Riding the World with Mint Tours — Why Japan Still Reigns Supreme

One of the biggest reasons we love snowboarding is where it can take you. Every winter opens up a new part of the world, and the only real question becomes: where now? For us, that journey has been shaped for nearly two decades alongside one crew we trust completely — Mint Tours.

We’re proud to call Mint Tours our official snowboard travel partners. Our relationship goes back almost 20 years — first as riders chasing snow, then as close collaborators. In the early days, Mint even operated directly out of our Richmond store. What started as a small, rider-run operation has grown into one of the world’s premier snowboard travel companies.



From Rider-Run Roots to Global Snowboarding Experts

Mint Tours was born in Queenstown, New Zealand, built by snowboarders who cared more about snow quality, terrain, and experience than glossy packages. That ethos hasn’t changed — it’s simply expanded worldwide.

Today, Mint runs fully curated snowboard trips across:

  • Japan

  • Europe

  • Central Asia

  • North America

  • South America

  • New Zealand

They operate with a global network of experienced guides, athletes, and local partners who share one goal: delivering unforgettable snowboard travel experiences in the best conditions possible.

SNOWBOARD TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Japan Snowboard Trips — Mint Tours’ Home Turf

If there’s one destination Mint Tours truly specialises in, it’s Japan.

Japan has been Mint’s number one Northern Hemisphere base for over 20 years — long before Japanese powder became a global obsession. Their deep local knowledge, long-standing resort relationships, and understanding of weather patterns mean you’re not just visiting Japan, you’re riding it properly.

Mint’s Japan snowboard trips focus on:

  • Consistent deep powder and legendary tree runs

  • Access to terrain most travellers never find

  • Carefully selected accommodation close to snow

  • Seamless logistics, transport, and guiding

  • Cultural experiences including food, onsens, and local towns

Whether it’s Niseko, Hakuba, Myoko, or lesser-known zones, Mint’s Japan trips are about maximising ride time while removing the stress that comes with overseas travel.

Why We Trust Mint Tours (And Why You Should)

We don’t partner with companies lightly. Mint Tours aligns with us because they’re snowboarder-owned, experience-driven, and obsessive about doing things right.

They prioritise:

  • Safety and local knowledge

  • Snow quality and terrain selection

  • Small group experiences

  • Authentic travel, not mass tourism

Most importantly, they genuinely look after their guests — the same way we look after our customers at Twelve Board Store.

Planning a Snowboard Trip Overseas? Start with Twelve

If you’re heading overseas to snowboard — especially to Japan — start with us.

We’ll help you get properly dialled on:

  • Powder boards and travel-friendly setups

  • Outerwear suited to colder, wetter climates

  • Goggles, gloves, mitts, and travel essentials

  • Gear advice based on your destination and riding style

From there, connect with Mint Tours, tell them Twelve Board Store sent you, and you’ll be looked after by one of the most experienced snowboard travel crews in the world. 

Because the right destination, the right gear, and the right people make all the difference.

Join The Crew

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