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Stories: Japan

Our Stories

Mountain adventures create the best stories, and we want to share some of ours with you. Dive into Alpenglow Stories to stay up to date on expeditions in the field, read blogs, and get tips and tricks from guides.

Skiing Japan: Alpenglow’s First Season in Hokkaido

Isaac Laredo recently returned from an unforgettable ski season in Japan, guiding multiple trips across some of Hokkaido’s most iconic terrain. From Niseko to Furano, each adventure delivered a unique blend of powder, cultural immersion, and camaraderie, making this one of the most memorable years yet.
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two backcountry skiers in Japan tour uphill on a vast white slope with the mountains spread behind them

Alpenglow Introduces Type 1 Fun to the Menu with the Japan Backcountry Ski

we’ve decided to take a refreshing step into Type 1 fun with our Japan Backcountry Ski Expedition. Unlike the intense experiences of high-mountain summits and technical climbs, this trip offers pure enjoyment in one of the world’s most picturesque winter wonderlands: the deep powder of Hokkaido, Japan.
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A skier creates a cloud of powder down a steep slope with a Japanese volcano in the background beneath a blue sky.

“The Best Snow in the World”: Ski Japan with Isaac Laredo

“There’s a common myth that Utah boasts the best snow in the world. I don’t think those people have been to Japan.” Alpenglow’s AMGA-certified Ski Guide Isaac Laredo thinks that Japan might just offer the best comprehensive skiing experience in the world. So, we connected with him to chat about his time spent in Hokkaido, home to Alpenglow’s newest expedition, the Japan Backcountry Ski.
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two backcountry skiers in Japan tour uphill on a vast white slope with the mountains spread behind them

From Tahoe to Hokkaido: Why Japan is the Next Step for Local Backcountry Skiers

For skiers seasoned on the slopes of Lake Tahoe and beyond in the United States, Japan presents an alluring challenge and a fresh powder paradise, making it an ideal destination for those looking to elevate their skiing from local to international levels. Here’s why American backcountry skiers should consider Japan for their next big adventure:
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A snowy forest in the foreground with a snowy mountain in the background during a guided Japan ski trip with Alpenglow Expeditions.

Why is the Skiing in Japan So Good?

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is celebrated for offering some of the best skiing conditions in the world. The secret lies primarily in its snow quality and snowpack, which are ideal for both avid skiers and those new to the sport. For over 100 years, skiing has been quietly growing in Japan until becoming what it is today: a central hub for powderhounds and backcountry athletes.
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a black and white photo of four Japanese women in the early days of skiing in Japan

A Brief History of Skiing in Japan

Hokkaido’s skiing history is deeply intertwined with the Ainu culture and the subsequent influence of foreign techniques from Europe and Russia. This narrative, however, stretches beyond simple adaptation, evolving into a tale of technological advancements and cultural exchange.
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Two skiers take a selfie next to their skin track in a field of white snow in Japan beneath a big blue sky during a guided Japan ski trip with Alpenglow Expeditions.

New Expedition: Japan Backcountry Ski Adventure

Sending it on a skiing adventure in Japan is a dream come true for any backcountry skiing enthusiast. Our eight-day expedition in Hokkaido promises not just exceptional skiing but also a deep dive into the vibrant local culture and stunning landscapes.
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