The Yukiguni Lab: A Masterclass in Snow, Science, and Craft
A landmark collaboration between TokudAw and Nagai Inc.
The Living Laboratory
Niigata is more than a destination; it is a landscape of resilience. We invite you to explore the "Snow Country" through the lens of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). Led by Wanping Aw, Ph.D. and Nagai Takumi, Ph.D., our journeys blend glaciology, nutri-omics, and high-performance craft to transform your understanding of winter.
The Paths
Path 1: The "Snow Discovery" Series
Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights Audience: Families, Beginners, and Curious Explorers Focus: Curiosity, Wellness, and Connection
This track is designed for those who want to step into the winter environment with intention. We move beyond the surface of snow sports to understand the ecology and culture of the cold.
Day 1: The Physics of Play. A mindful introduction to the slopes. Learn body mechanics and snow density through skiing or snowboarding, followed by traditional Kamakura (snow dome) engineering.
Day 2: Crystallography & Craft. A workshop with Nagai-san on snow crystals, followed by a visit to local Tsubame-Sanjo copper masters to see how the environment shapes local industry.
Day 3: Gastronomy of the Cold. Explore the Yukimuro (snow-fridge) with Wanping-san. Discover how sub-zero aging alters molecular structures to create Niigata’s famous fermented flavors.
Path 2: The Craft of the Blade
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights Audience: Seasoned Skiers, Snowboarders, and Gear Enthusiasts Focus: Performance, Precision, and Heritage
For the expert, the mountain is a canvas for high-performance artistry. This series offers an exclusive opportunity to collaborate with VOLTAGE MFG to create bespoke gear tuned to your specific riding style.
Days 1–2: Field Research. Venture into the deep backcountry with Nagai-san’s elite guide team. They observe your technique, pace, and power in Niigata’s unique "heavy" powder.
Day 3: The Design Lab. Visit the VOLTAGE factory. Translate your on-snow data into a custom blueprint. Select your flex, specific technical parameters, and custom aesthetics.
Day 4: Deep Roots. Journey to the source. Visit the local forests where the Niigata timber for your "blade" is harvested and meet the artisans of Tsubame-Sanjo or Ojiya Chijimi.
Day 5: Masterclass in Terrain. A final deep-powder session focusing on snowpack stability and advanced glaciology for elite mountain management.
Day 6: The Legacy. Final consultations and a celebration of Niigata’s culinary "Nutri-omics" to support metabolic recovery after a week on the peaks.
Founders
Meet the Scientists
Wanping Aw, Ph.D.
Specializing in human wellness and the science of fermentation.
Nutritional Scientist & Managing Director, TokudAwNagai Takumi, Ph.D.
Specializing in glaciology and the engineering of high-performance snowcraft.
Snow Scientist & Founder, VOLTAGE MFG 