Hike amidst the natural beauty of the Daisetsuzan mountain range, sacred to the Kamikawa Ainu.
Hike amidst the natural beauty of the Daisetsuzan mountain range, sacred to the Kamikawa Ainu.
Home to rolling alpine meadows, dramatic peaks stretching into the sky, and a dizzying array of flora and fauna, Daisetsuzan National Park is one of the largest – and arguably most magnificent – national parks in Japan. Also nicknamed ‘the roof of Hokkaidō’ for its multitude of mountains (many of which were formed by volcanic activity tens of thousands of years ago), Daisetsuzan boasts rich biodiversity and over 500,000 acres of unspoilt wilderness. It is also your destination on this self-guided tour.
The variety of beauty here cannot be understated; each hike on this tour will transport you to a wholly new place. Mount Kurodake’s alpine slopes are covered with foliage in any season, and the summit opens to a wide-panning view of the surrounding volcanic mountains; Kōgen Onsen’s boardwalks take you through a lush marsh, flanked by beautiful meadows. Trace your way up the side of Mount Asahidake, the tallest mountain in Hokkaidō, hiking past its steaming fumaroles and clear alpine ponds; if you’re lucky, you may see alpine flowers blooming, or hear the call of an Ezo pika. Looking out from any of the vista points, you are greeted by landscapes that seem to roll into eternity.
The Daisetsuzan mountains are sacred to the Kamikawa Ainu, who have lived here for centuries; it is believed to be the closest place on earth to Kamuy Mosir, the land where gods (kamuy) dwell. As you explore the city of Asahikawa, located on the foothills of the mountain range, you will delve deep into Ainu history, culture, and traditions, including being treated to a special private performance of Ainu oral tradition. Sit back and listen to a tale of the kamuy told through song; transcend language and feel yourself be transported.
Vibrant nature and vibrant culture intertwine in this tour to some of Hokkaidō’s most dramatic landscapes.
You will be supported by our team in Kyōto and our bespoke guidebook and topographical maps. Feel secure on your hike with our detailed turn-by-turn walking directions, and let our recommended highlights act as a guideline for your Exploration Day in Asahikawa. We also provide a guide to many of the plants and animals that you may encounter – several of which are only found here.
Are you ready to start your journey on the roof of Hokkaidō?
Please note that while this tour does not include daily luggage transfer, we have crafted the itinerary so that you will have access to your luggage each night.
5 nights at accommodations on the island of Hokkaidō | |
5 breakfasts and 3 dinners | |
Detailed day-by-day itinerary and walking directions | |
Detailed maps | |
Our Preparing for Your Trip and Travelling in Japan guidebooks | |
Local support by telephone | |
Taxi ride to and from Kо̄gen Onsen | |
Cable car return trip at Mount Asahidake and Mount Kurodake | |
Entrance to Kawamura Kaneto Ainu Museum | |
Private traditional Ainu performance in an authentic chise dwelling |
Flights | |
Airport transfers | |
Transportation to your starting point in Asahikawa and onwards from Asahikawa at the end of your trip | |
Drinks and meals not included in itinerary | |
Local bus journeys which must be paid directly to the bus driver | |
Single room supplement(s) for solo occupancy | |
Daily luggage transfer | |
Entrance fees for sites and activities not listed in 'What's Included' |
Tour itineraries are subject to change. We will inform you of any amendments as soon as we become aware of them.