Shakotan-dake Ski Touring (Hokkaido, Japan)

Shakotan-dake (積丹岳, 1255m) is the great hulk of a mountain at the end of the Shakotan Peninsula (積丹半島) north of Niseko and west of Sapporo City. It is a spring skiing staple in southern Hokkaido, with a gorgeous gradual approach, and some excellent open-slope skiing from the summit. The summit offers expansive views of the Japan Sea, with the Mashike Range far in the distance to the northeast. To the south are views of Iwanai, Raiden-yama, Yotei-zan, and the Niseko Range.

Most often, Mt. Shakotan is skied in spring when the rough weather of the Shaoktan Peninsula’s deep winter has died down – you can happily ski this mountain well into May. It’s not impossible to ski this peak in deep winter – be prepared for a long, gradual, deep-snow approach. Unfortunately the Shakotan Hut is no longer available for winter use (due to structural safety concerns).

Other attractions: The historic Nikka Whiskey Yoichi Distillery (location) is on the way back to Sapporo (near the Yoichi JR Train Station), and they offer free tastings. Very much worth a visit!