Hiking in Daisetsuzan National Park: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

Daisetsuzan National Park, situated on the northern island of Hokkaido, is the largest natural reserve in the country. Hikers of every level will be enchanted by the colors of the forest, the expanse of the valleys and meadows, and the size of the mountains and volcanoes. Fields of wildflowers dazzle hikers as they trek along winding trails. Daisetsuzan is notorious for its rich flora and fauna, including more than half of Hokkaido’s alpine plants. The summit of Asahidake (2,290m), the highest peak in Hokkaido, is a fun challenge for visitors, as are the surrounding mountains, many reaching over 2,000 meters. Other adventurers can enjoy a healthy supply of gorgeous trails that are supplemented by flowing water, breathtaking ridges, and charming forests.

Rugged Wilderness!

The massive size of the park allows travelers to get lost in its composition. It is named after the great snowy peaks that tower across it and make way for the valleys, streams, waterfalls, and hot springs that dot the landscape. The diverse flora and geology make it quite an undertaking, so hikers should be ready for a full-on expedition into Japanese nature.

Eclectic Adventures!

Daisetsuzan has a little of everything, so fashioning a trip around a multitude of objectives is a must. Hike to hot springs and resorts for a more relaxed trip, fully immerse yourself wildlife and forestland, climb to accessible volcanic peaks, or just spend an afternoon hiking to a waterfall. There is enough to keep you occupied for a lifetime or two in this seemingly endless park.

Evocative Scenery!

With so much terrain, it should come as no surprise that Daisetsuzan is so photogenic. Many visitors come to watch the leaves change colors in autumn, one of many satisfying natural aspects of the park. From the manageable peaks you can look out across the forests, which hide waterfalls and gorges of immense beauty.

Seasons are one of the accommodating features of Daisetsuzan. Its northern location has a continental climate, making for long, cold winters and generally warm summers. Snow can linger late into spring.

Japanese

Yen (JPY)

Daisetsuzan is centrally located on Hokkaido, so getting there is fairly straightforward from the major cities of the island. The Asahikawa Airport is the closest hub to the northwest of the park. Trains run to the park, and traveling from Sapporo via train should take just under four hours. There is other public transportation available to the park, though its reliability is questionable. Rental cars are also available at major airports and cities.

+81

The best time to hike through Daisetsuzan is during the summer and autumn. Temperatures are favorable and the changing leaves are an unforgettable experience in the park. Spring can start late, though it can also provide reasonable conditions for a visit.