Learn the skills to confidently ride Japan Powder
If you’ve ever dreamt of floating surfy turns through deep Japan powder, then join us for our Japan Powder Progression Tour at Tomamu Resort.
You’ll spend the week riding with our head coach and guide. She will be your biggest cheerleader and empower you to become the best snowboarder you can be. She will build your snowboarding skills to confidently ride off-piste, in powder and even venture into the trees. She’ll show you her secret powder stashes, parts of the mountain you didn’t know existed, the best spots for snacks and of course, all the epic photo spots for the ‘gram.
If you haven’t heard of Tomamu before, what you need to know is that it’s the kind of place where it’s snowy all winter long, and you’re likely to score the best powder turns of your life! It’s a ski-in/ski-out resort in Central Hokkaido with uncrowded slopes and playful terrain that is perfect for intermediate snowboarders. Expect plenty of hoots and high-fives when you ride through the powder with the girls.
This is a premium, all-inclusive trip where you’ll stay on-mountain in a comfy hotel. No driving to the resort on packed tourist buses, no lift lines and no stress – just walk out of the hotel and you are steps away from Tomamu’s uncrowded powder. Join us in this dream destination.
Dates
Join the wait list for
Winter 2025 dates
Guest to Guide Ratio
6 : 1
Price
2025 prices coming soon
Tour Type
Progression - for intermediate snowboarders
Why Travel With Mint
In a rapidly changing travel industry it’s important to know that your travel provider is accredited, accountable and responsible. We are a registered member of AFTA and IATA and conduct business in accordance with the ATAS Charter and Code of Conduct. When you travel with Mint you can have peace of mind that you are booking with a qualified and established travel operator with over 20 years of expertise. And as a full-service travel agent, we are able to take care of your flights, insurance, stopovers and pre or post tour arrangements.
OVERVIEW
Get in touch for a detailed tour itinerary and more info
TOMAMU - A POWDER PARADISE
Tomamu is an easy destination to reach and is one of our favourite place to snowboard in Hokkaido for a number of reasons. It's a large resort by Japan standards and there's plenty of terrain to keep you occupied for a whole week. It has the most incredible dry powder to be found anywhere in the world; it's relatively quiet compared to it's neighbours; freshies are easily found into the late afternoon; you can ride tree runs straight off the lifts; there's countless opportunities to pick your line with the resort spread across two mountain peaks; and to top it all off, a gondola and high speed chairlifts will keep you toasty on the cold days.
COACHING & GUIDING
This tour is designed for intermediate snowboarders. The aim is to fast-track your snowboarding progression in an incredibly fun and supportive way. Your coach is on-hand to build up your snowboarding toolkit with a combination of coaching and guiding. The coaching is fun (no lessons or drills) and you'll get loads of tips and feedback while riding the resort. While we have daily coaching sessions, you'll have plenty of time snowboarding with your coach. Many people join this trip for a week of snowboarding with a great group of women!
AFTER HOURS
After riding there's plenty to do. Visit the indoor/outdoor onsen, hit après with the Mint team, visit the ice village, swim in the wave pool or just relax in your room and enjoy the views over the snowy landscape. Each night we'll regroup for dinner at one of the many restaurants. Expect the freshest local Hokkaido ingredients and maybe a sake or two. Sound like the perfect snowboard trip? Then grab your friends or come solo, just make sure you don’t miss out!
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
You could visit a resort with your friends and try to figure out where to go, but why not get all the answers from day one? Answers that can make or break your snowboarding holiday. Your coach will get you into the secret powder stashes, exploring parts of the mountain you didn't know existed, avoiding lift lines, showing you the best spots for a banging lunch or an epic photo spot for the 'gram. Your coach will give you a locals perspective from day one and keys to this incredible powder kingdom.
ON-MOUNTAIN ACCOMMODATION
We want your holiday to be as stress-free as possible, so that’s why you’ll stay on-mountain at Tomamu The Tower Hotel. Max out your time on snow and ride first to last chair, or have the option to head back to the hotel early. Staying in a ski-in/ski-out hotel makes this possible. Our twin rooms have high quality linen and duvets, an area to chill, room for your equipment, ensuite bathroom, free WIFI and thoughtful touches. Each room has amazing views to the surrounding snowy landscape. The resort has an onsen, restaurants, bar, a convenience store, wave pool and day spa.
ALL-INCLUSIVE TRIP
At Mint Tours we believe premium is the new normal, so we’ve included everything on this trip so you can focus on just one thing, riding powder! Apart from riding every day with your coach and guide Christina, you'll get to stay in ski-in/ski-out accommodation with breakfasts, dinners, guiding, coaching and airport transfers included.
ESSENTIAL INFO
Here’s what you can roughly look forward to each day:
MORNINGS
The breakfast buffet is open from 6:30am and we encourage you to enjoy breakfast at your leisure. The mornings are a great time to hit the onsen or stretch before snowboarding. Your staying at a ski-in/ski-out hotel, so you’ve got plenty of ‘me’ time before we hit first chair at 9:00am.
AT THE RESORT
Walk out of the hotel and head to the chairlift. Your coach Christina is on hand from first to last chair so you can really max out your time on-snow. After all, the focus of this tour is snowboarding! Throughout the day you’ll do a combination of coaching and guiding. The coaching is fun (no lessons or drills) and you’ll naturally progress your snowboarding by riding more vertical, more terrain, more powder snow. While we have daily coaching sessions, you’ll also have plenty of time exploring the mountain with your coach. As always, good vibes and fun times are had when you’re riding with the girls. There will be plenty of hoots and high fives as you float turns through the powder. Expect anything from deep, dry powder, easy trees, wide open pistes and maybe even a lap or two through the park. Our priority is to find you the best snow and terrain and to help you improve your snowboarding in a fun, safe and supportive environment.
EVENINGS
After riding it’s up to you! Head to après to catch up on all the happenings of the day, airdrop your photo’s for the ‘gram, hit the onsen, take a swim, go shopping, get some snacks, or just relax back in your room. We want to make sure you have enough ‘me-time’ to enjoy your holiday. Each night is different and we’ll change the plan to suit the groups interest and energy levels. Evenings are a great time to catch up with everyone over some delicious food and a few drinks. Each night we enjoy a group dinner together at one of the restaurants where there is a range of locally sourced Hokkaido produce including fresh seafood, local meats and plenty of options for vegetarians. The perfect way to finish off the evening is with a late night onsen before you fall into bed to do it all again the next day.
INTERMEDIATE SNOWBOARDERS
The Japan Powder Progression tour is designed for Intermediate snowboarders who have got the basics dialled and are ready to step up their game. If you can answer ‘Yes!’ to the questions below, you are ready to book this tour.
CAN YOU ANSWER ‘YES!’ TO THESE QUESTIONS?
✔ I am comfortable linking turns on blue runs
✔ I can load and unload from a chairlift
✔ I want to learn how to snowboard in powder and through the trees
✔ I want to find new challenges and work towards riding the whole mountain.
If you’re not quite up to the ability level for this tour, don’t dismiss the possibility of experiencing a Japan tour with us. Talk with our team and they will be able to make recommendations for other suitable tours or how to work towards joining this tour.
WHY TRAVEL WITH MINT?
In a rapidly changing travel industry it’s important to know that your travel provider is accredited, accountable and responsible. Mint is a registered member of AFTA and IATA and conducts business in accordance with the ATAS Charter and Code of Conduct. When you travel with Mint you can have peace of mind that you are booking with a qualified and established travel operator with over 20 years of expertise.
ARE LIFT TICKETS INCLUDED?
Yes, all lift tickets are included for this tour. Please note that Tomamu Resort is not on the Ikon or Epic Pass.
BUDGETING FOR THE TOUR
An estimate of spending money for the week is around USD $200 – $300 to cover lunches, drinks, snacks and some shopping. Here’s an indication of what you can expect to pay for meals and activities:
- Lunches – expect to pay around USD $10 – $15 per meal
- Snacks for riding – expect to around pay USD $5 per day
- Massage – expect to pay between USD $40 – $70 per visit
HOW FAR IN ADVANCE DO I NEED TO BOOK?
It’s hard to estimate when the tour will fill up. That being said, our progression tours are some of our most popular Japan trips, so our advice is to book as soon as you’ve made the decision to travel. That way you can secure your preferred travel dates and you won’t be disappointed. Bookings close 90 days before a trip departs, however most tours typically fill up well before this.
WHAT IS THE ITINERARY?
For further information, including a tour itinerary send us an enquiry.
AM I TOO YOUNG / TOO OLD FOR THIS TOUR?
We are strong believers that age is just a number. What’s important to us is that guests come with the right intention: to focus on improving their snowboarding and to have a great time while doing it. Most of our guests are either in their 30’s, 40’s or 50’s. However, we’ve also had guests older or younger, and they had a blast! The minimum age is 18 years old.
WHAT HAPPENS ON ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE DAY?
Bus transfers from New Chitose Airport to Tomamu are included on arrival and departure day. We will send you through information about the arrival and departure day process, a map of where we meet at the airport, recommended arrival and departure times and visa requirements.
WHAT IF I’M TRAVELLING SOLO?
About 99% of our guests are travelling solo, so you’ll be in good company. Our groups generally mix well due to a shared interest in snowboarding and an eagerness to explore all that Japan has to offer. If you are travelling solo, you will be paired with another guest to room with. The accommodation for this tour is twin share i.e. 2 beds per room.
HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE IN MY GROUP?
The groups are typically made up of 6 snowboarders. Our groups small so you can snowboard at your preferred pace which leads to a better experience for everyone. This ensures you get the most out of your time with us, and keeping the groups small means less time waiting and more time snowboarding!
IS THIS TOUR RIGHT FOR ME?
Whether you’re looking to progress your snowboarding or just want to ride in Japan with like-minded women, we’ve got you covered. Throughout the week we will have coaching and guiding for intermediate snowboarders. See the ability requirements for this tour.
CAN I ARRIVE EARLY OR STAY ON AFTER THE TOUR?
For most tours you can arrive earlier or stay later. We can tailor the trip to suit your travel plans. Speak with one of our tour specialists when you are booking and they will be more than happy to assist.
WHO ARE THE COACHES?
You’ll be led by a friendly, knowledgeable and qualified coaches and hosts. All our coaches are snow industry professionals who are passionate about sharing their knowledge.
ARE FLIGHTS INCLUDED?
No, flights are not included. If you need assistance booking flights, we can recommend the best flight options.
DO I NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE?
Yes. All guests on tour need to be covered by comprehensive travel insurance. Once you have booked on the tour, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance. We offer all of our tour guests discounted snow specific travel insurance.
WHAT HAPPENS ONCE I’VE BOOKED?
We will send you through a booking confirmation and provide updates about the tour including the arrival and departure day process, a map of where we meet, recommended arrival and departure times, flight options, Visa requirements and transportation information. We will send out a Pre Departure Guide 30 days prior to departure.
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 specialists. 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 TOMAMU?
Airport bus transfers from Sapporo New Chitose Airport to Tomamu are included. We’ll provide you with instructions on how to catch the bus from the airport to the resort.
HOW DO I CHECK AVAILABILITY?
Speak with one of our tour specialists. 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?
The rental selection is very limited so you will need to bring all your own equipment for this tour. If you are looking at buying new gear before your join us and don’t know what to bring, just ask. We are always more than happy to help you find the right gear for your level.
HOW FIT DO I NEED TO BE?
The best thing you can do to get the most out of your Mint Women experience is to start a pre-trip fitness program. We’re not looking for you to be an Olympic athlete, but you do need some fitness endurance as you’ll spend five consecutive days on-snow. Riding powder is physically demanding, but with a few simple preparations you can ensure that you’re ready to make the most of your powder experience. Incorporate cardio as well as some muscle conditioning into your workout, focusing on abdominal and core stability. Stair-climbers, interval training, swimming and other aerobic activities are always helpful. While on tour, we recommend stretching every morning and evening. If you need some extra help, book a massage when you are in-resort.
WHAT EQUIPMENT SHOULD I BRING?
We will provide you with a packing list for this tour. We recommend that guests have a good quality waterproof jacket and pants, insulated layer(s), merino base layers, merino glove liners and good quality insulated and waterproof gloves, quality goggles with low light & high light lenses, balaclava, beanie, and helmet.
Guests need to bring their own snowboarding equipment for this tour (board, boots, bindings and outerwear). If you are not sure which board or equipment bring just ask. We are always happy to make recommendations or to connect you with your local snowboard shop.
If you could bring any snowboard for this tour we would recommend the following:
- All-mountain snowboard that will perform well on all terrain, including groomers, park, and powder.
- Powder snowboard that is shaped for extra float in deeper snow.
WHO WILL BE ON MY TOUR?
Your group will be made up of travellers from diverse backgrounds and will be varied in age. Our groups generally mix well due to a shared interest in snowboarding and an eagerness to explore all that Japan has to offer.
DO YOU TAKE SKIERS & SNOWBOARDERS?
This tour is just for snowboarders.
IMPROVE OR RECOVER YOUR TECHNIQUE
On all our Mint Women tours you will learn new skills that will make snowboarding more fun and allow you to do more fun stuff, on more of the mountain. Alternatively, you might not have been snowboarding in a while and need a refresher to get the hang of it again. Or maybe you’ve always looked enviously at other snowboarders ripping powder or nailing tricks in the park. Join a progression tour and with a little coaching, that could be you!
STAY SAFE
You might want to learn how to ride in powder, through the trees, or are keen to one day snowboard in the backcountry. In order to do this independently, you need to be intimately aware of snow conditions and ensure you and your friends have the knowledge, training, skills, equipment and experience to do this safely. If there’s any doubts, join one of our tours where you will be led by qualified coach and guide who has a lifetime of experience in the mountains, and knows exactly how it is right now and where to find the best snow, safely.
(RE)BUILD YOUR CONFIDENCE
Maybe last time out you got hurt and want to rebuild confidence, or you’re with a group of friends and you’re worried about holding them up. Join a tour and you’ll not-only build confidence, you’ll always be riding with a group of similar ability. On Mint Women tours you will always be hosted, coached and held up at all times by an all-star lineup of inspiring women. Our priority is to find you the best snow and terrain and give you the tools to become a better snowboarder in an incredibly positive and supportive way.
FAST-TRACK YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF A SKI RESORT
Sure, you could cruise around the resort with your friends and try to figure it out in your own time but why not get all the answers on day one? Answers that can make or break your snowboarding holiday. Whether your idea of a good time is getting to all the secret powder stashes, avoiding the lift lines, finding the best side hits in the area, finding the best spot for marshmallow-whipped-cream hot chocolate, an under-the-radar spot for a banging lunch or an epic photo spot for the ‘gram – our coaches and will give you a locals perspective from day one.
DELEGATE YOUR TRIP PLANNING – JOIN A TOUR!
We know how it is – trying to gather a group of friends together for a holiday, co-ordinating annual leave, trying to come up with an itinerary that fits everyones needs, dates, travel arrangements, travel styles etc. It can be a headache even for the most organised trip planner. Offload that headache – join one of our tours and let us take care of every detail from booking to boarding. Or come solo and make some new snowboarding buddies.
LEARN FROM A PROFESSIONAL COACH
All our tours are hosted by highly qualified and professional coaches and guides who will help to build your confidence, skills and help reduce the risk of injury, plus make your rate of progression much faster. You’ll also refine your technique and iron out any bad habits which can be difficult to get rid of once they are set in. Our coaches will also ensure you are learning on the right equipment for your level and that it is set up correctly and specifically for you. The trained, eagle eye of your coaches will give you individual feedback to help you on your snowboarding journey.
YOUR TOUR INCLUDES
- Twin Share Accommodation
For 6 nights you will stay at Tomamu ‘The Tower’ hotel. All guests will stay in a twin share room. The rooms feature 2 comfortable single beds with high quality linen and duvets, plenty of room for your equipment, a lounge area, ensuite bathroom, free WIFI and thoughtful touches like bathroom toiletries, robes and slippers. Complimentary access to the onsen (hot spring) is included throughout your stay.
- Daily Snowboard Coaching and Guiding Sessions
Each day we hold guiding and coaching sessions. These typically run from first chair at 9:00am through till 3:00pm. You’ll get to explore the mountain and cover more ground with your coach leading the way. You’ll progress your skills with a combination of coaching and guiding and by riding more vertical, more terrain, more powder snow and by exploring further off-piste and deeper into the trees. Push yourself by following an experienced coach as they guide you to the best snow and terrain each day.
- All Lift Passes
A 5 day lift pass is included for this trip.
- Snowboarding Tips and Equipment Advice
Throughout the week your coach will give you tips and feedback to help you charge through the trees, blast through the powder and get your all mountain freestyle dialled. Need help with your equipment before you join us or during the tour? No problem, just ask and we’ll be able to recommend the right equipment to buy, or how to set it up once you arrive.
- All Breakfasts
For breakfast, join us at the restaurant which serves all your Japanese and Western favourites, including eggs cooked to order, home-baked bread, french toast, croissants and much more, all prepared with local produce.
- All Dinners
You’ll get 6 dinner vouchers that can be used at a variety of restaurants at Tomamu. You will be treated to the freshest local seafood, delicious meats and vegetable dishes, rice bowls, Japanese soups and noodles just to name a few. There are options for all dietary requirements. For those with a sweet tooth, the irresistible dessert buffet isn’t one to be missed.
- Airport Transfers
Included on arrival and departure day from Sapporo New Chitose Airport to your hotel. Simply jump on the bus and in no time you’ll be transported to our powder paradise. Our door-to-door transfers make the trip a breeze.
- Fully-Escorted Tour
Your coach stays with the group throughout the tour. They are not only with you all day on-snow, they are also on-hand each evening. They are always more than happy to share their experience with you on the mountain, and share a drink and some laughs at the end of the day.
All our Japan Tours run during peak snow season and are 6 nights (from Sunday to Saturday). You’ll ride the resort mid-week to avoid the weekend day-trippers and maximise your time on-snow. If 6 nights isn’t enough, then book one of our multi-tour combo’s. Join us in Tomamu, then start a new tour in a different destination the following day. Ask us about tour combo ideas and multi-tour discount.
DATES
Join the waitlist for Winter 2025 dates.
Email info@minttours.com
PRO-TIP – GO PRIVATE!
If you have your own group of snowboarding friends, pick your own dates and book a private departure – with your own coach and all the benefits of a Mint group tour. Get in touch to discuss.
PRICE, DEPOSIT AND PAYMENTS
Winter 2025 pricing coming soon. Join the waitlist for Winter 2025 tours.
Email info@minttours.com
A 50% deposit is payable to secure your booking. The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
MULTI-TOUR BOOKING DISCOUNT
We offer a multi-tour booking discount if you book more than one tour. Extend your trip and join us for another fun week, in a different destination.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
View our terms and conditions HERE
QUESTIONS?
Send us an email or give us a call.
Email info@minttours.com
Phone (03) 5296 0314 (within Australia)