What type of gear would be required to summit Mt. Kita-dake in February?

by Lazy Beach Guy
(United States)

Hi, I will be in japan this february and would like to summit Mt. Kita-dake, but information on the internet seems to be pretty sparse. I know there will be a lot of snow being in the middle of winter, what type of gear do you think would be required to do this hike?

Also are there any other recommended site with information that would be useful? As of right now i do not have a partner to go with so if there are any contacts for people that would like to go that would be great as well.

Thanks


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Dear Lazy Beach Guy,

Climbing in the winter is a death wish, IMHO.

Over the past 3 weeks, over 10 people have died or gone missing in the Japan high country, buried by avalanches, caught unprepared in record snow whiteouts, freezing to death, and succumbing to cardiac arrest: http://www.fnn-news.com/news/headlines/articles/CONN00238153.html

These fools place not only their own lives at risk, but those of the scores of unlucky volunteer rescue personnel charged with the delightful task of having to search for these idiots.

My advice is to wait till spring, but if you insist on winter climbing, you might want to post your question in the "Hiking in Japan" group @ Facebook.

Best wishes....

Gary