Snow Hiking Training in Japanese Alps (Small Group, Max 2)

Experience Real Snow Mountains in Japan

This is a technical snow mountaineering course in the Japanese Alps, not a simple hike.

Mt. Kisokoma (2,956m), the highest peak of the Central Alps, remains fully covered in snow in mid-April.
You will experience authentic alpine conditions with a certified guide in a very small group (max 2 people).


Why Join This Tour

  • Maximum 2 participants only (high safety & personal guidance)
  • Learn real snow climbing techniques
  • Guided by a certified Japanese mountain coach
  • English-guided
  • Stunning alpine scenery in winter conditions

This is not just a guided hike —
you will learn essential snow mountain skills while climbing.


Who This Is For

This experience is designed for people who:

  • Have prior experience hiking in snow
  • Have used crampons and/or an ice axe before
  • Want to improve their technical skills
  • Are physically able to hike for 4–6 hours

Who Should NOT Join

This tour is NOT suitable for:

  • First-time snow hikers
  • People without winter mountain experience
  • Anyone uncomfortable on steep snow slopes

What You Will Learn

At Senjojiki Cirque, you will practice:

  • Crampon walking (including front-point technique)
  • Ice axe handling
  • Movement on steep snow terrain

Then apply these skills on an actual climb.


Itinerary (Planned)

  • 07:00 Meet at JR Shiojiri Station (optional)
  • 08:00 Meet at Suganodai Bus Center
  • Ropeway to Senjojiki (2,612m)
  • Snow training session
  • Climb via Hachōzaka
  • Ridge walk and possible summit attempt
  • Descent before snow softens
  • Finish around 15:00

※ The summit depends on weather and safety conditions


Safety & Risk Awareness

This mountain in April involves:

  • Avalanche risk
  • Hard icy snow in the morning
  • Soft unstable snow in the afternoon
  • Strong winds on the ridge (feels below -10°C)
  • Navigation difficulty in snow

The guide will continuously assess conditions and make safety decisions.


Weather Policy

The tour will be cancelled or modified if:

  • Wind exceeds 15 m/s
  • Avalanche risk is high
  • Visibility is poor
  • Snow conditions are unsafe

Full refund in case of weather cancellation


Price

  • ¥65,000 per person (2 participants)
  • ¥90,000 private (1 participant)