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Tohoku Ski Safari

Tohoku Ski Safari featuring Alts Bandai and Zao Onsen, Japan a Once In a Lifetime Ski Safari Across Less-known Tohoku Resorts


The attraction of skiing in the Tohoku region is that thanks to the exceptional bullet train network, there is no need to take an internal flight from Tokyo. Take a train to Koriyama station (1h 20mins) and a short private transfer (1hr) and you’ll pull into your hotel ready to hit the slopes the next day feeling fresh.

Firstly you’ll discover the largest ski area in Tohoku, spanning the 3 mountains of Mt. Bandai, Mt. Nekomagadate and Mt. Umaya, enjoying 2 full ski days in Alts Bandai with your Powder Byrne ski guide. From there, your private transfer (2h 15mins) will deliver you to Zao Onsen, a legendary ski resort in central Tohoku, your base for the next 3 nights.

Zao Onsen is a unique ski resort with a rich history and natural attractions offering 57 slopes served by modern gondolas and lifts. The town has been welcoming visitors since 860, and its steaming sulphur waters have made it a famous onsen spa town. The acidic baths throughout the resort offer rejuvenating effects and are a must-try experience.

Known for its incredible powder snow, interconnected ski zone and ‘Snow Monsters’ (trees laden with deep snow and frozen into unearthly forms). The Juhyogen slope stands out as the longest intermediate run in the resort, spanning over 10 km from the top to the village centre.

Zao Onsen’s rich cultural heritage sets it apart from other resorts. It offers a more authentic experience compared to internationally-styled resorts like Niseko, attracting skiers seeking a deeper connection to Japan’s history and culture.

If you are interested in booking a Tohoku Ski Safari, please contact our expert team. The ski safari dates are within March and April and based on 2 people sharing a double or twin room on a bed & breakfast basis.

  • Includes 8 nights of accommodation in hand-picked hotels and all ski passes for the ski safari.
  • All bullet train reservations and private transfers (excludes international flights).
  • Dedicated Powder Byrne ski guide to accompany the group and show you the best slopes and the best conditions throughout the safari.
  • Rental ski equipment is not included and is payable locally, and your ski guide will assist you with everything you need.
  • Also includes 2 additional nights in central Tokyo and a full-day private guide service.