Mt. Asahi Beginning at Sugatami-daira (Round Trip) | HIKES IN JAPAN
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Mt. Asahi Beginning at Sugatami-daira (Round Trip)

Use the ropeway to help you hike Hokkaido's highest peak.
  • Duration
    1Day / 6Hours
    Highest Point
    2291m
    Elevation Gain
    690m
  • Skill Level
    Fitness Level
    Gear Level
Rising in central Hokkaido, Daisetsuzan is the general name for a volcanic group of 2,000-plus meter peaks that includes Mt. Asahi (Asahi-dake), Mt. Hokuchin (Hokuchin-dake), Mt. Hakuun (Hakuun-dake), Mt. Hippu (Hippu-dake), Mt. Aibetsu (Aibetsu-dake), and Mt. Hokkai (Hokkai-dake). The trail we showcase here is a return trek up Mt. Asahi, the Daisetsuzan's highest peak, as well as the highest in all of Hokkaido. The trail features a ropeway, making it accessible even to those new to mountain hiking.

Follow the stone-paved path from the ropeway's Sugatami Station. In approximately 20 minutes you'll arrive at Sugatami-no-ike Pond. The main mountain trail starts once you pass the stone Asahidake-ishimuro stone hut, ascending a slope of reddish rocky section along a blown-out crater.

This intense environment is already above the tree line. It has little vegetation and is exposed to strong winds, so you need to take care with the weather. Once you pass a couple of large rock formations called Nisekinko-iwa Rock and Kinko-iwa Rock, the trail will bring you to the summit. As you approach, layers of igneous rock show evidence of multiple eruptions and ancient lava flows. When the weather is fine the summit has a sweeping view of the mountains of the Daisetsuzan range.

To return, retrace your steps to Sugatami-no-ike Pond and head for the Fourth observation point. Pass the Third observation point while taking in the beautiful view of Meoto-ike Pond and you'll arrive at Sugatami Station for the ropeway.

Other Info

Sugatamidaira and its environs burst into bloom in the summertime with alpine plants, and the plants' foliage turns stunning colors in the autumn. If you are lucky, you may spot wildlife like chipmunks and pikas. There are dining facilities both near the ropeway boarding station at the foot of the mountain and at the summit.

High Season:July to September

Notes

As gases rise from the crater due to volcanic activity, if the trail on that part of the trek happens to be downwind, you need to be careful of hydrogen sulfide fumes.

Route Map

Elevation Map

Height (m)
Horizontal Distance (km)

Spec

Duration
1Day / 6Hours
Highest Point
2291m
Elevation Gain
690m
Horizontal Distance
10.5Km
Skill Level
Fitness Level
Gear Level

On the Trail

Sleeping

Asahidake-ishimuro stone hut (Shelter)

Eating

Asahidake Ropeway

Hot-Springs

Asahidake Onsen (Hot spring)

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Access

This hike is located in central Hokkaido. You can reach it with a two-hour flight from Tokyo Haneda Airport to Asahikawa Airport. From there you can take a regular bus to the Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway Sanroku Station (Approx. 1 hour.)
Change to the ropeway to Sugatami Station (Approx. 10 minutes.)

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