Join us as we explore the last frontier of big mountain snowboarding in Japan
This one’s for the advanced riders chasing big terrain and deep snow. Join Mint Guides Kei Ishiuchi and Chad Otterstrom for a week based in Minakami—a mountain town known for its natural hot springs and wild winter storms. With a max group size of six, this tour gives you direct access to two of the best in the game, and the kind of terrain that’ll keep you on your toes.
We kick things off with two days riding the lift-accessed backcountry zones of Mount Tanigawa. This is Tenjindaira—where steep lines, tight trees, and consistent snowfall make it one of Japan’s most challenging and rewarding zones. After that, we stay flexible. With nine other resorts in the area, your guides will make the call each day based on conditions. Whether it’s deep resort laps or hiking a short bootpack to get the goods, you’ll be in the right place at the right time.
Riding with Chad isn’t just about following a snowboarding icon down the mountain—it’s about sharing turns with someone who’s spent decades pushing the sport, filming legendary video parts, and chasing powder around the world. Add Kei’s local expertise, and you’ve got the ultimate combo of global and local knowledge.
Off the mountain, you’ll stay at a traditional lodge where every room has its own private onsen, plus access to a communal hot spring. Daily breakfasts and Japanese-style dinners are included—just one more thing you don’t have to think about. This is a no-filler, all-time Japan trip for riders who want to go deep and get after it.
Tour Type
Freeride / Lift-Accessed Backcountry
Why Travel With Mint
When you book with Mint, you're backed by over 20 years of experience and full accreditation. We’re a registered travel agent, a member of AFTA and IATA, and operate under the ATAS Code of Conduct. Our Japanese-registered company ensures full legal compliance.
Minakami Freeride Tour
Get in touch for a detailed tour itinerary and more info
ABOUT MINAKAMI
Minakami is a small mountain town in northern Gunma Prefecture, known for its rugged terrain, heavy snowfall, and natural hot springs. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Tanigawa, it’s a place where big mountains meet traditional Japanese culture. While it’s just over an hour from Tokyo by bullet train, Minakami feels far removed from city life. The town is surrounded by deep forests, steep river valleys, and snow-covered peaks, making it a year-round hub for outdoor adventure. In winter, it transforms into a powder destination with a mix of uncrowded resorts and access to serious backcountry terrain. Beyond the mountains, Minakami is rich in culture and tradition. Local inns offer warm hospitality and healing onsen, and the food scene highlights regional specialties—from soba to sake. It’s the kind of place where you come for the snow but leave remembering everything else.
ABOUT TENJIN
Known to most as simply “Tenjin,” this zone has built a quiet reputation among Japan’s freeride and backcountry community. Tucked beneath the towering peak of Mount Tanigawa, Tenjin receives huge snowfall each winter, thanks to its elevation and ideal aspect. The quality and consistency of the snow here is hard to beat. Tenjin offers a mix of lift-accessed terrain and serious backcountry lines, with big alpine features and steep tree zones that rival anywhere in Japan. One look at Mount Tanigawa’s rugged ridgeline and you’ll understand why this area commands respect—terrain here is only limited by your skill, fitness, and the conditions. With the right guidance, Tenjin delivers the kind of freeride experience people come to Japan hoping to find.
BEYOND TENJIN
While Tenjin is our main focus, the Minakami region is home to a number of other ski areas that we tap into when the conditions line up. These resorts vary in size and terrain but all offer the chance to score quality snow—especially on weekdays, when things tend to stay quiet. With Kei guiding and making the daily call, we keep the plan flexible to ride where conditions are best. Whether it’s trees, fresh snow, or just getting into a new zone, the goal stays the same: find the good stuff.
SNOW AND CONDITIONS
From mid-January, the Minakami region hits its peak season for snowfall. This is when the big winter storms roll in, bringing deep snow and cold temperatures that keep conditions light, dry, and rideable for days. Winter in this region can be stormy, with limited visibility and strong winds—so having experienced guides is key. Even when it doesn’t snow overnight, the quality holds. With cold temps and local knowledge, we’ll lead you to sheltered zones where the snow stays soft and untouched. Whether it’s storm riding in the trees or chasing leftovers a few days after a dump, this is when Minakami is at its best.
What’s Included
✔ 6 nights stay at Aratashi Minakami, Twin Room with private onsen (twin share, 2 guests per room)
✔ 5 days of on-snow guiding
✔ 5-day lift pass
✔ Fully hosted tour with Mint Guides Kei Ishiuchi and Chad Otterstrom
✔ Scheduled transfers from Jomo-Kogen Station to accommodation on arrival and departure days
✔ Daily transport to and from resorts (5 days)
✔ 6 Japanese-style breakfasts
✔ 6 multi-course Japanese dinners
✔ Communal onsen access at the lodge
✔ Pre-tour support from our Japan Tour Manager
Not Included
✘ Flights or rail travel to and from Jomo-Kogen Station
✘ Avalanche safety equipment – pack, beacon, shovel, probe
✘ Travel insurance (required)
✘ Daily lunches (budget USD $6–15 per meal)
✘ Entry fees for off-site onsens (if visited)
✘ Any meals, drinks, or snacks not listed above
✘ Gratuities for your guide (optional, but always appreciated)
Dates & Price
Tour dates: 25 – 31 January, 2026
Price: USD $4,390 per person
This tour includes 6 nights accommodation at Aratashi Minakami in a Twin Room with private onsen (twin share – 2 guests per room). Solo travelers will be paired with another guest to room with. All rooms are river-facing, spacious (27–32㎡), and feature two single beds and a private ensuite. A limited number of Single Room upgrades are available—just ask when booking.
Road Trip Japan with Chad Otterstrom
Want to ride powder, soak in onsen, and find the best katsu curry in Japan? This January, join Chad Otterstrom as he links up four back-to-back tours—starting in Hokkaido and finishing in Honshu. It’s your chance to chase snow, explore new zones, and road trip with one of snowboarding’s all-time legends.
Start things off in Asahikawa with the Monday M.A.S.S. crew, roll into Otaru for ocean views and lift-accessed lines, dive deep into Aomori’s snow-packed terrain, and finish strong in Minakami’s steep storm zones. Each stop offers something different—new terrain, new onsens, new crew—but the stoke stays high the whole way through.
Here’s Chad’s Japan schedule:
- January 4–10 Monday M.A.S.S. Asahikawa Freeride Tour with Chris Coté & Todd Richards View Tour
- January 11–17 Otaru Freeride Tour View Tour
- January 18–24 Aomori Freeride Tour View Tour
- January 25–31 Minakami Freeride Tour You’re already here.
Keen to link up just 2 trips or even the full run? Let us know when booking and we’ll help line up transfers, extra nights, and all the katsu curry stops in between.
Ride Japan with a Tour Operator You Can Trust
When it comes to riding in Japan, who you book with matters. Mint Tours is a qualified and established travel operator with over 20 years of experience. We operate as a registered Japanese company, with strong local partnerships that ensure every tour meets the highest standards—so you can focus on the snow, not the logistics. We’re also a registered travel agent, a member of AFTA and IATA, and operate under the ATAS Charter and Code of Conduct.
Know Who You’re Booking With
Not every operator in Japan follows the rules—but we do. Mint Tours is fully authorized to run guided tours across the regions we operate in. We’ve built our reputation on doing things properly—with the right permits, trusted local partners, and a focus on safety and experience. In a country with strict regulations around guiding, it pays to know who you’re booking with.
Travel Worry-Free
Our tours are led by experienced professionals—both local and international—who are authorized to guide in Japan. From storm tracking to terrain selection, everything is handled by a team that knows how to deliver a safe, seamless experience.
Real Credentials. Real Experience.
We know Japan. From deep resort days to quieter zones, we use local knowledge and decades of experience to find the best conditions. Our crew includes respected names in the snow world—guides who ride hard, know the terrain, and genuinely care about your trip.
Safety First, Always
Every day on snow starts with a detailed weather and snowpack assessment. Our terrain choices are backed by planning, not guesswork. Our backcountry guides hold current certifications with a focus on avalanche safety, emergency response, and ongoing professional development—ensuring every decision is backed by training and experience.
Full-Service Support
We don’t just run great tours—we make your whole trip easier. From pre-departure advice to help with stopovers and extra nights, we’re here to support you before, during, and after your tour. You get expert guidance from the moment you book to the moment you head home.
Minakami Freeride Tour Itinerary – January 25–31, 2026
Day 1 – Sunday ‘Arrival Day’
Welcome to Honshu. Make your way to Jomo-Kogen Station, where your Mint guide will meet you for the transfer into the mountains. You’ll check in to Aratashi Minakami, a modern Japanese lodge set in the heart of onsen country. Your twin-share room includes a private indoor onsen—perfect for unwinding after the journey and easing into the rhythm of the week.
In the evening, join your guides Kei Ishiuchi and Chad Otterstrom for a welcome session. We’ll run through the plan for the week, cover the snow forecast, check gear, and answer any questions. Then settle in for a multi-course group dinner at the lodge. It’s a relaxed intro to the crew, with plenty of time to chat, share stories, and hear from Chad—whether it’s behind-the-scenes insights, board design talk, or just straight-up banter.
Days 2 & 3 – Monday & Tuesday ‘Tenjin Days’
We kick off with two full days riding Tenjindaira—a lift-accessed zone famous for its deep snow, steep terrain, and big vertical. With the ropeway dropping us high on the flanks of Mt. Tanigawa, and certified local guides leading the way, expect storm laps through trees, tech lines, and terrain that keeps you on your toes.
Mornings
Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at the lodge. Your guide will confirm the destination the night before, with departures around 8:00 AM. A quick morning briefing gets everyone up to speed before we head out to ride.
On-Mountain
With a deep snowpack and terrain that doesn’t hold back, Tenjin is where it all starts. You’ll ride with local guides who know the area inside and out. Expect fast-paced laps, storm riding in the trees, and plenty of opportunities to push yourself. Riding alongside Chad, there’s always time for a lift-line story, gear chat, or quick debrief before the next run.
Afternoons
After riding, it’s straight into recovery mode. Back at Aratashi, the daily ritual begins: soak in your in-room onsen, or head to the indoor bath, outdoor open-air bath, Finnish sauna, and cold plunge. Along the way, we’ll often swing by 7-Eleven for snacks and drinks—Japan’s most unexpectedly essential post-ride stop.
Evenings
Dinner is served at the lodge, featuring seasonal Japanese dishes and a laid-back vibe. Afterward, the lounge becomes basecamp for catching up over a beer or sake, and hearing more stories from Chad—riding legends, snowboard industry deep cuts, and more. It’s the kind of setting where trip memories are made.
Days 4–6 – Wednesday to Friday ‘Storm Chase Days’
From Wednesday through Friday, we shift into storm-chasing mode. Each morning starts with a weather and conditions check, and based on what’s lining up, we head to the zone with the best snow and terrain for the day.
Mornings
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge. Your guide will confirm the plan the night before, with van departure around 7:45 AM. After a quick briefing on the day’s conditions, we’re off to the day’s chosen zone.
On-Mountain
With multiple resorts in the region and Kei leading the way, no two days are the same. Expect deep turns through perfectly spaced trees, secret powder pockets, and high-energy laps with a crew that rides hard. Chad’s in the mix too, adding another layer of insight, stoke, and snowboarding lore to every chairlift and run.
Afternoons
After riding, it’s all about relaxing and recharging. Stop by 7-Eleven for snacks, then settle into the onsen circuit: your private bath, the indoor and open-air lodge baths, or a round in the sauna and cold plunge. Legs up, mind off, ready for another big day.
Evenings
Each night, enjoy dinner at the lodge. Expect traditional Japanese food, plenty of laughs, and that easy crew vibe that builds over the week. With Chad in the room, it’s never dull—whether it’s talk of terrain, gear, or chasing the best katsu curry in Japan.
Day 7 – Saturday ‘Departure Day’
After breakfast, your guide will transfer you to Jomo-Kogen Station for your onward journey. You’ll leave with tired legs, a full camera roll, and the kind of memories that come from riding powder all week with a tight crew and some absolute legends.
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 Requirements
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 fast, consistent pace through trees
✔ You’re comfortable in all snow conditions—powder, hardpack, crust, tracked
✔ You can safely navigate around hazards like trees, creeks, tree wells, and holes
Pace
We ride fast and keep the day flowing. There’s no option to sit out runs when we’re in the backcountry, so you’ll need to be confident, ride strong, and keep up with the group. If you’re into stacking laps and staying in the zone, you’ll be right at home.
Fitness
No need to be elite, but you’ll want good stamina. Expect five consecutive full days on snow, often with limited downtime. You should be comfortable staying active all day, and ready for some short bootpacks (typically 10 minutes) to access better lines.
What’s a Freeride Tour
Mint’s Freeride Tours are built for riders chasing deep, untracked Japanese powder. With local guides who know every line, stash, and storm pattern, you’ll get the insider access that makes all the difference. You’ll ride a mix of resort terrain and lift-accessed zones. Expect powder, tight trees, and variable conditions — five full days of high-energy, leg-burning laps.
What is the Accommodation / Rooming like?
You’ll stay at Aratashi Minakami, a modern Japanese lodge set along the river in the heart of Minakami. All rooms are river-facing Twin Rooms with ensuite, featuring two single beds and plenty of space to stretch out — 27–32㎡, which is generous by Japanese standards.
Each room includes its own private onsen, perfect for a post-ride soak. The lodge also features a shared indoor bath, outdoor bath with open-air terrace, Finnish sauna, and cold plunge — everything you need to recover after a big day on snow.
Breakfast and dinner are included and served daily at the hotel. There’s also a coin laundry on-site to keep your gear fresh for the week. It’s a warm, welcoming base with easy access to the mountains and all the essentials dialed.
A limited number of Single Room upgrades are available for an additional fee. If you’d prefer your own space, just let us know when booking.
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.
What Are The Conditions Like in January?
Minakami sees its biggest storms in January. Expect cold temps, consistent snow, and stormy weather. Most days you’ll be riding boot- to waist-deep powder, and thanks to the cold, dry conditions, the snow stays light for days after a storm.
Do You Offer Longer Trips?
Yes! Many of our guests choose to combine tours for a longer, more immersive riding experience. One popular option is to join Chad Otterstrom on his Japan road trip. Ride three different zones back-to-back with Chad as your host. Just let us know at the time of booking and we’ll help coordinate everything.
Budgeting For The Tour
Estimate around USD $200 – $300 for the week to cover lunches, snacks, and incidentals. But let’s be real—if you’re the type to sample every flavor of Japanese Kit-Kat, hit 7-Eleven like it’s a gourmet deli, or explore the top shelf of the sake cabinet each night, you’ll want to pad that budget a little. Drinks aren’t included with meals, so bring a few extra yen if you like your dinner with a side of premium sake.
How Far In Advance Do I Need To Book?
This is a small group tour with limited departures, and spots fill fast. While we can’t predict exactly when each departure will sell out, tours often 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?
Tenjin: For the first two days, you’ll be riding lift-accessed backcountry terrain at Tenjin, a zone known for its steep, technical terrain, expect anything, from deep snow, tight trees, chutes, and the occasional cliff drop. It’s fast-paced and dynamic, best suited for confident riders who can keep up and handle variable conditions.
Surrounding Resorts: The final three days are spent exploring a mix of in-bounds, off-piste terrain at various ski areas around the Minakami region. These resorts offer playful powder zones, gladed tree runs, and natural features. While generally mellower than Tenjin, the snow is just as deep, and Kei will lead the charge to find the best stashes based on daily conditions.
Who’ll Be Riding With You?
If you haven’t joined us before, we’ll ask you a few questions before booking to make sure this tour is the right fit. To build the best riding groups, we consider a bunch of factors — ability, pace, fitness, safety, and logistics — so you end up with a crew that rides like you do.
What Happens On Arrival and Departure Day?
Arrival and departure days are your travel days – no snowboarding is planned. You’ll receive a full guide upon booking with info on train travel, meeting points, gear, and arrival/departure logistics.
Rooming Options
This tour is based on twin-share rooms (two guests per room, with two beds). If you’re traveling solo, we’ll pair you with another guest of the same gender. Limited single rooms may be available on request for an additional fee — just let us know when booking.
How Many People In My Group?
Max 6 guests.
Which Resorts Will We Visit?
The first two days are spent riding lift-accessed terrain at Tenjin (weather and conditions permitting). For the final three days, we chase snow around the Minakami region, riding in-bounds terrain at a variety of local resorts. Each morning, your guide will make the call based on snow conditions, weather
Can I Arrive Early or Stay On After The Tour?
Yes, pre- or post-tour accommodation can be arranged. If you’re flying from the US or Europe, we recommend arriving on Saturday to help with jetlag. We can tailor the trip to suit your travel plans.
Are Flights Included?
No, but we can help recommend flights that align with the tour schedule.
Do I Need Travel Insurance?
Yes. Your insurance must cover snowboarding, medical emergencies, and repatriation. We also recommend it covers trip cancellation, lost luggage, and personal liability. For US citizens, we recommend Spot Insurance: https://www.getspot.com/trip-affiliates/mint-tours
What Happens Once I’ve Booked?
You’ll be assigned a tour manager who’ll assist with pre-trip planning. You’ll receive a Pre-Departure Guide 90 days before your tour with key info and links to submit your waiver, flight details, and ability questionnaire. On arrival day, your guide will set up a WhatsApp group for trip comms.
How Do I Check My Ability Level?
Chat with one of our tour managers. They’ll help determine if this trip is right for your ability and suggest other options if needed.
How Do I Get To Minakami?
Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Jomo-Kogen Station. Your guide will pick you up from there.
How Do I Check Availability?
Contact our tour managers for the latest availability. Spots are limited.
Can I Rent Equipment?
Guests need to bring their own avalanche safety gear — pack, beacon, shovel, and probe. If you’re not into bootpacking, bringing a pair of Verts is a smart move. Rentals aren’t available in Minakami, so come fully equipped.
What Equipment Should I Bring?
You’ll receive a packing list when booking. Bring your own powder-specific setup.
Gratuities
Tips aren’t expected but are appreciated. If your guide made your trip special, a cash tip at the end of the week is a great way to say thanks.
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.
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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