Hello, this is Kyon. I recently carried my tent out for some snow mountain hiking for the first time in a while. That long-lost sense of weight really takes a toll on the legs! Haha.
This time, I was joined by someone camping in the snow for the first time, so we decided on Gyoja-goya for our tent site since it's close to the trailhead. We headed for Mt. Aka and Mt. Iō. The plan was to hike from Mt. Aka to Mt. Yoko to Mt. Iō if the weather held up. It's a place I've been to many times, but what makes it fun is how it shows a completely different face depending on the snow conditions and the weather at the time. Plus, the way you enjoy it changes depending on who you're with, which is also great.
This was a trip just for the two of us girls. It's nice to have a fun, giddy trip like this once in a while. Even though it was February, it wasn't cold; it felt more like spring hiking weather.
However, near the summit of Mt. Aka, the weather changed suddenly and turned into a gale. We both grinned and walked straight into the wind, thinking, "This is exactly how a winter mountain should be!"
I accidentally forgot to bring it this time, but there is one item I always bring when tent camping or sleeping in my car.
Here it is!
【CARRY THE SUN】
Solar Light
Weight : S / 57g
M / 86g
Price : S / ¥2,600_(excl. tax)
M / ¥3,800_(excl. tax)
This is a lightweight, compact LED light that's easy to carry. Because it's solar-charged, there's no need to replace batteries. Having one of these is reassuring not just for mountain climbing, but also for camping, touring, or as an emergency light during disasters.
And above all, the design is just cute!
As you can see, I charge it by hanging it on my backpack with a carabiner. It's dustproof and waterproof, so it's fine if it gets wet with snow. However, you shouldn't submerge it underwater.
It comes in two sizes, S and M. I recommend the M size because it shows the remaining battery life, is brighter, and has a longer burn time. If you want something even more compact and lightweight, I think the S size is a great choice.
The LED light also comes in two color temperatures, COOL and WARM, so you can choose the one you prefer. I use the WARM M size because I like a cozy atmosphere inside my tent.
Whether for outdoor activities or emergencies, this solar light is definitely useful to have on hand. Please come by the store to check it out!