Kurodake ski resort is one of Hokkaido’s best kept secrets; home to some of the longest and steepest terrain on the island it breaks the Japan mould. Generally the knock on Hokkaido skiing is that while it has some of the most consistent, quality snow conditions in the world, the terrain is generally pretty mellow; but unlike most resorts here, Kurodake is not only home to Hokkaido’s legendary champagne powder but also offers true big mountain skiing and endless backcountry options.
When you arrive, be prepared for a surprise that’s hard to describe. Sounkyo town is unlike any other ski town we’ve ever seen and you’d hardly know that you’re within walking distance of an incredible ski resort. You may want to start by parking in the empty parking lot at the gondola station before walking across the street to check into Black Mountain Lodge and get the lowdown on conditions.
The resort itself consists of a 50 passenger tram carrying skiers and riders from the valley floor up to 1200m accessing the steepest and most challenging pitches on the mountain. This is also some of the most heavily forested terrain, so pay careful attention on the way up to spot the steep, open chutes spaced out around the front of the mountain – also keep an eye out for cliff bands that should be avoided unless you’ve got a film crew and/or a death wish. Above the ropeway, there is a slow double chair servicing the only groomed runs in the area. A short walk from the top of this lift allows you to lap up a nice, mellow open bowl.
Above the double chair, there are no more lifts but the peak looms and if you’re in reasonably good shape can be summited in about an hour. From the peak, you can ski one of the longest runs in Hokkaido with everything you could ask for. Starting with a big open alpine bowl, the run then funnels into well spaced trees before reaching the top of the ropeway. From here, there are only steep, technical tree runs separating you from your après ski beer at bar 1984 in Black Mountain Lodge. If you are interested in a guided backcountry tour please either inquire directly or check out our guided backcountry tours (Guided tours are operated in Kurodake and across Hokkaido).
If you’re really into backcountry skiing, from the peak drop off the back side of the resort and you will find a cozy alpine refuge hut to base yourself from and hike endless backcountry lines. Kurodake is also the terminus of one of Hokkaido’s most classic ski traverse route between itself and Asahidake. Please inquire for details on this route.
Lift ticket prices:
Adult ¥3700
Child ¥2150
Opening/Closing dates:09/10 DATES.
Nov. 6 (snow permitting) to Jan. 6
Closed from Jan. 6 - 21
Ropeway from Jan. 22 - end
Double chair from Mar. 1 - end