Skilas Japan has launched its Silky Powder Adventure (SPA) Tour in Hokkaido, Japan, for the 2015/16 winter season. It is targeted at all powder-seeking, skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts who wish to experience some of the world’s lightest and deepest snow.
The SPA Tour is designed for people who adore the mountains, but also enjoy spending time with like-minded people and are keen to explore the mystical land of Japan.
Skilas has chosen Hokkaido, Japan for its tours, a global mecca for powder snow enthusiasts getting up to 11 metres of snow per season.
“Japan is a truly magical place to ski and snowboard. The sheer quantity and quality of the near-guaranteed daily powder snow is a sight to behold,” says Lionel Hacket of Skilas Japan. “Add to that the first class hospitality, succulent food, amazing volcanic scenery, relaxing ambiance and fascinating culture, and Japan really becomes the ultimate destination that should be on every powder seeker’s bucketlist.”
There are hundreds of resorts on the main island of Honshu and on the northern island of Hokkaido. The colder Hokkaido climate provides a more consistent snowfall than in Honshu, both in terms of quality and quantity. It often snows almost every day between mid-December to mid-February, perfect for skiers and snowboarders looking for fresh tracks.
“Perhaps the biggest misconception about Japan is that it is a very expensive country to visit. The reality is that a two week snow holiday to Japan – all-in – will cost roughly the same as an equivalent snow holiday in Europe or North America,” continues Hacket. “Although the initial cost of the flights may be high, expenses once in Japan are affordable due to the favourable currency exchange rates.”
The first week of the SPA tour starts with eight nights stay in Sapporo (the main city in Hokkaido), which is surrounded by five different ski resorts, as well as great restaurant, entertainment and cultural options. The second week is at Rusutsu Resort to enjoy the mountains, with a one day excursion to Niseko.
Optional tours can be arranged for a great insight into the Japanese people and customs, including a visit to the Hokkaido Shrine, a day relaxing at an onsen, checking out the daily catch at the fish market, taking a tour around the Sapporo Beer Factory or enjoying the regular Japanese festivals.
Prices start at $2,300 and includes all accommodation for 13 nights with breakfast, 10 days ski pass, all transportation, guided tours within the resort areas, and a welcome dinner. For more information, visit skilastours.com.
