‘I Have Become Afraid of Them (Mountains)’: Renowned 21st Century Japanese Climber Discusses Climbing a New Peak and His Documentary ‘Rope’

Striding his way through every step on a challenging altitude, Kazuya Hiraide has emerged as a mountain climbing luminary of the 21st century. The Japanese climber has now old hands with Kenro Nakajima, his climbing partner, and chronicled his journey in the compelling documentary called ‘Rope’. As the duo embarked on their adventure to the unprecedented alpine ascent of Tirich Mir’s north face, the documentary peels back the layers of the perilous journey complemented by the revelation of fear, artistry, and the intricate dance of trust.

As the Japanese climbing duo captured the raw honesty of their expeditions, their challenges, an exhibition of indomitable spirit, and their eventual triumphs earned them a spot to feature their documentary at Bilbao’s BBK MendiFilm. 

Climbing documentary of trust, teamwork and respect

The documentary film gives a first-hand account offering a peek into the first alpine-style ascent on the highest mountain of the Hindu Kush range known as the Tirich Mir in the Chitral district. Hiraide shared a glimpse of the perils associated with climbing, “I have climbed many mountains, and now I have become afraid of them. They scare me because now I know the danger under my feet, as compiled by El Pais.

He continued, “When I head for a mountain, fear makes me hesitate, it’s hard for me to take the step, but Kenro does it without a second’s hesitation. I have lost that innocence. His courage is the reason I am able to climb these mountains.” Even though Hiraide is 10 years older than Nakajima, the climbing duo’s journey is dissected with meticulous craftsmanship. Drawing inspiration from unraveling the complexities of alpine exploration propelled them to place their foot on the untouched frontier of the Himalayan peak. 

Exploration and preparation for mountain climbing the unknown 

The journey documented on their way to the 7,708-meter peak in Pakistan has left the audience mesmerized at the Spanish film festival. Already known to the climbing community and the audience as an elite mountaineer, the documentary exposed the vulnerable side of Hiraide, whom Nakajima considers a mentor. 

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However, Hiraide believes that self-confidence is the key to moving forward on such treacherous terrain and exalting heights. The duo encountered as they had to search through walls and glaciers to find their position since the northern slope was so remote.  

Hiraide even articulates his evolving relationship with mountain climbing since now he prefers doing it with Nakajima and that his triumphs now rest on the delicate balance of trust. Already accomplishing the Piolet d’Or mountaineering award, Hiraide still earns his living as a sports equipment distributor. The climber has his eyes set on the upcoming expedition to the west face of K2. 

‘Rope’ stands as a poignant symbol of the celebration of resilience backed up by courage and friendship. The title of the film is symbolic in relation to the climbing feat that underscores the core philosophy of mountaineering of the unbreakable bond between Hiraide and Nakajima on the uncharted heights of the treacherous peaks. 

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