Daisetsuzan is Japan’s largest national park, covering 2,268 square kilometres of volcanic mountains, alpine meadows, gorges, and hot springs in central Hokkaido. The name means “great snowy mountains” and the peaks here hold snow into July. For hikers, this is the premier destination in Hokkaido — multi-day traverses across volcanic ridgelines, day hikes through wildflower meadows, and ropeway access for those who want alpine scenery without the climb.
Key Areas
Asahidake (Mt. Asahi, 2,291m)
Hokkaido’s highest peak. The Asahidake Ropeway lifts you to 1,600m where boardwalk trails loop through alpine terrain with steam vents, wildflowers (July), and Japan’s earliest autumn colours (mid-September). From the ropeway station, hiking to the summit adds 3-4 hours round trip and requires proper gear.
Sounkyo Gorge
A dramatic gorge with columnar basalt cliffs, waterfalls (Ginga and Ryusei Falls), and the Sounkyo Onsen village at its base. The Kurodake Ropeway and chairlift reach near the summit of Mt. Kurodake, connecting to alpine hiking trails. In winter, the Ice Fall Festival illuminates frozen waterfalls.
Tokachidake (Mt. Tokachi, 2,077m)
An active volcano south of Asahidake with hot spring steam visible from the approach road. The Tokachidake Onsen area at the base has rustic mountain lodges with outdoor baths. The hike to the summit is challenging but rewarding.
Multi-Day Traverse
The grand traverse from Asahidake to Tokachidake (or vice versa) takes 2-4 days depending on route and fitness. Mountain huts provide basic shelter along the way. This is serious hiking — alpine conditions, changeable weather, and remote terrain. Proper equipment and experience required. The reward is some of the finest mountain scenery in Japan.
Best Times
- Mid-September: Japan’s first autumn colours on the alpine slopes
- July-August: Wildflower meadows, summer hiking season
- January-March: Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival, backcountry skiing
Getting There
Asahidake: Bus from Asahikawa (1.5 hours). See our Asahikawa guide.
Sounkyo: Bus from Asahikawa (2 hours) or Kamikawa (30 minutes on JR line).
See our transport guide.