Tokyo

We have said goodbye to Hokkaido. Now in Tokyo with friends Drew and Maiko. They have been looking after us well and have shown us a couple of nice climbing spots close to Tokyo. If the weather is good hope to head further south to see Joyama, one of Japans more well known climbing areas.

Season is coming to an End

Today is our last day of work here in Japan. Mixed feelings of being glad to finish work and excited about future plans but also a bit sad to soon say goodbye to new made friends and to Japan. We have a few days left in Hokkaido and hope for more backcountry hiking and riding missions. Then ditch the snow gear and head south to Tokyo and warmer climes for a couple of weeks of rock climbing, camping and exploring. Then on to Sydney for a few days and finally to Wellington to see family and friends.
Yesterday was my day off and did a cool trip. Went over to Rusutsu which is another resort close to here and did some hiking across the valley. A mixed day, sunburn in the morning and snow storm by the afternoon. Hiked up twice for 2 great runs. We hiked up the left skyline ridge and the first run went down the prominent snow face on the left. The second run we hiked up the same way but carried on around a bit and rode down through the trees.

Hike the Peak

Just one of the clearest days we have had here and a nice shot. The mountain in the background is Yotei, Hokkaido's Mt Fuji! The first shot is of James Martyn and the second geezer is Mark Taylor. Sarah a bit further back in the red helmet.