Nitonupuri SE Face Backcountry Skiing (Hokkaido, Japan)

The southeast face of Nitonupuri ニトヌプリ (1080m) is a steeper, more complex zone than most on this popular Niseko backcountry peak. Mounds, natural kickers, and inviting drops await those who make the longer, steeper trek along the deep southeast gully. As with any mission to the twin peaks of Nitonupuri, the views from the false peak (1076m) here are inspiring. Chisenupuri's eastern faces beg for attention, as does the volcanic peaks of Iwaonupuri and Niseko Annupuri.

  This SE aspect of Nitonupuri is one of the less-visited aspects on this very popular backcountry peak in the Niseko Range. This may be due to the steep-sided gully that constitutes access to the SE face. The terrain on this face is also a little more complex than the SE and W aspects of the peak. Knolls, bumps, small bluffs, and a compact valley floor all make for much less inviting prospects in all but the most stable of snowpack conditions. Approach this route with the utmost care and caution.