Asahikawa Freeride Tour Overview
Asahikawa is surrounded by mountains and stacked with resorts, backcountry zones, and endless powder, but it takes a guide to unlock it. Join the Asahikawa Freeride Tour for a week of storm chasing and riding lines most visitors will never find. With Mint’s guides tracking every system and knowing every hidden stash, you’ll score deep, dry snow, insane terrain, and incredible backdrops, all without the big crowds.
This region is all about access, terrain, and snow quality. This is one of Japan’s most snow-sure regions, with consistently cold temps and dozens of places to ride within an hour’s drive. From quirky old-school ski hills to modern resorts and lift-accessed backcountry zones loaded with pillows, banks, and wind lips. And then there’s Asahidake, a steaming stratovolcano that always delivers. There’s no other zone in Japan with as many quality spots to ride, still with minimal tourists and snow this good.
On this tour you’ll chase the best conditions across a mix of lift-accessed backcountry and resort terrain. Mint’s deep local knowledge means you’ll skip the crowds, hit quieter ski areas, and drop into some of our closely guarded secret stashes. With no fixed itinerary, your guide calls the shots daily based on weather and snowfall, making sure you’re in the right place at the right time, and riding mid-week keeps it all that much quieter.
Staying in Asahikawa also means you get to experience the real Japan, not a ski resort bubble. The city is packed with izakaya, ramen shops, sushi trains, and bars ducked down alleyways. Each night brings something different: soak in an onsen, feast on incredible local cuisine, belt out karaoke, or discover the surprisingly vast offerings of a Japanese 7-Eleven. And for those who can’t get enough, the local ski hill lights up after dark for night riding, a surreal Japan experience you need to try at least once.
2027 DATES
JAN 3 - JAN 9
JAN 10 - JAN 16
JAN 17 - JAN 23
JAN 24 - JAN 30
JAN 31 - FEB 6
FEB 7 - FEB 13
FEB 14 - FEB 20
FEB 21 - FEB 27
Ability Level
Advanced
Group Size
Max 6 people
Terrain
Resort, off-piste and lift-accessed backcountry
Why Travel With Mint Tours
With more than 20 years operating in Japan, Mint Tours is a fully licensed Japanese company delivering professionally guided, small-group snow tours across the country’s quietest, snowiest regions. Our highly qualified guides hold recognized certifications and legal work rights in Japan, ensuring every tour meets the highest local safety and compliance standards. As an accredited AFTA, ATAS, and IATA travel provider, we offer the security and reliability of a globally recognized operator. With Mint, you travel with a team deeply embedded in Japan, fully compliant, professionally trained, and committed to providing a safe, well-managed, and genuinely local experience.
Asahikawa Freeride Tour
Get in touch for a detailed tour itinerary and more info
Single Room Accommodation
No Shared Rooms. No Compromises. Every guest on this tour gets the comfort and convenience of their own private single room with ensuite at OMO7 Asahikawa, a quality 3-star hotel. No sharing, no compromises, just a dedicated space to unwind, organize your gear, and get a proper night’s sleep on your own terms. And this isn’t your average Japanese hotel. OMO7 is the only hotel in the city set up for snow, with everything you need: board and ski storage, boot dryers, a wax and tune station, and a tattoo-friendly onsen to soak in after riding.
Small Groups
Riding in a small crew makes all the difference. With a maximum of six guests, you won’t get stuck in the 'stop-and-wait' routine that slows bigger groups down. Instead, you’ll keep moving, stacking more laps, and making the most of every storm. We also make sure you’re matched with people of a similar ability. Whether you’re chasing tree lines, dropping pillows, or lapping groomers between powder hits, you’ll be with people who want the same kind of day you do.
Experience the Real Japan in Asahikawa
Asahikawa is a buzzing local city, not a tourist town and that’s exactly why we base ourselves here. After riding, you’re back in a place with real energy: ramen joints packed with locals, hidden izakayas, and karaoke spots that stay open late. There’s nightlife if you want it, but it’s local, low-key, and way more authentic than any resort scene. From picking up a new pow shape at a local snowboard shop to late-night snack runs at 7-Eleven, Asahikawa hits different, and it’s a huge part of what makes this trip so memorable.
Snow & Conditions in Asahikawa
The season runs from late December through March, but January and February is the sweet spot, when Hokkaido’s famous cold temps deliver light, dry powder day after day. This isn’t heavy or wet, it’s that blower snow that just keeps stacking. Asahikawa gets hit by consistent storms all season long, so you can count on fresh snow and quality riding, with no second guessing. Cold? Yes. Worth it? Every time.
Pre-Trip Support
Once you've booked, we’ll make sure everything’s lined up for a smooth trip. You’ll get a full pre-trip briefing with everything you need to know: detailed tour info, arrival and departure times, packing advice, and a few pro tips to help you get the most out of your time in Japan. Got questions? Our tour managers are always just a call or email away. And if you need help sorting the extras, like travel insurance, early arrivals, stopovers, or extra nights, we’re here to handle that too.
There’s a reason riders keep coming back to Asahikawa
There's a reason the pros consistently choose to ride and film in Asahikawa. It’s not just the deep snow or the endless terrain, it’s the full experience. From tree lines and roadside spots to lift-accessed zones that stay fresh for days, this place quietly delivers. And when the day’s done, you’re not stuck in a resort bubble, you’re in a proper Japanese city with good food and plenty to explore. It’s not loud, but it’s legit. And once you’ve been, you get why so many riders make it a regular stop.
ESSENTIAL INFO
ASAHIKAWA FREERIDE TOUR 2027
2027 dates are now released bookings open soon. Pricing is yet to be confirmed and will be published by May 15, 2026. Due to limited availability, weeks can only be secured with a deposit. If you want your first-choice dates, or you’re booking as a group, we recommend securing your week early.
WEEK 1 – January 3 – 9, 2027
WEEK 2 – January 10 – 16, 2027
WEEK 3 – January 17 – 23, 2027
WEEK 4 – January 24 – 30, 2027
WEEK 5 – January 31 – February 6, 2027
WEEK 6 – February 7 – 13, 2027
WEEK 7 – February 14 – 20, 2027
WEEK 8 – February 21 – 27, 2027
HOW TO BOOK
To secure your preferred week, a 50% deposit is required. Pricing will be confirmed and published by May 15, 2026.
CONTACT
To secure your preferred week, email or call our team to arrange your deposit.
EMAIL [email protected]
CALL +1 503 994 1919
INCLUDED
✔ 6 nights accommodation at OMO7 Asahikawa, Studio Room with ensuite (1 person per room)
✔ 5 days of guided riding (resort and lift-accessed backcountry terrain)
✔ 5-day lift ticket
✔ 5 days of private transfers to and from resorts
✔ Scheduled group airport transfers from Asahikawa Airport
✔ Complimentary use of avalanche safety equipment (pack, transceiver, shovel, probe)
✔ Complimentary use of Verts snowshoes
✔ Complimentary access to demo boards
✔ 6 buffet breakfasts
✔ 1 dinner (arrival night)
✔ Complimentary access to the hotel onsen
✔ Complimentary use of wax/tune station
✔ Pre-tour support from our Japan Tour Manager
NOT INCLUDED
✘ Flights to Asahikawa
✘ Travel insurance
✘ All lunches – expect to pay USD $6 – $15 per meal
✘ 5 dinners – expect to pay USD $15 – $35 per meal
✘ Onsen entry fee outside the hotel – expect to pay between USD $3 – $7 per visit
✘ Any meals, drinks, snacks not listed
ITINERARY OVERVIEW
Want the full tour itinerary? Get in touch and we’ll send the full day-by-day itinerary.
Day 1 – Sunday (Arrival Day)
Arrive in Hokkaido and meet your Mint guide at Asahikawa Airport. Transfer into Asahikawa city and check in to your hotel. In the evening, meet the crew for a welcome briefing, gear check, and a relaxed group dinner.
Day 2 to 6 – Monday to Friday (Guided Riding Days)
You’ll spend five full days riding with your Mint guide across the Asahikawa region. The aim is to ride a different resort each day, but the plan is always dictated by weather and snow conditions. Expect early starts and full days on snow. Days can be long, with minimal downtime, especially when conditions are firing. Most days include an onsen stop on the way back to Asahikawa, or a soak back at the hotel. Evenings are all about great food and exploring Asahikawa, with a mix of group dinners and free time.
Day 7 – Saturday (Departure Day)
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out. Your guide will arrange transfers and drop you at the airport or train station for your journey home.
IS THIS TOUR RIGHT FOR YOU?
When you’re ready to book, you’ll be asked to self-assess whether this tour is a good match for your ability. We want you to have an unforgettable time, and being honest about your skills, pace, and fitness helps make sure you’re set up to get the most out of the trip, safely and confidently. Not sure if this tour’s the one? No stress, just reach out to our team. We’re always happy to chat and help steer you in the right direction.
ABILITY
This tour is designed for advanced riders. To join, you should confidently say yes to the following:
✔ You regularly ride off-piste or in the backcountry
✔ You maintain a moderate and consistent pace through trees
✔ You’re comfortable in all snow conditions, from powder, hardpack, crust, tracked
✔ You can safely navigate around hazards like trees, open creeks and tree wells.
PACE
We ride at a steady pace with minimal breaks. You might ease off a bit in tighter terrain or tougher snow, but you can generally keep things flowing. Need to sit out a lap or catch your breath? No problem—it’s about staying solid, not sprinting.
FITNESS
No need to be elite, but you’ll want some stamina. Expect five consecutive full days on snow, often with limited downtime. You should be comfortable staying active all day, and ready for the occasional short hike (typically 10 minutes) to access better lines.
WHAT’S A FREERIDE TOUR?
Mint’s Freeride Tours are built for riders chasing Japanese powder. Expect a powder-focused week, plenty of tree riding, and five full days on snow across resort off-piste terrain and lift-accessed backcountry. Backed by years of Mint experience in the region, every day is planned around the best conditions available, with the kind of local knowledge you simply won’t access traveling on your own. You’ll stay in great accommodation in a private single room, and we include avalanche safety equipment (pack, transceiver, shovel, probe), plus Verts snowshoes when needed. Off the mountain, it’s all part of the experience too, with great local food and onsen to reset after big days.
WHAT MAKES MINT TOURS DIFFERENT?
Mint Tours is a registered Japanese company and fully authorized to operate tours in the regions we run. With over 20 years of experience in Japan, we combine expert guiding with a high level of service, strong local partnerships, and a focus on delivering the best possible week on snow.
WHAT ABILITY LEVEL IS THIS TOUR?
This tour is designed for advanced riders who are confident riding off-piste in powder and trees. Powder and trees are a core part of this experience and should be considered mandatory. If you’re not comfortable riding powder and trees in variable visibility and snow conditions, this tour may not be the right fit. If you’re looking for a trip better suited to your ability or pace, consider our Explorer Tours (more relaxed riding weeks) or Progression Tours (dedicated coaching weeks).
WHAT’S THE PACE LIKE?
This is a fast-paced tour with long days on snow and minimal downtime, especially when conditions are firing. Guests should be fit, comfortable riding consecutive full days, and able to keep up with the group.
DO I SHARE A ROOM?
No. All guests stay in single rooms, with no sharing.
HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE IN THE GROUP?
Groups are a maximum of 6 guests per guide.
WHERE DO WE RIDE?
We don’t publish a fixed resort list. Each day is planned around conditions, and your guide chooses the best location based on snowfall, weather, visibility, and the group. We also don’t name specific resorts or zones online, out of respect for locals and because it’s part of what makes the experience special. Over the week, you can expect a mix of closer local resorts and further afield day trips when conditions allow. Please note: this tour focuses on the Asahikawa region and does not include riding in Furano.
CAN I ARRIVE EARLY OR STAY ON AFTER THE TOUR?
Yes. Pre or post tour accommodation can be arranged, and we can help tailor the trip around your travel plans.
ARE LIFT TICKETS INCLUDED?
Yes, all lift tickets are included for this tour. Please note that none of the resorts that we visit on this tour are on the Ikon or Epic Pass.
BUDGETING FOR THE TOUR
An estimate of spending money for the week is around USD $350 – $450 to cover lunches, dinners, snacks and incidentals. Here’s an indication of what you can expect to pay for meals and activities:
- 6 x Lunches – expect to pay USD $10 – $15 per meal
- 5 x Dinners – expect to pay USD $15 – $35 per meal
- 1 – 2 times Onsen entry fee when using an onsen outside the hotel – expect to pay between USD $3 – $7 per visit
HOW FAR IN ADVANCE DO I NEED TO BOOK?
The Asahikawa Freeride Tour is our most in-demand Japan trip and spots fill fast. While we can’t predict exactly when each departure will sell out, tours book out well before the 90-day cut-off. If you’ve got your eye on a specific date, we recommend locking it in early to avoid missing out.
WHAT IS THE TERRAIN LIKE?
You’ll ride a mix of off-piste resort terrain and lift-accessed backcountry, with everything from mellow alpine bowls to tight tree runs, playful features, and natural drops. While Japan isn’t known for steep terrain, it delivers deep snow, soft landings, and endless fun. Expect tight trees, deep days, and a variety of lines to explore. Most zones are accessed by lifts, but short boot packs (usually under 10 minutes) may be needed to reach the best spots. No touring gear is required, we provide Verts snowshoes when necessary.
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 guide will add you to a WhatsApp group which will be used for tour communication throughout the week.
QUESTIONS OR READY TO BOOK?
We’re here to help. If you’ve got questions or need more info, just get in touch and we’ll talk you through the details. Ready to lock in your spot? Give us a call or send us an email.
EMAIL [email protected]
PHONE +1 503 994 1919
DEPOSITS AND PAYMENTS
A 50% deposit is required to secure your spot. The remaining balance is due 90 days before your tour begins.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
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