Hokkaido Backcountry Club offers the AST 2 avalanche skills training courses in Niseko under the authority and with curriculum provided by Avalanche Canada but tailored to suit Hokkaido’s terrain and snowpack.

AST 2 is a 4 day course that builds on the skills learned in AST 1 and is suitable for people with a moderate degree of training and experience. AST 1 is a pre-requisite for AST 2 unless proof of other relevant experience and training is provided.

This course is highly recommended to recreational skiers and boarders who intend to ski/ride off-piste, sidecountry or backcountry terrain. These courses are recognized by Avalanche Canada and participants will receive a certificate upon completion.

Additional information on both courses can be found by visiting Avalanche Canada.

AST 2 Course Dates (¥ 55,000 per Person):

2020/21 course dates 

TBA – please contact us for further information.

Note: AST 1 certification is a prerequisite for AST 2.

Please note that participants should bring their own backcountry touring and avalanche safety equipment. If you do not have your own, please notify Hokkaido Backcountry Club to arrange rental equipment.

*Avalanche courses are weather dependent and may be cancelled as per our standard terms and conditions. In particular, some snow is required to achieve the course objectives so early season courses may be cancelled if there is insufficient snow. In the event of cancellation, HBC will contact all registered participants and either reschedule or offer a full refund (less any unrecoverable transaction fees).