Author: vc-dev

After passing the snow depth pole of the 9th Station, the trail becomes exposed in some places up to the steep slope just below the peak.
Some areas must still be passed by walking on the snow, so care is required to avoid punching through the snow’s surface.
Additionally, a lot of snow remains on the steep slope just below the peak. The slope is so steep that a slip could cause a climber to fall all the way to the bottom.
Climbers are therefore advised to be fully prepared and to proceed carefully when ascending and descending.
Photos: Near the 9th Station (left) and the steep slope below the peak (right) Jun. 10

The snow has melted even more since last week.
About one meter of the snow depth pole at the 7th Station is exposed, while that at the 8th Station is completely visible.
However, this section is still completely covered with snow.
Many areas of the snow’s surface were frozen today. Climbers should take care to avoid slipping there.
Climbers should also be aware that the trail is extremely easy to lose in dense fog.
*For mountain information, see: http://sounkyovc.net/trails/kuro/140610kuro.pdf
Photos: Near the respective snow depth poles of Mt. Kurodake’s 7th Station (left) and 8th Station (right) Jun. 10

Sobakudai is a popular walking area in Sounkyo.
With Ginga-no-Taki and Ryusei-no-Taki Falls as a backdrop, the trail brings visitors to a point where they can see both waterfalls and Mt. Kurodake in about 25 minutes.
The snowmelt is adding to the flow and magnifying the waterfalls’ power.
If you are planning a visit to Sounkyo, why don’t take the walk to this magnificent scenic point?
(More information is available via the main page of the Visitor Course’s website.)
Photo: Sobakudai Jun. 5

The Cerasus nipponica var. kurilensis at Takamatsudai (Mt. Kurodake’s 5th Station) began blooming on the 3rd. This is about one week earlier than last year, when they bloomed on the 9th.
Snow-covered Mt. Kurodake with the cherry blossoms…
I am always enchanted by this view.
Photos: Mt. Kurodake and Cerasus nipponica var. kurilensis Jun. 5

The photo on the left shows Mt. Kurodake as it appeared today, while that on the right was taken on June 2.
Here in Kamikawa, we have had continuously warm weather, with temperatures on some days reaching record highs. As a result, the snow is melting at a rapid pace.
However, it appears that the high temperatures will not last long and will soon return to normal levels.
The photos show how the face of Mt. Kurodake has changed in just two days.
Photos: Mt. Kurodake on June 5 (left) and on June 2 (right)