I had always dreamed of visiting Japan in winter. Pictures of snow-covered mountains, steaming hot springs, and delicious ramen after a day in the snow kept popping up on my social media feed. This year, I finally made it happen—I booked my very first snowboarding trip.
- Arriving in Hokkaido: First Impressions
- Finding the Right Lessons: Samurai Snow Concierge
- My First Day on the Slopes
- Staying in Rusutsu: Comfort and Convenience
- Beyond Snowboarding: Exploring Hokkaido’s Charm
- Side Trips to Niseko
- Why Private Lessons Made the Difference
- Practical Tips for Beginners
- Memories to Last a Lifetime
Arriving in Hokkaido: First Impressions
I landed at New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido and hopped on a shuttle bus bound for Rusutsu Resort, about two hours away. I had read that Rusutsu was perfect for beginners because of its wide, quiet slopes and excellent snow quality.
As we approached the resort, the scenery became magical: snow-laden trees lined the roads, and the mountains glistened under the winter sun. Unlike the crowds I’d seen in other famous ski destinations, Rusutsu felt peaceful and welcoming.
Finding the Right Lessons: Samurai Snow Concierge
Because I had never stepped on a snowboard before, I knew I needed lessons. I came across Samurai Snow Concierge, a private snowboarding school run by two internationally certified instructors.
From the moment I contacted them, they were incredibly helpful, suggesting the best time to book lessons and even advising me on what to wear. Meeting them in person at Rusutsu confirmed I’d made the right choice. They were warm, friendly, and passionate about teaching beginners.
My First Day on the Slopes
We started on West Mountain, which has gentle, well-groomed runs perfect for first-timers. My instructor patiently showed me how to strap into my snowboard, balance, and start making basic turns. The small group size—just me and my instructor—meant I received constant feedback.
I fell a few times, of course, but each time they picked me up with a smile and explained what to do differently. By the afternoon, I was gliding down a beginner slope on my own. The feeling was incredible.
Staying in Rusutsu: Comfort and Convenience
I stayed at the The Vale Rusutsu, a modern ski-in/ski-out hotel with breathtaking mountain views. After snowboarding, soaking in the hotel’s onsen (hot spring) felt heavenly.
For dinner, I tried Lamp House, a restaurant famous for its juicy Hokkaido wagyu beef steaks. On another night, I enjoyed fresh seafood at Izakaya, located right inside the resort village.
Beyond Snowboarding: Exploring Hokkaido’s Charm
One of the best things about Samurai Snow Concierge was that they didn’t just teach snowboarding. They introduced me to local culture and experiences:
- They recommended visiting Lake Toya, a short drive from Rusutsu, to see its volcanic caldera and soak in the lakeside hot springs.
- They suggested trying Miso Ramen at Sumire, a legendary ramen shop in Sapporo, on my way back to the airport.
- They even helped me book a snowshoe tour through the forest, where I spotted fox tracks in the snow.
Side Trips to Niseko
Later in my trip, I spent a couple of days in Niseko, another world-famous resort in Hokkaido. The nightlife there was vibrant, and I enjoyed dinner at Ezo Seafoods, which served the freshest sashimi I’d ever tasted.
Why Private Lessons Made the Difference
Looking back, the highlight of my trip was definitely learning with Samurai Snow Concierge. Unlike large group lessons, they customized every detail to my needs. They taught me not only how to ride safely but also how to enjoy every moment on the mountain.
Their local knowledge was invaluable—helping me choose the right rental gear, suggesting the best slopes for my level, and introducing me to authentic Japanese experiences off the mountain.
Practical Tips for Beginners
If you’re planning your first snowboarding trip to Japan, here are my top tips:
- Choose the right resort: Rusutsu, Hakuba, and Nozawa Onsen are all excellent for beginners thanks to their gentle terrain and English-friendly services.
- Book private lessons: Samurai Snow Concierge is worth every penny for the personalized attention and confidence boost. They are perfect instructors, so they are so busy in winter season. I recommend you will book their lessons as soon as possible.
- Stay at a ski-in/ski-out hotel: It saves time and energy, especially when you’re tired from learning all day.
- Enjoy the culture: Don’t miss out on onsens, local restaurants, and exploring the nearby towns.
Memories to Last a Lifetime
Learning to snowboard in Japan was the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. The combination of pristine snow, traditional villages, and the kindness of my instructors at Samurai Snow Concierge made it an experience I’ll never forget.
I’m already planning my next trip back. Next time, I want to ride more challenging slopes and maybe even try some powder snow off-piste—with a guide, of course!
If you’re thinking about trying snowboarding for the first time, Japan is the ultimate destination. You’ll not only learn a new sport but also discover the beauty of Japanese winter culture.
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