Best trails in Daisetsuzan National Park
Daisetsuzan National Park, also known as the ``Roof of Hokkaido'' and the ``Garden of the Gods'', is characterized by its magnificent alpine scenery and high mountain range. It is also the national park with the largest area in Japan. Daisetsuzan National Park is home to numerous active volcanoes and Mt. Asahidake, known as Hokkaido's highest peak. The Ishikari River, Hokkaido's longest river, and the Tokachi River also flow through this park.
Autumn is the recommended season to visit. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Hokkaido's nature. Another highlight is the diversity of living organisms, including rare alpine plants. There are also hot spring facilities dotted around the park that come from abundant sources and soothe people's bodies. It also has the longest snow season (ski season) in Japan.
Top trails
- (246)•Hard•3.4 mi•Est. 3.5–4 hrThis trail is a climb to the summit of Mount Asahidake, an active volcano and the highest peak in Hokkaido. The hike begins from the Sugatami Station. From here, the first part of the trail is a gentle boardwalk loop around the Sugatami Ponds, offering stunning views of the peak, its reflection in the ponds, and close-ups of steaming volcanic vents known as fumaroles. Beyond the pond loop, the trail becomes a steep, rugged climb on loose volcanic rock and gravel. The path is almost entirely...
- (236)•Hard•7.3 miThis trail is a well-maintained loop of wooden boardwalks and stone steps. The main highlight of this walk is the raw, volcanic scenery. Hikers will get a close-up view of steaming volcanic vents, which billow sulfurous steam from the side of the mountain. The area is also a treasure trove of unique alpine plants. In the summer, the tundra is covered in a carpet of rare wildflowers, including the Aleutian avens and blue mountain heath. A ticket is required to use the Asahidake Ropeway to...
- (59)•Hard•4.6 miMount Kamifurano - Tokachidake Onsen (上富良野岳 - 十勝岳温泉) A hike up Mount Kamifurano from the famous Tokachidake Onsen, tucked within the dramatic Tokachi Range of Daisetsuzan National Park. From the start, hikers are treated to sweeping volcanic vistas, vibrant red rock formations, and hardy alpine flora that thrives in this high-altitude terrain. The path is well-maintained and offers excellent access to the newly rebuilt Kamihorokamettoku Hut (上ホロカメットク避難小屋), reopened in 2023, making it an...
- (40)•Hard•9.9 mi•Est. 7–7.5 hrThis trail begins at the upper station of the Kurodake Ropeway. The path is a rugged, rocky trail. You will be climbing over large boulders. Along the way, you will be in a stunning alpine world, surrounded by fields of alpine flowers in summer and hardy Siberian dwarf pine. At the peak, you get a view of the entire Daisetsuzan range, including the lunar-like landscape and steaming vents of Mount Asahidake. You might also spot local wildlife, such as the chipmunk, the pika, or the rock rabbit.
- (33)•Moderate•1.0 mi•Est. 0.5–1 hrMomijidaki Falls Trail (紅葉滝散策路) This trail leads to the Momijidaki Falls, located at the end of the Momijidani Valley walking path. It is known as one of the best spots in Hokkaido for viewing autumn leaves. The trail to Momijidaki Falls begins just outside the Sounkyo Onsen area and gently winds its way into the forested mountains. In spring and summer, hikers are treated to a lush green tunnel formed by thick groves of maple and birch trees. Come autumn, the valley truly earns its name,...
- (26)•Moderate•4.6 mi•Est. 2–2.5 hrGinga Fall - Ryusei Falls - Sounkyo Onsen (銀河・流星の滝 - 層雲峡温泉) Among the waterfalls flowing down the cliffs along the Ishikari River, this route goes to Ginga Falls and Ryusei Falls, which are exceptionally beautiful. Besides, Ginga and Ryusei Falls have been selected as one of the top 100 waterfalls in Japan.
- (25)•Hard•7.4 mi•Est. 5.5–6 hrMount Furano - Mount Sanpo - Mount Kamifurano Loop (富良野岳 - 三峰山 - 上富良野岳 ループ) A loop trail leads you to the summit of Mount Furano, known as one of the top 100 flowering mountains in Japan, and is said the most flowery mountain in the Tokachi mountain range. On your way to Mount Furano, you will hike through Mount Sanpo and Mount Kamifurano while viewing the magnificent natural landscapes of Daisetsuzan National Park.