Niseko, Japan
February 2009

$TBA
Includes: 6 nights stay at the Hotel Kanronomori, includes breakfast & dinner, lift tickets to Hirafu Ski Resort, 1 night stay at Mitsui Urban Hotel in Sapporo, daily shuttle to Hirafu, guided backcountry day with Ultimate Groove guides as well as a local guide, 5 days of instruction/guiding , pick up & drop off at the Chitose airport
(Price does not include airfare from the US, alcohol or lunches)
Click here for photos from Japan

Hokkaido, the north island of Japan, has long been sot after as one of the premier powder destinations of the world. With 16 meters of annual snowfall, stunning scenery, incredible food and thousands of natural hot springs, it’s a once in a lifetime must do adventure.
The town of Niseko sits below four major ski resorts that constantly get blanketed by the lightest and driest snow nature has to offer. Cold Siberian air sweeps across the Sea of Japan picking up its moisture and unloading it on the mountains of Hokkaido. The volcanic nature of Hokkaido provides an abundance of natural hot springs to soak in after a great day’s skiing. Snowy birch trees and steaming volcano’s provide the scenic backdrop that caps the perfect winter vacation.
Heather Paul and her Ultimate Groove in conjunction with Ross Matlock (PSIA National team member) are hosting a once in a lifetime trip to Niseko to experience the snow and Japanese culture. Join them for a five day Telemark camp that includes airport transfers to and from the Chitose airport, excellent accommodations (with their own private hot spring), lift tickets, lessons from the countries top instructors, ski guides, a day of backcountry skiing and two meals a day of exquisite Japanese cuisine.
There is a similar camp for Japanese women offered simultaneously and the two groups will be mixed to provide the ultimate cultural experience and opportunity to create new friendships with passionate Japanese telemark skiers.
Now is your chance. Sign up now. The powdery mountains of Hokkaido await your arrival.

Accommodations
This is one of the finest hotels in the Niseko area and with its own natural hot spring provides an incredible experience. The Kanronomori is very Japanese with traditional sleeping arrangements and food. The breakfast and dinner that’s included is prepared and served Japanese style. Kimonos and wooden flip flops complete the Japanese experience and don’t be surprised if we are the only English speaking guests staying in the hotel.

Gear & Fitness
You must be an intermediate to advanced Telemark skier able to make 10 to 15 continuous turns in soft powdery conditions. Days of constant powder skiing require a good level of general fitness and the backcountry days will require a sound aerobic level. While not a must some experience with skinning and backcountry travel would be helpful. The weather can be cold windy and snowy so come prepared for full winter conditions.
In general the avalanche conditions are low to moderate. Due to the constant snow fall and slope angle the avalanche danger relatively small. Each participant should bring an avalanche beacon, shovel & pack.Aside from the abundance of snow the Japanese culture, food and hot springs make this a destination not to be missed. If sushi, powder and a soak in a natural hot springs is appealing then this trip is a must for you.

Please contact Heather for more information and to reserve your spot today. (970)209-9875 or email at hp@ultimategrooves.com

If you would like to sign up, please include your name, address, ability level and equipment needs.
A 50% deposit, payable by check, is necessary to reserve your spot. Please send deposits to PO Box 603, Crested Butte, CO 81224. Thanks!
CANCELLATION POLICY: Deposits will be returned in full if cancellation is made 2 weeks prior to the event, 50% deposit will be returned if cancelled a week in advance. 50% of the deposits can be applied to future camps if cancelled within a week of the event.