Taste of Japan Ski Safari

Japan is renowned for its phenomenal deep, fluffy pow and is fast becoming a magnet for powder hunters and blizzard chasers alike. If you’re planning to make the journey for the first time and yearn not only for an immense ski experience but the traditions and wonders that make Japan such a unique destination, then this ski safari will absolutely scratch that itch.

You'll ski some of the world's best snow in Niseko, absorb ancient Japan in Kyoto and experience the awesome nightlife of Tokyo. You’ll race across the country on a bullet train and have plenty of opportunity to try some of Japan’s best food along the way – all bucket-list stuff, and we will help you tick it off! Do this ski safari in mid-March, and you may also witness the mass arrival of pink cherry blossoms – a world-famous popular natural phenomenon. During this time, pristine snow conditions can still be enjoyed despite the sunnier weather.

The skiing

Averaging 15 meters each winter, the seemingly endless snow dumps in Niseko are loved by experienced skiers. However, the terrain itself is mostly intermediate and the Niseko Village and Annupuri areas offer some great beginner skiing too. Whatever your level, you'll enjoy getting stuck into some serious snow in this acclaimed powder playground.

The experience

After you've spent a week skiing, you’ll head to Kyoto for two days to experience traditional Japan. You'll visit old craft shops and tea houses, stroll along the Philosopher's Path, see Buddhist temples, the Shogun castles and the Imperial Palace, and of course sample some extraordinary Japanese cuisine.

Travelling on this trip becomes a highlight in itself as you head for Tokyo on the famous bullet train (Shinkansen). Leaving Kyoto, you'll whizz past city suburbs, rice fields and alpine foothills while relaxing in 200mph lightning-speed luxury towards the Japanese capital. Top tip: before you board, pick up one of the thousands of bento boxes available at the train station to enjoy lunch on your journey.

Tokyo is a mega city that never stops, and we highly recommend staying in Shinjuku City, where you'll find buzzing karaoke clubs, towering skyscrapers, neon lights and the bizarre but fascinating tiny bars of Golden Gai – just take a seat and go with the flow! If you prefer calmer surroundings, you can escape the crowds by heading to one of the dozens of temples and peaceful gardens.

When to visit

Our Taste of Japan Ski Safari can be enjoyed in winter and spring, with each season providing its own exceptional experience.

January to February is the best period for full-on powder skiing, with each month averaging 25 snow days. At this time of year, Kyoto and Tokyo are generally quieter which enhances their tranquil atmosphere, and they look particularly magical with a dusting of snow.

Mid to late March marks the arrival of spring. You can still ski a wonderfully deep snowpack and perfect snow conditions, with the occasional powder day. If you’re here for the cherry blossoms, then a walk along the Philosopher's Path in Kyoto is an awesome place to take it all in.