¿WHY IS THE BEST POWDER SNOW IN HOKKAIDO?

Known for the best conditions for skiing and enjoying the famous “JAPOW”.

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is known for having some of the best skiing conditions and for having more and better snow than anywhere else in the world.

Index

Why is the best powder snow in Hokkaido?
How much does it snow each year in Hokkaido?
Where are the best freeride descents in Hokkaido?
Would you want to come and practice a week of freeride in Hokkaido with us?

Why is the best powder snow in Hokkaido?

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is known for having some of the best conditions for skiing, in particular for enjoying the famous “powder snow” the famous “JAPOW”. Several factors contribute to the exceptional quality of snow in Hokkaido:

Geographic Location:Hokkaido is located in the far north of Japan and is surrounded by cold seas, such as the Sea of Japan and the Sea of Okhotsk. These waters provide the moisture necessary for the formation of large amounts of dry, light snow.
Cold air currents:Cold winds from Siberia pass over the warm waters of the Sea of Japan, creating ideal conditions for moisture to turn into powdery snow.
Cold temperatures:The low temperatures in winter in Hokkaido help the snow stay in powder form, instead of turning into ice or wet snow.
Mountainous Topography: Hokkaido has mountainous topography ideal for skiing, with numerous ski resorts and remote areas offering access to steep slopes and fresh powder.
Variety of ski resorts: Hokkaido is home to several popular ski resorts, such as Niseko, Rusutsu and Furano, which are known for receiving large amounts of powder snow during the winter season.

The combination of these factors creates exceptional conditions to enjoy a unique ski and freeride experience, attracting winter sports lovers from all over the world.

How much does it snow each year in Hokkaido?

The amount of snow that falls in Hokkaido can vary depending on the specific region and weather conditions each year. In general, Hokkaido experiences cold winters with significant snowfall.

Some of Hokkaido’s best-known ski resorts, such as Niseko, can accumulate impressive amounts of snow during the winter season. In Niseko, for example, it is not uncommon for snow accumulation to exceed 10 meters in a season and even reach 15 or more meters some years. This contributes to Hokkaido’s reputation as the best destination for powder skiing.

It’s important to note that exact numbers can vary from year to year, and weather conditions can influence how much snow falls in a specific season.

Where are the best freeride descents in Hokkaido?

Hokkaido, Japan, is known for offering excellent freeride opportunities, thanks to its abundant snowfall and mountainous terrain. Some of the best areas for freeride in Hokkaido include:

Niseko:It is one of the most famous skiing and snowboarding areas in Hokkaido, known for its abundant powder snow. Niseko has several off-piste areas, such as tree forests on the flanks of the mountains, where freeride enthusiasts can enjoy thrilling descents.
Kurodake: ski resort above the town of Sounkyo is legendary for the powder and steeps under the Kurodake ropeway
Rusutsu:Another popular ski resort in Hokkaido, Rusutsu offers a variety of terrain for freeride. Tree areas and open spaces provide opportunities for backcountry adventures.
Furano:In addition to being known for its well-maintained trails, Furano has off-piste terrain that attracts freeride enthusiasts. The mountain offers a mix of terrain, from wooded descents to more open slopes.
Asahidake:It is the highest mountain in Hokkaido and offers opportunities for advanced freeride. However, it is important to take weather and avalanche conditions into account, as safety is crucial in these remote areas.
Kiroro:Kiroro is known for receiving large amounts of powder snow and has off-piste terrain, including tree areas and open slopes, that are ideal for freeride.

When embarking on freeride activities, it is essential to keep safety in mind. Avalanche conditions can be a risk, so it is recommended to be well informed and, in many cases, have an experienced guide or freeride expert. Additionally, you should always carry appropriate safety equipment, such as probes and shovels, and be aware of weather and snow conditions.

If you want to know more about Avalanches we leave you a link to our online courses:
– Online Course: AVALANCHES – AVALANCHE RISK MANAGEMENT.
– Online Course: SELF RESCUE IN AVALANCHES WITH DVA

Hokkaido is not just about skiing. Hot springs, macaques, unspoiled nature and Japanese culture are other reasons why you cannot miss visiting Hokkaido.

Would you want to come and practice a week of freeride in Hokkaido with us?

B4Experience we are specialists in customizing Outdoor and adventure trips. Mountain skiing, freeride, Splitborad, Catski, Heliski… and snow sports in general are one of our main passions and specialties.

In Hokkaido we have a lodge and local guides who speak English, Spanish and Japanese with a high level of knowledge of the area to take you to enjoy the best possible experience.