Where to Ski And Snowboard - Freeride World Tour heads to Japan

Freeride World Tour heads to Japan

4th October 2016, by Abi Butcher

Japan is to host the first ever international freeride competition next January

Japan is to host the first ever international freeride competition next January. The Freeride World Tour (FWT) this week announced a qualifier for the tour will take place in Hakuba, high in the so-called “Japanese Alps” on 11 January.

National and international skiers and snowboarders will have a chance to qualify for the four-star Freeride World Qualifier (FWQ) through an open two-star FWQ also held in Hakuba on the same day — but in more accessible terrain.

The news is a major step forward in the development of freeride in Japan — a growing sport in a country with more than 100 years of skiing culture.

“Partnering with Hakuba, Japan is one of the most important milestones in Freeride World Tour history,” said Nicolas Hale-Woods, CEO of FWT Management SA Group.

“Hakuba proposes an incredible playful terrain with fantastic snow conditions, over a century of winter-sports culture, and a unique, ver y fine hospitality. Freeride Hakuba 4 stars 2017, first ever freeride competition in Asia, is a first step in freeride development in Japan, and I am convinced many more to follow.”

Also new to Japan this winter is tour operator Scott Dunn — making its first foray into the country. Scott Dunn will offer two accommodation options in Niseko – the boutique hotel Ki Niseko and luxury Kasara Niseko Village Townhouses. Both give access to Niseko’s famous deep, dry powder snow.