficult to describe, but impossible to forget.

Location & Extras

Yumoto is within walking distance of quality restaurants, the local Lawson convenience store, and Yudanaka Station. The ryokan provides:

·      Free pickup and drop-off at the train station

·      Early shuttle service to the Snow Monkey Park

Hotel Omodaka (Premium)

Perched in the heart of Yudanaka Onsen, Hotel Omodaka has long been cherished for its tranquil atmosphere, stunning views of the Five Mountains of Hokushin, and genuine hospitality. Run by a wonderful local family, the hotel offers guests an authentic, relaxing Japanese hot spring experience that feels like home.

Rooms & Amenities

The rooms at Omodaka are more spacious than most in the area and lean toward traditional Japanese style. Twin, triple, and quad-share rooms feature tatami flooring, futon bedding, and a private ensuite bathroom. Single supplement rooms include a private toilet, with bathing available in the shared onsen facilities. All rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, mini fridge, and kettle, as well as a traditional yukata robe—not required, but perfect for lounging after a day in the snow.

Looking for extra space? The Deluxe Western Rooms are nearly double the size of our standard rooms, featuring two Western beds plus two futons to comfortably accommodate up to four people (available at an additional cost).

Hot Springs & Facilities

The hotel boasts both an indoor Japanese bathhouse (onsen) and a scenic outdoor hot spring (rotenburo), plus an on-site sauna—a rare luxury in Yudanaka. While there are no laundry facilities on-site, a public laundromat is conveniently located just a short walk away.

Dining

Dinner is a highlight at Omodaka, with a multi-course traditional Japanese meal served in the dining room. Breakfast is also included and features a buffet-style spread with a mix of Western and Japanese options.

Extras

·      Free Wi-Fi throughout the property

·      Massage services nearby

·      Karaoke bar and a table tennis room for evening entertainment

·      River Cafe serving what many call the best burgers in Japan—ideal if you’re craving a break from Japanese cuisine

·      Vending machines and a souvenir shop on-site

Getting Around

Hotel Omodaka provides complimentary pickup and drop-off at Yudanaka Station. They also offer early-morning shuttle service to the Snow Monkey Park—a 20-minute head start on the crowds, giving you a quieter, more immersive experience before the rush begins.

Snow Monkey Lodge (Economy)

Just 200 metres from Yudanaka Station, Snow Monkey Lodge has become something of a local icon. With its vibrant murals and eclectic artwork adorning the walls, the lodge radiates personality and creativity, offering travellers a unique, budget-friendly base without compromising on atmosphere or comfort.

Recently renovated, the property blends traditional ryokan-style accommodation with modern conveniences. Rooms feature tatami mat flooring, Western-style beds, and traditional yukata robes—perfect for throwing on after a day in the snow.

Facilities & Experience

·      Separate gendered onsens for men and women offer a classic Japanese bathing experience

·      Downstairs Bar (The Bunker)

·      For something more private, book our outdoor onsen and sauna retreat, located just 50 metres from the main building—great for couples or small groups. Enquire at reception.

·      A fully equipped communal kitchen and dining space for those who prefer to self-cater

·      Continental breakfast included daily (cereals, fresh fruit, toast, hot and cold drinks)

 Dining

 The included dinners are hosted at Hotel Omodaka, where you’ll enjoy an elegant multi-course Japanese meal, served in the hotel’s dining room. Breakfast is continental style, toast, cereal, coffee and tea.

 Additional Perks

·      Free Wi-Fi throughout the lodge

·      Access to nearby massage services

·      Close to restaurants, convenience stores, and public laundry

While we don’t offer a pickup service, the lodge is just a short walk from the station and we’re happy to help arrange a taxi if needed

Snow Monkey Lodge isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s a place to connect, unwind, and immerse yourself in the quirky, welcoming energy of Yudanaka.

Yudanaka Township and Restaurants

Sitting 600 metres above sea level, Yudanaka is a central hub for exploring many of Nagano’s surrounding ski resorts. But this mountain town offers much more than just snow access—it’s steeped in centuries of culture and wellness.

With a history stretching back over 1,300 years, Yudanaka is famous for its healing onsen (natural hot springs). Legend has it that a monk first discovered the therapeutic waters here, drawing samurai warriors to the region to recover after battle. That spirit of restoration still lives on in the town’s steaming baths and peaceful atmosphere.

One of Yudanaka’s most iconic residents? The world-famous snow monkeys of Jigokudani, who have learned to soak in the warm onsen pools through the cold winter months. While the monkeys draw crowds by day, the evenings are quiet—many visitors come just for a day trip, so when the sun sets, you’ll often have the town’s restaurants and streets largely to yourself.

Food lovers are in for a treat. Yudanaka boasts a broad selection of traditional eateries serving local and seasonal produce. In recent years, the dining scene has expanded to include more variety, with new spots blending Japanese and Western flavours to suit every palate.

Just a short stroll away is historic Shibu Onsen, a beautifully preserved district said to have inspired the setting for Spirited Away. With its narrow alleys, quaint shops, temples, foot baths, and authentic wooden architecture, a walk through this timeless village is like stepping into a different era.

Terrain and Safety

 Skiing and snowboarding in Japan can be a very different experience compared to Western resorts—especially when it comes to riding off the marked trails. At many Japanese resorts, trail skiing is the norm, and anything beyond the designated runs is considered out of bounds.

These areas are not patrolled, and resorts take a hands-off approach—meaning if you venture beyond the ropes, you’re doing so entirely at your own risk.

The off-piste terrain we explore is often referred to by visiting Westerners as “slack country” or “side country.” Typically, these zones sit between two marked trails, and your run will usually end by linking back up with a groomed course that returns you to the lifts—hence the term “slack country.”

That said, rules vary widely between resorts. Some are more relaxed, posting signs like “Ski at your own risk,” while others are far stricter and may prohibit off-piste riding altogether. Regardless of resort policy, we treat any terrain outside the marked trails as out of bounds, and that means:

You must be a competent, confident rider able to handle ungroomed conditions

You must carry appropriate avalanche safety equipment

If you don’t have your own gear, we offer rental kits—including beacon, shovel, probe, and pack—for ¥3,000 per day.

Before heading out, all guests riding off-piste will receive an intro to avalanche gear usage.

Our approach is built around three core principles:

·      Safety first

·      Fun second

·      Improvement third

And make no mistake—safety is non-negotiable.

 Self-Guided Cultural Excursions

 Whether you’ve got a scheduled rest day or your legs are telling you it’s time to take it easy, there’s no shortage of meaningful ways to explore our region beyond the slopes. The Yudanaka area is steeped in culture, history, and charm—offering a side of Japan that’s as enriching as the snow is deep.

At Japan Powder Culture Tours, we believe these experiences are one-of-a-kind and can’t be replicated at other ski destinations. We’ll provide you with maps, train timetables, and guidance to make these adventures easy and stress-free. Each option below is a full-day outing, but you’re welcome to mix and match the timing to suit your pace.

Option 1: Snow Monkeys – Shibu Onsen – Obuse Town

 8:30 AM – Depart from accommodation via complimentary shuttle to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. Take a serene forest walk to the viewing area, then stop at Enza Café for a warm drink and snack.

 Stroll downhill through Shibu Onsen, a 1,300-year-old hot spring town once visited by samurai for post-battle healing. Explore its narrow lanes, the Sake Museum, and the nearby world’s tallest bronze Buddha statue.

 12:31 PM – Catch the local train to Obuse (arrives 12:53), then take a short walk into the historic town centre. Visit the renowned Hokusai Museum and enjoy the peaceful, artistic vibe of this beautifully preserved town.

 5:11 PM – Return to Yudanaka Station via train (arrive 5:33 PM).

Option 2: Snow Monkeys – Obuse Town – Zenkoji Temple (Nagano)

 8:30 AM – Shuttle from accommodation to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. After your visit, enjoy a coffee break at Enza Café.

10:20 AM – Pickup from the park trailhead and transfer to the station. 10:50 AM – Take the train to Obuse (arrive 11:12 AM), explore the town, visit the Hokusai Museum, and enjoy lunch at one of its many excellent restaurants.

 1:55 PM – Take the train to Nagano Station (arrive 2:30 PM). From the west exit, catch the Zenkoji bus to the iconic Zenkoji Temple—one of Japan’s most sacred sites. Do the underground chamber walk to find the "gate to eternity" and reflect in the mirror as part of the spiritual tradition.

Walk back toward the station through streets lined with charming shops and cafés.

Choose your return:

 6:00 PM express train to Yudanaka

Or stay for dinner in Nagano and return on the 7:40 PM train

Option 3: Obuse Town – Zenkoji Temple & Olympic Museum (Nagano)

 8:39 AM – Depart Yudanaka by train, arriving in Obuse at 9:14 AM. Visit the Hokusai Museum, stroll through the old streets, and enjoy the morning at your own pace.

 11:12 AM or 11:56 AM – Take the express train to Nagano (arrive either 11:36 AM or 12:30 PM). Lunch options include the Midori food complex inside the station or nearby local restaurants.

 From the west exit, catch the bus to Zenkoji Temple. Explore the grounds, tour the underground chamber, and visit the Zenkoji Museum tucked behind the main temple.

 If time allows, grab a taxi to M-Wave Arena, home of the 1998 Winter Olympic speed skating venue. The Olympic Museum inside is a must for sports history fans—and the arena’s suspended timber ceiling is the largest of its kind in the world.

 Return options:6:00 PM express train to Yudanaka

Or have dinner in Nagano and return on the 7:40 PM train (arrives 8:29 PM)

Our authentic Japanese ski tours from the guests perspective

3, 4, 5 and 6 night fully guided tours

High Intermediate to advanced skiers and boarders

guided Tour Dates

From mid Dec 2025 to Early april 2026

Please ask for a full pdf pack which includes tour details, FAQ's, pre trip information, reviews, terms and conditions and customer information spreadsheet.

Old Faithful POW Day

From a guest perspective