Ice Climbing Tour in Hokkaido, Japan
5.0
(2)
Join certified guide Cheang on a 2-day ice climbing adventure in the stunning landscapes of Hokkaido in Japan. Ideal for beginner climbers, this guided tour will take you to the frozen waterfalls of Sounkyo Gorge, where you'll receive expert coaching and tackle climbs tailored to your skill level.
Private
2 Days
Jan - Mar, Dec
Low
All levels
Highlights
- Enjoy an easy 2-pitch climb in Hokkaido's best
- Bask in Sounkyo’s untouched, less-traveled landscapes
- Experience an ice climbing experience through Japan’s stunning winter scenery
Description
Just under three hours from Sapporo, Sounkyo Gorge is one of Japan's best ice climbing destination!
You’ll be picked up at Asahikawa station and head to Sounkyo Gorge for warm-up climbs and coaching. Enjoy an easy 2-pitch climb before relaxing in a nearby onsen. The next day, we’ll return for multi-pitch ice climbing or single-pitch with dry tooling or mixed routes. End with another onsen soak before heading back to Asahikawa station.
Beyond the thrill of climbing, the area is rich in natural beauty and wildlife. Keep an eye out for Sika deer as you explore the serene landscapes. Sounkyo remains relatively undiscovered, making it a perfect escape for climbers seeking solitude and pristine ice.
Hone your skills and take on this ice climbing mecca in a unique and unforgettable journey through some of Japan’s most spectacular winter scenery. Just contact me and I'll take care of the rest!
Price includes
- Guiding fee
- Transport during the trip
- Transport to the start of the trip
Price details
- Group equipment is included as well
Meeting point
Itinerary
Day 1: Introduction and Warm-Up Climb in Sounkyo
You'll be picked up at Asahikawa train station and driven to Sounkyo, a scenic spot in Daisetsuzan National Park. Upon arrival, we’ll get dressed, pack our gear, and hike to the climbing area.
We'll start with some easy warm-up climbs, where you'll receive coaching tips to sharpen your technique. If you're feeling confident, we can move on to a short, easy 2-pitch climb to prepare for the bigger multi-pitch adventure on Day 2.
After climbing, unwind with a relaxing soak in a nearby onsen bath.
Day 2: Multi-Pitch Ice Climbing or Mixed Climbing
We'll head out from Asahikawa and return to Sounkyo.
Depending on the snow conditions, we’ll either cross the river or snowshoe to the icefall. You’ll have the option to choose from a variety of ice routes, with different difficulty levels to suit your skills.
For those ready for a challenge, we can take on a 4-pitch multi-pitch route that will test even experienced climbers.
If multi-pitch isn’t your style, we can focus on single-pitch climbs with dry tooling or mixed climbing techniques. The day ends with another visit to the onsen, followed by a drive back to Asahikawa station.
Details
Accommodation
Day trips are available, and we highly recommend staying at a hotel near the climbing area for your convenience. I can assist with booking and offer personalized recommendations to ensure you have a comfortable and seamless experience.
More info
Comes dressed for the cold! Hokkaido has a harsh winter and temps can frequently dip to -20c. be prepared to be out for 5-6 hours a day.
Equipment you will need to bring
Crampon compatible mountain boots
About the guide
QX
5.0
(4)
Qx is Asia’s only AMGA Certified Rock Guide and Alpine Guide, setting a benchmark for professional climbing standards in the region. He is currently pursuing his IFMGA Mountain Guide certification and became an AMGA Apprentice Ski Guide in 2026, expanding his expertise into full-spectrum mountain guiding.
Originally from Singapore, Qx’s connection to the mountains began in 2009 during his time with the USMC in Sonora, California, where he was first exposed to technical climbing and alpine environments. Since then, he has built a career spanning some of Asia’s most iconic mountain landscapes.
Today, he leads rock climbing journeys on the sandstone sea cliffs of Long Dong, alpine routes in the Japanese Alps, ice and mixed climbs across Japan, and ski touring expeditions in Hokkaido.
With over a decade of experience, Qx has guided and mentored climbers of all levels. His approach combines technical precision with meaningful outdoor experiences—focusing not just on the climb, but on developing lasting skills, confidence, and mountain awareness.
In 2015, he founded the first climbers’ hostel in Long Dong, playing a key role in shaping the area into an international climbing destination. After successfully growing and exiting the business in 2024, he now leads a new chapter with an expanded team and a broader vision for elevating guiding standards across Asia.
Qx is on track to become one of Southeast Asia’s first fully certified IFMGA Mountain Guides—the highest global standard in mountain guiding. This pursuit reflects a long-term commitment to excellence, safety, and the professionalisation of the outdoor industry in the region.
Today, he offers curated climbing experiences and ski touring expeditions across Asia, combining deep local knowledge with internationally recognised standards. By joining his trips, clients gain not only exceptional access and expertise but also contribute to raising the standard of professional guiding across Asia.
Languages
English | Chinese
Certificates
AMGA
What people are saying about this trip
Ram
2 great days ice climbing with Qx!
Luke
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