Overview
Daisetsuzan National Park is the largest national park in Japan, a high plateau of volcanic peaks in central Hokkaidō. Asahidake, at 2,291 m, is the highest mountain on the island, with steaming vents and snow patches into summer. Alpine flowers, lakes and wide views fill the surrounding trails.
Ropeways at Asahidake and at Sounkyō lift visitors to the slopes of Asahidake and Kurodake, and a number of walking routes begin from the upper stations. The area has hot springs, quiet lodges and a gorge at Sounkyō. Hokkaidō brown bears live here, so walkers need to follow safety rules and carry bear bells or spray.
Highlights
- Asahidake and the Sugatami ponds trail
- Kurodake and the Sounkyō gorge
- Alpine flowers in July and August
- Early autumn colour in the high country, often from mid-September
Best time to visit
July to September is the best time for walking, with snow melting on high paths in early summer. Colour begins as early as late August and peaks in mid-September to early October. Winter is long and snowy, with skiing and hot springs.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Not ideal
- MarMarch: Not ideal
- AprApril: Not ideal
- MayMay: Not ideal
- JunJune: Good
- JulJuly: Best
- AugAugust: Best
- SepSeptember: Best
- OctOctober: Good
- NovNovember: Not ideal
- DecDecember: Not ideal
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Asahikawa (AKJ), or Sapporo, and travel by bus or car to Asahidake Onsen or Sounkyō, about one to two hours. The ropeways run seasonally and have maintenance periods, so check the schedule. A car is helpful for exploring the park.
What to expect
Moderate. Many paths from the ropeways are well formed, and some routes are steep and exposed. Weather changes fast, and bears are a real consideration. Carry warm clothes and navigate carefully.
Practical tips
- Carry a bear bell and follow bear-safety advice at the visitor centres.
- Check the ropeway schedule and trail conditions before you set off.
- Take warm clothes: even in August, it can be near freezing at the top.
- Book lodging early for September, when the autumn colour draws crowds.
Frequently asked questions
When does Daisetsuzan have autumn colour?
Often from late August on the high peaks, with the main colour in mid-September to early October.
Are there bears?
Yes, brown bears live in the park. Follow safety advice and carry a bell.
How high is Asahidake?
About 2,291 m, the highest peak in Hokkaidō.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: lumoplank (CC0) via Wikimedia Commons.
