Hakkoda is the Holy Grail for powder junkies wanting to take on the wilds of Japans backcountry. This resort is the pinnacle for freeriders with access to the 8 peak mountain range that gets smothered in over 17 metres of snow. It’s a ski destination like no other having unlimited off-piste and ungroomed runs accessed by a gondola rising 1320 metres that will also offload riders at the start of 2 marked trails. Blast through freshies amongst the giant Juhyo, Japans “snow monster” trees leaving first tracks in this raw and untamed region.

For those not quite ready for an extreme challenge Hakkoda has 5 courses for intermediate skiers and snowboarders. Most popular are the sign-posted Forest Course and the Direct Course with natural ungroomed runs that are clear of trees and regularly checked by ski patrols. This is a resort where it’s best to be prepared and take the precautions necessary for backcountry riding, even in the patrolled areas as Mother Nature can be unpredictable in this part of the world.

There are two hotels at the base of the mountain, a classic style ski lodge and the Hakkoda Resort Hotel which also has a restaurant. To re-fuel head to the base of the ropeway for a warm ramen or curry, there’s also a small convenience store for essentials. Hakkoda is in a league of its own luring the adventure hungry back for more.