HBC will be running a splitboard specific avalanche course in Niseko this winter. This course is sponsored by Weston and you will receive a FREE splitboard demo rental and avalanche gear with the course fee. Click here to check out the splitboards available for the course.

Hokkaido Backcountry Club offers the AST 1 avalanche skills training courses under the authority and with curriculum provided by Avalanche Canada but tailored to suit Hokkaido’s terrain and snowpack.

The 2 day AST 1  course is an introductory course designed to increase awareness and basic knowledge of travelling in avalanche terrain. This course will be taught by splitboard instructors. At the end of the course participants will be able to recognize avalanche terrain, conduct various tests to determine snow stability, and should an avalanche occur, perform a self- rescue.

This course is highly recommended to recreational snowboarders who intend to 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 1 Course Dates (¥ 25,000 per Person):

2019/20 slitboard specific course dates: 

Dec 10 – 11

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

(Course fees includes manual, avalanche gear, Weston splitboard with skins and poles)

*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, Hokkaido Backountry Club will contact all registered participants and either reschedule or offer a full refund (less any unrecoverable transaction fees).