Question 1

What is Slope Search?

Accepted Answer

Slope Search is a free web GIS for backcountry skiing and ski touring. It highlights slopes on a map that match your chosen slope angle, elevation, aspect and terrain position (TPI), using Japanese government DEM data analyzed in QGIS.

Question 2

Does Slope Search cover all of Japan?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The terrain dataset covers Japan nationwide, derived from the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan (GSI) digital elevation model.

Question 3

Can I search slopes by angle, elevation and aspect?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can filter by slope angle in degrees, by elevation range, by 8-direction aspect, and by terrain position (ridge to valley, TPI). Matching slopes are highlighted in cyan on the map.

Question 4

Is Slope Search free to use?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is completely free. No login or account is required.

Question 5

Can it be used for avalanche terrain assessment?

Accepted Answer

Slope angle, aspect and terrain features are useful inputs for terrain evaluation, but the data are reference values only. Always verify conditions in the field and make safety decisions at your own responsibility.