Untracked powder. everything sorted. simply turn up & enjoy!
26JAN-7 FEB 2027
Discover Japan With A Local
10 nights on snow with local host ‘Yuko Bayer’ from $8,560 per person
This 10-night journey pairs the deep powder and tree-lined terrain of Madarao with the storied onsen culture of Myoko Kogen, Japan’s first internationally known ski resort.
This is Japan as the locals know it. Skiing without the crowds. Hot springs at the end of every day. A private visit to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park between resorts. Casual group dinners over local cuisine. And the privilege of travelling with a Japanese national host who will help bridge the language, culture, and history every step of the way.
Built for couples, solo travellers, and small groups who want to experience Japan with everything taken care of: stress-free, immersive, and unforgettable. Cap it off with the optional 3-night Tokyo extension and finish in the neon, food, and energy of Shibuya. Prefer to extend somewhere else? AMPED can make it happen.
Quick Facts
- Dates: 26 January to 7 February 2027
- Duration: 10 nights on snow, optional 3-night Tokyo extension
- Resorts: Madarao Kogen and Myoko Kogen
- Group size: 8 to 14 adults
- Host: Yuko Bayer, Osaka-born ski instructor
- From: NZ $8,560 per person, twin share
Your Host | Yuko Bayer
Yuko is your local on the ground. Born in Osaka, she spent years working as a ski instructor in Japan before moving to New Zealand in 2017, where she now teaches and coaches at Snowplanet in Auckland.
With six winter seasons across Nagano and Hokkaido, a season at Mt Hutt, and three years coaching everyone from three-year-olds to advanced racers, Yuko is at home on snow and on the ground in Japan.
With Yuko hosting, language, logistics, and cultural nuance are sorted. You travel Japan with a local, and gain the insider access that comes with it.
Qualifications
- NZSIA Ski Level 2
- NZSIA Children’s Ski Level 1
- SAJ Ski Proficiency Test Grade 1
- Snowplanet Ski Racing Coach
Madarao Kogen
5 nights, Ski-in/Ski-out
A rising star on Japan’s powder map. Madarao Kogen is known for its playful terrain, tree-filled slopes, and refreshingly uncrowded vibe. It’s a paradise for free riders and families alike.
Linked with neighbouring Tangram Ski Circus, you’ll have access to legendary tree runs like Powder Theater and Powder Wave 2, deep bowls, and groomers for every level. Off the snow, enjoy onsen, snowshoeing, and cultural experiences in nearby Iiyama.
- 20 lifts
- 10 to 13m annual snowfall
- 30% Beginner | 35% Intermediate | 35% Advanced
Between Resorts
A private transfer from Madarao to Myoko Kogen via the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, one of Japan’s most iconic wildlife experiences.
Myoko Kogen
5 nights, ski-in / ski-out
A step back in time. Established in 1911 and home to Japan’s first internationally known ski resort (1937), Myoko Kogen still feels gloriously uncrowded.
Snow walls reach four metres, an average 3m base sits underfoot, and nine linked resorts spread across the valley, each with its own terrain, character, and on-slope dining. Off the snow: authentic Japanese hospitality, a 33-restaurant on-mountain food scene, and natural hot springs to sink into after a powder day.
- 34 lifts including 2 gondolas
- 13m annual snowfall
- 25% Beginner | 53% Intermediate | 22% Advanced
Itinerary At A Glance
- 26 Jan: Depart New Zealand
- 27 Jan: Arrive Japan, airport shuttle to Madarao
- 27 Jan to 1 Feb: 5 nights Madarao + 4 days skiing Madarao / Tangram
- 1 Feb: Private transfer to Myoko Kogen via Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
- 1 to 6 Feb: 5 nights Myoko Kogen + 3 days skiing
- 6 Feb: Rail transfer to Tokyo
- 6 to 9 Feb (optional): 3 nights Shibuya, Tokyo
- 7 / 9 Feb: Depart Japan
What's Included
- All airport and inter-resort transfers
- 5 nights Madarao, Western Hotel, ski-in / ski-out, breakfast and dinner daily
- 4-day Madarao / Tangram lift pass
- Private transfer Madarao to Myoko via Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
- 5 nights Myoko Kogen, premium ryokan with ensuite, ski-in / ski-out, daily breakfast
- 3-day Myoko Kogen lift pass
- Rail tickets Myoko to Tokyo
Not Included
- International airfares (AMPED can quote economy, premium, or business class)
- Travel insurance with snowsports cover, recommended (AMPED can quote)
- Equipment hire, lessons, private guiding, additional activities
- Group dinners in Myoko (casually offered, pay direct)
- Tokyo / Narita train if taking the optional extension (approx. $40 pp)
Pricing | From
- NZ $8,560 per person, twin share
- NZ $12,999 single room
- Optional Tokyo extension (6 to 9 Feb): from NZ $1,200 single / double room, NZ $1,472 twin bedded room
- Optional private Myoko Kogen / Madarao guiding day or days available: let us know if you’d like a quote
Small group: 8 to 14 adults. Pricing in NZD. Conditions apply.
JAPAN GROUP FAQs
What ability level is the Japan Ski Group Tour suited to?
A: The tour suits a wide range of abilities. The combined terrain across Madarao and Myoko Kogen is approximately 25% beginner, 53% intermediate and 22% advanced, making it a strong fit for beginner through to advanced skiers and snowboarders.
Are flights included in the Japan Ski Group Tour?
A: No. International airfares are not included in the tour price, but AMPED can book economy, premium economy or business class flights to suit your budget and preference.
Is travel insurance included in the Japan Ski Group Tour?
A: No. Travel insurance with snowsports cover is not included but is strongly recommended. AMPED can provide a quote as part of your booking.
Can I hire ski or snowboard equipment on the Japan Ski Group Tour?
A: Equipment hire is not included in the tour price but AMPED can pre-arrange premium rentals at approximately NZD $70 per day at both resorts. Just let us know when booking and we will sort it in advance.
What is Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park and is it included?
A: Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is a famous wildlife reserve in Nagano where wild Japanese macaques bathe in natural hot spring pools surrounded by snow. A private visit to the park is included in the tour as part of the transfer day between Madarao and Myoko Kogen.
What is a ryokan and what can I expect at the Myoko accommodation?
A: A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn, offering a culturally immersive stay with tatami-style rooms, onsen hot spring bathing and Japanese hospitality. The Myoko Kogen accommodation is a premium ryokan with ensuite facilities, ski-in ski-out access and daily breakfast included.
What is the luggage allowance for the Japan Ski Group Tour?
A: Air New Zealand allows one carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 23kg in economy, with higher allowances in premium economy and business class. Allowances vary with other airlines, so AMPED will confirm your exact entitlement when arranging your flights.
Should I bring my own skis or snowboard to Japan?
A: You are more than welcome to bring your own skis or board. Japan’s legendary powder snow is best enjoyed on wider powder skis and boards, so if you are bringing your own gear, make sure they are up to the task. Alternatively, AMPED can pre-arrange premium rentals at approximately NZD $70 per day, so you can travel light and ski on quality equipment without the hassle.
What do I do with my ski gear if I am adding the Tokyo extension?
A: No need to lug ski bags around Tokyo. Yuko can arrange to have your gear couriered directly from Myoko Kogen to Narita Airport, so you can explore the city freely and travel light. It is one of the practical advantages of travelling with a local guide who knows exactly how to make the logistics work.
Why should I book the AMPED Japan Ski Group Tour with Yuko Bayer?
A: Yuko is the difference between a ski holiday in Japan and a genuinely immersive Japanese experience. Osaka-born, Auckland-based and a qualified ski instructor, she brings together world-class skiing and deep cultural insight in a way that is rare to find. From navigating local restaurants to unlocking the best terrain at Madarao and Myoko Kogen, Yuko ensures the group gets well beyond the tourist surface. If you want to truly experience Japan, not just ski it, this tour delivers that.
Do I need to pay in full to secure my spot?
A: No, just a 50% deposit locks in your spot. The remaining balance isn’t due until 3 months before departure, giving you time to plan.
