↘ Nitonupuri — Southeast Face

The Southeast Face is the steeper, more complex zone on this popular peak. From the Yusato Gate it climbs and descends the south-to-southeast aspect (baked mean ~176°). Hokkaido Wilds gives ~3.5 km, ~416 m, ~3 hours, grade 5/10. Its line median of ~32° is the steepest of the four, and the source stresses the complexity of the terrain. Read this as a description, not a recommendation.

[Terrain] Treeline comes early, around 950 m, and the upper mountain (~950–1076 m) holds a 'deep southeast gully' — a terrain trap. Baked maximum pitch 42°. The high point is a 1076 m false peak. The return passes a waterfall, with small drops and jumps scattered along the descent.

[Avalanches and terrain traps] The gully collects avalanche debris and offers little escape — a classic terrain trap. Like the south face, the southeast is worked by both sun and wind-loading. Check the Niseko avalanche bulletin and the JAN SW Hokkaido bulletin before departing, and make your own stability assessment.

Start & parking: The Yusato Gate (Route 66 winter closure, ~800 m up from Chisenupuri village). Roadside parking is extremely limited — you may need to clear your own space; take care not to block the road.

Getting there: Car only; no public transport. ~24 km from Hirafu, a taxi is ~¥7,500–8,000 one-way. Carpooling recommended.

Onsen: Goshiki Onsen is close by. Confirm hours locally.

Info: Check the Niseko avalanche bulletin and the JAN SW Hokkaido bulletin before departing.