↘ Mekunnai-dake — South Face

The south face route on Mekunnai-dake (1220 m) climbs the quiet gem at the western end of the Niseko Range from the Yoshikuni area of Rankoshi: about 13.5 km, 1025 m of climbing and 5.5 hours (4 up, 1 down in firm spring snow), graded 6.5/10 by Hokkaido Wilds. The approach weaves through gorgeous old-growth forest, and the final pitch below the plateau gives ~250 m of excellent skiing. The baked stats are gentle (max 28°, median 12°) — but the upper plateau is fully exposed to the elements. Read this as a description, not a recommendation.

[The climb] From the small roadside parking (2–3 cars) at Yoshikuni, the route crosses farmland and forest, then follows open old-growth ridges to the wetland plateau around 900 m (a snowfield in winter). The GPX records two 'good skiing' zones (around the 700 m and 1050 m bands) and the plateau waypoint. From the plateau an open final pitch leads to the summit.

[The summit] The bouldery 1220 m summit tower bares rock; the last metres are a boot-pack with skis on your pack. Being the range's west anchor, the views run from the Rankoshi plain to the Sea of Japan.

[Caution — navigation] Above the 900 m plateau the terrain is featureless alpine; the source is blunt that whiteout conditions without a GPS device are hazardous here. This is a far, quiet mountain with a long self-powered retreat if the weather turns. Check the JAN SW Hokkaido and Niseko avalanche bulletins, and the wind/temperature/snowfall trend, before departing.

Start & parking: The road junction shoulder at Yoshikuni, Rankoshi (42°51'07"N 140°28'49"E). Space for only 2–3 cars — be prepared to spend 20 minutes digging into the snowbank so you don't block the lane. Narrow rural roads.

Getting there: No public transport; private vehicle only, from Rankoshi or Niseko town.

The day: ~13.5 km and ~5.5 hours; January–March is best. The upper plateau is fully exposed — pick a weather window.

Onsen: Rankoshi Yusenkaku (¥500), Goshiki Onsen (¥800, 10:00–19:00), Yukichichibu (¥700, closed Tue). Confirm hours locally.

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