↘ Shakunage-dake — via Chisenupuri Ski Area

The route from the Chisenupuri ski area is the standard approach to Shakunage-dake (1074 m). From the parking lot of the former Chisenupuri ski area (~548 m) you climb a public-use up-track (orange markers) for about 40 minutes, then traverse the broad col between Chisenupuri and Venus Hill northwestward to the conical summit. Hokkaido Wilds gives ~7.4 km and ~481 m of gain. The bake reads the aspect as south (S), with a line median of ~17°, a maximum of ~33°, and an ATES rating of 'challenging.' Read this as a description, not a recommendation.

[Terrain] Reaching the summit takes a 30–40 minute skin across the col — a real time commitment. Skiing can be had on all aspects from the peak, and the broad face down toward Naganuma Pond is noted as prime terrain. Waypoints mark 'Good downhill skiing' and 'Venus Hill,' among others.

[Avalanches and navigation] It is a conical, isolated peak whose upper slopes look uniform in every direction; in flat light (cloud or fog) it is easy to drop onto an aspect other than the one you climbed. Because the day is an out-and-back across a col, confirming your descent bearing matters. Check the Niseko avalanche bulletin and the JAN SW Hokkaido bulletin before departing, and make your own stability assessment.

Start & parking: The parking lot of the former Chisenupuri ski area (~548 m, 42.868°N, 140.596°E), used as a backcountry trailhead.

Getting there: A car is the practical option, off the Niseko Panorama Line (Route 66). Expect snow and ice in winter; the same range as Goshiki Onsen.

The day: ~7.4 km, ~481 m. About 40 minutes up the public up-track (orange markers), then a 30–40 minute skin across the col to the summit.

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