Avalanche...!!! Training.

In preparation for my initiation into winter mountaineering, I did an avalanche safety course in Tanigawadake, Gunma. I learnt the basics of how to analyse avalanche terrain, conduct compression tests, and rescue avalanche victims. We dug a snow cave too, and slept in it. I haven't done so much digging in my life, and needless to say, I was truly knackered afterwards!

 [Melting snow for water.]

[Waking up and getting out of the tent to clear skies.]

[Heading back to our initial starting point.]

[Going up to Toma-no-Mimi (1963m), one of Tanigawadake's peaks.]