Japan’s biggest national park is a geothermal playground, offering mountain climbs for all abilities, numerous onsens and some of the country’s rarest wildlife.
The volcanoes within Daisetsuzan National Park are more than challenges to climbers they feed the hot springs that soothe those climbers’ aching muscles at the end of the day. Larger than many of Japan’s prefectures, the park also has some of Japan’s tallest peaks, including the “roof of Hokkaido,” Asahi-dake, which shoots up 7,510 feet (2,291 meters). Attempt to explore its 875 square miles (2,270 square kilometers) or admire the peaks from a distance as you relax with the simple luxuries of a stay at an onsen resort.
Ride the gondola up Mt. Kuro-dake, an easy way to reach the peak for panoramic views of the park stretching out below. In spring and summer, see wildflowers painting the green hillsides in pastel colors, a vivid contrast to the fiery reds and oranges of autumn. Trek down into Sounkyo Gorge or get into the car and drive to the trails through the marshes that display some of Japan’s best fall foliage.
For an authentic park experience, head down the Daisetsuzan Grand Traverse. Spend five to seven days camping in tents or in cabins, watching the stars at night and keeping cameras ready for sightings of pikas and deer during the day.
An equally authentic experience is to stay at the onsen, taking short walks during the day but retiring to the heated pools of water at night, with the only sound the occasional hooting of a Blakiston fish owl, one of the world’s largest.
Daisetsuzan covers a huge portion of central Hokkaido and has several entrances. Most people arrive via nearby Asahikawa, a 1-hour drive from the park’s visitor center. Asahikawa itself is a 2-hour drive or train ride from Sapporo. Fly from several regional destinations to nearby Asahikawa airport, a 30-minute drive from the city. Limited public transportation is available in the park, so rent a private vehicle to explore many of the areas. Car rentals are available at Asahikawa airport and downtown.
The park is only officially open for hiking from July to September, though with good gear, you can try winter hiking. Visit the onsens year round.
