kitta taisetsu: brief

To the north of Daisetsusan National Park and Sounkyo Gorge lies the Northern Taisetsu mountain range. This area offers superb back country touring from the ski ground of Kitta Taisetsu and surrounding passes.

For many years the resort had closed and was only used by snow cat skiers in the know who enjoyed the untouched powder runs. The resort is not open full time but operates to an advertised schedule.

Although snow depth is typical of ski areas outside the main influence of the northwesterly, the altitude here gives superb powder conditions with excellent weather. Snow depth on these passes and peaks is 2-3 metres per year.

The resort itself has only recently reopened and has a relaxed old world feel. Here you can ski uncrowded ski runs over 600 metres vertical with the top of the lifted runs at 1200 M. The steepest runs are 33 degrees offering advanced resort skiing. As well as the excellent snow conditions on the resort, there is access to the vast mountains of Northern Taisetsu. The attitude to out of bounds skiing is relaxed and comfortable, although care should always be taken. Here the peak of Tengu Dake overlooks the resort and is a magnet for back country skiers.

This is effectively a day area and is about 50 minutes drive from Sounkyo, from where we will be doing day trips to Kitta Taisetsu.