How likely am I to see rime ice?

The operator reports more than a 95% chance of seeing rime ice at Orofure Pass in January and February. The frost here is known for its fine, sparkling texture that often looks like small chandeliers hanging from the branches.

Do I need snowshoeing experience?

No. The route follows a gentle trail with little elevation change, and your guide shows you how to walk in snowshoes. All the equipment you need, including snowshoes and Nordic poles, is provided.

Why join a guided tour instead of walking on my own?

Part of the route passes through a winter-restricted area that is normally closed in the snowy season and can only be entered with permission. Going with a guide is how you get access to it.

What else might I see along the way?

At higher elevations you can often see individual snow crystals up close. Depending on snow conditions, there may also be a chance to try some sledding.

Can I book a private tour?

Yes. Private tours for families and small groups can be arranged on request on any day of the week. Contact us before booking to check availability.

Itineraries Packages Tours Locations

Loading…

YouTube
Instagram

About Trip To Japan

Company

About Us
Careers
Blog
Travel Guide
All tours
Japan travel packages
All itineraries
Groups

Partners

Tour operator signup
Hotel signup
Creator signup

Contact us

+81 3-4578-2152

info@triptojapan.com

Address

Takanawa Travel K.K.,
Kitashinagawa 5-11-1
Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan

Best locations to visit

Fukuoka
Hakone
Hiroshima
Hokkaido
Kawasaki
Kobe
Kyoto
Miyajima
Mt. Fuji
Nagano
Nagoya
Naoshima
Nara
Narita
Nikko
Okinawa
Osaka
Takayama
Tokyo
Tsumago
See all locations

Japan guide

Cycling Hokkaido: Biei and Furano by Bike
Motorcycle Touring in Japan: Licenses, Rentals and Routes
Golf in Japan: The Complete Trip Planning Guide for Visitors
2026 Japan Travel Costs: How Much You Need to Budget
Winter Onsen Towns in Japan: 10 Snowy Onsen Towns to Visit
Read guide

License

Certified Travel License
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office: No.3-8367

Quality
Terms
Privacy
Commerce Disclosure

Hokkaido

Orofure Pass Beginner Snowshoeing Tour in Hokkaido

English

2 hours

Explore the snowy birch forest of Orofure Pass on snowshoes, a gentle beginner walk in Shikotsu-Toya National Park above Noboribetsu Onsen. On clear days you look out toward Mount Yotei, and your snowshoes, Nordic poles, and guide are all included.

English-speaking guide
Snowshoes
Nordic poles
Consumption tax

What's not included

Warm clothes
Gloves
Headgear
Footwear

Guests must be between 12 and 75 years old.
Children cannot join the tour without an accompanying adult.
A minimum of 2 participants is needed, so solo travelers should inquire first.
The course is about 1 kilometer, with some uphill and downhill sections.
Snow depth changes along the trail, so expect some uneven footing.
Men's snowshoes fit Japan shoe sizes 25.5 to 30.5 centimeters (6 pairs).
Women's snowshoes fit Japan shoe sizes 22 to 27 centimeters (4 pairs).
Wear high-sided boots, such as walking boots, so the snowshoes fit securely.
Dress in easy-to-remove thermal layers for temperatures down to minus 10 degrees Celsius.
A hat, gloves, and a windproof, waterproof jacket and pants are recommended.
Bring sunglasses and sunscreen on sunny days.
The tour may be canceled in bad weather.

Meet directly at this location to join the tour

adex Noboribetsu, 76-3 Noboribetsuonsenchō, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido

Cancel more than 336 hours before the start time for a full refund.
From 336 hours before the start time until 168 hours before the start time, cancellation costs 10%.
From 168 hours before the start time until 48 hours before the start time, cancellation costs 50%.
From 48 hours before the start time until 24 hours before the start time, cancellation costs 70%.
Cancellations within 24 hours of the start time are non-refundable.