What you might need

Powder skis, powder boards and touring rentals

We strongly recommend using touring skis or a splitboard, as this makes the hike much easier and gives you more time for extra turns! Alternatively you may need to rent powder skis or a powder snowboard, it can get quite deep here in Japan! Please contact us for advice on which rentals you will need and where to get them.

Nozawa Rental Options

Nozawa Ski School have a limited supply of touring skis and split boards available for rent. Please contact them for more information.

EMAIL NOZAWA SKI SCHOOL

Mt Dock has a good selection of powder skis/snowboards and touring gear. Call: 070-1403-0303 or visit https://mtdock-nozawa.com/

CALL MT DOCK

Shirakaba has a good selection of powder skis/snowboards and touring gear. Call: 0269-85-2519 or visit: http://www.shirakaba8.com/rental/english/

CALL SHIRAKABA

What to wear!

Layering is the most important technique for keeping warm during winter in the mountains. It is best if you have mutliple layers that are easily removed or added to. When you start walking you will get very warm so less layers are good, but when you stop you will become cold very quickly so the ability to add more layers is a must.

BASE LAYER

Your base layer should wick moisture away from your skin to keep you dry and warm. Avoid cotton — it retains moisture and can make you cold. Choose long underwear made from fabrics like Thermion, polypropylene, Thermax, Thinsulate, or silk.

MID LAYER

This insulating layer keeps you warm and can be removed once you heat up. Wool, fleece, pile, or down jackets, shirts, or vests all work well. Choose something that’s easy to take on and off as conditions change.

SHELL

Your outer shell should be waterproof, windproof, and breathable to protect you from snow and wind. Look for materials like Gore-Tex with a hood for added protection. A good shell keeps the elements out while letting sweat escape.

GLOVES

Your hands and fingers lose heat quickly in cold conditions, so quality ski or snowboard gloves are a must. You can also wear thin liner gloves underneath for extra warmth. Always carry a backup pair if possible.

HAT

You can lose up to 50% of your body heat through your head, so a warm hat or beanie is essential. Make sure it covers your ears and fits under your helmet if you wear one. Always pack a spare just in case.

GOGGLES

On sunny days, sunglasses protect your eyes during the hike up, but goggles are essential for skiing down. Snow reflects sunlight intensely, so eye protection is critical. Carry a spare pair of goggles in your pack if you can.

SKIS/SNOWBOARD

Skis, telemark skis, or snowboards are all acceptable for backcountry touring. Short skis and cross-country skis aren’t suitable. If you usually ride on-piste, adjust your bindings back for better float in powder.

WATER

Backcountry travel can be strenuous, and winter air is very dry. Bring plenty of water and drink regularly to stay hydrated throughout the day. Dehydration can sneak up quickly in the cold.

DOWN JACKET & EXTRAS

For bad weather days, pack extra layers like a lightweight down jacket in your backpack. Neck warmers, spare socks, and thin gloves are also useful. Carrying spare goggles and gloves is a smart idea for emergencies.

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