A hosted ski stay in Myoko, Japan
Orija offers small group ski stays in Myoko—one of Japan’s best destinations for reliable snow and quiet resort access.
This is not a guided backcountry trip or a formal ski program.
It’s a well-run, hosted experience designed to help you get more out of your time in Japan.
What’s included
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Accommodation in Myoko, Japan
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Small group experience (max 6–8 guests)
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Resort-based ski days (no guiding required)
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Daily planning and local recommendations
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Optional nature walks and local experiences
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Onsen visits and local food spots
Powder Snow
Orija is not your traditional ski trip. While the focus is certainly centered around enjoying the best snow there is an element of learning how to best experience snow country Japan.
Cultural Experiences
Orija Basecamp is in a traditional neighbourhood with food, onsens, and activities on the door step. We make the most of the Myoko, Niigata area as well as explore places closeby.
Local Guides
Every trip is hosted by a local with real knowledge and who actually lives here. We don't just show up for winter. We have the best mountain experience and qualifications for your safety and enjoyment!
"If you want a unique experience with a local - go stay with Orija. You'll have the best time!"
Julie, Mark & Ryan
"You will go home with so many more memories than you thought possible - thanks to this trip!"
Julie, Connah, Tony & Bianca
"We wanted more than a experience. I wanted to share my Japanese culture with my partner and Orija delivered!"
Jon & Sayoko
Ski Trips in Myoko, Japan
Orija provides small group ski trips and hosted stays in Myoko, one of Japan’s most well-known powder ski destinations. Located in Niigata, Myoko is known for consistent snowfall, uncrowded resorts, and easy access from Tokyo.
Our Myoko ski experiences are designed for travelers who want more than just skiing—combining on-mountain days with local culture, food, and a comfortable stay.
If you’re looking for a Japan ski trip that balances skiing, simplicity, and local experience, Orija offers a unique alternative to traditional tours.
What is it like to ski in Myoko?
Learn from the people who live here.
FAQs
GENERAL 1. What is Orija? Orija is a way of experiencing place more deeply and not through lists of things to do, but through how locals move, behave, and engage with their environment. It connects you to the underlying patterns of a place: where people go, how they spend time, and why things are done the way they are. Instead of treating travel as a sequence of activities, Orija reframes it as something more continuous that is shaped by context, roots and local understanding. The result is not a “trip”, but a more natural way of being in a place. 2. Orija Business Registration The Orija name is legally registered and Orija Basecamp accommodation is a legally registered as minpaku accommodation in Myoko. RIDING ABILTY 3. Do I need to be an expert rider? No. Guiding is designed around your group's ability. Whether you're new to powder or chasing steeper lines, we’ll match the terrain and resort choices to your level. 4. Can I ride powder if I’ve never done it before? Yes. We guide riders through mellow powder zones and I can give lessons or coaching to help you get comfortable in deep snow. 5. Are rentals available in Myōkō? Yes. You can rent snowboards, skis, avalanche gear, and outerwear locally. We’ll point you to the best shops based on what you need. TRIP DETAILS 6. What’s included in a typical Orija trip? Accommodation at Orija Basecamp (where you get the place for your group) a local Myoko host. 7. Can I customize my itinerary? Yes. Custom travel is what we do best. We can build around your preferences. 8. How many people can join one trip? Generally, up to 6 guests can join one trip and stay at Orija Basecamp. Please reach out for larger groups. 9. What is the minimum number of guests per booking? Minimum 4 guests per booking. 10. Do you offer trips for solo travelers? We currently only offer group bookings. 12. What is the host to guest ratio? 1:6 ratio host to guests on a 6 PAX booking. 13. Which resorts are close by to accommodation? Myōkō ski areas including Akakura Onsen, Akakura Kanko, Suginohara, Ikenotaira (Alpen Blick), Seki Onsen, Madarao and Tangram. Slightly futher is Nozawa Onsen, Shiga Kogen. TRAVEL & LOGISTICS 14. How do I get to Myoko? Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Nagano, then a local train to Myoko Kogen Station. 15. Can I ship my snowboard or skis ahead? Yes. Japan has a reliable luggage delivery service (like Yamato/Black Cat) that can send your board bag directly to Orija Basecamp. ACCOMMODATION 15. What is Basecamp? Basecamp is our guesthouse in Myoko, available to Orija guests. It’s a warm, relaxed space with private rooms, a full kitchen, fast Wi-Fi, and storage for gear. 16. Is food included? We offer a generous complimentary breakfast based on your groups preferences, and we’ll recommend you to real local restaurants for dinner. The kitchen is available for your use. 17. How does lunch work? Depending on the groups preference, we can either get a light lunch from the convenience store to take to the mountain OR eat at the resort restaurants. Please keep in mind this cost is not included. 18. How does dinner work? Restaurant bookings can be arranged for your group. Guests are also welcome to use the kitchen to cook. Please keep in mind this cost is not included and hosts will be open to join based on timing and availability. 19. Is there Wi-Fi, laundry, and gear drying space? Yes to all. We’ve designed Basecamp with snow travelers in mind. 20. Do you get the entire house to yourself? Yes! Your group will have privacy and comfort in the Orija Basecamp. 21. Do the host/s stay at the accommodation? No. You will have the place for your group. Hosts stay nearby and are on call for your assistance. BOOKINGS & PAYMENTS How do I book? Click the "contact" button to email info@orija.me and start planning. What are the steps to booking? 1. Contact us to discuss your dates and goals. 2. We line up the dates, align trip goals and proceed to booking. 3. Payment invoice sent and 50% payment required for booking. Remaining payment required 30 days prior to tour day. 4. After payment received, booking confirmation is sent with the welcome package including day trip options. 5. Together we plan an itinerary for you and your group to make the most of your stay! Payment options include: Wise money transfer, PayPal, Venmo, bank account transfer available to our local Japan bank account. What’s your cancellation policy? - Initial 50% payment is non refundable. - Remaining amount required 30 days prior to booking. This is non refundable. Do I need travel insurance? Yes. All guests must have travel insurance that covers winter sports and emergency medical treatment in Japan. Orija Merch & Brand Do you sell Orija merch? Yes. We offer a small range of gear like hoodies, caps, and stickers. Where can I follow Orija online? Instagram @orija.jp YouTube @im.mattguy Still Have Questions? Reach out any time via info@orija.me and we'll be happy to help!