PART 1 — 掟一〜五
Rules that defend crag access (Ⅰ–Ⅴ)
ⅠPark only in designated spotsNever park on the street or private land. Parking is the number one source of access trouble, and it keeps closing crags for good.
ⅡCarry out every scrap, brush off every markTape ends, food wrappers and finger tape look like suspicious debris to anyone who is not a climber. Take out litter you find too, even when it is not yours. Brush your chalk and tick marks off the rock before you leave — Leave No Trace is the fundamental rule.
ⅢNever chip the rock or cut treesAltering holds is the most shameful act in climbing. Cutting a tree in the way of a start can be a criminal offence.
ⅣKeep your voice down, leave speakers at homeShouts and cheers near residential areas are simply noise to neighbours. Stay mindful in quiet mountain villages.
ⅤNo fires, no camping, no sleeping in your carCampfires and stoves risk wildfire. Tents, car camping, and unauthorised night bouldering get reported to the police as suspicious activity. Ask yourself: would I want this happening right in front of my house?
PART 2 — 掟六〜十
Field environment, safety & climber etiquette (Ⅵ–Ⅹ)
ⅥKeep pads clean and mud-freeDon't step onto pads with outdoor shoes still on — wipe your shoes or use a foot mat first.
COLUMN — CULTURE CLASH ON THE CRASH PAD
Overseas, walking or standing on pads with shoes on is common — pads are practical cushions, utility first. Among Japanese climbers it's deeply ingrained not to step on your own pad with outdoor shoes; taking them off or brushing off mud first is standard, and many even lay tarps under or over pads to keep them clean and lasting longer.
Muddy pads are a slipping hazard for the next climber's landing, and this habit reflects a Japanese aesthetic of caring for gear and considering others. No need to stress if you see others climbing with shoes on pads abroad — and practicing the Japanese style yourself makes for a smoother session for everyone.
ⅦToilet etiquette and hygieneUse proper facilities (convenience stores, roadside stations) beforehand. Outdoor human waste near crags is strictly prohibited — in an emergency, stay away from water and trails, dig deep, and always pack out paper.
ⅧMutual safety through spottingGround is uneven and pads rarely cover it perfectly — look out for each other. If using someone else's pads already laid out, ask "Mind if I join?" first, and don't leave gear where it could obstruct a landing.
ⅨDon't monopolize problemsAvoid holding popular problems for hours with a large group, or excessive noise. Keep cheering controlled, especially when someone's deep in an onsight try.
ⅩGreet locals — be a good neighborGreet residents and hikers warmly. Being seen as polite visitors rather than suspicious outsiders, and supporting local shops and onsen, helps protect the crag long-term.