Japan Ski Touring Adventure To Raise funds For Protect Our Winters

A ski company is planning to fly skiers to Japan to highlight the impact of climate change and raise funds for environmental advocacy group Protect Our Winters UK (POW UK).

Mabey Ski’s ‘4 Volcanoes in 4 days’ will carbon offset the climate damage caused by the flights to Japan by engaging in a tree-planting project with POW’s partner, Mossy Earth.

Thirty adventurous, self-motivated skiers and snowboarders will hike dormant volcanoes, tackle steep terrain, and push their physical, mental and emotional limits in a bid to to raise awareness for climate change.

The 4-day trip is open to confident skiers and snowboarders who are fit and self-motivated. Each participant will be tasked to raise a minimum of £500 for POW UK.

In addition to carbon-offsetting, the challengers will be swapping carbon-emitting chairlifts and snowcats for touring skis and split-boards where possible during the expedition to support Protect Our Winters in Japanese climate awareness adventure

According to a company statement Mabey Ski has become increasingly aware that travel-related activities account for approximately one tenth of the world’s carbon emissions, and the relationship between climate change and tourism is twofold.

“Climate change is real and as passionate snowsports-enthusiasts within the travel industry, it’s essential that we act now in order to protect our planet for our future generations. We all need to become more conscientious and encourage more responsible travel in whatever way we can,” said Founder and CEO, Nickie Mabey.

With the help of professional photographers and videographers, the challenge will be documented and shared with a wide database to help the snowsports community and other travellers realise their impact on our world and our winters and to encourage them to do something about it.

The trip will take place from 24 – 29 February 2020 with the price per person: ¥290,900.00 (£2,150.00) including, shared accommodation in Niseko based on twin-share, daily transport to and from the mountains, professional guides and photographers each day (one guide per 4 guests), professional videographer capturing the challenge, onsen excursion, daily meals, lift pass for first day of side-country skiing/riding, touring and avalanche safety briefing, all photos and video footage provided within two weeks of the challenge. 

On the final day of the challenge, we’ll be tackling the tallest volcano in Niseko – Mt Yotei. Not only is it the largest of Niseko’s vast volcanic terrain, it’s also the most dramatic – and the most difficult. It requires a high level of fitness and takes around 4-6 hours to reach the summit. And for those who want to up the ante – if the conditions are right – you can ski into the volcano’s crater at the top. Having said that, once you get down, you’ll have to climb back up… and then ski all the way back down!

Pictures credit: Niseko Photography