Chasing Japow: Our Epic Hokkaido Adventure
Two weeks in Hokkaido? Absolute dream. We packed our gear, grabbed our trials crew, and hopped on a flight from Barcelona to Tokyo—then straight to Sapporo, ready to dive into Japan’s legendary powder.
Week 1: Asahikawa & Asahidake – Pure Backcountry Bliss
First stop: Asahikawa, our base for exploring the wild north. The highlight? Asahidake—Hokkaido’s highest peak and an absolute playground for backcountry lovers. This place is raw, untamed, and blanketed in the lightest, driest powder we’ve ever skied. We hit the Asahidake Ropeway, skinned up, and dropped into untouched lines with steaming volcanic vents in the background. Just insane.
Week 2: Niseko – Deep Snow & Even Deeper Bowls of Ramen
Next, we hit Niseko, the heart of Japow. This place is unreal—endless snowfall, tree runs that feel like video game levels, and some of the best resorts around: Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village, Annupuri, and Hanazono. Every day was a mix of deep turns, face shots, and stuffing ourselves with sushi and ramen. And after long days on the mountain, nothing beat soaking in a steaming onsen, letting the hot water melt away the day’s wipeouts.
Final Stop: Tokyo Madness
Before heading home, we spent three days in Tokyo, jumping between neon-lit streets, crazy food spots, and must-see neighborhoods. From Shibuya’s chaos to hidden ramen joints, we made sure to end the trip on a high.
Japow delivered, and then some. The snow, the food, the vibes—everything was next level. No question about it, we’re coming back next year.
