THROUGH
THE
EYES
THROUGH
THE
EYES
OLIVIER MOMMA / JAPAN
Through the Eyes of an Adventurer:
Blending Thrill and Tradition in Japan
Olivier Momma,
creative director & founder
Hey, I’m Olivier Momma, co-founder of Ekster. Growing up in Tokyo, I had the rare privilege of experiencing Japan’s unique balance between vibrant city life and serene natural escapes. Those years shaped my love for adventure and instilled a deep appreciation for Japanese culture, from its precision and craftsmanship to its respect for nature. This place taught me the balance of thrill and peace, and what it means to chase both.
For Me, Japan is Where Adventure Meets Culture
Living in Japan in my formative years, I quickly learned to adapt. Attending local schools meant I was often the only blond kid around. Luckily, Japan is a place where adventure is always close by. You can surf barrels at Shimoda Beach within an hour of leaving the city or, in just two hours, find yourself carving through some of the best backcountry powder in the world.
Japan is full of contrasts: the fast-paced rhythm of Tokyo’s neon-lit streets and the peacefulness of the mountains or ocean nearby.
Japan’s duality makes it the perfect playground for adventurers like me.
Falling in Love with Winter Sports
My obsession with winter sports was a natural fit; I’ve always been drawn to board sports, whether it’s snowboarding, skateboarding, or surfing. But in Japan, the mountains add a new level of adventure.
The best part? The day doesn’t end when the slopes close. After skiing, we’d huddle in cozy mountain lodges for a steaming bowl of ramen, or unwind in a nearby onsen. In Japan, winter sports are about finding that balance between adrenaline and serenity. It’s why I’ve never stopped coming back.
Minakami: My Weekend Escape
During my time in Japan, Minakami in Gunma became my go-to weekend spot. It’s not just about skiing for me—Minakami is where I found the simplicity of mountain life. On these powder-packed slopes, the snow feels untouched, and it’s a rare kind of freedom. Unlike major ski resorts, here it’s quiet, intimate, and peaceful. It’s a place that really connects you to nature.
But it’s not all about isolation. In Japan, winter sports come with a ritual. After a day on the slopes, the best way to unwind is in an onsen, and Minakami’s Takaragawa Onsen is an absolute must. It’s the largest hot spring in Japan, and with snowy landscapes around, you can often spot wild monkeys lounging nearby. Nothing else captures the Japanese winter sport experience quite like this.
Beyond the Crowds: Where to Ski Like a Local
Another gem is Nozawa Onsen. Not only does it have fantastic skiing, but it also has a deep cultural connection with its hot springs and snow festivals. These places showcase the beauty of Japan’s winter sports without the packed lift lines, letting you experience the true essence of Japanese mountain life.
Winter Festivals Where Tradition Meets Thrill
In Japan, the winter season is packed with festivals. The Sapporo Snow Festival is an absolute must-see, with its massive snow sculptures and lively atmosphere. For something more rooted in tradition, the Dosojin Fire Festival in Nozawa Onsen is a unique experience, blending community and ritual in a way that’s unforgettable.
Honoring Japanese Craftsmanship on My Last Visit
My love for Japan’s craftsmanship and precision led to the decision for Ekster to launch a Damascus wallet. The inspiration for this design hit me during a summer hike in Minakami. My friends and I had run out of water when we stumbled upon a tiny workshop tucked along the trail. The place was run by Mr. Nezu, an elderly craftsman with a warm smile and an endless passion for his craft. He kindly invited us in for tea and mochi.
Inside his workshop, I was blown away by his Tansu furniture—beautiful chests with hidden compartments, held together without nails, relying on precision joinery.
It’s a classic example of Japanese design, where every detail has a purpose, and functionality is elevated to an art form.
Later, Mr. Nezu showed us his Damascus steel knives. Each knife was a work of art, crafted from layered steel that created striking wavy patterns. He explained how the layering process made the steel both strong and flexible, reflecting the balance between beauty and functionality that defines Japanese craftsmanship.
Inspired by Mr. Nezu’s dedication, we decided to create the Damascus Cardholder, with a Damascus steel backplate and Japanese lettering—as a tribute to his legacy. Mr. Nezu even crafted wooden boxes for our first batch of wallets, a gesture that perfectly captured the Japanese commitment to care and precision.
Tips for the Daring Traveler
If you’re headed to Japan’s slopes, make sure you’re prepared for some of the deepest powder out there. A wider snowboard or powder-specific skis will help you float on the snow, and for backcountry explorers, a split board or skins are essential.
Safety should always come first in the backcountry—so pack a beacon, shovel, and probe for avalanche preparedness. And of course, a waterproof, durable backpack like our Ekster GRID Backpack is ideal for carrying gear and essentials.
OWN
THE
UNKNOWN