All Images: Nobuhiko Tanabe | Skier: Taiyo Nakanishi
Japan’s deep winters are the stuff of legend. Every skier has dreamt of lacing turns through a meandering forest on Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido, surfing in and out of clarity as the snow billows overhead. But there are turns to be had in the Land of the Rising Sun long after January’s cold winds have faded away.
Asahidake is the tallest mountain on Hokkaido. You’ve likely seen photos or videos of skiers navigating the iconic steam vents that permeate the mountain’s surface. And if you haven’t, you’re about to get a front row seat.
As the snow recedes and the brown rocks take back the surface, patches remain to be harvested by the most dedicated skiers. Some of those individuals are 4FRNT Skis athlete Taiyo Nakanishi and photographer Nobuhiko Tanabe. The duo recently saddled up for a long walk, heading higher and higher into this moon-like landscape in search of a few good arcs.
With a beautiful blend of spring colors and framing that properly showcases this massive environment, Tanabe captured the full experience from behind his camera. Dive into the full gallery below.
AloJapan.com