Plan Your Ultimate Japan Snow Adventure
Custom Ski & Snowboard Trip Planning for Hokkaido, Japan. Chase the storms. Ride deeper.
Hi, I'm Scott!
I've spent over a decade in the ski industry, working as a ski patroller in New Zealand and guiding in Hokkaido’s legendary backcountry. Now, I use that experience to help others plan the kind of trip I’d want to take myself, well timed, deeply considered, and packed with great snow and unforgettable experiences.
With a strong foundation in avalanche safety, and guest care, I bring both local knowledge and professional insight to your trip planning. I’ve assisted riders of all levels to make the most of Japan’s winter, whether it’s finding the best resorts, to staying safe in deep snow and knowing where to eat after a big day.
Whether you're hunting for waist-deep runs or soaking in hidden onsens after a big day, I’ll help you craft a trip that fits your riding style, budget, and stoke level.
The Yama Tracks Service – $249 AUD*
Your custom plan for the snow trip of a lifetime in Hokkaido.
✅ 1 on 1 planning session (Google Meet or email)
✅ Custom itinerary based on your riding level & trip goals after the planning session
✅ Resort picks tailored to you
✅ Packing list, gear advice & avalanche safety insights
✅ Local secrets – onsens, food, off-snow adventures
Turnaround: Within 5 days
Delivered as: Detailed Itinerary
Includes: 1 follow-up Q&A session
*International payments accepted via Stripe/PayPal
Why Yama Tracks?
Because you're not booking a tour. You're building an unforgettable adventure with someone who's been there, scoped that line, and knows what’s worth your time.
The Story Behind the Tracks
"Yama" (山) is the Japanese word for mountain. The mountains are my home, they are a place of deep beauty, challenge and change. At Yama Tracks, the name reflects my love for the lines we leave behind: skin tracks that climb through silence and ski turns drawn in fresh snow. This is a story shaped by snow, terrain, weather, and respect for the mountains.
Not A Travel Agent. A Ski Guide Helping You Plan Your Hokkaido Winter Experience.
At Yama Tracks, I don’t sell flights or hotel bookings. I don’t work for resorts and I don’t push packages with hidden commissions.
I offer something different and more valuable:
Real local knowledge from years guiding in Hokkaido’s backcountry.
Custom advice tailored to your riding style and travel goals.
Zero commission bias. I don’t earn a dollar from where you stay or ride.
Travel agents send you on a trip.
I help you ride deeper and make every moment count from your first turn to the last.
From The Skiers and Riders I’ve Worked With
“Planning a multi-generational trip to Japan felt daunting at first, but working with Scott at Yama Tracks completely changed that. He took the time to understand our interests, travel style, and priorities, and then crafted an itinerary that feels both exciting and deeply personal. From cultural experiences to scenic routes, every detail has been considered.
What impressed me most was Scott’s responsiveness and depth of knowledge. He answered every question with clarity and patience, and even helped us navigate gear questions and seasonal timing. I feel genuinely excited and prepared for this trip, and that’s thanks to the care and expertise
Yama Tracks brought to the planning process.”
— Heidi, NZ
“I’ve planned plenty of trips over the years, but this was the first time I felt completely confident handing the reins to someone else. Scott at Yama Tracks was meticulous in organizing our travel logistics, from trains and accommodations to regional transport and timing. He anticipated things I wouldn’t have thought of and made sure everything aligns smoothly.
What I appreciated most was the clarity: no vague suggestions or generic advice. Just solid, well-researched recommendations backed by real experience. I’m looking forward to the trip knowing we’re in good hands.”
— Karl, BC, Canada
“Even though our Japan trip is still ahead, I already feel like we’ve had a taste of it thanks to Scott at Yama Tracks.
What really impressed me was his knowledge of Japan’s ski regions and onsen culture. He helped us choose the perfect ski area based on our ability levels and travel timing, and even explained how to navigate lift passes and local transport. Plus, his advice on onsen etiquette and scenic hot spring towns made me feel confident and excited, especially since it’s all new to me.
Scott’s enthusiasm and depth of insight made planning fun and stress-free. I’m counting down the days!.”
— Emma, Ireland
FAQs
What does Yama Tracks actually do?
Yama Tracks is a travel consultancy for skiers and snowboarders heading to Hokkaido, Japan. I don’t sell packaged tours or book hotels. Instead, I create custom trip plans based on your riding style, ability, and goals.
You’ll get expert insight into where to go, when to ride, and how to get around, all from someone who’s guided for years in Hokkaido’s powder.
Are you a travel agent or tour operator?
No, and that’s what sets me apart.
I’m not a travel agent or tour operator: I don’t work on commission or push partner resorts.
Yama Tracks is a remote planning service for your Hokkaido ski/board trip. This being said, I can recommend trusted local guides if you’re looking to book a guided tour, backcountry day or safety course.
You handle your bookings I help you choose the right ones and avoid the wrong ones.
What’s included in the trip plan?
You’ll receive a custom itinerary that includes:
Resort suggestions based on your riding style and goals
Onsens, food spots, and cultural tips
Terrain and storm-specific insights
Transport logistics
Gear checklist and packing advice
Local secrets – onsens, food, off-snow adventures
You also get 1 follow-up Q&A session.
Who is this for?
Independent skiers and snowboarders (solo, couples, families or groups) from Australia, New Zealand, North America, Europe and beyond who want to:
Ride deep powder without the guesswork
Experience authentic culture and food
Avoid overpriced tourist traps
Travel smart and make the most of every day
If you're the type who researches your trips but wants local insight and proven experience, Yama Tracks is for you.
Why not just plan it myself online?
You can Google. But I’ve guided lots of people in Japan through every kind of weather and terrain.
I can help you:
Skip hours of forum deep-dives
Pick the right zones for your style
Plan around storms
Ride better snow and eat better ramen
I offer insight, not information, with no mucking about, no commissions, and no cookie-cutter tours.
How much does it cost, and when should I book?
The Yama Tracks Service is $249 AUD (you can sign up using the booking link from anywhere in the world).
I recommend reaching out 2–3 months in advance, especially if you’re planning a trip during the busy January–February powder window in Hokkaido. The earlier we plan, the more options you’ll have and the better your snow odds.
Does Yama Tracks offer guided trips in person?
Not at this time. Yama Tracks is a remote consultancy service, but I can recommend trusted local guides and outfitters if you want to book a guided tour, backcountry days or an avalanche safety course while you're there.