Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway

The Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway provides access to Mount Asahidake, Hokkaido's highest peak at 2,291 meters, located within Daisetsuzan National Park. Originally founded in 1968 and refurbished in 2000, the ropeway transports visitors from Asahidake Onsen at 1,100 meters elevation to Sugatami Station at 1,600 meters elevation in a 10-minute journey. The area holds deep cultural significance, with the Ainu people traditionally calling the mountaintop "Kamuimintara", meaning "the garden where Gods play."

The region is renowned for its exceptional natural diversity, hosting nearly 40% of Japan's alpine plant species. Daisetsuzan National Park claims the distinction of being the first place in Japan to witness autumn colors and snowfall each year, with the foliage season peaking in mid-September. In mid-June, visitors can observe the Chishimazakura cherry blossoms, known as Japan's latest blooming cherry blossoms. The volcanic origins of the mountain range are evident through sulfurous vents visible from the trails, while winter brings natural phenomena including diamond dust, sun pillars, and rime ice formations.

From Sugatami Station, visitors can choose from multiple hiking experiences. A 30 to 60-minute circular trail surrounds Sugatami Pond, suitable for beginners and showcasing alpine meadows and volcanic features. More experienced hikers can attempt the two-hour ascent to Mount Asahidake's summit. The classic multi-day trek connects Asahidake to Mount Kurodake and continues to Sounkyo Onsen. The ropeway operates every 15 minutes from June through October and every 20 minutes during other months.

Admission varies by season: round-trip tickets cost ¥3,500 for adults and ¥1,750 for children during the June to October peak season, while winter rates from November through May are ¥2,600 for adults and ¥1,700 for children. Children under elementary school age ride free. Parking is available and free from November through May, though fees apply during other months and spaces become limited during peak autumn foliage weekends.

The ropeway is accessible by car approximately 60 minutes from Asahikawa Airport, 70 minutes from JR Asahikawa Station, and 90 minutes from Hokkaido Expressway Asahikawa Takasu IC. Public buses operate from Asahikawa Station with fares of ¥1,800 one-way, departing four times daily with a travel time of approximately 1 hour 40 minutes.