Daisetsuzan National Park

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Daisetsuzan National Park: Hiking in the “Playground of the Gods”

Nestled right in the heart of Hokkaido, Japan’s largest—and some would say most awe-inspiring—national park awaits: Daisetsuzan National Park. Now, the name Daisetsuzan might roll off the tongue a bit like a mythical land straight out of a fantasy novel, but its Ainu name is even more majestic—”Kamuimintara,” or “Playground of the Gods.” Spanning an eye-watering 2,267 square kilometers, this park boasts everything from towering peaks to serene alpine meadows, pristine forests, and an impressive variety of wildlife that feels like nature showing off. With 16 prominent mountains—many of which are the tallest in Hokkaido—Daisetsuzan is a playground for both gods and hikers alike.

Getting There: The Journey to Daisetsuzan

Getting to this mountainous wonderland is a bit of an adventure in itself, but don’t worry—there are options aplenty.

By Air: A quick 1 hour and 35-minute flight from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport will whisk you to Asahikawa Airport. From there, it’s just an hour by bus or taxi to the Asahidake Ropeway or another of the park’s popular trailheads.
By Train: For those who prefer the rhythmic chug of a train, hop aboard the Limited Express from JR Sapporo Station to Asahikawa Station, which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Then, transfer to the JR Furano Line for a picturesque 35-minute ride to Biei Station. Local buses and taxis are at your service for the final stretch to trailheads like Asahidake or Tokachidake.

When to Hike: The Ever-Changing Beauty of the Seasons

Hiking in Daisetsuzan is not your year-round affair, but during its brief hiking season—late June to early October—this landscape is a living canvas, changing its colors with each passing month.

July–August: In summer, the park is a riot of color, as wildflowers and alpine plants explode into bloom, accompanied by the sound of wildlife. The scenery here has been likened to something out of Howl’s Moving Castle, with its rolling plateaus, bird songs, and bursts of colorful flora—a paradise for nature lovers and hikers alike.
Late September to Mid-October: Autumn arrives in dramatic fashion. Fiery reds, golden yellows, and blazing oranges transform the landscape, with Daisetsuzan offering some of Japan’s earliest autumn colors. This is peak leaf-peeping season, and trust me, there’s nothing quite like seeing a crimson maple leaf flutter against the backdrop of jagged alpine peaks.

Trails That Demand Attention: Peaks of Daisetsuzan

With so many peaks to choose from, it’s tough to know where to start. Here’s a breakdown of some of the park’s finest challenges:

Mt. Asahidake (旭岳)

Height: 2,291 meters (Hokkaido’s highest peak)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Visit: July to October
Trailhead: Sugatami Station (accessible via the Asahidake Ropeway)

Asahidake isn’t just the tallest mountain in Hokkaido—it’s also one of the most visually striking. The trail from Sugatami Station offers unforgettable views of fumaroles (those wonderfully eerie steaming vents) and lush alpine meadows. The loop from Sugatami Station to Mt. Asahi, over to Nakadake Hot Spring, and back can be done in about five hours if you’ve got a decent level of fitness. For those inclined to take in panoramic vistas without too much exertion, the Asahidake Ropeway is a godsend, providing access to jaw-dropping vistas of Hokkaido’s rugged terrain.

Ticket Prices

Round Trip: 2,800 yen (June through October)
One Way: 1,600 yen

Mt. Tokachidake (十勝岳)

Height: 2,077 meters
Difficulty: Advanced
Best Time to Visit: June to October
Trailhead: Tokachidake Onsen

Tokachidake is not for the faint-hearted. This volcanic peak offers a challenging ascent from Tokachidake Onsen, leading you through a landscape that looks like a scene from another planet—alpine forests, volcanic craters, and sulfurous deposits abound. It’s a feast for the senses, and if you’re up for a rugged, high-altitude adventure, this is your mountain.

Mt. Tomuraushi (トムラウシ山)

Height: 2,141 meters
Difficulty: Advanced
Best Time to Visit: July to September
Trailhead: Higashi-Taisetsu Mountain Range

Mt. Tomuraushi is a remote beauty, offering solitude and a real test of endurance. The multi-day trek to the summit crosses plateaus, rivers, and rocky terrain, but the rewards are immense: the view from the top is the kind that makes even the hardiest hikers catch their breath—partly from the altitude, partly from the sheer natural splendor.

Ansei Crater Hike

Difficulty: Advanced (especially tricky in winter)
Duration: Half-day

This hike, while short, is not without its challenges, particularly in winter when snow and terrain conditions make things tricky. But the payoff? Jaw-dropping sulfur deposits and steaming volcanic vents that seem to transport you to another world. It’s as close as you’ll get to walking on the moon—without leaving Japan.

Flora, Fauna, and the Fabled Pika

Keep your eyes peeled, because Daisetsuzan is teeming with wildlife, including creatures that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. The elusive Pika is a fan favorite—a small, furry critter whose high-pitched calls echo through the mountains. You might not see one, but chances are you’ll hear it. Birdwatchers, meanwhile, will be thrilled with the park’s variety of feathered residents, including the black woodpecker and the adorable Ezo Red Squirrel.

As for plant life, alpine flowers dominate the summer months, while autumn delivers those much-lauded fiery fall hues. It’s as if nature is putting on a show—just for you.

Safety Tips: Bears, Weather, and Navigating the Wilderness

Now, let’s talk safety. While bears might not be the most common sight, Hokkaido is home to brown bears. You’re more likely to hear about them than see them, but bear spray is available for rent at places like the Sounkyo Visitor Center. And please, don’t be shy—make noise! Whether it’s clapping, singing, or chatting with fellow hikers, bears like to know you’re coming.

Trail Markings: Trails are well-marked, but weather conditions can turn on a dime, especially at higher altitudes. Always carry a GPS or have offline maps downloaded.
Clothing: Weather in Daisetsuzan is as unpredictable as it is dramatic. Even in summer, summit temperatures can be chilly, so don’t leave your windbreaker or jacket behind.
Water: Bring your own water supply—stream water may look fresh but could harbor parasites, thanks to the local wildlife.

Facilities and Rentals

Lacking some gear? No worries! You can rent hiking essentials (including snowshoes) from shops in nearby towns. And while you’re at it, consider renting a car for easier access to trailheads—public transport is great, but a bit sporadic.

Park Etiquette: Hiking with Care

Stay on marked trails to preserve delicate ecosystems.
Take your trash with you (leave no trace, as they say).
Avoid feeding or disturbing wildlife.
Resist the urge to pick flowers, no matter how pretty—they’re protected, and you wouldn’t want to get on the gods’ bad side.

Conclusion: A Divine Adventure

Daisetsuzan National Park truly lives up to its lofty name, offering an unrivaled hiking experience that blends raw, untouched beauty with a dash of mythology. Whether you’re tackling the mighty Mt. Asahidake or wandering through its ancient forests, each step feels like an adventure on sacred ground. Come for the mountains, stay for the wildflowers, and leave with memories that will last a lifetime. After all, this is the Playground of the Gods.

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