Matsuo Basho switched sword for pen and became Japan’s most famous poet. He embarked on four pilgrimages including one challenging journey on foot through Tohoku, northern Honshu in the late 17^th century.  The poetic work he penned after this walk, Oku no Hosomichi romanticised the beauty of Tohoku’s natural environment and has inspired many to follow in his footsteps.  On our quest for low density powder we will roughly follow Basho’s route…… but in reverse!  This journey offers 100% immersion in the traditional Japan of izakayas, onsens, ryokans, shrines and temples.  We will be skiing far from the international crowds that now plague the popular spots in Hokkaido and Hakuba.

For the experienced ski tourer with good downhill technique this trip gives 9 days skiing and offers a great insight into Japanese culture. We shall be staying in some truly wonderful places and the snow often has to be skied to be believed.