Yamatomichi HLC
2025 Programs & Activities
- HLC Taiwan: Taiwan’s Thriving Ultralight Hiking Scene
- HLC Shikoku: Bikepacking, Rafting, and Hiking in Stunning Landscapes
- HLC Kansai: Step Up Your Game with Sergeant
- HLC Hokuriku: Growing Stronger in Year Two
- HLC Kamakura: Join us at Yamatomichi’s Home Base
- HLC North Kanto: Expanding the Possibilities of Hiking with MYOG
- HLC Tohoku: Welcoming a New Member
- HLC Hokkaido: A New Team and Expanded Locations
Yamatomichi HLC is a community that celebrates the joy of ultralight hiking, explores its possibilities, and contributes to its evolving culture. With each passing year, this initiative has grown in significance, becoming an integral part of Yamatomichi’s vision.
For 2025, we have refined our program structure to enhance the diversity and uniqueness of each category, making them even more engaging and accessible.
Our BASIC introductory lectures and workshops provide the perfect starting point for those new to ultralight hiking or hiking in general, blending classroom learning with hands-on field experience. Once you’ve grasped the fundamentals—the methods, mindset, and philosophy of ultralight hiking—you’re encouraged to venture beyond our programs, gaining firsthand experience at your own pace. However, always remember to hike safely and within your limits.
When you feel confident as an independent hiker, we invite you to take the next step with our PRACTICE programs. Here, ambassadors and participants team up to take on more advanced hikes, embracing challenges together. This is an opportunity to push boundaries, refine skills, and explore the creative possibilities of ultralight hiking alongside like-minded adventurers.
At Yamatomichi HLC, we see “HIKE,” “LIFE,” and “COMMUNITY” as deeply interconnected—a continuous cycle where each element enriches the others. Life feels incomplete without a community, just as hiking lacks meaning without the depth and richness of life itself. Our mission is to strengthen these bonds, fostering deeper connections and more fulfilling experiences for all. To bring this vision to life, we have established eight program categories, including BASIC, with ultralight hiking at the core.
Lastly, we’re excited to announce two new ambassadors for 2025: Shingo Numata at HLC Hokkaido and Koji Kurinami at HLC Tohoku. Their addition to the team will further strengthen the ultralight hiking culture in both regions.
We invite you to join Yamatomichi HLC and cultivate your own cycle of “HIKE,” “LIFE,” and “COMMUNITY.”
Yamatomichi HLC Project Director Hideki Toyoshima
HLC Taiwan: Taiwan’s Thriving Ultralight Hiking Scene
HLC Taiwan is the only current international hub among Yamatomichi HLC’s eight locations. Led by ambassador Lin, a pioneer in introducing ultralight hiking to Taiwan, and HLC PLACE Samplus in Taipei, the initiative continues to promote and expand the ultralight hiking culture.
This year, HLC Taiwan is introducing new opportunities for hikers to connect and engage. In April, the HLC Taiwan Meetup party, followed by the HLC Taiwan Meetup Hiking program in October. Additionally, the highly acclaimed LOCAL STUDY HIKING program, launched last year, will return with Lin as the instructor. Taking place on the Takao Trail in northern Taiwan, this program will explore the region’s rich biodiversity, offering participants a fresh perspective on the natural landscape.
With a growing community and new opportunities for meaningful connections, HLC Taiwan is set for an exciting 2025. Hikers from all areas are welcome to join!
A Message from Lin Cheng-Han, Miasan Outdoor Center
“As HLC Taiwan enters its fourth year, I’m thrilled to see ultralight hiking gaining traction. We aim to further refine and promote an even lighter, more agile style, hoping it becomes mainstream within the next decade. In 2025, alongside our core introductory courses, workshops, and PRACTICE programs, we’re launching meetups and LOCAL STUDY HIKING to offer more casual opportunities for connection and exploration.
I’m excited for the new experiences and encounters ahead!”
Annual Schedule
| Date | Category & Title |
| April 12 | LIFE & COMMUNITY HLC Taiwan Meetup |
| May 10 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (samplus / Taipei) |
| May 11 | LOCAL STUDY HIKING Takashima Traverse Local Study Hike |
| June 14–15 | BASIC Xiakaluo Historic Trail 2-Day Workshop |
| October 18 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (samplus / Taipei) |
| October 19 | LIFE & COMMUNITY HLC Taiwan Meetup Hiking |
| November 21–23 | PRACTICE Qilai Nanhua 3-Day UL Hiking |
Ambassador of HLC Taiwan / Founder of Miasan Outdoor Center
After studying Western mountaineering techniques at the Yamnuska Mountain Skills Semester in Canada, he returned home and founded the Miasan Outdoor Center, where he teaches hiking and snow mountaineering and manages mountain lodges. For more than 20 years, he has been learning how to live closer to nature from the indigenous Bunong people of Taiwan, and has a deep knowledge of permaculture.
Samplus is our HLC place for Taiwan. A Taipei-based hiking culture hub created by COW Records, Raying Studio, and Yamatomichi. Curated by COW Records, it serves as both a specialty hiking gear store and Yamatomichi’s official Taiwan branch, offering the full product lineup. It also houses Raying Studio, led by KOH BODY (洪寶弟), the designer behind Yamatomichi JOURNALS and the Yamatomichi online shop.
HLC Shikoku: Bikepacking, Rafting, and Hiking in Stunning Landscapes
In 2025, HLC Shikoku, led by ambassador Tetsu, will introduce new ultralight hiking programs across the region, highlighting Shikoku’s diverse and breathtaking landscapes.
In Tokushima, where the hiking community is thriving, HLC Shikoku will launch its first-ever “Ultralight Hiking for Beginners” lecture course, along with a PRACTICE program in the Tsurugi Mountain Range for those seeking a more challenging adventure. In Kochi, Tetsu will lead a two-day bikepacking and rafting expedition on the Niyodo River, blending cycling and packrafting for an unforgettable experience. Meanwhile, on the Shimanami Kaido, a stunning route connecting Ehime and Hiroshima, hikers can take on a 70km thru-hike over two days, crossing island-dotted landscapes.
Designed for all levels, our programs welcome both beginners and experienced adventurers. With mountains, rivers, and the sea all within reach, Shikoku is the perfect place to experience the freedom and joy of ultralight hiking. Join us and be part of the adventure!
A Message from Tetsu Kanno, T-mountain
“Welcome to HLC Shikoku! In 2025, we’re offering diverse programs for all levels—from long trails in Ishizuchi and Tsurugi ranges to scenic local hikes. New this year, we’re hosting guest seminars with Yamatomichi staff JK and a meetup hike with HLC Kansai in the Chugoku region. Join us to explore, learn, and grow with the HLC community!
Looking forward to seeing you on the trail!”
Annual Schedule
| Date | Category & Title |
| April 26 | GUEST SEMINAR The World of Ultralight: Letting Go of Weight, Expanding Possibilities (by JK) |
| May 24–25 | BASIC Ishizuchi Mountain Range 2-Day Workshop |
| June 8 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (Shiraishi Lodge / Kuma Kogen) |
| July 26–27 | BASIC Saragatake 2-Day Workshop |
| August 30–31 | AMBASSADOR’S SIGNATURE Hiker’s Bike Rafting Adventure: Niiyodo River 2-Day Trip |
| September 28 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (TBD / Tokushima) |
| October 11–13 | PRACTICE Tsurugi Mountain Range 3-Day UL Hiking |
| October 26 | LOCAL STUDY HIKING Ishizuchi Mountain Range Trail Work & Local Study Hike |
| November 8–9 | LIFE & COMMUNITY HLC Kansai & HLC Shikoku 2-Day Meetup Hike |
| March 28–29 | AMBASSADOR’S SIGNATURE Shimanami Kaido 2-Day UL Hiking |
HLC Shikoku Ambassador & Outdoor Shop T-mountain Owner
Tetsu, a loving father of three girls, runs the mountain gear store “T-mountain,” at the foot of Matsuyama Castle in Shikoku. He loves to run, climb, snowboard, and hike, and has been traveling to major mountains in Japan and abroad since his twenties. In recent years, he has found a deep connection in the mountains he grew up around, in his local area in Shikoku.
T-mountain offers a curated selection of ultralight hiking, trail running, and outdoor gear. It is the only store in Shikoku that carries Yamatomichi products. With specialized equipment for hiking and trail running, the shop is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. Owner Tetsu, born and raised in Ehime, is known for his friendly personality and deep local knowledge. His expertise and personalized advice have built a loyal customer base since the shop’s opening.
HLC Kansai: Step Up Your Game with Sergeant
With Yamatomichi Kyoto and Taninoki-sha as our HLC Places, HLC Kansai continues to offer dynamic programs while strengthening its role as a western Japan hub. This year, we’re co-hosting Meetup Hikes with HLC Hokuriku and HLC Shikoku, fostering new connections among hikers across regions.
In PRACTICE, participants will embark on hikes where they collaboratively decide the destination and route under the leadership of our ambassador Yuji, also known as “Sergeant.” Meanwhile, for AMBASSADOR’S SIGNATURE, we’re bringing back the ever-popular Saba Kaido fastpacking trip.
Join us as we take ultralight hiking to the next level!
A Message from Yuji Nakagawa, Taninoki-sha
“In 2025, HLC Kansai will build on the success of its collaborations with HLC Shikoku and HLC Hokuriku, fostering even deeper connections as our communities continue to grow. I hope you’ll join us and experience the energy that comes from these cross-regional exchanges.
This year, we’re introducing PRACTICE, a first for HLC Kansai, where participants will design hikes together from scratch. Plus, we’re bringing back the Saba Kaido 2-day fastpacking trip, last tackled in the heavy snow of 2023—hopefully with better weather this time! (Laughs)
Check out the lineup—we’ve got some incredible adventures ahead!”
Annual Schedule
| Date | Category & Title |
| April 6 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (Otowa Sanso / Minoh) |
| May 17–18 | BASIC Taitaka Mountain Range 2-Day Workshop |
| June 7–8 | LIFE & COMMUNITY HLC Kansai & HLC Hokuriku 2-Day Meetup Hike |
| August 3 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (Yamatomichi Kyoto / Kyoto) |
| September 27–28 | BASIC Hira Mountain Range 2-Day Workshop |
| October 18–20 | PRACTICE HLC Kansai 3-Day UL Hiking |
| November 8–9 | LIFE & COMMUNITY HLC Kansai & HLC Shikoku 2-Day Meetup Hike |
| December 14 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (Yamatomichi Kyoto / Kyoto) |
| March 14–15 | AMBASSADOR’S SIGNATURE Saba Kaido 2-Day Fastpacking |
HLC Kanzai Ambassador & Owner of Mountain Gear Taninokisha
While wandering around with a camera in hand, Yuji became fascinated by the lifestyle and culture of mountain tribes in Tibet, Karakoram, Ladakh and their overwhelming landscapes. In April 2020, he opened his own shop, Yamadogu Taninokisha, while running an apparel company that sells handicrafts from around Asia and the Middle East. His favorite thing to do is explore mountains and drink hard liquor while camping with ultralight gear.
A mountain gear store located in front of a landmark sacred tree in Tanimachi, Osaka. Specializing in ultralight hiking and fastpacking gear, it also serves as a Yamatomichi HLC Place, welcoming you to join in on programs and activities.
The Kyoto store opened April 2023 in a quiet neighborhood only 15min walk from Kyoto station. Besides a full lineup of our products, there is also a small craft beer bottle shop and event area where we regularly have workshops and exhibitions. As a HLC Place, the store also aims to serve as a hub for the hiking community.
HLC Hokuriku: Growing Stronger in Year Two
Established last year as the eighth HLC area, HLC Hokuriku is rapidly growing under Ambassador Riku, bringing ultralight hiking culture to life in the Hakusan region and the Kaetsu border between Fukui and Ishikawa.
2025 kicks off with a two-day event in Fukui, featuring a guest seminar and meetup hike with Yamatomichi founder Akira. Additionally, the popular “UL Hiking for Beginners” lecture course will expand beyond Fukui to new locations across Hokuriku.
For the ultimate challenge, HLC Hokuriku will be launching a 3-night, 4-day Northern Alps program under the PRACTICE category, plus our first joint meetup hike with HLC Kansai.
Join us as HLC Hokuriku reaches new heights!
A Message from Riku Yamamoto, THE GATE MOUNTAIN
“Now in its second year, HLC Hokuriku is steadily gaining momentum! This year, we’re expanding programs across Fukui, Ishikawa, and Toyama, covering the entire Hokuriku region. Plus, we’re taking things beyond Hokuriku with a meetup hike with HLC Kansai, strengthening connections with other areas.
For the summer’s grand finale, we’re hosting a PRACTICE program, a 3-night, 4-day thru-hike in the Northern Alps, where participants will plan their own routes together.
From rich satoyama landscapes to sacred Mt. Hakusan and the majestic Northern Alps, Hokuriku is a paradise for hikers. Let’s shape the region’s unique hiking culture together!”
Annual Schedule
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| April 19 | GUEST SEMINAR An Evening Talk on UL Hiking |
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| April 20 | LIFE & COMMUNITY HLC Hokuriku Meetup Hike |
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| May 11 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (THE GATE MOUNTAIN / Fukui) |
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| May 24–25 | BASIC Hokuriku Nature Trail 2-Day Workshop |
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| June 7–8 | LIFE & COMMUNITY HLC Kansai & HLC Hokuriku 2-Day Meetup Hike |
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| July 6 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (TBD / Toyama) |
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| August 26–29 | PRACTICE Northern Alps 4-Day UL Hiking |
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| October 4–5 | BASIC Hakusan 2-Day Workshop |
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| December 6 | LIFE & COMMUNITY HLC Hokuriku Meetup |
| Date | Category & Title |
| April 5 | LOCAL STUDY HIKING Exploring the Charm of Satoyama: Local Study Hike |
| April 19 | SHOP/STAFF/PRODUCTS Saturday Hikers Run: Hakone Outer Rim Running |
| April 26 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (Yamatomichi Daibutsu Lab / Kamakura) |
| May 9–10 | BASIC Hakone Outer Rim 2-Day Workshop |
| May 25 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (Yamatomichi Daibutsu Lab / Kamakura) |
| June 25 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (Yamatomichi Kamakura / Kamakura) |
| July 5–6 | BASIC Izu Ridge Trail 2-Day Workshop |
| August 2–3 | LIFE & COMMUNITY HLC Tohoku, HLC North Kanto & HLC Kamakura 2-Day Meetup Hike |
| August 9 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (Yamatomichi Daibutsu Lab / Kamakura) |
| September 9 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (Yamatomichi Kamakura / Kamakura) |
| October 10–13 | PRACTICE Asama & Yatsugatake Panorama Trail 4-Day UL Hiking |
| November 29–30 | BASIC Izu Ridge Trail 2-Day Workshop |
| December 3 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (Yamatomichi Kamakura / Kamakura) |
| January 17 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (Yamatomichi Daibutsu Lab / Kamakura) |
| January 31–February 1 | LIFE & COMMUNITY Snow Mountain 2-Day Meetup Hike |
| February 14–15 | BASIC Tanzawa 2-Day Workshop |
| March 19–22 | PRACTICE Kamakura to Takao 4-Day UL Hiking |
Yamatomichi Kamakura Store Manager / Sales
Hidenori grew up in rural Hokkaido. After working for five years as a physical therapist in an orthopedic clinic, he decided to work as a mountain hut caretaker in the Northern Japanese Alps. In 2019, he embarked on a journey of walking the entire length of New Zealand’s “Te Araroa” long trail with his spouse, seeking to fully immerse themselves in nature. This experience led them to embrace ultralight hiking and his current goal is to research and adopt a hiking style that minimizes injuries and environmental impact, so that he can stay as an active hiker even when he ages.
Opened in 2022, the store is run by a knowledgeable and experienced team of hikers, offering diverse expertise. Yamatomichi Kamakura regularly host a variety of events as a HLC Place, creating a dynamic hub for the hiking community.
HLC North Kanto: Expanding the Possibilities of Hiking with MYOG
Building on last year’s success, HLC North Kanto has cultivated a thriving MYOG (Make Your Own Gear) community, inspired by Ambassador Tomoyuki’s expertise and the inaugural MYOG Workshop.
In 2025, the program lineup is expanding, starting with a beginner-friendly MYOG workshop in June. For those looking to refine their ultralight hiking skills, three hands-on workshops will serve as the next step after the “Ultralight Hiking for Beginners” lecture. Additionally, a new workshop on topographic map reading and route planning will help participants develop the skills to create and navigate their own routes.
With a packed schedule ahead, HLC North Kanto is set for another year of innovation, exploration, and community-driven adventure!
A Message from Tomoyuki Meguriya, LUNNETES
“As HLC North Kanto enters its seventh year, our community has grown through the participation of many hikers. This year, we’re continuing to expand with a variety of BASIC programs at the core. We’re bringing back the 1-night, 2-day workshop during peak season—an opportunity to experiment with warm-weather ultralight gear.
We’re also launching a MYOG Intro Program, offering a deeper dive into MYOG culture, along with a new MYOG community, where enthusiasts can connect beyond scheduled programs. And don’t forget our year-end meetup—a perfect chance to join in and connect! Let’s make 2025 another exciting year for HLC North Kanto!”
Annual Schedule
| Date | Category & Title |
| April 19 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (LUNETTES + Mountain Gear Shop / Nasushiobara) |
| June 14 | AMBASSADOR’S SIGNATURE Intro to MYOG |
| July 5–6 | BASIC Tochigi 2-Day Workshop |
| August 2–3 | LIFE & COMMUNITY HLC Tohoku, HLC North Kanto & HLC Kamakura 2-Day Meetup Hike |
| August 22–24 | PRACTICE HLC North Kanto 3-Day UL Hiking |
| September 27 | LOCAL STUDY HIKING Create Your Own Route Workshop |
| October 18–19 | BASIC Tochigi 2-Day Workshop |
| December 6 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (LUNETTES + Mountain Gear Shop / Nasushiobara) |
| December 6 | LIFE & COMMUNITY HLC North Kanto Meetup |
| February 28–March 1 | BASIC Tochigi 2-Day Workshop |
HLC Kita-kanto Ambassador & Lunnetes Shop Staff
When Tomoyuki was 20 years old, he climbed Mt. Nasu with a friend and was left deeply impressed. Tomoyuki first encountered UL culture when he picked up a Yamatomichi Sacoche. Around the same time, he also discovered the beauty of making his own gear, and found joy in going hiking with tools that he had made by hand. After retiring from a camera manufacturer, he joined the staff of LUNETTES. Besides hiking, he is also into fly fishing and telemark skiing.
Nestled in Kuroiso, Nasu-Shiobara City, Tochigi, LUNETTES is a unique apparel and ultralight hiking shop seamlessly blending fashion and function. Though appearing as two stores, it unites style and outdoor minimalism, with LUNETTES curating inspiring clothing and its adjacent shop, Yama no Dōgu-ya, specializing in ultralight hiking gear. Rooted in Kuroiso’s natural landscape of mountains, rivers, and ski fields, the store reflects the region’s adventurous spirit. Owner Takeshi Mito and staff member Tomoyuki Meguriya, a Yamatomichi HLC North Kanto Ambassador, are experts in the Nasu-dake region—whether you hike, ski, or fly fish, stop by for local insights and top-tier gear.
HLC Tohoku: Welcoming a New Member
Starting in 2025, HLC Tohoku will be led by two ambassadors—Hiroki, who has been active since the start of the HLC program, and Kojii, joining this year.
The highlight of the year will be a multi-area meetup hike, bringing together participants from HLC Tohoku, North Kanto, and Kamakura for a joint hiking experience in the Tohoku region. Also on the lineup is the Goyōzan Overnight Winter Mountain Hut Hike, showcasing HLC Tohoku’s deep connection to winter hiking.
With more opportunities to engage, 2025 is the perfect time to connect with the ultralight hiking community, whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting out.
A Message from Koji Kurinami
“Hello, I’m Koji, and starting in 2025, I’ll be serving as an HLC Tohoku ambassador. Tohoku’s beauty shines in every season—from fresh spring greens and melting snow to cool summers, vibrant autumn foliage, and the rugged winter mountains.
This year, we’ve expanded our programs while staying true to HLC’s core values: HIKE, LIFE, and COMMUNITY. We’ll host two beginner lecture programs, explore the Michinoku Coastal Trail in spring and autumn, and hold a multi-area meetup hike and a challenging Volcano Trail hike in summer. Winter brings an overnight snow mountain hut hike, offering a true HLC Tohoku experience. Exciting adventures await—I hope to see you on the trail!”
Annual Schedule
| Date | Category & Title |
| April 12–13 | LIFE & COMMUNITY HLC Tohoku 2-Day Meetup Hike |
| May 11 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (Dried Flower Shop Towaka / Shiwa) |
| June 20–22 | PRACTICE Volcano Trail 3-Day UL Hiking |
| August 2–3 | LIFE & COMMUNITY HLC Tohoku, HLC North Kanto & HLC Kamakura 2-Day Meetup Hike |
| September 27–28 | BASIC Michinoku Coastal Trail 2-Day Workshop |
| November 9 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (Dried Flower Shop Towaka / Shiwa) |
| March 14–15 | AMBASSADOR’S SIGNATURE Goyozan 2-Day Winter Hut Stay Hike |
Yamatomichi HLC Tohoku Ambassador / Farm Director at Sukerokuen
Born in 1977 in Saitama Prefecture and now based in Takizawa, Iwate, Koji previously worked in fitness club management, relocating across Japan until the Great East Japan Earthquake shifted his perspective on food, leading him to leave the corporate world and pursue farming. His passion for hiking began with the Michinoku Coastal Trail, where he connected with HLC Tohoku and found himself hiking almost weekly. Now, he is dedicated to sharing that passion, fostering freedom, a deep connection with nature, and a strong sense of community through ultralight hiking.
HLC Tohoku Ambassador & Outdoor Shop Knotty Owner
Hiroki moved to New York in his teens, and became immersed in dance and street culture. After returning to Japan, he rediscovered the mountains that he had been familiar with as a child and began enjoying nature all year long through hiking, backcountry skiing, climbing, trail running, and river trekking. He established the outdoor store “Knotty” in Shiwa-machi, Iwate Prefecture, to promote safe and fun mountain activities, and is constantly striving to find a sense of groove with nature, mountains, and people.
Located in Shiwa, Iwate, Knotty is an outdoor shop surrounded by prime hiking areas like Hachimantai, Mount Iwate, and the Kitakami Highlands, offering gear for hiking, trail running, and backcountry adventures. Named after the “knot” in a rope, it serves as a gathering place for the Tohoku outdoor community, with regular visitors coming together through a shared passion. Shop owner and HLC ambassador Ueno, along with his wife Akiko, often spends time outside shop hours running, snowboarding, and exploring with customers, further strengthening community bonds.
HLC Hokkaido: A New Team and Expanded Locations
In 2025, HLC Hokkaido welcomes a new ambassador, Shingo, who joins Yoshitaka, an original member since the program’s start. Based in Niseko and Sapporo, they will continue sharing the appeal of ultralight hiking across Hokkaido.
The year kicks off in April with the HLC Hokkaido Meetup in Niseko, followed by the first-ever “Ultralight Hiking for Beginners” Lecture in Sapporo. With expanded programs in Lake Tōya, Eastern Hokkaido, and beyond, more participants than ever will have the chance to join.
Looking ahead to March 2026, the MYOG Introductory Workshop will feature Tomoyuki, an HLC North Kanto ambassador, adding even more depth to the experience.
With a growing reach and exciting new themes, HLC Hokkaido in 2025 is shaping up to be its most dynamic year yet.
A Message from Shingo Numata, HLC Tohoku
“As HLC Hokkaido enters its sixth year, I am honored to take the baton from founding ambassador Yoshitaka and step into my role as an additional ambassador. In 2025, while continuing to center our activities in Niseko, we will also expand to Sapporo, introducing ‘Ultralight Hiking for Beginners’ lectures and workshops to make participation more accessible. If distance has kept you from joining before, this is your chance!
Additionally, our three-day PRACTICE program will take place in early July, marking the start of Hokkaido’s summer hiking season—perfect for those who have completed the BASIC programs and are ready to level up. Let’s keep growing and strengthening the Hokkaido hiking community together!”
Annual Schedule
| Date | Category & Title |
| April 5 | LIFE & COMMUNITY HLC Hokkaido Meetup |
| April 26 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (TRAIL HUT / Sapporo) |
| May 24–25 | BASIC Lake Toya 2-Day Workshop |
| June 14–15 | BASIC Sapporo Surroundings 2-Day Workshop |
| July 5–7 | PRACTICE HLC Hokkaido 3-Day UL Hiking |
| September 21 | LOCAL STUDY HIKING Birth & Maintenance of the East Hokkaido Trail |
| October 11 | BASIC Intro to UL Hiking (Hakkenzan Easy Miles / Sapporo) |
| March 14 | GUEST SEMINAR Intro to MYOG |
Yamatomichi HLC Hokkaido Ambassador / Founder of MUNIEQ
At the age of 20, Shingo was inspired by Yosemite’s landscapes, sparking his passion for the outdoors. Combining his mechanical engineering background with this love for nature, he founded the gear brand MUNIEQ in 2016, designing coffee equipment for hiking. A longtime runner, he transitioned into trail running and has been an active participant in HLC Hokkaido since its first year.
HLC Hokkaido Ambassador & Owner of Coffee Shop Sprout
Yoshitaka moved to Niseko, Hokkaido in 2009 to open the SPROUT coffee shop, in 2019 he opened Camp&Go, a place where you can enjoy coffee and the outdoors. He currently spends his time studying coffee, hiking, skiing, kayaking, and being active in the Niseko mountain range.
Camp&Go, our HLC Place in Hokkaido, conveniently located at JR Kutchan Station—the gateway for travelers from around the globe visiting Mt. Yotei and Niseko’s mountain range, known for its amazing snow. Led by owner and HLC Hokkaido ambassador, Takataka Tougega, we offer a variety of workshop programs conducted in the Niseko mountain range and other breathtaking locations across Hokkaido. Whether you’re here to explore, learn, or connect with nature, Camp&Go is your perfect base for adventure.