Mount Asahi

Mount Asahi

Mount Asahi (旭岳), also known as Asahidake, is a volcanic mountain located in Daisetsuzan National Park in Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island. It is the highest peak in Hokkaido, with an elevation of 2,291m.

Mount Asahi is an active volcano, last erupting in 1739. It is surrounded by other peaks, including Mount Kuro, Mount Aka, and Mount Hokkai. The mountain is known for its stunning scenery, featuring alpine flowers in the summer and vibrant autumn foliage.

During warmer months, the mountain is a popular destination for hiking and trekking, with several trails and routes leading to the summit. The climb to the top is challenging yet rewarding, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. One popular option is to take the Asahidake Ropeway to the 5th station, which shortens the hiking time to the summit to about 1.5 hours. Please note that the ropeway is not operational during winter.

In the winter, Mount Asahi transforms into a haven for backcountry skiing and snowboarding, boasting deep powder snow and challenging terrain.

The area around Mount Asahi is also famous for its hot springs, offering various types such as simple sulfur, acidic, and chloride springs. Numerous resorts and spas provide traditional Japanese-style accommodations and natural hot spring baths, believed to have therapeutic properties that alleviate muscle and joint pain, fatigue, and skin conditions.

Mount Asahi is a magnificent natural attraction that offers a wealth of outdoor activities and breathtaking beauty throughout the year. It is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts exploring Hokkaido.

Getting there

By Bus

From JR Asahikawa Station:

  • Take the “Ideyu-go” bus on the Asahidake line
  • Journey time: About 90 minutes
  • Get off at the final stop (Asahidake)

From Asahikawa Airport:

  • Take the “Ideyu-go” bus
  • Journey time: About 60 minutes

From Higashikawa town center:

  • Take the “Ideyu-go” bus
  • Journey time: About 40 minutes

By Car

From JR Asahikawa Station:

  • Drive to Asahidake Visitor Center
  • Journey time: About 70 minutes

From Asahikawa Airport:

  • Drive to Asahidake Visitor Center
  • Journey time: About 50 minutes

By Ropeway

  • Take the Asahidake Ropeway from Sanroku Station to Sugatami Station
  • Journey time: 10 minutes

Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway

HoursHours of operation vary depending on the season.
Fare (November 1st-May 31st)One Way
・ Adults: 1,400 yen
・ Children: 1,000 yen
Round Trip
・ Adults: 2,400 yen
・ Children: 1,600 yen
Fare (June 1st-October 31st)One Way
・ Adults: 2,000 yen
・ Children: 1,000 yen
Round Trip
・ Adults: 3,200 yen
・ Children: 1,600 yen
Phone+81 166-68-9111
AddressAsahidake Onsen, Higashikawa-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido 071-1472, Japan
Official Websitehttps://asahidake.hokkaido.jp/ja/