OpenCourse · Hokkaido Backcountry Guide Association (HBGA)

Avalanche Companion Rescue Training - HBGA Avalanche Skills 1 (Level 1: Basic)

Hands-on avalanche companion rescue training with beacon, probe and shovel. Organized by HBGA; instruction in Japanese only.

12 Dec 2026 (Sat) 07:30–11:30
Nakayama Pass or Harukayama Hut (chosen based on snow conditions)
7:30-11:30

Date

12 Dec 2026 (Sat) 07:30–11:30

Capacity: 10 people
Instructor / guide: Yama no Makochan

What it is

Organizer: Hokkaido Backcountry Guide Association
Instructor: Yama no Makochan
Language: Japanese only

Course content
- Beacon operation, double group check
- Search (single burial), explanation of the marking function
- Probing (quick assembly, probe handling)
- Shoveling (efficient digging)
- Hypothermia response (hypothermia wrapping, hot water, bothy bag, pack, sweet food)

Bring: beacon, probe, shovel (rentals available: 2,000 yen per item per day, limited quantity)

Cancellation fees (also apply to rentals)
- 3 to 2 days before: 50%
- The day before: 80%
- Same day / no notice: 100%

The venue will be Nakayama Pass or Harukayama Hut, chosen based on snow conditions.

If you have other preferred dates, we can open additional sessions once enough people gather - please feel free to ask.

Insurance

Arrange your own mountain and liability insurance. Insurance is not included in the fee.

Waiver

Take out mountain and liability insurance before taking part. Accident and injury insurance is not included in the fee. Mountain areas carry natural risks such as bad weather, rockfall, collapse and avalanches that cannot be fully removed. I understand that I take part with these risks, with my own and my family's consent. The course may be changed, cancelled or postponed because of weather or other force majeure. I will follow the organizer's decisions and instructions on site.

You read and agree to the full text before taking part.

¥10,000 / per personAvalanche Companion Rescue Training - HBGA Avalanche Skills 1 (Level 1: Basic)

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