Last updated Jul 22, 2021
The Kurodake Refuge Hut (location) is about 800m southwest of the Mt. Kurodake summit, at the northern end of the Daisetsu Range in central Hokkaido.
NOTE: For the 2021 summer season Kurodake Hut is staffed, but there’s no equipment rental or foodstuffs available. Hut capacity is capped to 32 people, as a coronavirus precaution.
The hutkeeper(s) is generally at the Kurodake Refuge (or 黒岳石室, literally Kurodake Stone Hut) from the last weekend of June till the last weekend of September. Outside of this period, people are also welcome to stay at the hut (no fee). However, the hut becomes completely buried in winter. One of the hutkeepers told me that considering the time it would take to find the entrance and dig the 4 meters down to it, it would be quicker and more comfortable to dig a snow cave in winter. In the non-snow months, there’s also space around the hut for up to 20 tents (500yen per night). The hut sells a very basic selection of drinks, including water, beer, whiskey, sake, soft drinks etc. Cup noodles are also available for purchase (you’ll need to supply your own boiling water). A limited supply of sleeping bags are available for rent for 1,000yen per night. All hikers must pack out their own garbage.
TEL: 01658-5-3031
There is no need to book. The Kurodake Refuge operates on a ‘no person turned away’ policy. So even if you have to sleep on the floor, you will have a roof over your head.
2,000yen for overnight stays, 500yen for a tent site (these prices apply to the non-snow season when the hutkeepers are present). Outside of this period, stays are free (the hut becomes classed as an emergency hut).
Heating: The hut is heated, with the stove operated by the hutkeepers. In the winter there is no fuel provided.
Water: In the non-winter months, there is a water supply at the hut. All water must be filtered or boiled.
Kitchen/cooking: There is an outdoor cooking area.
Bedding: Bedding is included in the 2,000yen overnight fee.
Elecricity: There is no electricity at the hut.
Toilets: There are basic composting bio-toilets.
Cell reception: No.
Hutkeepers are, in principle, present from the last week of June till the last week of September.
Related Maps
NOTE: For number references to official printed topographical maps, check the main route report ( coming soon ).
Outside of the non-snow months, there are no hutkeepers present. If you use the hut when there are no hutkeepers present please sign the logbook and clean up after use.
Kurodake Refuge Hut Trip reports
Kurodake Refuge Hut Photo Gallery
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Comments | Queries | Reports
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9 thoughts on “Kurodake Refuge”
Hello,
Is the hut manned this summer season 2021?
Thank you!
Hi Audrey, yes it is manned, but the hut capacity has been reduced from 80 people to 32 max (to reduce contact between guests). So, the hut will be super busy on weekends and public holidays. Campground is still available for use. Details here: https://www.rinyu.co.jp/information/
you need to do the right thing Bernice
This was informative! And I thank you for writing it however we showed up October 1st, 2019 and the hut was boarded up and the hut-keepers were busy shutting things down. Luckily they were nice enough to let us sleep on the floor of the reception area for free!
Great to hear you managed to stay! Even after the rangers have left for the season though, it is possible to stay in the hut – dark and dingy though!
HI Rob,
I’m thinking about going there this week. Do you know how the conditions are at the moment? And any tips on what to consider if I do it? Thanks, viv
Hey Viv, sorry for the delay in reply. At this time of year, snow is already very much set in for the season – you’ll likely need snowshoes and/or crampons, as well as good winter mountaineering experience.
I want my money back
I paid your tuition, rent, gave you a vehicle and a credit card.