Avalanche Training
Avalanche Safety Training
Safety is a core part of every experience with First Tracks Japan. Whether you are joining a lift-accessed off-piste day or a backcountry tour, understanding avalanche safety and rescue equipment is essential.
“The one certainly for anyone in the path of an avalanche is this: standing still is not an option.”
- Norman Davies
Historian
Avalanche Safety Douring Tours
All backcountry and lift-access off-piste experiences include an introduction or refresher covering:
◍ How to recognize avalanche terrain
◍ Safe travel techniques in off-piste and backcountry environments
◍ Proper use of avalanche safety equipment
◍ Companion rescue fundamentals and response priorities
This ensures every participant understands how to move safely and responsibly in uncontrolled snow environments.
Avalanche safety equipment is required for all backcountry and slack country experiences.
If you do not have your own gear, rental equipment is available.
Avalanche Safety Equipement Rental
¥5,000 per person per day
Includes:
Avalanche backpack (20L)
A compact 20L backpack designed specifically for carrying essential avalanche gear in a clean, no-frills setup. Lightweight and practical, it keeps your shovel, probe, and safety equipment organized and easily accessible when it matters most.
Avalanche transceiver
Orovox Diract Voice avalanche transceiver uses clear, simple spoken instructions to tell you what to do in every phase of your search, helping to keep you calm and moving quickly.
Probe
Ortovox ALU 240 probe features a quick-lock assembly system for quick and simple set up—it's ready for use in just seconds, and collapses and folds just as quickly.
Shovel
Ortovox Beast classic shovel is lightweight and compact. Features an 32 in. working length and 2.3 L (0.6 gal.) scoop volume, making it the ideal size for efficient work after an avalanche.
Dedicated Avalanche Training Sessions (3 Hours)
Standalone avalanche training sessions are available for riders who want to build confidence using avalanche equipment and understanding mountain safety.
These sessions are ideal for:
◍ Riders new to backcountry travel
◍ Riders who have equipment but want hands-on practice
◍ Riders who want to improve rescue skills and learn proper avalanche rescue techniques
◍ Riders who want a refresher on avalanche safety and rescue procedures
Training sessions typically cover:
◍Transceiver use and signal search techniques
◍Probe and shovel rescue methods
◍Companion rescue scenarios
Locations
Sessions can be conducted at major resorts in Nagano and Niigata, including Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, Myoko, and surrounding areas.