Private Mountain Access Since 2003
Hikarigahara Cat Tours | Niigata, Japan
Hikarigahara Cat Tours has been providing guided snowcat experiences in the mountains of Niigata, Japan for over 24 seasons.
Founded and operated by Takeuchi Masanori, Hikarigahara Cat Tours was created to offer riders access to unique terrain, deep snow, and a genuine Japanese mountain experience away from crowded resorts.
Located in the Hikarigahara area of Joetsu City, Niigata, our tours combine local knowledge, experienced guides, and carefully selected terrain to deliver unforgettable days in the mountains.
The original snow cat since 2003
The Experience
Our focus is simple:
Ride More. Experience More.
Whether joining a scheduled group tour or booking a private charter, guests enjoy access to terrain rarely experienced through traditional resort riding.
Every day is planned according to weather, snow conditions, group ability, and safety considerations to provide the best possible experience on the mountain.
What We Offer
Group Cat Tours
Join other riders on scheduled operating days throughout the season.
Ideal for individuals and small groups looking to experience Hikarigahara without booking a private cat.Maximum 10 guests per cat.
Private Charter Tours
Reserve the entire snowcat exclusively for your group.
Perfect for friends, families, film projects, clubs, and corporate groups wanting a private mountain experience.
Maximum 10 guests per cat.
Beyond The Boundaries (BTB)
Our newest offering combines Hikarigahara Cat Tours with accommodation, resort riding, local restaurants, transportation, and multi-day adventure experiences throughout the Myoko region.
Designed for guests looking for more than a single day on the mountain.
Safety First
Backcountry and off-piste environments contain inherent risks.
Guest safety remains our highest priority, and all tours operate under the direction of experienced guides who continuously assess snowpack, weather, terrain, and group ability throughout the day.
All guests are required to follow guide instructions and maintain appropriate insurance coverage for off-piste and backcountry activities.
Meet The Founder
Takeuchi Masanori
Owner and founder of Hikarigahara Cat Tours.
For more than two decades, Masanori has dedicated his life to developing and operating one of Japan's most unique snowcat experiences.
His knowledge of the local terrain, weather patterns, and mountain environment has helped introduce thousands of domestic and international guests to the Hikarigahara experience.
Hikarigahara is a compact private mountain offering a surprising variety of terrain within a highly efficient riding area.
The mountain features everything from mellow tree lines and rolling terrain to steeper pitches, natural features, and technical descents.
Its compact layout allows guests to spend less time travelling and more time riding, making it possible to enjoy multiple laps and a wide range of terrain throughout the day.
Combined with small group sizes and snowcat access, Hikarigahara delivers a unique riding experience focused on quality turns, terrain variety, and maximizing time on snow.
More riding. Less waiting. More experience.
