Kuro-dake Ski Touring (Hokkaido, Japan)

Kurodake 黒岳 (1984m) is an impressive buttress to the high Daisetsuzan plateau at the northern end of the Daisetsuzan Range. It’s a popular backcountry ski destination, due to its ease of access via the Sounkyo Ropeway, whisking skiers to 1300m, close to the treeline. Flanked by deep gorges lined with precipitous cliffs and bluffs, the peak is a sight to behold. For the intermediate backcountry skier with good steep-skiing and ski touring skills, this bread-and-butter route to the rocky summit and back is a fine objective in good weather. For reference we've also included a descent to the Sounkyo Village on skis, although most skiers opt to return on the gondola.