Deep snow. Untapped terrain. Real Japan.
This is a roadtrip through one of Japan’s snowiest and least explored regions. Yamagata sits on the west coast of Honshu, perfectly positioned to catch cold storms off the Sea of Japan — and it dumps. Despite the consistent snow and abundance of small resorts, this region flies under the radar for most skiers and snowboarders, which means quiet slopes and untouched terrain, days after a storm.
Each day, your Japanese guide makes the call on where to ride and which onsen to soak in after. You’ll base in Yamagata City and Yonezawa, giving you access to a wide variety of terrain and authentic local culture. Off the mountain, the food scene is a standout — with nightly dinners included and curated by your guide. Expect regional specialties like melt-in-your-mouth Yonezawa wagyu, handmade soba noodles, imoni hotpot, and local sake brewed from Yamagata’s pure mountain water.
This is the kind of trip where the riding’s only half the story. Come for the powder, stay for the onsen, izakayas, and a slice of Japan most never get to see.
Dates
1 - 7 February, 2026
Price
USD $3,490 per person, single room
Ability Level
Strong Intermediate to Advanced
Terrain
Resort off-piste, powder and trees
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.
Yamagata Explorer Tour
Get in touch for a detailed tour itinerary and more info
Simple and Nearly All-Inclusive
We keep it simple and all-inclusive — everything’s taken care of so you can focus on riding. The Yamagata Explorer Tour includes a private single room at a comfortable 3-star hotels, daily breakfasts and dinners, lift tickets, and private 4WD transport. You’ll be guided by a local expert who monitors storms and snowfall to find the best conditions each day, and knows exactly where to go for deep snow and quiet zones. All you need to do is show up — we’ll handle the rest.
Your Base for Powder and Culture
Skip the resort bubble — this tour is about more than just riding. We base ourselves in Yamagata City and Yonezawa, two regional hubs known for deep snow, rich culture, and a more authentic pace of life. After a day in the mountains, you’re not heading back to a ski village — you’re stepping into a real Japanese city. These places are filled with local flavor: family-run izakayas, soba shops, sake breweries, and quiet streets that reveal something new each night. Your guide will lead the way, helping you discover spots you’d never find on your own.
Onsen & Local Flavors
Each day wraps up the same way — with a soak in a local onsen, followed by a feast of regional food. The hot springs are a daily ritual, perfect for easing tired legs and taking in the slower pace of mountain life. Afterward, sit down to a dinner that showcases the best of Yamagata’s flavors: Yonezawa beef, handmade soba, seasonal vegetables, and local sake. It’s the kind of simple, satisfying routine that makes this trip unforgettable.
Snow & Conditions
Yamagata is one of the most reliable regions in Japan for snowfall. Cold storms roll through regularly in winter, bringing deep, dry powder that sticks around. We’re there in the first week of February, right in the heart of winter — the prime window for storm cycles and the best snowpack. Expect light, dry snow that makes tree runs and natural features feel extra fun. When the snow starts falling — and it often does — it’s on.
Small Groups & Good Vibes
This is a small group tour, led by our Japanese guide Kei, who brings deep local knowledge and years of experience riding in the region. With a tight crew, you’ll have the flexibility to chase the best conditions without the hassle of big group logistics. Kei keeps a close eye on the weather and snowpack, making daily calls to find the best terrain — whether it’s a empty tree zones, a hidden onsen, or a local spot for dinner. Having a local guide means you get access to places most riders would never find on their own, both on and off the mountain.
Your Own Space to Recharge
Every guest on the Yamagata Explorer Tour enjoys the comfort and privacy of their own room — complete with an ensuite bathroom. It’s your space to relax, reset, and get a proper night’s sleep after a full day in the mountains. Whether you're traveling solo or just appreciate a little personal space, having your own room makes a big difference. You'll be staying in a clean, modern 3-star hotels — comfortable, well-located, and a perfect base for the week. Traveling with a partner? We can arrange a double room on request.
ESSENTIAL INFO
What’s Included
✔ 6 nights accommodation – private single room with ensuite (1 person per room)
✔ 5 days of guiding
✔ 5-day lift ticket
✔ 5 days of private 4WD resort transfers
✔ 6 breakfasts
✔ 6 dinners (curated by your guide, highlighting local specialties)
✔ Fully escorted tour with local guide Kei on hand throughout
✔ Scheduled arrival transfer from Yonezawa Station to hotel
✔ Scheduled departure transfer from hotel to Yamagata Station
✔ Pre-tour support from your Japan Tour Manager
What’s Not Included
✘ Flights and travel to/from Yamagata & Yonezawa
✘ Travel insurance (mandatory)
✘ Lunches – budget around USD $6–$15 per meal
✘ Beverages at dinner
✘ Travel insurance (mandatory)
✘ Onsen entry – typically USD $3–$7 per visit
✘ Any extra meals, snacks, or drinks not listed above
✘ Gratuities for your guide (optional, but appreciated)
Dates & Price
The Yamagata Explorer Tour runs Sunday to Saturday, with riding from Monday to Friday. We time it this way to avoid the weekend crowds and give you the best chance at untracked snow all week long.
Tour Dates – February 1–7, 2026
Price – USD $3,490 per person (Private single room)
Multi-Tour Booking Discount
Want more time on snow? Stack your trip with another tour and keep the momentum going. You can roll straight from Yamagata into your next destination — no downtime needed. Book 2 tours, get $100 off, Book 3 tours, get $200 off. Discounts are applied at the time of booking.
Booking for a Group?
Whether it’s you and a couple of friends or a full crew, we can help you line it all up. Get in touch to chat travel plans:
Day 1 – Sunday ‘Arrival Day’
Welcome to Japan. Make your way to Yonezawa Station, where your guide will be waiting to meet you for the short transfer to the hotel. After check-in, you’ll have time to settle in, unpack, and get your gear dialed for the week ahead. In the evening, meet your local Japanese guide Kei and the crew for a welcome session. We’ll walk through the week’s plan, check weather and snow conditions, and do a quick gear check. Then it’s time to head out for dinner at one of Kei’s favorite local spots — a relaxed intro to Yonezawa’s food scene and a great way to get to know your fellow riders. Most guests are traveling solo, so it’s an easy, low-pressure start to the trip.
Day 2 to 6 – Monday to Friday ‘On-Snow Guided Days’
You’ll spend the first three nights in Yonezawa, then on Wednesday, we move to Yamagata City for the final three nights. This midweek move is part of the adventure — it opens up access to new terrain, different onsen, and a second regional hub with its own distinct energy and food scene. It keeps things fresh and makes the second half of the tour feel like a whole new chapter.
Your guide Kei tracks storm systems and makes daily calls based on conditions and snowpack. With a small group and private transport, we can move quickly and make the most of every session. Drive times range from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the zone and the day.
Mornings
Each day starts with breakfast at the hotel — a mix of Japanese and Western options to fuel up before the ride. We stay flexible and go where the snow is best. Once the van’s loaded, we’re on the road and heading into the mountains. Drive times vary depending on the day’s destination, but they’re always worth it — this region holds a surprising variety of terrain and local hills that stay quiet even on storm days.
On-Mountain
This tour is all about chasing quality snow, and with Kei leading the way, you’ll make the most of every resort. Expect powder-filled tree runs, hidden lines, and in-bounds terrain that most riders overlook. The vibe on-hill is relaxed but focused — we’re here to ride good snow and have fun doing it. Whether it’s your first time in Japan or you’re a return visitor, having a local guide makes all the difference. Kei knows where to find the good stuff, how each zone holds snow, and the sneaky traverses that lead to the day’s best turns. There’s always time for lunch at the resort — think steaming bowls of ramen, katsu curry, or soba — before jumping back on the lift for more laps.
Afternoons
After riding, the van rolls out to a different onsen each day. It’s a ritual — and one of the best parts of the trip. These natural hot springs are part of everyday life in this part of Japan, and the perfect way to relax after a day on snow. Some are tucked into the hills with forest views, others are sleek and modern with multiple pools — all offer a chance to reset before doing it all again tomorrow. After the onsen, it’s back to the hotel for a quick reset, and get ready for the evening.
Evenings
Your guide will lead the crew to one of the area’s standout restaurants. Every dinner is included — and every night is different. Eating out in Yamagata is all about seasonal, regional flavors. This area is known for its Yonezawa beef, considered some of the best wagyu in Japan — often served as yakiniku or in rich sukiyaki hotpots. You’ll also find handmade soba noodles, imoni (a hearty stew), and local mountain vegetables prepared in traditional styles. With easy access to the Sea of Japan, fresh seafood also makes a regular appearance on the menu. And no meal is complete without a glass of locally brewed Yamagata sake, known for its clean, delicate flavor thanks to the region’s pure mountain water. After dinner, most guests ease into a quiet night. Some head back to the hotel to relax, while others take a short stroll through the neighborhood, stop by 7-Eleven for snacks, or maybe stumble upon a tiny whisky bar tucked down an alley for a nightcap. These aren’t party towns — they’re peaceful, authentic cities where the pace slows down and the vibe stays mellow. It’s the perfect way to close out the day before lights out and another day chasing snow.
Day 7 – Saturday ‘Departure Day’
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before checking out. After a week of riding deep snow, soaking in onsen, and experiencing the slower side of Japan, it’s time to say goodbye. Your guide will transfer you to Yamagata Station for your onward journey. Until next time.
Is This Tour Right for You?
When you’re ready to book, we’ll ask you to self-assess your ability to make sure this tour is a good fit. Our goal is to make sure you have an amazing time — and choosing the right tour plays a big part in that. Be honest about your current riding level, pace, and fitness. If you’re not sure whether this is the one for you, just reach out. Our team is always happy to chat, answer questions, and help guide you toward the best option.
Ability Requirements
This tour is best suited to intermediate to advanced riders who are comfortable spending full days exploring off-piste terrain. Here’s what that looks like:
✔ You ride at a steady, moderate pace throughout the day
✔ You’re confident riding off-piste in a variety of snow conditions — powder, hardpack, chopped, or tracked
✔ You can ride tree runs while maintaining flow and control
✔ You can handle traverses and flat sections without stopping
✔ You’re confident riding in low visibility (snowy or foggy days)
✔ You can safely navigate around natural hazards like trees, creek crossings, and tree wells
Pace
This tour moves at a relaxed but consistent pace. We take regular breaks, but you’ll need to be able to keep up with the group and stay on the move — especially when snow conditions are variable or we’re in tighter trees.
Fitness
A reasonable base level of fitness will help you get the most out of the week. Expect five consecutive days on-snow, sometimes with short hikes (2–5 minutes) to reach better terrain. If you can comfortably ride all day at your local hill, you’ll be in a good spot.
What Is an Explorer Tour?
Explorer Tours take you beyond the groomers and into the good stuff — powder stashes, tree runs, and untouched in-bounds terrain. You’ll ride with a small group (maximum 6) and expert guides who know the local zones inside out. With a flexible itinerary, you’ll chase fresh snow across multiple resorts, discovering hidden lines and new terrain each day.
The riding on these tours is at a moderate pace — fast enough to keep things fun, but relaxed enough that you won’t feel rushed. There’s time to take it all in, catch your breath, and enjoy every run. Whether you’re chasing lines through the trees or soaking in the views from the lift, it’s all about keeping the vibe enjoyable and steady.
Join our Explorer Tours to ride with a like-minded crew that shares your passion for adventure. Bring a solid foundation, an open mind, and a readiness to go beyond the groomers. Whether it’s deep trees, hidden stashes, or storm-day surprises — we embrace whatever the mountain throws our way.
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
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
- Onsen entry fee – expect to pay between USD $3 – $7 per visit
- Karaoke session – expect to pay USD $10
- Beverages at dinner – expect to pay USD $3 – $5 for a glass of beer, wine or sake
How Far In Advance Do I Need To Book?
Availability can be limited. While we can’t guarantee how quickly it will fill, we advise booking early to secure your desired travel dates. Historically, tours tend to reach full capacity significantly before our final booking cut-off of 90 days prior to departure. Book now to avoid missing your chance.
What Happens On Arrival and Departure Day?
Arrival and departure days are your travel days to and from the tour – no snowboarding is planned for these days. Upon booking, you’ll receive our comprehensive tour guide. This essential resource provides a step-by-step breakdown of the arrival and departure process, along with crucial information on flights, meeting points, your gear list, recommended travel times, visa requirements, and transportation logistics.
What If I’m Traveling Solo?
If you’re traveling solo, you’ll have your own private single room – guaranteed. About 99% of our guests are solo travelers just like you. It’s a fantastic way to connect with others who share your passion for snowboarding and exploring Japan.
Which Resorts Will We Visit?
We don’t list resorts for this tour — and that’s intentional. The focus is on exploring off-the-radar mountains with our local Japanese guide, who uses real-time conditions, and intel to decide where to ride each day. These are places most international riders have never heard of, and that’s exactly the point. If you’re looking to discover quiet, uncrowded resorts with deep snow and authentic local character, this tour delivers.
Are Flights Included?
No, flights are not included, but Mint can provide you with a list of the best flights to book to match up with your tour and arrival or departure times.
Do I Need Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is mandatory. Your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident, death, medical expenses, snowsports and emergency repatriation. We also strongly recommend it covers trip cancellation, curtailment, personal liability and loss of luggage and personal effects. For US citizens, we recommend Spot Insurance https://www.getspot.com/trip-affiliates/mint-tours.
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.
How Do I Check My Ability Level?
The best way to check if a tour is suited to your ability is by speaking with one of our tour managers. They will be able to determine if the tour you have selected is a good fit for your ability, as well as suggesting other tour options.
How Do I Get to the Tour Start Point?
When you book, you’ll receive a detailed travel guide with step-by-step instructions on how to get to Yonezawa Station — the meeting point for the start of the tour. It includes train options, timing suggestions, and everything you need to make arrival easy.
How Do I Check Availability?
Speak with one of our tour managers for the most up to date availability. As this is a small group tour with limited availability, it’s best to get in touch early to avoid disappointment.
Can I Rent Equipment?
Quality rental equipment is not available. Please bring everything you need with you.
What Equipment Should I Bring?
Guests will need to bring their own equipment for the tour. Powder specific equipment is recommended. When you book, you’ll be provided with a gear list of what to pack.
Gratuities
While tipping is never expected, many guests ask about it — and often choose to leave a gratuity as a way to say thanks. If you feel your guide made your experience extra special, a cash tip at the end of the tour is always appreciated. Gratuities can be given directly to your guide. Cash is preferred, as our local guides typically don’t have access to Venmo, Zelle, or other digital payment apps.
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 protected]
📞 +1 503 994 1919
Deposits & Payments
A 50% deposit is required to secure your spot. The remaining balance is due 90 days before your tour begins.
Terms & Conditions
Click HERE to view our full terms and conditions.