FAQs
All programs begin with an inquiry. Use the inquiry form on the relevant page and I’ll follow up personally to confirm availability, suitability, and next steps. An inquiry is not a reservation — a booking is confirmed only after details are agreed to in writing and a clear service contract (or rental agreement) is issued. Availability, pricing, and scope may change until that confirmation is complete. This keeps expectations clean and avoids the classic “I thought we said…” situation later.
How do I book a program or guided experience?
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Yes. Full payment is required in advance to secure services. Once availability, scope, and terms are confirmed, payment instructions will be provided. Services are not reserved or held until payment is received and a written service contract (or rental agreement) is in place — especially during peak seasons when multiple inquiries may be running in parallel. Payment confirms intent, not conditions; services proceed only under the agreed contract terms.
Is payment required to secure services?
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Do you offer custom programs?
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Yes — and this is where we can build something truly tailored. Custom programs are typically confirmed after a short intake process so we can align on goals, timing, conditions, and what’s realistic. (If you’re looking for a custom build, head to the Custom Programs page for the full intake steps.)
I prioritize clarity, safety, and quality over speed. Direct booking allows expectations, conditions, group fit, and logistics to be confirmed before payment is accepted. Every booking ends with a written service contract (or rental agreement) — not scattered DMs, disappearing messages, or screenshots. Automation may come later, but judgment and clear communication come first.
Why don’t you offer instant online booking or automated checkout?
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What happens if weather or conditions change?
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Hokkaido conditions can change quickly — sometimes hourly. Programs may be adjusted, rescheduled, or cancelled to prioritize safety and experience quality. Safety, conditions, and operational viability are assessed by the guide, not determined solely by forecasts, apps, or third-party reports. Specific cancellation, rescheduling, and refund terms are shared clearly during the booking confirmation process, before anything is locked in.
What types of experiences do you offer?
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I provide guided programs, skills training, and custom experiences across multiple seasons. Offerings vary based on time of year and environmental conditions, and the site is structured accordingly. If you’re unsure where to start, an inquiry is always welcome.
Requirements vary by program. Some experiences are suitable for beginners, while others require prior experience or training. Each program page outlines prerequisites, and I’m happy to help assess whether a program is an appropriate fit.
What experience level is required?
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What is included in a guided program?
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All programs include professional guiding and trip coordination. Equipment, transportation incidental to the guided experience, meals, and accommodation vary by program and are clearly detailed on individual program pages. Where accommodation, extended transport, or packaged travel services are involved, these are arranged directly by the client or provided through appropriately licensed third-party travel agencies.
Yes. Equipment rentals are available by request. The rentals section shows examples of equipment categories offered; specific models and availability vary by season, conditions, and demand. Please inquire to confirm current options.
Are equipment rentals available?
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What should participants bring?
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Once a booking is confirmed, participants receive a detailed packing list specific to the activity, season, and expected conditions. Gear requirements are designed to be practical, realistic, and appropriate.
How do you manage safety and risk?
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Outdoor activities involve inherent risk — that’s part of why they’re meaningful, but it’s also why decisions are taken seriously. Risk management here is conservative, experience-based, and locally informed. Plans adapt to conditions, people, and context. Final go/no-go decisions rest with the guide, regardless of conditions, expectations, or client preference.
Are waivers required?
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Yes. All participants must complete a waiver prior to engaging in guided programs or rentals. Waiver information and documents are available on the Waivers page and must be completed before participation.
Do you work with travel partners, agencies, or tour operators?
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Yes. Asobi Master® works with select travel partners, destination management companies, and licensed travel agencies when appropriate. Asobi Master® does not act as a travel agency unless operating in coordination with appropriately licensed partners. Partnerships are developed case by case to ensure alignment around safety standards, client experience, regulatory compliance, and local conditions.
What principles guide your operation?
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The operation is guided by Legal Legit Local™ — in that order. This isn’t a slogan; it’s a filter for real decisions. Legal first, legitimacy always, and deep respect for local conditions and communities. Alongside that sits the spirit of PLAY・毎日・EVERY・遊ぶ・DAY™ — taking the work seriously without taking ourselves too seriously. These frameworks will continue to inform the mission, vision, and core values as they’re formally articulated. Clear structure helps reduce admin and allows more time for actual guiding, learning, and play.