Niseko Backcountry Guiding
2025-26 Season Guiding Rates & Information
| Guiding | Information | Full Day (6.5 hours) | Half Day (3.5 hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-Bounds Resort Guiding – Grand Hirafu | Ideal for first-time visitors who want to learn the mountain and find the best lines. | ¥80,000 – ¥110,000 | ¥52,000 – ¥60,000 |
| Sidecountry Guiding – Lift Accessed | Best for confident intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders who want to explore terrain beyond the main runs. | ¥90,000 – ¥120,000 | – |
| Premium Sidecountry Guiding or Backcountry Touring | Includes private transport to the best locations based on conditions. | ¥97,000 – ¥125,000 | – |
| Explorer Guiding – Rusutsu Resort | A full day guided experience at nearby Rusutsu Resort. | ¥110,000 – ¥140,000 | – |
| Mt. Yotei Backcountry Touring | For experienced skiers and snowboarders seeking a classic Japanese backcountry experience. | ¥150,000 – ¥160,000 | – |
Niseko Academy Guiding
Niseko Academy provides private ski and snowboard guiding across Niseko and surrounding areas.
Rates vary by date:
- Peak season: 22 December 2025 to 1 March 2026
- Off-Peak: 2 March 2026 to end of season

WEISS Powder Cat Tours 2025–26 Season Rates
| Guiding | Information | Private tour (1–12 guests) | Group tour (7–12 guests) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mt. Weisshorn Powder Cat Tour | Each tour includes return transfers from your Niseko accommodation, professional guiding, exclusive mountain access, lunch at the Park Hyatt Mountain Lounge, snacks and water, and downloadable photos from the day. | ¥1,750,000 /group | ¥175,000 /person |
WEISS Powder Cat Tours
Ski or snowboard untouched powder on Mt. Weisshorn with a full-day cat-assisted tour. A specialised snowcat vehicle provides lift-free access to a private mountain, delivering fresh tracks all day without queues or hiking.
Tours run for six hours from 08:30 to 14:30 with a maximum group size of 12. Experienced local guides select the best terrain based on conditions and manage safety throughout the day. This tour is suitable for confident intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders.
Advance booking is essential due to limited daily capacity.

Niseko Resort Services Available to Book
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need previous backcountry experience?
For in-bounds guiding, no. Sidecountry and touring require intermediate ability and good fitness. If you are a strong skier, a guided backcountry tour is a good way to learn about backcountry skiing and is suitable for those even without experience. Speak with your guide in advance about your experience so your tour can be tailored to you.
Is avalanche safety gear included?
Equipment is available for hire as part of your guiding booking. You will receive instructions on how to use all safety equipment.
Do I need a lift pass for guided days?
Lift passes are required for in-bounds and sidecountry guiding, but not for backcountry guiding.
What happens if weather conditions are poor?
Guides will adjust the itinerary or location to suit conditions and safety.
Can beginners join backcountry tours?
Backcountry touring is not suitable for beginner skiers. In-bounds guiding is recommended instead.
Still Have Questions? Our specialists are here to help
Fill out an enquiry form to get in touch with our friendly team.
Contact Us


