Piste-Carving and Storm-Chasing in Japan (13 days)

Touch down in Tokyo where you will be met by your guide and whisked seamlessly off on a bullet train ride to Kyoto where the journey truly begins. For tonight, relax and bed down in your comfortable hotel; we recommend the Hoshinoya on the banks of the Oigawa River.

Spend the day exploring the culturally rich city of Kyoto, home to countless beautiful temples and shinto shrines. Sample local delicious delicacies before re-boarding the bullet train for your first ski destination, Hakuba, in the Japanese alps. Relax here for the night in your comfortable, family-run accommodation.

Spend the day getting to know the slopes, all of which are within easy reach of your hotel. Your guide will lead you to some of the finest mountain skiing spots in Japan and you can enjoy Hakuba’s long, sweeping runs. In the evening, relax your aching muscles in a traditional Japanese onsen.

Now that you’ve got your ski legs, spend the day carving up the slopes and reveling in Hakuba’s fluffy piste. Alternatively, if you prefer to take a break and get into nature, take a trip to Jigokudani to visit the wild monkeys who play in its hot springs. Treat yourself with another rejuvenating soak to round off the day.

Spend the morning getting in a few final runs on the slopes of Hakuba before boarding the train direct to Tokyo. Hit the town this evening for delicious Japanese cuisine and the chance to see the city’s bright lights. Immerse yourself in the action and bustle of Shibuya and Shinjuku before a good night’s sleep at your luxurious hotel; we recommend the beautiful Aman Tokyo.

Today you will have the chance to explore the fascinating delights of Tokyo, from the madness of the fish market and the glamor of Ginza’s fashion district to the Meiji shrine and the Imperial Palace. After sunset, sample Tokyo's internationally renowned restaurant culture – from succulent pork tonkatsu to the perfect bowl of street ramen.

Rise early this morning and board your short, 90-minute flight from Tokyo to the New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido. After your arrival, your Remote Lands guide will escort you to your two-hour overland transfer to the charming ski town of Niseko. Arriving at midday, you will have the afternoon to unwind or, if you like, hit the slopes just outside the hotel. Your guide can introduce you to the best runs in the resort to ensure a great day of skiing. Relax in the evening with dinner and a soak in an outdoor hot springs.

Continue to explore Niseko’s myriad of runs. Access the back-country slopes or take the lift to the very highest point from which you can hike upwards another 30 minutes to the very top. Here, the views are astounding, and your choice of runs is endless.

Spend the day perfecting your turns and form, or – if you like – take the 90-minute drive to Rusutsu and try your hand at a new set of runs.

This morning, journey north to Asahikawa. While not a ski resort itself, this centrally-located town enjoys access to six other neighboring resorts from which you can choose. Your expert guide will help you select the best depending on the day’s weather.

Wake up bright and early for a discussion with your guide about where the best skiing can be found today. The locals call it storm-chasing and the vast array of options in varying climates allows you to find the best snow, within easy reach.

Spend a final day storm-chasing from your base in Asahikawa and in the evening, celebrate your achievements on the slopes with a grand dinner of delicious local fare.

Say your farewells to the alps of Japan this morning as you board your domestic flight to Narita International airport in Tokyo, ready for your journey onwards or homewards.