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Rishiri Island
A remote volcanic island off the northwestern tip of Hokkaido, dominated by the cone-shaped extinct volcanic peak of Mount Rishiri. The island’s name, derived from Hokkaido's native Ainu language, means “island with a high peak,” and with an elevation of 1,721 meters, it certainly seems an oversized Lofoten Island. Through March and April the weather stabilizes on the island and it is possible to get clear windless days to attempt the summit or enjoy its fantastic snow. Compared with other volcanoes such as Mt. Fuji or Yotei, Mt. Rishiri is far more rugged, with many couloirs and chutes that offer plenty of options even in bad weather and at low altitudes.
Teshio Mountain Range: A low altitude range (around 1,000m max), that happens to cross Horokanai, the coldest place in Japan as states the record of -41.2C achieved and unbeaten since 1978. Consistent snowfall and easy access to multiple hills from the road that crosses the valley have put this area on the map for backcountry skiers chasing the driest, coldest powder in Hokkaido until April.
*Avy kit, ice axe, crampon, BC skis with skins or sliptboard are required to participate in this trip.
DAY 1
Upon landing at Asahikawa airport, our team will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel. You will meet your teammates, check your gear, and meet your guide, who will fill you in on the trip details, snow conditions, and weather forecast for the week ahead.
DAY 2
We will head to Kurodake, in the Daisetsuzan National Park. After taking the ropeway, we will commence the ascend to reach Kurodake peak.
DAY 3
After checking out early morning from our hotel, we will head to the Teshio Mountain Range to explore some of its short but fun hills, that provide great tree skiing. At the end of the day, we will head to Wakkanai, a port town in which we will stay for the night.
DAY 4
Early morning ferry departure and arrival to Rishiri island by noon. If the weather is good, we will enjoy the approximation of a snow-covered volcano rising out from the sea. After checking in at our modest ryokan, we will try to squeeze a short backcountry tour.
DAY 5-6
During the next two days, we will be in the hands of our local guide, who will suggest the best routes and approaches, which may include being ferried by snowmobiles across flat terrain. If we have a clear day, we will attempt to reach the summit.
DAY 7
Ferry back to Wakkanai and transfer to Wakkanai or Asahikawa airports
- Accommodation:
➢ 2 nights at Asahikawa (Breakfast included)
➢ 1 night at Wakkanai (Breakfast included)
➢ 3 nights at Rishiri Island (All meals included) - All transfers:
➢ Pick-up at Asahikawa Airport
➢ Mountain transfers
➢ Round-trip ferry to Rishiri island
➢ Return to Wakkanai or Asahikawa airport - English/Spanish/French/Japanese speaking mountain guide for resort and side-country (5 days)
- Discount on equipment rental
- Daily briefing of weather forecast, mountain conditions, avalanche report
- Insurance
- Lunch/dinners
- Avalanche safety gear and other required gear (ski crampons, ice axe, …)
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