This post is also available in: 日本語
HEAD DEEP INTO THE BACKCOUNTRY OR EXPLORE THE LIFT-ACCESSED TERRAIN
There’s so much waiting to be discovered within and beyond the resort boundaries at The Aomori Spring. Whether you are looking for a gentle snowshoe walk through tranquil snow-covered forests, or a challenging backcountry adventure above the tree line on Mt Iwaki, we have a guided package to suit everyone.
Please note: All guided tours MUST be booked in advance. Subject to availability and weather.
GUIDED BACKCOUNTRY TOURS
If you want to challenge yourself to the next level, consider a guided backcountry tour. We take you beyond the resort boundaries, through the famed “snow monsters” above Mt Iwaki’s tree line. Deep, untouched powder and awe-inspiring views over the Sea of Japan await you.
Our JMGA-qualified guide is highly experienced in backcountry touring and is a member of the Shirakami Guide Association. Your safety is our number one priority.
| Group Backcountry Tours | Price |
|---|---|
Residents* (Experience required) |
¥13,000 each person (2 person group)¥12,000 each person (3-6 person group) |
Visitors* (Experience required) |
¥15,000 each person (2 person group)¥13,000 each person (3-6 person group) |
| Private Backcountry Tours | Price |
|---|---|
Residents |
¥15,000 each person (2 person group)¥13,000 each person (3-6 person group) |
Visitors |
¥18,000 each person (2 person group)¥16,000 each person (3 person group)¥14,000 each person (4 person group)¥13,000 each person (5-6 person group) |
| Equipment | Price (Residents & Visitors) |
|
Avalanche Gear (beacon, shovel, probe) |
Included |
| Snowshoes | ¥1,100 |
| Climbing Poles | ¥1,100 |
| Touring skis, splitboard and climbing skins | ¥7,700 |
*Only guests with backcountry experience may join group tours (a group is a minimum of 2 people and maximum of 6 people). Beginners MUST engage in private guiding.
･Guests must be physically fit, confident as a skier or snowboarder, and comfortable in variable off-piste snow conditions. Guests are expected to have the physical stamina to hike for 3 or more hours. Guests are required to sign a liability waiver form prior to departure.
･Package price includes bi-lingual guide (Japanese & English). Price does NOT include lift ticket nor insurance. Guests are requested to hire insurance which covers backcountry activities before joining a group or private tour.
･Please examine this flyer for more information including procedures, items to bring, and rental fees.
SNOWSHOE HIKING
Navigate deep snow in a pair of snowshoes and explore the natural landscape. See not only your own, but also the footprints of animals native to the region and even get a chance to spot them if you are lucky.
Take a guided trip through the beech forest trail with our guide, or simply rent snowshoes for your own self-guided adventure.
| Snowshoe Hiking* | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 2 hour guided hike | ¥3,800 |
| Snowshoe rentals and insurance included. |
* A minimum of 2 people are required for snowshoe guided hikes; the maximum group size is 10 people.
Advance reservations required and subject to availability. We encourage you to book 7 days in advance.