Take the memories,
leave only the tracks
With Hokkaido Drift we day trip around Central Hokkaido chasing the best snow conditions on offer for that day. Ride the best terrain in the region with a local guide who knows where to find the goods.
The Experience
Asahikawa city is in Central Hokkaido, one of the most snow-sure parts of Japan. It has the most days with snowfall and the coldest temperatures maintaining its dry supreme quality. As the name suggests we chase the snow drifts around Central Hokkaido seeking out the deepest, driest powder on offer. We provide you with the best experience based on your groups riding or skiing ability, offering backcountry zones filled with endless hits, pillows, banks and wind lips to powder filled bowls, open glades and low angle tree runs leaving you only wanting more.
Onsen is a huge part of Japanese life and there's no better way to finish a day on the mountain than to soak in the mineral rich, geothermal waters of a traditional Japanese onsen.
Not only do we seek out the best possible Ja-pow we'll also guide you to the best local eats, Hokkaido is known as the "bread basket of Japan" and Asahikawa is right at the heart
of it with a happening night life and a unique cultural scene. Indulge in delicious Izakaya, Nabe, Jingisukan, Yakiniku, and more to power up for another day of smashing POW. Come along for an exciting adventure that combines incredible powder with mouthwatering food!
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The Company
Hokkaido Drift is a small owner operated company based in Asahikawa, Japan providing a professional and personalized experience based on your groups skiing or riding ability.
Package tours include a powder packed week of sliding, comfortable lodging, mouth-watering dinners and soothing onsens insuring a hassle free authentic stay, while day tours can give you the freedom to explore and dine as you choose unlocking it's secrets for your self.
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Our mission is to take the guess work out of your powder experience providing the transport and knowledge getting you to the right resort on the right day, and in the right spot to get those fresh line's you've been searching for.
The Guide
Hi there, my name is Aaron and I am based in Asahikawa, Japan. I am the owner and lead guide of Hokkaido Drift.
Originally from New Zealand, I lived in Queenstown - the adventure capital of the world - here I fell in love with its majestic mountains and the thrill of extreme activities the area offers. This is where my love for winter sports began!
After meeting my Japanese wife I have been a regular visitor to Japan, particularly Asahikawa and Central Hokkaido. Since 2008 I have been privileged enough to play in the garden of the god's "Kamui Mintara", learning the resorts and the backcountry and reveling in it's abundant snow falls. I finally moved to Asahikawa in 2022 with my family where I initially worked as a resort driver and host at Rhythm Japan. Here I hosted staff at various resorts in and around the Niseko area.
Realizing that I had the skills required to host and guide people in and around the resorts put me on this path, and over the past 2 years I've been professionally guiding groups in Central Hokkaido, putting smiles on faces creating unforgettable moments.
Get ready for an epic adventure where my love for riding powder snow meets the awesome vibes of Japanese culture. I’m all about finding the best powder and amazing experiences this area has to offer. Come join me on a tour, and let’s make your dream a reality! Grab your spot now!