Want to try packrafting but not sure where to start?
For beginners, the first challenge is finding the right guide — someone who will teach you the correct technique and keep you safe on the river. In Niseko, that answer exists.
About Niseko Ukka
Niseko Ukka is an outdoor tour operator based in Kutchan, Hokkaido, running river activities on the Shiribetsu River since 2009. Their lineup includes rafting, canyoning, ducky (two-person inflatable kayak), and snow hiking — but in recent years, packrafting (solo) has become a central part of their offering.
The Guide: Chihiro Ota
The guiding at Niseko Ukka is led by Chihiro Ota, with over 25 years of guiding experience on rivers including the Yoshino River in Shikoku and the Shiribetsu River in Niseko.
Ota lives in Niseko and runs approximately 200 tours per year — and on days off, heads out kayaking or SUP-ing anyway. He knows the Shiribetsu better than anyone.
His qualifications include:
- Japan Rafting Association Senior Guide
- Hokkaido Governor-Certified Canoe Guide and Rafting Guide (Hokkaido Outdoor Qualification System)
- Kutchan Fire Brigade Swift Water Rescue Specialist
- Advanced First Aid certified
Niseko Ukka has maintained a zero-accident record across 17 years of operation.
What the Tour Involves
The river: Shiribetsu River
The tours run on the Shiribetsu River, one of Hokkaido’s most celebrated clear-water rivers, with Mt. Yotei and Mt. Shiribetsu as a backdrop. The combination of rapids and calm stretches makes it well-suited to packraft beginners.
The standard summer course (Grade 2–2.5) covers 5–7km depending on water level, with a total time of approximately 3 hours (paddling time approximately 1.5 hours). On clear days, Mt. Yotei is visible for much of the descent.
When water levels are high, the clear-water course (Grade 1.5–2) is used as an alternative — a section that other tour operators don’t use, known for exceptional scenery and water clarity.
Small group, thorough instruction
Each tour takes a maximum of 6 participants. The small group format allows for detailed coaching — from basic paddle technique and line selection to river reading and rescue awareness. Groups of 4 or more can book a private tour.
Photos and video included
The guide photographs and films throughout the tour, and all data is provided to participants at no additional charge. Handmade snacks and drinks are also included in the all-in price.
Tour overview
| Age requirement | Junior high school age and above |
| Location | Niseko, Hokkaido (Shiribetsu River) |
| Group size | 1–6 participants |
| Paddling time | Approx. 1.5 hours |
| Total time | Approx. 3 hours |
| Season | April–October |
Subscription Plan
For paddlers who want to progress beyond a single experience, Niseko Ukka offers a subscription plan — unlimited access (up to 3 sessions per month) to Shiribetsu River tours and river rescue clinics throughout the season (April–October).
First-time subscribers who have already done a general tour receive a discount equivalent to that first tour’s fee. For anyone who wants to build real river skills in Hokkaido, this level of structured support is rare.
Who It’s For
- First-time packrafters looking for proper instruction
- Solo travelers who want a river experience they can do alone
- People who want to learn correct technique from an experienced guide
- Anyone looking to develop a lasting outdoor skill, not just a one-off experience
Getting There
Address: 603-19 Kotohira, Kutchan, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0066
Approximately 2 hours from Sapporo, 2 hours from New Chitose Airport, 3.5 hours from Hakodate.
Niseko Ukka Official Site
→ https://niseko-ukka.com/pack-raft/
This article is an independent introductory piece produced by Packraft Hokkaido. For the latest tour information, pricing, and reservations, please refer to the official Niseko Ukka website.
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