Frequently asked questions
If you're planning a trip to Hokkaido, you'll likely fly internationally to Narita or Haneda international airports in Tokyo. From there, it's just a 2-hour domestic flight to Chitose or Asahikawa airport in Hokkaido. If your destination is Furano, I suggest flying into Asahikawa airport, which is only an hour away by car. Otherwise Chitose airport is a larger airport with more flights, however it is three hours drive with limited transport via bus or train to Furano. Chitose airport is closer to areas such as Niseko and Sapporo, if you prefer to start your trip there before coming to Furano, then Chitose airport maybe a better option.
From Asahikawa Airport catch the Furano bus to Furano Station or the nearest stop to your accommodation. The bus departs from platform 9 starting from 10:10 am to 6:00 pm departing roughly every 1 to 1.5 hours. See the timetable here. (Travel time: 1 hour / Cost: ¥1000). Taxis are also available (Travel time: 50 min / Cost: ¥17,280-28,730).
From Chitose Airport catch the Hokkaido Resort Liner to Furano Station or the nearest stop to accommodation. The Bus departs from the domestic terminal at 10:00 am, 12:20 pm, and 3:30 pm. See the most up-to-date timetable here. (Travel time: 2.5 hours / Cost: ¥4500).
From Niseko / Rusutsu catch the Hokkaido Resort Liner to Furano Station or the nearest stop to accommodation. See the most up-to-date timetable here. (Travel time: 7-8 hours / Cost: ¥6000)
Ski and snowboard rentals can be requested through the two main stores in Kitanomine area. (next to Furano Ski resort). However it is recommended to bring your own equipment as rental options are limited in Furano.
Furano can be a very cold place in winter, with temperatures typically ranging from -10 to -30°C / 14 to -22°F. We strongly recommend that guests dress in layers of clothing specific for traveling in backcountry areas. We recommend that guests have a good quality Gore-Tex jacket and pants, insulated layer(s), merino base layers, warm gloves & inners, goggles with low light & high light lenses, sunglasses, balaclava, beanie, and helmet. Guests will need to bring their own ski or snowboarding equipment for the tour (board, boots, bindings & outerwear). It is recommended to bring backcountry touring equipment to have the ability to explore more & better terrain away from the crowds.
Yes, it is highly recommended to bring your own touring gear (touring skis/split board/avalanche equipment). It opens up many more options to ski/snowboard the best terrain and fresh powder that is only accessible by touring. Recently, ski resorts have become busier, making it increasingly important to explore areas away from the crowds
Avalanche safety equipment (backpack, beacon, probe, shovel) is compulsory for off-piste and backcountry tours.
Rentals are available from ¥4000 per day and ¥3000 per consecutive day. Alternatively please bring your own equipment.
Travel Insurance is not provided by Furano Powder Tours. All guests on tour need to be covered by comprehensive travel insurance. Once you have booked the tour, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance.
Advanced First Aid Certification
Wilderness First Responder Certification
AST2 - Renewed yearly
3+ years ski patrol experience in Hokkaido, Japan
5+ years ski guiding experience in Hokkaido, Japan
Native bilingual in both English and Japanese
All bookings must be paid in advance before tour dates.
Deposit: A 20% non-refundable deposit is required to secure a booking.
Final Payment:
All pre-bookings must be paid by 1 December.
All bookings made during 1 December to 15 March require to be paid in full to secure a tour date.
Cancellation by the customer:
30 plus days before booking date commencement – 20% of the total booking value will be forfeited.
8 – 29 days before booking commencement – 50% of the total booking value will be forfeited.
Up to 7 days before booking commencement – the total booking value will be forfeited.
Please note that Furano Powder Tours is not responsible for any changes in snow conditions. Guided tours cannot be cancelled or rescheduled due to snow conditions.
Please note that no refunds will be made if the customer voluntarily leaves a tour for any reason after the tour has begun. This includes injuries.
Cancellation by Furano Powder Tours
If Furano Powder Tours is unable to offer its guiding service due to personal injury, illness, or other extreme circumstances, a complete refund will be provided.
Rate and price variation
All prices are based on Japanese Yen rates, which are then converted to your chosen currency based on mid-market rates.
Once a booking has been confirmed, please complete the registration of your groups details using the link below.