IS THERE A MINIMUM SKILL LEVEL?

YES - While we tailor each adventure to the group and can accommodate a range of abilities thanks to our varied terrain and multiple guides, all participants must be at least intermediate-level skiers or riders with experience in powder and trees. Our terrain is fully backcountry—there are no groomed runs. If your skiing has been limited to in-bounds resort trails, we strongly recommend building your off-piste skills at a resort before joining us.

That said, you don’t need to be an expert. If you’re comfortable in deep snow, can navigate glades confidently, and are excited by the challenge of natural terrain, you’re going to thrive on our private land.

WHAT DOES CAT SKIING INCLUDE?

Our CAT skiing and riding is some of the best in the area. We have 1,800 acres of completely private terrain accessible via snow CAT. The days generally run from 0900-1600, and you can expect to ski/ride 7-9 runs each day with an average vertical drop of 375 metres per run. The CAT skiing terrain accommodates all ability levels with plenty of options for both intermediate, and advanced skiiers/riders alike. We also provide a delicious hot lunch for all guests on CAT days at the T23 dome, a cozy rewarming spot where guests can kick back and recharge mid-day. All of our day-tours include a highly experienced guide.

Guests are welcome to use our CATs for CAT-assisted touring as well. The drop-off location is located along a gentle ridge that provides guests the option to continue upward on foot. The slope is perfect for boot-packing, snowshoeing, or traditional ski/split-board touring. This option opens up even more of the vast terrain available to guests. Our guides are happy to join you on your quest for vertical.

Our Standard CAT can accommodate up to six guests. Our Siamese CAT can accommodate up to seven guests.

WHAT KIND OF SNOWCATS DO YOU HAVE?

We have four “standard” CATs - Ohara SM30s and SM20s and one “Siamese” CAT - Piston Bully 130

WHAT IS THE LONGEST ACCESSIBLE RUN?

From the CAT drop point: 375m or 1,200ft (vertical)

CAT-assisted touring: 1050m or 3,444ft (vertical)

WHAT IS THE TOTAL ACCESSIBLE ACREAGE?

From the CAT drop point: 1,800 acres

CAT-assisted touring: 9,800 acres

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE DAILY VERTICAL I SHOULD EXPECT TO COVER?

2,500-3,500m or 8,000-12,000ft / day

SHOULD I BOOK MULTIPLE DAY-TOURS OR THE WEEK EXPERIENCE?

Guest who want to spend 2+ days with T23 are generally better off booking our Week Experience tour. This product includes all transportation upon arrival in Hokkaido, lodging, food, 3x days of CAT skiing, 3x days of resort OR ski touring, backcountry guides, and a variety of other extra-curricular activities. We shape the trip to your needs, ability level, and the snow conditions. Our Week Experience guests consistently say that there’s no better way to enjoy the immersive Japan ski experience than through this package! Our flat rate also ensures you’re getting the most value for your money and limits the friction of traveling in Japan - we also keep you away from the crowds!

HOW FIT DO I NEED TO BE?

There’s gonna be some walking if you want to take advantage of the full range of back country options we provide - 9,800 acres worth. We can tailor the trip to fit your preferred hike-to-ski ratio, but some of our favorite runs are way remote. You can let our experts guides know how far to dial the pain based on your experience and desire for pristine JaPow. Our CAT skiing location provides plenty of vertical for guests who prefer to enjoy lap after lap of untouched powder without hiking. Our CAT assisted touring allows guests to take a quick tour or simple boot-pack in order to access even more untouched terrain.

WHAT IF I FORGET SOMETHING?

Our lodging is in the heart of Rankoshi Town, so you’ll have access to the best of Japanese convenience stores – they supply just about any travel item you would need. For specialty items or outdoor equipment, we’re just a short drive away from the resort town of Niseko which has plenty of outfitters spanning the full range of outdoor activities. We also keep plenty of extra gear on hand for emergencies.

HOW DO I GET THERE?

Week Experience guests: You need to fly into New Chitose Airport (CTS) or get to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Train Station. We’ll collect you and your gear and take care of all logistics from there.

Day guests: You’ll be provided a meeting location in your pre-trip guide upon booking and will need to arrange your own transportation OR book transportation through T23 (not included). T23 can often provide transfers from local lodging, but this must be arranged prior to your day with us.

WHAT’S THE FOOD LIKE?

Well obviously it’s Japanese. But it’s not all raw fish and rice. It’s the best of regional Hokkaido fare - eating with the locals. There’s ramen, grilled meat skewers called yakitori, cooked seafood, and plenty of fresh vegetable options. Depending on the length of your trip, we also provide snacks and ample access to calories to fuel the long days.