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How we climb ice & mountains in Japan
Our climbing trips are unique to each climber, running like small expeditions. Rather than roll out formatted, standardized trips, how we climb on each trip as its own and each climber as a team member.
Nevertheless, there are some commonalities, to get things in motion so things run smoothly to make the most of time, costs & energy.
01
TIMELINE
Beginning, middle & end
You book a block of time and within that we provide the resources and knowledge. This begins with meeting near the location, the approach, climbing time then exit. Each phase is inherent and we streamline it all to maximize the climbing, understanding that the further out we go the further back we must return.
02
MEETING
Places the tourists don’t see
Most of our trips start meeting in small mountain towns, usually accessible on the first trains from the cities. We avoid tourist centers and prefer to hang out out where the mountains are, and will provide detailed information on where and how to get there.
03
YOUR GEAR
We are not porters
You need your own basic gear like clothing, boots & pack, or for overnight your own sleeping bag, mat and eating stuff.
How we climb is alpine style, meaning we don’t carry your gear, so it pays to keep it simple and light, knowing there will be a share of team gear that can include tents, ropes and hardware.
04
OUR GEAR
The best gear possible
Our tents, hardware, packs and down gear is tested in places like Tibet and K2, and we also develop and design custom gear for when industry falls short.
All the stuff we use is from the best suppliers, from around the world, including small specialist companies far better than what the big corporations can make.
05
WEATHER
When it snows
Mountaineering is the process of chasing weather, and to relocate, wait or endure is all part of the game. Our first concern is of course safety, which includes the state of the roads, but across 15 years we have been shutdown very few times and have only canceled once – after the nuclear disaster.
06
FOOD
Supermarkets, coffee & the best secret ramen places
Food is central to climbing. Well, after coffee. We don’t provide food as it’s so personal, but can help find and advise how to stock up.
On road trips we can stop anywhere, including our network of ramen places that you won’t find any other way.
07
CHANGES
Adapt & Experiment
Things can change; your ideas may evolve, the weather shift, better options arise or you left your down jacket in Hokkaido. That’s fine. We pride ourselves on our mobility, and if time allows it can go anywhere and do anything.
Changes significantly outside the original trip plan might incur extra costs, including for transit and accommodation.
08
AFTER
Welcome to the firm
Beyond your first trip with us is a whole universe of climbing, both in Japan and across the greater ranges of Asia. Those who like the way we do things will find a lifetimes worth of objectives, plus discounts, team deals & a place in the leading edge of climbing