LEVEL UP WITH A WEEK OF COACHING AND GUIDING IN AOMORI
For Intermediate Snowboarders – You’ve got the basics down and you’re ready for more. The Aomori Progression Tour is built for snowboarders who want to step confidently into Japan’s deepest terrain—powder, trees, and everything in between. Over five full days of coaching, you’ll level up fast with the guidance of an experienced coach who understands where you’re at and how to push you further.
Our base for the week is Aomori Spring Resort, tucked into the far northern edge of Honshu. This place is raw, stormy, and buried in snow. You’ll stay slope-side at the resort’s hotel—just steps from the gondola and far away from any distractions. It’s all about riding here. Think mellow terrain, perfectly spaced trees, and Japan’s deepest snowpack. It’s an ideal progression playground.
While Aomori Spring is our home base, we won’t stay put all week. Depending on weather and snowfall, we’ll road trip out to explore nearby local resorts. These smaller, low-key hills are stacked with powder, tree runs, and character—and best of all, they’re usually empty. With your coach selecting the best zone each day, you’ll get a taste of the region’s variety while progressing your riding in new terrain every session.
And if the conditions line up? There’s even the opportunity for an introductory backcountry session. With the right snowpack and a solid weather window, your coach will take you beyond the ropes for a low-commitment, high-reward experience that’ll open the door to what’s next.
Whether it’s dialing in technique in fresh corduroy, learning to handle deeper days in the trees, or building confidence off-piste, this tour gives you the tools—and the mindset—to ride it all.
Off the mountain, unwind with onsen sessions, hearty local food, and low-key vibes. No shopping streets or tourist traps—just a focused, snow-heavy week built around real progression and good riding with a small crew.
Dates & Price
All prices are per person and based in USD
18 - 24 JAN - $3490 single room
25 - 31 JAN - $3490 single room
1 - 7 FEB - $3490 single room
8 - 14 FEB - $3490 single room
Ability Level
Intermediate
Group Size
Maximum 6 people
Tour Type
Progression - coaching and guiding
Why Travel With Mint
When you book with Mint, you're booking with a qualified and established travel operator with over 20 years of expertise. Mint Tours is a registered travel agent, a member of AFTA and IATA, and operating under the ATAS Charter and Code of Conduct. Our registered Japanese company ensures full compliance, providing a secure and protected travel experience. You'll be led by our qualified local and international guides who are authorized to work in Japan. Your safety is proactively managed through constant conditions assessment and our guides are rigorously trained in avalanche hazard mitigation, backcountry travel, emergency medical response and hold qualifications, active certifications and maintain ongoing professional development.
TRIP INFO
Get in touch for a detailed tour itinerary and more info
This is snowboarding stripped back to what matters
Aomori doesn’t put on a show—and that’s exactly why it’s the perfect place to progress. It’s raw, stormy, and stripped back in the best way. No mega resorts. No tourist scene. Just quiet mountains, deep snow, and a supportive crew that’s here to ride and improve. This is a week to slow down, tune in, and build your skills in one of Japan’s snowiest regions. Mornings kick off with storm updates and game plans, days are spent chasing powder and dialing in technique, and evenings are for onsen sessions, hearty meals, and sharing the day’s wins with the crew. It’s all about the riding, with space to focus, reset, and take your snowboarding to the next level—without the pressure. If you’re looking for real terrain, low-key vibes, and a progression-focused week in Japan’s most snow-loaded zone, this is it.
Progress faster with a like-minded crew
One of the biggest keys to improving your riding is who you ride with—and on the Aomori Progression Tour, you’ll be part of a small group (max 6 riders) of intermediate snowboarders who are here for the same reason: to build confidence and have fun doing it. You’ll never feel rushed—or held back. It’s a low-pressure, high-stoke environment where everyone’s encouraging each other, sharing tips, and celebrating those breakthrough moments together. You’ll spend more time actually riding—not waiting around—and get the space and support to push yourself at your own pace. With a coach guiding every session and a crew that’s riding on your level, you’ll link more lines, tackle new terrain, and finish the week with a serious step up in skill and confidence.
Deep Snow, Quiet Slopes, and Space to Progress
Exact snowfall stats for this region are hard to come by, but estimates put it somewhere between 14 and 20 metres (46 to 66 feet). Thanks to its northerly location, the snow here is lighter and drier than what you’ll find at most Honshu resorts, with consistent storms delivering deep refills throughout winter. Bluebird days are rare—and that’s a good thing. It keeps the crowds away and the snow untracked. January and February are the sweet spot: cold, dry, and reliably deep. Expect temps between -2°C and -20°C (28°F to -4°F), and around 6 hours of daylight—plenty of time to stack laps. One thing’s certain: you won’t be short on snow.
Rest Easy in Your Own Private Room
Forget shared rooms—on this tour, every guest enjoys the comfort, privacy, and convenience of their own private single room with an ensuite bathroom in top-quality, ski-in/ski-out accommodation. Whether you need a moment of peace to reflect on the day or just want to rest, this private room gives you the freedom to relax completely on your own terms. Solo travelers especially appreciate the guaranteed privacy and the comfort. If you're traveling with a partner or friend, we’ve got you covered too—simply swap to a twin room, still ensuring maximum comfort and convenience.
Everything You Need Before You Drop In
Once you're locked in, keep an eye on your inbox—we’ll send everything you need to get ready. From what to pack and how to get there, to a full breakdown of the tour schedule and what to expect on arrival, our pre-trip emails have you covered. Got a question? Our tour managers are just a call or email away and always happy to help. Whether it’s gear advice, flight plans, or how to squeeze in an extra onsen session post-tour, we’ve got the answers. And if you want help sorting travel insurance, stopovers, or pre/post-tour add-ons, we can take care of that too—so you can focus on what really matters: getting ready to ride.
Aomori: Remote—and Surprisingly Easy to Reach
Aomori might feel like the edge of the map, but getting there is a breeze. Jump on the Shinkansen from Tokyo and be in the mountains in just over four hours, or fly direct into Aomori Airport. However you get there, we’ll be ready—our guides will meet you on arrival and handle the transfer, so there’s nothing to figure out. No stress, no confusion—just a straight shot into Japan’s snowiest, most peaceful zone.
ESSENTIAL INFO
Included
✔ 6 nights single-room accommodation at Rockwood Hotel (Single Ensuite Room)
✔ 5 full days of snowboard coaching and guiding
✔ 5-day lift pass
✔ Fully escorted tour with guide support throughout the week
✔ Arrival and departure transfers from Shin-Aomori Station or Aomori Airport
✔ Complimentary use of avalanche safety gear (pack, transceiver, shovel, probe)
✔ Private van transfers to/from local ski areas
✔ Daily buffet breakfast at Rockwood Hall (6 total)
✔ Daily buffet dinner at Rockwood Hall (6 total)
✔ Complimentary use of the hotel’s indoor/outdoor onsen
✔ Pre-tour support from our Japan Tour Manager
Not Included
✘ Flights or trains to/from Aomori
✘ Travel insurance (including trip cancellation coverage)
✘ Lunches – budget approx. USD $6–$15 per meal
✘ Entry fees for offsite onsen visits (approx. USD $3–$7 per visit)
✘ Any meals, drinks, or snacks not listed above
✘ Guide gratuities (optional, but appreciated)
Dates
All tours run Sunday to Saturday, with five full days of riding (Monday to Friday). This schedule avoids the weekend crowds and maximizes your time on-snow at uncrowded local resorts.
Week 1: January 25 – 31, 2026
Week 2: February 1 – 7, 2026
Week 3: February 8 – 14, 2026
Week 4: February 15 – 21, 2026
Price
USD $3,490 per person – Private Single Room
Every guest enjoys the comfort and privacy of a single room. No sharing. No bunk beds. Just your own space to relax and recharge after a big day on the mountain. Traveling with a partner? Twin or King rooms can be arranged on request, subject to availability at time of booking.
Multi-Tour Booking Discount
Want more than six nights? Lock in a multi-tour combo and keep the progression rolling. You can finish the Aomori Progression Tour and roll straight into another destination the following day. For the ultimate progression path, join back-to-back Progression Tours—start with Asahikawa, then hit Aomori.
Multi-tour savings:
- Book 2 tours – save $100
- Book 3 tours – save $200
Discounts applied at the time of booking.
Is This Tour Right for You?
When you’re ready to book, you’ll be asked to self-evaluate if this tour matches your ability. We want you to have an unforgettable experience—and your ability plays a big part in your enjoyment, progression, and safety. When self-evaluating, please be realistic about your current skill level, experience, pace, and fitness. If you’re unsure whether this tour is the right fit, just reach out. Our team is always happy to chat and can help guide you to the best option.
Ability Requirements
This tour is designed for intermediate snowboarders who can ride most groomed runs confidently and want to start building skills in powder, trees, and variable terrain.
✔ You can ride blue and most black groomed runs with control
✔ You might slow down or struggle a bit in steeper terrain, tracked snow, or low visibility
✔ You may have little or no experience riding powder, off-piste, or in trees—but you’re keen to learn
✔ You’re open to coaching and motivated to improve your freeriding
✔ You can ride for a full day with breaks, at a steady pace
Pace
The pace is moderate and consistent, with time built in for breaks, coaching, and group support. You’ll ride with a small group of like-minded snowboarders at a pace that allows everyone to progress without pressure.
Fitness
You don’t need to be in peak shape, but you should have the stamina to snowboard for five full days. A reasonable level of fitness—especially strong legs and core—goes a long way. Riding in deep snow can be physically demanding, and even getting up after a fall can take effort. So a bit of pre-trip prep will help you get the most out of the week. Occasionally, short hikes (5 to 10 minutes) may be required to access terrain just beyond the lifts.
Day 1 – Sunday: Arrival Day
Welcome to Aomori—Japan’s snowiest, most remote corner, and the perfect place to level up your riding. You’ll meet your coach at Shin-Aomori Station or Aomori Airport, then transfer to our home base: Rockwood Hotel at Aomori Spring Resort. Check-in opens at 3:00 PM. Take some time to settle into your private room, unpack your gear, and dial in your setup. In the evening, meet your coach and fellow riders for a welcome session over dinner. We’ll cover the plan for the week, talk through snow conditions, and answer any questions. Most guests join solo, so this is a relaxed chance to connect with the crew before the riding begins.
Pro tip: Traveling from Europe or North America? Arrive in Tokyo on Saturday to shake off jet lag. Extra nights can be added to your booking.
Day 2 to 6 – Monday to Friday: Coaching & Guiding Days
These five days are designed to take your snowboarding to the next level. With a flexible, weather-responsive itinerary, expert coaching, and access to a mix of resorts, you’ll ride a variety of terrain that challenges and builds your confidence in deep snow, trees, and off-piste zones.
Mornings – Start Strong
Each morning begins with a buffet breakfast at the hotel. Your coach will share the day’s plan the evening before, so you’ll know whether you’re riding straight from the hotel or heading out on a short drive to another local hill. If we’re traveling, expect an early start to get ahead of the crowds and into fresh snow. Transfers are private and efficient, with all logistics handled so you can focus on the ride.
Coaching Flow – Learn by Doing
On snow, your coach will combine guiding with targeted progression sessions. This might include working on stance and balance in deeper snow, learning how to ride trees with confidence, or developing better line choice and flow on natural terrain. Every rider gets direct feedback throughout the day. You’ll be encouraged, not rushed—and pushed just enough to unlock the next level of your riding.
Terrain Variety – Mix It Up
While Aomori Spring Resort is our base, you’ll also explore nearby local hills throughout the week. These smaller resorts are classic Japanese gems—uncrowded, snow-loaded, and full of playful terrain. Each offers something different, from mellow tree lines to short, punchy pow laps. Your coach will handpick the best spot each day based on snow conditions and group goals.
Optional Backcountry Session – If the Stars Align
If conditions line up, your coach may offer an intro to backcountry riding with a lift-accessed backcountry session. This is a low-commitment, high-reward way to step just beyond the resort boundaries with minimal hiking and no touring gear required. You’ll get a feel for riding untracked terrain, learn how to move safely beyond the ropes, and build confidence in more natural, ungroomed conditions. Avalanche safety gear is included.
Afternoons – Recover & Refuel
After riding, it’s time to relax. If you’re at Aomori Spring, head straight to the hotel’s onsen for a soak or book in for a massage. On travel days, we might detour to an offsite onsen or grab a late lunch or snack at a local ramen joint or 7-Eleven.
Evenings – Relax, Recharge, and Hang Out
Evenings are all about kicking back and enjoying downtime with the crew. Dinner is buffet-style at the hotel. After that, the night is yours. Soak in the onsen, book a massage, grab a drink in the bar, play a few rounds of pool, or head to the media room for a snowboard flick. Whether you’re waxing boards or swapping stories from the day, the vibe is easygoing and social—perfect for winding down before another big day.
Day 7 – Saturday: Departure Day
After one last breakfast, it’s time to check out and say goodbye. Your guide will arrange transfers back to Shin-Aomori Station or the airport. You’ll leave with tired legs, new skills, and a week’s worth of turns and good times in the rearview.
When it comes to your travel experience, choosing a knowledgeable and reliable partner matters. At Mint Tours, we bring over 20 years of dedicated expertise in Japan to the table, ensuring you’re in capable hands. Here are a few reasons why you can confidently entrust your journey to us:
Travel Worry-Free: Choose a Japan Tour Operator That plays by the rules
When you book with Mint, know that you are booking with a Japan tour operator that strictly adheres to all local rules and laws. Our registered Japanese company ensures full compliance, providing a secure and protected travel experience. You’ll be led by our qualified local and international guides, authorized to work in Japan, with your safety proactively managed through constant conditions assessment and guides expertly trained in all aspects of backcountry safety and emergency response. Rest assured, you’re booking with a qualified and established travel operator with over 20 years of expertise, a registered travel agent, and a member of AFTA and IATA, operating under the ATAS Charter and Code of Conduct.
Our Team: Your key to an unforgettable Japan trip
We leverage our deep local knowledge to guide you to the quieter ski areas and even some of our closely guarded secret stashes. This means fewer people vying for the goods and a much higher probability of you scoring those coveted, untouched powder runs, guaranteed.
Safety is Our Priority: Expertly guided for a secure Japan journey
Guest safety is our top priority. Our daily operations are guided by continuous weather and snowpack monitoring, informing all decisions. A specific safety plan is also in place for each guiding area. Your guide is rigorously trained in avalanche hazard mitigation, backcountry travel, and emergency medical response, and holds qualifications along with ongoing professional development and active certifications.
Book with Confidence: Your qualified & registered travel partner for Japan
Your Japan journey, simplified and tailored by experts. Mint Tours is a full-service travel agent ready to handle not only your tour, but all the extras – from insurance and stopovers to pre- and post-tour plans. Backed by years of focused expertise in Japan, our credentials speak for themselves: we have partnerships with Japanese resorts and destinations, we’re AFTA and ATAS accredited, and members of IATA and ATTA, allowing us to craft truly expert arrangements for your trip.
What is a Progression Tour?
A snowboarding progression tour is designed to help you level up your riding with focused coaching in real mountain conditions. It’s ideal for intermediate snowboarders who are confident on most groomed runs and ready to build skills in powder, trees, and variable terrain. With guidance from a highly qualified coach, you’ll develop freeride fundamentals while riding a mix of groomed trails, off-piste zones, and lift-accessed sidecountry. Weather and snow conditions can vary, so you’ll need to be prepared to ride in all conditions.
Are lift tickets included?
Yes, your 5-day lift pass is included. None of the resorts we visit are part of the Ikon or Epic Pass programs.
Who are the coaches?
Your coach is an experienced, highly qualified snowboard instructor with a deep knowledge of the local terrain and a passion for helping riders improve. They’ll tailor each session to your ability and goals while keeping the atmosphere fun, focused, and supportive. You’ll get personalized feedback throughout the week, so you can progress with confidence.
Budgeting for the tour
It varies for each person but as a rough indication here’s the basics to cover lunches, snacks, drinks, and incidental costs.
- 6 x lunches – USD $10–$15 per meal
- 1–2 x offsite onsen visits – USD $3–$7 per visit
- Massage – USD $50 per visit
- Drinks and extras – varies per guest
How far in advance do I need to book?
Spots are limited to just six guests per week and tend to fill quickly. We recommend booking early—most tours reach capacity quickly. Final booking cut-off is 90 days prior to departure.
What is the terrain like?
You’ll ride a mix of groomed trails, mellow off-piste zones, tree runs, and lift-accessed sidecountry. Aomori Spring and the surrounding local resorts offer ideal terrain for progression, with consistent snow, quiet slopes, and playful natural features.
What happens on arrival and departure day?
Arrival and departure days are for travel only. Snowboarding is scheduled from Monday to Friday. Once you book, you’ll receive a full pre-tour guide covering meeting points, transfers, packing tips, and more. On arrival, your coach will meet you at Shin-Aomori Station or Aomori Airport and transfer you to the hotel.
What if I’m traveling solo?
Most of our guests are. You’ll have your own private room with ensuite at Rockwood Hotel—no bunk beds, no sharing. The group vibe is relaxed and welcoming, with plenty of chances to connect with other riders over dinner, onsens, and movie nights.
I’m traveling with my partner. Can we share a room?
Yes, Twin or King rooms are available on request. These are limited and subject to availability, so let us know early if you’d like to share.
How many people in my group?
The tour is capped at 6 guests, with 1 coach.
Which resorts will we visit?
The itinerary is flexible. Your coach will decide each day’s destination based on snow conditions, weather, and group goals. We’ll mostly ride at Aomori Spring and then there’s a few smaller nearby resorts, each offering something different for progression—uncrowded powder, fun trees, and plenty of space to build confidence.
Can I arrive early or stay on after the tour?
Yes. Extra nights can be added before or after the tour. For international guests, we recommend arriving in Japan on Saturday to help shake off any jet lag. Our team can help tailor your itinerary to fit your plans.
Are flights included?
No, flights are not included. We’re happy to recommend the best flights and connection options for your itinerary.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory and must cover snowboarding, medical care, trip cancellation, and emergency evacuation.
What happens once I’ve booked?
Once you sign up for a tour, you’ve got a dedicated tour manager as your point of contact. They can assist with any pre-trip questions about flights, transfers, insurance or what gear to bring. Your tour manager can also arrange pre or post tour travel to other resorts or cities.
90 days before the tour starts you will receive a Pre Departure Guide which contains important information to help you prepare for your trip. You will need to complete a digital waiver, participant information form, ability questionnaire and advise your arrival and departure flight details.
On arrival day your coach will add you to a WhatsApp group which will be used for tour communication throughout the week.
How do I check my ability level?
If you’re not sure, just get in touch. Our tour managers are happy to talk it through and help find the best fit for your current level and riding goals.
How do I get to Aomori?
You can take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Shin-Aomori Station or fly directly into Aomori Airport. We’ll meet you at either location on the first day of the tour.
How do I check availability?
Contact our team directly. With only six spots per week, availability is limited and changes quickly.
Can I rent equipment?
Complimentary use of avalanche safety gear (pack, transceiver, shovel, probe) is included. Snowboard rental is very limited at Aomori Spring, so we strongly recommend bringing your own equipment, especially a powder-specific board.
What equipment should I bring?
Bring your own snowboard, boots, and outerwear. A directional or powder-specific board is highly recommended. We’ll send you a full packing list once you’ve booked.
How much should I tip my coach?
Tipping is not required but is always appreciated. If you feel your coach went above and beyond, a gratuity of 10–20% of the tour cost is a generous way to show your thanks. Tips can be given directly to your coach at the end of the tour.
Is there Wi-Fi during the tour?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available at the hotel. However, most ski resorts and local areas in Aomori do not offer reliable Wi-Fi. We strongly recommend that guests travel with a local SIM card or eSIM with data or arrange an international roaming plan before arrival. This ensures you stay connected during transfers, mountain days, and while on the road.
What are the meals like? Can you cater to dietary needs?
Daily buffet breakfasts and dinners are included and served at the hotel. The food is hearty, fresh, and offers a mix of Japanese and Western-style options. Most dietary requirements can be accommodated—just let us know in advance. That said, rural Japan can be a challenge for travelers with specific food allergies, so we recommend packing a few backup snacks or essentials if you have strict dietary needs.
Do you have any travel tips for first-time visitors?
Aomori is quiet, rural, and beautifully off-the-beaten-path—part of what makes it such a great destination for this tour. Here are a few tips to help you prepare:
Bring cash – There is no ATM at Aomori Spring Resort, and many small restaurants or shops in the region still operate on a cash-only basis. We recommend bringing enough Japanese yen to cover lunches, onsen visits, and incidental spending.
Download a translation app – English is not widely spoken in rural Japan. Having a translation app (like Google Translate) can be helpful for reading menus, signs, or communicating at local spots.
Carry snacks – While the hotel provides breakfast and dinner, convenience stores and restaurants are limited once you’re out on the road. We suggest picking up some snacks or small essentials during transit (e.g., at 7-Eleven in Aomori city or at the airport).
Respect the onsen – Onsen are a big part of the experience. Just be sure to follow local etiquette—shower before entering, no swimwear, and keep towels out of the water. Your guide can give you a quick rundown if it’s your first time.
Questions & Bookings
Still have questions? Our team’s here to help—just reach out and we’ll walk you through it. Ready to lock it in? Call or Email to reserve your spot.
[email protected]
+1 503 994 1919
Deposits & Payments
To secure your spot, a 50% deposit is required at the time of booking. The remaining balance is due 90 days before your tour kicks off.
Book Your Group
If you have a group, large or small, get in touch to discuss your travel plans – [email protected] or +1 503 994 1919
Terms & Conditions
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