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Daisetsuzan is Hokkaido’s largest national park full of natural beauty and splendour that will take your breath away. It’s a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, and will be sure to provide memories that will last a lifetime. Here’s our recommended way to get there from Asahikawa, and what to see and do along the way.
As public transport from Asahikawa has the tendency to be rather infrequent and time consuming, we highly recommend heading over to Daisetsuzan via rental car, which can be found in the Asahikawa city center, as well as from the Asahikawa airport. Not only is this way much faster and more convenient, it also allows you the opportunity to experience one of central Hokkaido’s true unassuming joys – driving along the picturesque winding roads with the beautiful backdrop that can be seen in every corner of Japan’s northernmost island. It’s the simple things.
The scenic drive should take around two hours of non stop driving, but where’s the fun in that? We highly recommend stopping to stretch your legs frequently at the many beautiful rest stops along the way. Once you arrive at Daisetsuzan it’s time to ditch the car and get the blood flowing. There is no entry fee for Daisetsuzan National Park, and free parking is available, although do keep in mind that there are some parking areas that do require a fee, but these are usually clearly marked and can be easily avoided.
The Asahidake Ropeway is the next stop on this itinerary. It will take you to within a two hour hike to the summit of Mount Asahidake – the tallest mountain in Hokkaido. This is not for the faint of heart and conditions can be challenging, but the experience is definitely worth it. At 1600 meters above sea level, the view from the upper station of the ropeway is absolutely spectacular, and it only gets better as you make your way up the various hiking trails on offer.
You can take the direct route up to the top of Mount Asahidake, or you can take some longer scenic routes – the choice is yours. No matter which way you go, an inspiring time awaits as you make your way up Mount Asahidake.
If that isn’t enough for you and you really feel like truly conquering Daisetsuzan, you can step it up further and take on the one to two-day trail for advanced hikers that lies beyond the summit of Mount Asahidake and continues on through to the summit of another great mountain, Mount Kurodake. The trail then continues on through the natural splendour of Daisetsuzan National Park and finally comes to an end at the tranquil Sounkyo Onsen.
Congratulations, you have conquered Daisetsuzan! Now it’s time for a well earned rest. Kick your feet up and enjoy yourself with a rejuvenating onsen – you’ve earned it.- Daisetsuzan National Park
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