ALPINE SkiMo L2 High Summit Mt Myoko Dec 23-24

ALPINE SkiMo L2 High Summit Mt Myoko Dec 23-24

A ski-mountaineering adventure & Winter Training with Alpine Summit for Intermediate Skier/Climbers in Japan

If you are ready to take your mountaineering journey to the next stage, our Alpine L2 High Summit Course in Mt Myoko, Akakura Niigata is designed for climbers with prior alpine experience who want to strengthen their winter skills and reach a true Japanese alpine summit.

Scheduled for December 23–24, this intensive two-day, one-night program combines hands-on winter training with a summit push to 妙高山, Myōkō-san (2,454m), the prominent Volcanic Cone seen towering over Akakura and Myoko in the Niigata Prefecture.

This course is ideal for those who have completed at least 3-5 mountain climbs including some previous alpine routes with crampons, and who wish to build confidence for more demanding objectives in the Japanese Alps, Mt. Fuji in winter, or international expeditions.

Why Choose the Mt Myoko High Summit Course?

Listed in “Hyakumeizan” – the 100 Famous Mountains of Japan, it is an often skied but never climbed mountain seen by all that enjoy the area.

A perfect route for SKI-MO enthusiasts (Ski Mountaineers). With a mix of snowy on ski’s approach, skiing into the caldera to transition into a challenging alpine terrain scramble/climb. With a beautiful rock formation at the top – actually quite interesting for boulderers and mixed climbers!

On clear days you can enjoy a wonderful 360° panorama of spectacular views towards the Sea of Japan, Hakuba valley and opposing Nozawa Onsen.  There are many people that wouldn’t consider this at all OR not without expert mountaineer guidance – which is why we are here to give access, expertise and training to serious climbers / ski-mountaineers.

Our course is led by JMGA-certified alpine guides, professional mountaineers who specialize in winter climbing and avalanche safety. With instruction available in Japanese, English, and Chinese, the program is suitable for international participants looking to train in Japan with clear, expert communication.

Course Schedule

Day 1 – Training & Skills Development

Along with a half day approach to the mountain hut, the first day focuses on reviewing and reinforcing essential alpine skills:

• Managing ski gear & climbing gear with heavy packs

• Correct use of mountaineering gear (crampons, ice axe, helmet, harness, and headlamp)

• Steep ascending and descending techniques on snow and ice

• Emergency self-arrest with ice axe

• Avalanche safety including companion rescue techniques and transceiver practice

• Basic rope handling for alpine travel

• Weather reading, risk assessment, and trip planning strategies

• How to pack and what equipment to bring for safety and efficiency

This structured training ensures every participant feels confident and prepared for the summit attempt.

Day 2 – Alpine Start & Summit Push

On the second day, the group makes a refreshingly late alpine start at 06:00 AM, bringing only the climbing gear needed and climbing with headlamps to the primary climbing route. With the early departure maximising safety of the cold conditions, enjoying the sunrise and giving enough time for a safe ascent, additional guidance from instructors along the way, and a relaxed descent by around 2-3pm to pickup all gear from hit, safe ski out and debrief followed by a much needed onsen!

Reaching Mt Myoko’s 2,454m summit is a memorable experience, for one of the most recognisable and prominent mountains in Japan. The climb is demanding but achievable for those with intermediate experience, and participants gain valuable insight into pacing, team management, and winter route finding.

Course Information

• Price: ¥60,000 per person (Mountain hut – need winter -10ºC sleeping bag)

• Duration: 2 days, 1 night

• Start Time: 07:30 AM

• Experience Required: Intermediate level (minimum 5 alpine climbs with crampons)

• Location: 妙高山, Myōkō-san (2,454m), Akakura Onsen, Myoko, Niigata

• Languages: Japanese, Chinese, and English instruction available

• Requirements: Good level of fitness, experience in hiking and prior alpine routes, suitable outdoor wear

• Rental Gear: Full winter set available (boots, helmet, headlamp, crampons, ice axe) for ¥6,000

Important: All training and the summit attempt are weather dependent. In the event of extreme storms or unsafe avalanche conditions, activities may be modified, delayed, or postponed to another date. Safety is always our highest priority.

Why This Training Is Valuable for Intermediate Climbers

Many hikers in Japan reach the limits of summer trekking and seek the next challenge: winter mountaineering. However, the risks are significantly higher in snow and ice conditions, where avalanches, frostbite, and falls can occur. This Alpine L2 course bridges the gap between beginner winter skills and more advanced expeditions by focusing on:

• Practical avalanche training (beacon, probe, shovel use)

• Climbing technique on steep snow/ice slopes

• Emergency preparedness for alpine environments

• Mountain judgment – knowing when to advance, retreat, or change plans

Completing this program not only prepares participants for future climbs in the Northern, Southern, and Central Alps, but also builds a foundation for tackling Japan’s 100 peaks in winter and even international expeditions to places like the Himalaya or the European Alps.

Book Your Spot on the Mt Myoko Ski-Mountaineering Alpine L2 High Summit Course

Spaces are limited to ensure small group ratios and personalized instruction. This is your chance to train directly with professional alpine guides, gain experience in one of Japan’s most renowned winter ranges, and test yourself on a true alpine summit.

Join us this December 23–24, 2025, for a climb that combines technical training, cultural mountain heritage, and breathtaking alpine views.

For more details, booking, and gear rental requests, please contact us today and secure your place on this unforgettable alpine training course.