Advance checks
We check age, wellbeing, clothing and how to contact you on the day.
SAFETY
Putting safety first in the outdoors
We check before setting out, then adapt activities as needed to the conditions and participants on the day.
SAFETY APPROACH
Prepare. Observe. Decide.
BEFORE
Equipment and briefing
We check the equipment and go over how to use it together.
DURING
Observing conditions
We observe weather, wind, lightning, visibility, snow, water and other relevant conditions.
A pace suited to participants
We watch participants' expressions and fatigue, keeping to a manageable pace and range.
DECISION
Changes, shortening or cancellation
Safety takes priority, including changing, shortening or cancelling an activity.
Prepared to respond
We prepare the procedures needed to respond.
TRUST STRUCTURE
Share only what we can verify.
We distinguish our organisational credentials from the decisions we make in the field. We describe qualifications only where the issuer, official name and current status can be verified.
NAMARA HOKKAIDO's credentials
SAJ-certified ski school & Hokkaido outdoor guiding
Operating principles
Advance checks, equipment briefings, observing conditions, and decisions including changes, shortening or cancellation.
WEATHER & CANCELLATION
Cancellation is also a safety decision
If conditions do not meet our criteria, we may change or cancel the activity. Cancellation criteria, notification times, refunds and rescheduling terms will be provided on each experience page when bookings open.
NEXT
Where to go next.
READY FOR HOKKAIDO?
Your next Hokkaido experience
starts here
Review the experience and participation requirements, then prepare your preferred dates and group size.
QUALIFICATIONS / STANDARDS
Qualifications and training.
Our everyday guiding draws on training in skiing, canoeing, safety and care for the natural environment.
SAJ-certified ski school
NAMARA HOKKAIDO Ski & Snowboard Academy
Hokkaido Outdoor Guide
Canoe discipline
Swiftwater Rescue Technician Level I
Completed Rescue 3 Japan training
Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
Wilderness Medical Associates · Professional level
Leave No Trace Japan
Care for the natural environment