5 Days of Powder, Culture & Relaxation
An Unforgettable Ski Trip for Families in Japan’s Hidden Snow Paradise
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Chartered car
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2-5
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Villa and Ryokan
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Yamagat station or Yamagata airport
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Yamagat station or Yamagata airport
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Jan - Mar.
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Private
Overview
Escape the crowded ski resorts and experience a unique family-friendly ski adventure in Yamagata, Japan. This five-day tour is designed for families who want to enjoy deep powder, scenic landscapes, and traditional Japanese culture in a relaxed, safe environment.
From skiing at local hidden-gem resorts to a safe backcountry experience tailored for kids and beginners, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and comfort. Stay in a luxurious mountain villa, explore Yamagata’s local ski culture, and end your journey soaking in natural hot springs at a traditional ryokan.
Itinerary
Settle into a cozy mountain villa and get ready for an exciting ski adventure.
- Arrive at Yamagata Airport or Yamagata Station
- Check-in at Gassan Polepole Farm, a luxury villa in the mountains
- Welcome briefing and resort tour
- Dinner at the lodge, featuring locally sourced cuisine
Enjoy fresh powder and uncrowded slopes at hidden local ski resorts.
- Ski at Yudonosan Ski Resort or Asahi Natural Park, known for its excellent powder snow
- Explore untouched terrain with local guides
- Lunch at a ski lodge with regional specialties
- Return to the villa for free time and relaxation
- Dinner at the villa
A perfect introduction to backcountry skiing for kids and first-timers.
- Backcountry ski tour with expert local guides
- Ride easy-access powder slopes using snowcats, cars, and simple lifts
- Carefully selected slopes with no avalanche or high-risk zones, ensuring a safe experience for families
- Return to the lodge for relaxation and free time
- Dinner featuring local delicacies
Ski through one of the world’s most unique natural wonders – the Zao Snow Monsters.
- Ski at Zao Onsen Ski Resort, known for its iconic snow-covered ice trees
- Enjoy over 30km of slopes, guided by local experts
- Explore the best terrain suited to your skill level
- Check-in at a traditional Japanese onsen ryokan
- Soak in natural hot springs and enjoy a kaiseki dinner
A final moment to relax before heading home – or extend your stay in Zao.
- Check out and transfer to Yamagata Airport or the nearest Shinkansen station
- Optional extended stay in Zao (available upon request)
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Four nights accommodation (three nights in a luxury mountain villa, one night in a traditional onsen ryokan)
- All breakfasts and dinners
- Ski passes for all resorts visited
- Backcountry guiding and safety equipment rental
- Private transportation within Yamagata
- English-speaking guide
Cost Excludes
- Ski equipment rental (available for an additional fee)
- Lunches (can be purchased at local ski resorts)
- Travel insurance
Join Our Fixed Trip Starting Date
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Group Discount Available GuaranteedThursdayDec 25, 2025MondayDec 29, 2025$1,480
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Group Discount Available GuaranteedFridayDec 26, 2025TuesdayDec 30, 2025$1,480
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Group Discount Available GuaranteedSaturdayDec 27, 2025WednesdayDec 31, 2025$1,480
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Group Discount Available GuaranteedSundayDec 28, 2025ThursdayJan 1, 2026$1,480
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Group Discount Available GuaranteedMondayDec 29, 2025FridayJan 2, 2026$1,480
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Group Discount Available GuaranteedTuesdayDec 30, 2025SaturdayJan 3, 2026$1,480
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Group Discount Available GuaranteedWednesdayDec 31, 2025SundayJan 4, 2026$1,480
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Group Discount Available GuaranteedThursdayJan 1, 2026MondayJan 5, 2026$1,480
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Group Discount Available GuaranteedFridayJan 2, 2026TuesdayJan 6, 2026$1,480
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Group Discount Available GuaranteedSaturdayJan 3, 2026WednesdayJan 7, 2026$1,480
FAQs
This tour is designed for families with children, beginner skiers, and backcountry enthusiasts looking for a safe and immersive skiing experience. It is ideal for:
- Families who want to enjoy skiing together in a safe and fun environment
- Skiers and snowboarders of all levels, including beginners and first-time backcountry participants
- Travelers who want to combine skiing with cultural experiences such as staying in an onsen ryokan
The tour starts at either Yamagata Airport or Yamagata Station, both of which are easily accessible:
- From Tokyo Station: Take the Yamagata Shinkansen (approx. 2.5 hours)
- From Osaka/Kyoto: Fly to Yamagata Airport (via Sendai or Haneda)
A private transfer from the meeting point to the accommodation is included in the tour package.
This tour is designed for families, and children as young as six years old can participate in the skiing activities, including the safe backcountry experience. The itinerary ensures that all skiing locations are suitable for beginners and families.
This tour includes a mix of:
- Local ski resorts with well-maintained slopes and uncrowded runs
- Safe backcountry skiing on carefully selected slopes with no avalanche risks
- Zao Snow Monster skiing, a unique side-country experience through frozen ice trees
All locations are chosen to match the skill levels of participants, ensuring a fun and safe experience for both beginners and experienced skiers.
No prior backcountry experience is required. The backcountry portion of the tour is designed to be accessible and safe for beginners and families. Experienced local guides will ensure that all routes are suitable for each participant’s skill level.
This tour includes two types of accommodation:
- Three nights in a luxury mountain villa at Gassan Polepole Farm, offering comfort and a high-end experience in nature
- One night in a traditional onsen ryokan, where guests can relax in natural hot springs and enjoy Japanese hospitality
Yes, all breakfasts and dinners are included. Guests will enjoy:
- Locally sourced Yamagata cuisine
- A kaiseki-style dinner at the onsen ryokan
- Farm-to-table meals at the mountain villa
Lunches are not included but can be purchased at ski lodges or local restaurants.
Participants will need:
- Skis or snowboards
- Ski boots and poles
- Warm, waterproof ski clothing
Rental equipment is available upon request, and details will be provided upon booking.
Yes, experienced skiers can take advantage of deep powder runs at Yudonosan and Asahi Natural Park, and our guides can tailor the experience to include more challenging terrain. However, this tour is primarily designed for families and beginner-to-intermediate skiers.
Skiing is available in most conditions, but in the event of extreme weather, we will adjust the itinerary to ensure the best possible experience. Alternative cultural activities or indoor experiences may be arranged if necessary.
This is a small-group tour with a maximum of 2-6 participants, allowing for a personalized and intimate experience.
Yes, an extended stay in Zao can be arranged upon request. Guests can enjoy additional skiing or relaxation in the onsen town. Details can be discussed at the time of booking.
Reservations can be made through our website. Since availability is limited, early booking is recommended. For any questions or special requests, please contact us directly.