You can’t miss her. She’s the striking, 1,898-meter-tall volcano that dominates the landscape here in Niseko, Japan. She’s beautiful from every angle, serene by nature but still commanding of respect, despite the fact she hasn’t uttered so much as a rumble since 1050 BCE. Her summit is obtainable, but only by those who possess enough stamina and courage – along with the right backcountry gear and a knowledgeable guide of course! Thinking of taking the challenge? Then check out our tips!
Rent or Buy the Best Backcountry Gear
The kind of equipment you take with you on a trek up Yotei can make or break your day. Not to mention it could actually save your life. Make your first stop Rhythm Summit in Niseko and the expert staff their will have you kitted out in no time at all. You can rent a Dakine Helipro avalanche backpack that comes with a shovel, probe and beacon. Touring skis mounted with either frame or tech bindings and splitboards are also available for rent, along with corresponding skins, crampons and telescopic poles. All this and a lot more are also available for purchase. Remember, investing in adventure is something you’ll never regret!
Hire a Guide
While you’re in Summit you can ask the staff to recommend an appropriate guides and can even contact them for you. Your guide will be able to help identify an appropriate weather window, transport you to the base of Yotei and, of course, lead you up the volcano the easiest and safest way possible. And once you’re at the top, the guide can show you the very best lines to the bottom!
Practice makes Perfect
Once you’ve purchased or rented your gear, it’s important to know how to use it. For example you can practice putting your shovel together, extending your probe and using the tracking setting on your beacon. Your guide will definitely give you a crash course before you start your ascent, but it’s always good to have some knowledge before you go.
Pack the Essentials
Here are a few things to have in your pack to hlep the day run smoothly! Suncream, sunglasses, lip balm, plenty of snacks, water, a thermos of hot tea or soup, an extra layer, glove liners and /or spare gloves, spare goggles or a lens, handwarmers (perfect for extra warmth and also for keeping GoPro and camera batteries insulated) duct tape and zip ties (for any emergency repairs!).
Enjoy the Journey!
You can expect your day to start before dawn because an average trip up and down Yotei takes 6 – 8 hours, so get to bed early the night before. Once your journey is underway, remember to take it slow, no matter how excited you are. This will help guard against fatigue and also help keep you warm by reducing sweat. On the ascent, your guide will break the trail. For efficiency purposes he will most likely keep the gradient mellow so don’t get frustrated if you’re doing more kick turns that you think is necessary. And keep in mind that the weather can change quickly around here! Be prepared to listen to your guide and turn around if the weather socks in once you’re above the treeline. Hopefully though you get a clear shot at the summit and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime!
