Shakunage-dake South Face Ski Touring (Hokkaido, Japan)

The south face of Shakunage-dake シャクナゲ岳 (1074m) is a short but sharp, gorgeously consistent downhill run, that can be practically accessed from two different directions. Here, we outline a south-southwest approach along a quiet ridge through old-growth forest. Expect a relatively easy approach with some nice downhill pitches that keep this ski tour interesting. The views along the way and from the top are stellar - Yotei-zan, Niseko Annupuri, Chisenupuri, and south towards Shimamaki. This variation on a classic Niseko Range peak allows for a new perspective on a familiar zone.

  This winter route up Shakunage-dake is, for some reason, not all that often traveled – the more common route goes via the Chisenupuri catski area. For those who have done the more common route, we’d heartily recommend giving this route a go. Like the more common route, there is some mild flat-land travel along the way, but there’s also some good downhill pitches, including the fun southern face below the peak and a feature-rich, lappable face further down below.