About Ride-Shiga

Skiing since age 4 and teaching for over a decade, Rafal is a passionate outdoor educator and expert in Japan’s backcountry terrain. Since 2017, he’s been guiding in Shiga Kogen and surrounding regions, helping guests find fresh powder and build confidence on the slopes.
Off-season? You’ll find him windsurfing, climbing mountains, rafting, or paragliding. He’s always chasing adventure.
With Rafal, your snow day is not just safe- it’s unforgettable!

With 20+ years of riding experience and over a decade of instructing, Adam is a Level 3 certified snowboard coach with deep knowledge of Japan’s and Europe’s top resorts. His calm, clear instruction helps riders of all levels build skill and confidence. He’s also certified in:

• Avalanche Skills Training Level 2
• Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
• Wilderness Advanced First Aid (WAFA)

Ride with Adam for top-tier instruction and a strong emphasis on safety.

Based in Japan since 2008, Aaron is an all-season adventurer with a passion for hiking, rock climbing, and riding deep powder. As a certified Wilderness First Responder (WFR) and AST1 avalanche-trained guide, he ensures every session is as safe as it is thrilling. Aaron’s love for Japan’s natural landscapes translates into deeply engaging snowboarding experiences, tailored to your pace and ability.

Originally from Canada, William blends technical expertise with creative freestyle flair. Specializing in snowboarding and powder carving, he also teaches skiing with ease. His unique coaching style reflects his time spent as a chef in Kyoto—thoughtful, skilled, and full of character. Whether you’re learning basic turns or mastering jumps, William will help you ride with style and confidence.

Martin brings energy and enthusiasm to every lesson. Hailing from Hungary, he’s been skiing since childhood and is especially passionate about off-piste terrain. His approachable style and dedication to your progress ensure a fun, supportive environment for beginners and confident skiers alike.

Ricardo is a rare blend who is fluent in both skiing and snowboarding instruction. A seasoned outdoorsman from Poland, he spends summers teaching kitesurfing in Italy and winters carving the slopes of Japan. His year-round athleticism and clear communication style make him a favorite for anyone looking to improve their technique and enjoy the mountain to the fullest.

Victor is a dual-discipline instructor with a deep-rooted passion for mountain life. Born in France and raised on the slopes, he brings years of experience in both skiing and snowboarding to every session. His calm, encouraging teaching style is perfect for all levels, from first-timers to confident carvers. With Victor, every run is a balance of progress, fun, and unforgettable alpine adventure.