.svg){kind=icon}
JAPOW madness – deepest pow, secret lines, onsens, ramen, repeat
Experience the legendary magic of Hokkaido, where JAPOW dreams come true. Imagine gliding through endless feather-light powder, soaking in steaming mountain onsens, and feasting on ramen and Genghis Khan BBQ each night. Central Hokkaido is Japan’s untouched freeride paradise – pure powder bliss with a unique cultural soul.
Ride endless feather-light powder, soak in volcanic onsens, and feast every night. Join Powder Mad for the ultimate Japow freeride adventure – a unique trip crafted just for true powder chasers.
Located in Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido, Central Hokkaido is the beating heart of JAPOW. This inland region is famed for receiving 8 to 10 metres of ultra-dry, feather-light powder snow each season, creating perfect riding conditions day after day. Asahikawa, your base for the trip, sits between volcanic ranges and endless backcountry terrain, giving you access to hidden freeride zones away from the crowds. Towering peaks like Asahidake (2,291m), Hokkaido’s highest volcano, loom above the landscape, steaming with geothermal energy. Each day ends with rejuvenating soaks in natural hot spring onsens, local ramen feasts, and the warm, authentic hospitality of Hokkaido. This is the real Japan – untamed, deeply cultural, and blanketed in the world’s lightest powder.
Ski ability and safety
Your safety and enjoyment are always our top priorities on every Powder Mad trip. This adventure is best suited for high intermediate skiers and snowboarders and above, comfortable riding off-piste terrain and navigating through trees.
It is a hosted freeride trip, not guided touring. Powder Mad hosts join you daily to hunt the best powder across various resorts using lift systems – no touring required.
Most runs are tree runs from top to bottom. You’ll need your standard avalanche kit: transceiver, shovel, and probe.
A safety briefing will be provided on arrival. With Powder Mad hosts by your side, you’ll ride the best snow safely and confidently.
Rest assured, with Powder Mad hosts by your side, every day will be about maximising your time in the best snow possible, safely and confidently.
Terrain and Location
Central Hokkaido is famed for its ultra-light, dry powder and varied terrain. You’ll ride tree-lined slopes, open powder fields, and playful gullies across multiple resorts.
Based in Asahikawa, Japan’s snow capital, you’ll have daily access to hidden freeride zones, quiet lift-accessed areas, and terrain perfect for fast, flowing turns.
Expect cold, dry snow throughout January and early February, with runs ranging from mellow glades to steeper technical lines – a true Japow playground for riders seeking variety and adventure.
Weather and Snow conditions
Central Hokkaido is famous for its consistently deep, dry powder – often called the lightest snow on Earth. This incredible snow quality is created by cold Siberian air masses picking up moisture over the Sea of Japan. As these fronts reach Hokkaido, they rise over the coastal mountains, releasing heavy snowfall on the west coast.
By the time the clouds reach Central Hokkaido, most moisture has been shed, resulting in lighter, drier snow with lower water content. This makes it exceptionally fluffy with unbeatable float.
Temperatures in January and early February often stay well below freezing, preserving perfect powder conditions day after day. Expect regular overnight top-ups, frequent storms bringing fresh dumps, and cold, clear days in between – ideal for riding untracked lines and experiencing true JAPOW
.jpg)
.jpg)
Accomodation
Comfort & Convenience
Your base will be a comfortable hotel in Asahikawa, offering modern rooms with private or shared options to suit your budget and preference.
Relax & Recover
After big days chasing powder, unwind in the indoor and outdoor onsens, soothe tired muscles in the sauna, or refresh in the cold plunge pool.
Perfect Location
Located close to Asahikawa’s restaurant and bar district, the hotel is ideally placed for easy evening dining and quick morning departures to the slopes
Food
Local Flavours
Asahikawa is known as Hokkaido’s food capital, with over 2000 restaurants and bars nearby. Every night brings a new culinary adventure.
Beyond Sushi
While the sushi and sashimi are world-class, you’ll also find rich ramen, sizzling Genghis Khan BBQ, comforting Donburi rice bowls, and Izakaya bar snacks.
Eat Like a Local
Powder Mad hosts will guide you to the hidden gems for an authentic taste of Japanese food culture – delicious, affordable, and unforgettable.
Cultural Experience
True Japan
Beyond the powder, this trip immerses you in Hokkaido’s unique culture, from steaming mountain onsens to bustling local markets.
Warm Hospitality
Experience the kindness and respect of Japanese service everywhere – from family-run ramen shops to quiet moments in the onsen under falling snow.
Urban Meets Nature
Asahikawa combines lively city life with immediate access to nature and powder, offering a perfect cultural balance between your riding days.
Your guides and hosts
.jpg){kind=avatar}
.jpg)
TRIP SUMMARY
Feb 9th -16th
What's included
What's not included
Common questions
Temperatures in Central Hokkaido can be very cold in January and early February, so you will need good technical, warm, and fully waterproof gear. A full kit reminder list will be sent to you during the booking process.
- Your full ski or snowboard kit
- Plenty of warm layers
- Backpack
- Water bottle
- Waterproof après boots
- Spare gloves or micro gloves
- Avalanche kit (transceiver, shovel, probe)
- Torch or headlamp
Fly into Asahikawa Airport (AKJ) in Central Hokkaido. Powder Mad will pick you up directly from the airport and transfer you to your hotel in Asahikawa. Getting here is easy, with connecting flights available from Tokyo and other major Japanese cities.
Get in touch
To book a trip or to start a discussion, get in touch via email, phone or WhatsApp, or use the form below. All fields are required.
