Mount Asahidake

Background

Mount Asahidake stands near Higashikawa Town in Hokkaido's Kamikawa Subprefecture, in the northern part of Daisetsuzan National Park, and belongs to the Daisetsuzan Volcanic Group of the Ishikari Mountains. At 2,290.9 metres it is the highest peak in Hokkaido. It is an active volcano whose last eruption was in 1739, and fumaroles still give off steam; sulphur was once mined in the fumarolic areas. Sugatami Pond, below the summit, is famous for its reflection of the peaks.

Local customs

• Riding the Asahidake Ropeway up the mountain and walking to the Sugatami Pond area
• hiking in summer, skiing and snowboarding in winter
• soaking in Asahidake Onsen.

Travel tips

• Ropeway and trail openings change with the season and volcanic activity, so check official announcements before you go
• it is cold at the summit, so bring windproof, warm clothing.
• Travel to Asahikawa first, take a bus to Asahidake Onsen and then ride the ropeway up
• bus times are subject to official announcements. Summer is hiking season, when you can see alpine plants in bloom
• in winter the mountain is open for skiing and snowboarding.