We have looked into new ways of thinking, behavior, and things to keep in mind when resuming outdoor activities (updated regularly)

The long-awaited lifting of the nationwide state of emergency

Following the lifting of restrictions, mountain huts and campsites that had been closed, as well as closed tourist parking lots, are gradually starting to announce their reopening

For many outdoor enthusiasts who have been refraining from going out unless it is absolutely necessary for the past few months, this is a long-awaited lifting of the ban. Even on this site, reviews of mountain gear that had been suspended had piled up, and we had been eagerly awaiting this moment, distracting ourselves from the frustration of daily runs around town

However, at this point, you should not immediately resume your activities

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has fundamentally changed the way we live our daily lives, including outdoor activities, and the COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on many aspects of outdoor activities

Of course, the fundamental relationship between humans and nature and the essential mindset required to enjoy nature will remain unchanged. However, it is certain that everyone needs to recognize that there are new and optimal ways of thinking and preparations for new situations, and that we need to update our thinking. After all, the COVID-19 pandemic is not a problem that only concerns ourselves; it is even more so when we consider the possibility that our behavior can have a negative impact on others and our communities. And most importantly, even though the state of emergency declaration has been lifted, the fear of infection has not yet subsided. Moreover, even if the degree of infection is gradually decreasing, it can be said that the actual situation has not changed at all since the declaration was made

Recently, several mountaineering, nature, and sports organizations have been offering ideas and guidelines for how to respond to this new situation. Here, I have carefully selected and shared with you some of the most rational, practical, and helpful information sources I have found

I hope this article will help you learn about new ways of thinking and preparations you should keep in mind as you return to outdoor recreation activities, and help you to be fully prepared when you do so. However, as with any outdoor knowledge, it is not enough to blindly follow the specific guidelines. Remember that what is important is the thinking that forms the basis of those guidelines

In the latter half of the article, we shared information about support projects, such as mountain huts, that we have also supported, which is also a serious issue. There may be some omissions or oversights, but we will update the information as soon as they are pointed out, so if you notice any issues and would like to let us know, please leave a comment on our Facebook page

A collection of useful information to help you stay safe and responsible in the outdoors

5/29 Update: <Statement by the Four Mountaineering Organizations> To all mountain sports enthusiasts following the complete lifting of the government's state of emergency

To all mountain sports enthusiasts following the complete lifting of the government's state of emergency

On May 25th, four mountaineering organizations (Japan Mountaineering and Sport Climbing Association, Japan Workers' Mountaineering Federation, Japan Alpine Club, and Japan Mountain Guides Association) also issued guidelines for future mountain climbing. These guidelines are somewhat extreme, with some concerning recommendations such as "Please wear a mask even while climbing," and "Please refrain from shopping within the mountain area you are climbing to prevent infection among local residents."

Mountain Medical Rescue Organization "Knowledge for Resuming Mountaineering: Practical Guide to Mountaineering"

Source: Mountain Medical Rescue Organization

Mountain Medical Rescue Organization "Knowledge for Resuming Mountaineering: Practical Mountaineering Edition"

The Mountain Medical Rescue Organization has created guidelines for climbers (which are updated regularly). The content is very specific, practical, and in-depth. Although it is long, it is easy to understand as it provides detailed guidelines for all types of hiking, from day hikes to hut and tent camping, along with the reasons for each. According to the guidelines, the following items are equipment that should always be carried, even on day hikes (please read the contents carefully to understand why they are recommended):

• Masks (bandanas, buffs, etc.)
• Alcohol gel
• Ziploc® (for garbage bags)
• Tissue or toilet paper

Prior to this, a wide range of guidelines, "Knowledge for Resuming Mountain Climbing (Planning and Preparation)," was also published (and will be updated regularly), covering everyone from mountain hut managers and rescue workers to the general public. A Q&A collection has also been published for these guidelines, so if you want to know more, be sure to check it out.

Conservation Alliance Japan (CAJ) "Five Guidelines for Going Outdoors"

Source: Conservation Alliance Japan

Five guidelines for going outdoors as the COVID-19 pandemic spreads

Conservation Alliance Japan, a non-profit support organization that collaborates with organizations and industries working to sustainably conserve Japan's outdoor fields, has published basic guidelines for outdoor activities

NPO Japan Free Climbing Association (JFA) "Guidelines for rock climbing use after the state of emergency is lifted"

Source: Climbing During the Coronavirus Pandemic

Guidelines for rock climbing after the state of emergency is lifted (PDF)

The Japan Free Climbing Association (JFA), an NPO that promotes free climbing and the sport, has also issued guidelines for climbers to safely use rock climbing areas after the state of emergency is lifted.These guidelines are based on " Climbing During the Coronavirus Pandemic ," a guideline published by the Access Fund, a non-profit American climbing support organization.

Overseas cases

The United States and Europe have also passed the peak of their serious outbreaks, and there seems to be a gradual movement to resume outdoor activities. While there are subtle differences in the environment and culture depending on the region, the virus itself is the same around the world, so this should also be of some use. For reference, we've done a quick search to see how they are responding to COVID-19

National Park Service

"#RecreateResponsibly"

After the state of emergency was lifted, America's national parks have gradually reopened, with restrictions on times and locations. At the same time, they are working with various outdoor manufacturers, distributors, and organizations to "#RecreateResponsibly ." These guidelines consist of the following five points:

Know before you go.

Always check local information (such as park conditions, availability of roads, toilets, and other facilities) before traveling

Keep it close.

Follow state and county policies and orders governing the area you are considering visiting

Keep your distance.

Follow CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) guidelines and maintain adequate space wherever you are

Know your limits.

While the community is focused on responding to the spread of infection, refrain from challenging routes or new activities

Keep it with you.

Please take back everything you bring with you (National Parks' "Leave No Trace" principle ).

The situation of mountain huts overseas (from the Mountain Medical Rescue Organization website)

Reopening of mountain huts overseas (Switzerland, Germany, Austria)

The Mountain Medical Rescue Organization website, mentioned earlier, introduced the situation overseas regarding the reopening of mountain huts in Switzerland, Germany, and Austria. Because the situation at mountain huts varies from country to country, the preventive measures and the actions and items climbers are expected to take vary. This information was helpful in considering what to do in Japan

Supporting mountain huts and the outdoor industry

Once you've updated your knowledge and etiquette and are ready to head to the mountains, don't forget to read this last thing. As you know, many mountain huts and outdoor facilities are at risk due to the self-restraint and closure of activities before and after the declaration. Once lost, it will take many times more effort to restore them to their original state. There is no doubt that Japanese mountain huts go beyond mere accommodation and provide many benefits to all climbers who visit them, such as maintaining surrounding hiking trails and serving as bases for emergency medical activities

So, I've picked out some outdoor-related COVID-19 relief projects, including those for mountain huts, that I've come across recently on various crowdfunding sites and through searches. I highly recommend supporting these projects

[COVID-19] #Mountain Hut Support Project

[COVID-19] #MountainHutSupportProject – Crowdfunding READYFOR

Mountain huts have three main roles: 1. To provide a place for climbers to stay and rest; 2. To provide rescue services for those who get lost; and 3. To maintain and manage mountain trails. Mountain huts are not just facilities, but also part of mountain infrastructure. It is because of mountain huts that climbers can enjoy a safe and comfortable climb

Let's all support mountain huts that provide safety and security for climbers! "Mountain Hut Aid Fund"

Let's all support mountain huts that provide safety and security for climbers! "Mountain Hut Aid Fund" | MOTION GALLERY

This project was launched by Yama to Keikokusha to support mountain huts, which provide lodging, trail maintenance, and evacuation shelters amid the ongoing self-restraint on mountain climbing. Donations collected will be distributed equally among the mountain huts that support and are designated recipients of this fund. We want to support mountain huts across the country that support mountain climbing!

Tsurugisawa Hut

Tsurugisawa Hut

Welcome to the Tsurugisawa Hut website. Tsurugisawa Hut is a historic mountain hut founded in the Taisho era. It offers a direct view of Mount Tsurugi. Reservations are required for overnight stays. We may decline your request if the hut is fully booked. Crowdfunding Due to the impact of COVID-19, we are facing a difficult situation, including reduced operations. We appreciate your support. The impact of COVID-19 is also being felt in mountains and mountaineering

Summit Fujikan Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding for the Summit Fujikan hut has begun on May 23rd! Please support us! | Mount Fuji Mountain Hut Summit Fujikan

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Outdoor Volunteer Corps Request for Cooperation

Acceptance of support grants for COVID-19 (Montbell)

We provided Tyvek protective clothing and other items to the following medical institutions: National University Corporation Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, COVID-19 Response Office (10 protective suits) Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine (20 protective suits, 30 rainwear sets) National Hospital Organization Osaka Medical Center (10 protective suits) Nara Medical University (10 protective suits)

Please support the campsite in Kosuge Village, which is facing a crisis! We want to explore new camping options in the COVID-19 era!

Please support the campsite in Kosuge Village, which is facing a crisis! We want to explore new camping options in the COVID-19 era!

Introduction/Greetings "Horenbou no Mori Campground" is located in Kosuge Village, Yamanashi Prefecture, which is located further inland from the Okutama region and borders the edge of Tokyo. Kosuge Village is located at the source of the Tama River and Sagami River, and has gradually become known in recent years as the village of the "Tama Source."

Don't give in to COVID! A project to support businesses in Hinohara Village, a rural area of ​​Tokyo

Don't let COVID-19 get you down! A project to support businesses in Hinohara Village, a rural area of ​​Tokyo | MOTION GALLERY

Hinohara Village, a village of forests and mountain streams on the western edge of Tokyo. Due to COVID-19, many restaurants, accommodations, and tourist facilities have voluntarily closed or scaled down their operations. This project aims to maintain connections between volunteer businesses and Hinohara fans so that we can meet again in the village. Introduction..

   

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