Ultimate Groove Japan, February 6-13, 2009
$3500 (does not include airfare from the U.S., alcohol or lunches)

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 eight 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, three days of backcountry skiing and two meals a day of exquisite Japanese cuisine.

Includes
• 5 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 days
• Travel to and from Ryoun Kaku, (inland where we’ll be backcountry skiing)
• Accommodations in Ryoun Kaku
• 7 days of instruction/guiding
• Pick up & drop off at the Chitose airport

Itinerary
The shuttle will pick you up at Chitose airport in Sapporo mid day on Thursday, February 5th and take you directly to the Hotel Kanronomori in Niseko. Departure from the US should be no later than February 4th, as you’ll lose a day on the way over. Your return flight back to the US can be booked for February 14th.

Accommodations
Hotel Kanronomori 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.

Instruction
The camp will be instructed and guided by Ultimate Groove founder Heather Paul and Ross Matlock, (click names for bios). We will have a local guide with us on our backcountry days.

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. Participants must have prior knowledge and use of a beacon, probe and shovel. 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 HP@ULTIMATEGROOVES FOR MORE INFORMATION

Japan Photos 2007: