In terms of snow, Japan is the land of plenty. That much is well known. But, for all the films and web edits that emerge from Japan every year, the place doesn’t cease to amaze. Its natural beauty, and the sheer depth of the snow on a powder day. It makes you wonder if everyday skiers and snowboarders that ride resorts in Japan even know what a groomer is.
It goes without saying that Japan has a way of attracting the world’s most avid powder hounds – professional snowboarder Antti Autti counts himself among them.
Recently, Autti returned to Japan at the behest of his friend, guide, riding buddy, and city council member in the town of Minamiuonuma, Takumi Nagai, to film the cinematic short above. Here’s Autti:
“I have a strong connection to Minamiuonuma. Local guide and city council member Takumi Nagai is a dear friend and he has been such a big help and a great riding buddy for years. This year Takumi wanted us to come and create an edit on his home turf. It was easy to say yes to that invitation. It was definitely one of the most challenging yet rewarding filming trips in Japan for us. In Minamiuonuma, it snows more than any other place I’ve ever been and the snow has this rare moist texture. It feels heavy at times and since we make a lot of follow cams and other moving camera angles this created many challenges. In the end, though, it was exactly what created the unique vibe in this film. If you want to ride great powder and no crowds in Japan, then this is the place!”
