Lift & Ride | Niseko, Japan | 28 Jan - 4 Feb 2012
Program:
You are in Niseko ‘Powder Capital of the World'. What more is there to say? Lead by guides you'll enjoy 6 days of more powder than you can handle. By lifts we'll get easy access to the ‘Gates' and to fluffy, deep powder runs. A short hike to the top of Mt. Niseko Annapuri gives access to a new playground. We can descend into the well-known Strawberry and Blueberry fields towards Hanazono or descend through the legendary back bowls, to Moiwa. There are many possibilities, too much pow to track and it keeps on dumping. This is an adventure you should not miss!
As an added option we can go for a day of cat-skiing, climb Mount Yotei, "the dormant volcano" or visit another powder resort. All this in consultation with the group and depends on things like weather and snow conditions.
Transportation
You fly by yourself to Tokyo Narita. We gather at Tokyo Haneda Airport. We then fly to Sapporo Chitose Airport, at which point it's a two hour's drive to Niseko. Total duration of this trip will be around 15 hours. It'll take a bit longer on the way back but we'll follow the same route. Domestic flights and transport to and from Niseko is organized by Ski-Madness and included.
Accommodation
We'll be staying in a comfortable lodge in Lower Hirafu, Niseko. This bed & breakfast combines Japanese atmosphere with western luxury and has an English speaking staff. The rooms are spacious and lodge two to three people. There is also a shared lounge that offers television, wireless internet and in a radius of 300 meters are over 25 bars and eateries. The village is five minutes away by foot but the bus stops in front of our door. And of course, a place for drying and storing your gear will be available.
Location
The northern island of Hokkaido is one of the top three locations in the world when it comes to snow. We'll be staying in Niseko ‘Powder Capital of the World', which consists of five smaller areas: Annapuri, Niseko Village, Hirafu, Hanazono and the small area of Moiwa, which borders the area of Annapuri. All together a great area with 40 lifts, 60 slopes and all facilities of a modern winter resort. The huge freeride terrain consists of open fields with small drops, steep 'pillow lines, and forests with lots of thin birch trees.
Food
We'll have lunch during an afternoon break at a restaurant or eatery. Après-ski in Japan involves relaxing in an onsen (hot spring bath) with a Sapporo (local beer). For dinner, we'll reserve a large table in one of Niseko's many restaurants (price not included). Of course you're free to spend your evening elsewhere.
Weather and Snow
Hokkaido has an average snowfall of 15 to 20 metres per season. Now there are some places in the world with more snow but when it comes to quality, Japan is definitely the best place in the world. From December to February, it can get very cold and windy. By the time we get there, the weather won't be as harsh but strong winds and temperatures down to -20°C should still be expected. Then again, the sun might show its face too!
Guides
During this program, you'll be assisted by certified and experienced instructors and guides. They have all been trained at the highest level as Austrian State Certified teacher or Austrian State Certified Guide. Spending on average 150 days a year on the snow as ski and snowboard instructors or guides, they know exactly what modern freeriding is about. The instructors and guides are all Dutch.
Skill level
We'll be skiing (or snowboarding) off-piste every day, all day. There will be several short hikes. This will be arduous for some. We require that participants are fit and in good health. Furthermore, basic techniques and some off-piste experience are a must. Check your Freeride Passport for this program and compare it to your own.
If you have any questions regarding your skill level or need advice on how to prepare yourself for a Ski-Madness descent, please contact us.
Number of Participants
There is room for only 8 to 12 participants. The group will be divided into two groups of 6 at most. We limit the number of participants per group for safety reasons and to make sure everyone gets fresh powder. Participants will be divided among groups based on skill and physical condition. Modifications can be made if necessary.
Equipment
You only need to bring your own shoes. For convenience, we've made a deal with a local shop. The store has powder skis and boards of various brands in all shapes and sizes. They can, if necessary, be changed or maintained every day. Renting skis snowboard and poles included.
You are free to bring your own skis or board. Speed and float are a must for powder skiing, so leave your toothpicks at home. Long, wide, rocker... All sound good but bring some equipment within the capabilities of your technique and style. Bringing your own skis or snowboard may entail additional costs. Check your airline.
If you have questions regarding your equipment or need advice on the purchase of equipment, please contact us.
Safety
For your safety and our own, we use safety gear during all our activities. We have backpacks including beacon, shovel and probe available for every participant. In case of an avalanche, this equipment can save your life and enable you to help others in need. These backpacks are included in the price. Furthermore, bringing your own first aid kit is advised and wearing a helmet is mandatory.
Ski-Madness has a large number of complete Ortovox backpacks that include a shovel, a probe, and an avalanche transceiver. Free to use.
Insurance
Travel insurance with European or global coverage is mandatory for all our programs outside the Netherlands. Your policy should cover the risks that come with skiing on unmarked slopes because rescue operations and emergency medical transportation are costly in these areas.
We insure all participants with Mondial Assistance, who offer excellent coverage.
If you already have travel insurance then make sure your policy adequately covers mountaineering risks. This is for your own safety. Cancellation insurance is also advised.
