Discover the Majestic Daisetsuzan National Park
Explore Daisetsuzan National Park: A breathtaking natural wonder in Hokkaido, perfect for outdoor adventures and wildlife encounters.
Daisetsuzan National Park, Japan's largest national park, is a stunning natural haven characterized by its towering mountains, lush forests, and pristine alpine landscapes. Spanning over 2,267 square kilometers, the park is home to an array of wildlife, including the iconic Hokkaido brown bear, deer, and numerous bird species, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Visitors can explore a network of well-maintained trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints, hot springs, and seasonal flower fields, offering a unique experience throughout the year. The park's centerpiece, Mount Daisetsu, is the highest peak in Hokkaido, standing at 2,291 meters. The challenging hikes to its summit reward adventurers with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, the Sounkyo Gorge offers an easier trail adorned with beautiful waterfalls and vibrant autumn foliage. Additionally, the park hosts various festivals throughout the year celebrating its natural beauty, culture, and local cuisine, enhancing the visitor experience. Whether you're seeking thrilling outdoor adventures such as hiking, skiing in winter, or simply wishing to immerse yourself in nature's tranquility, Daisetsuzan National Park is a must-visit destination that caters to all types of travelers. With its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, it stands as a testament to Japan's natural heritage.
Local tips
- Visit during the autumn months for spectacular fall foliage.
- Bring layers of clothing; temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day.
- Consider staying overnight at one of the local lodges to fully experience the park.
- Check the weather conditions before hiking, as trails can become challenging in poor weather.
- Sample local dishes at nearby restaurants to get a taste of Hokkaido's culinary offerings.
A brief summary to Daisetsuzan National Park
- Sounkyo, Kamikawa, Sounkyo, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido, 078-1701, JP
- +811658-2-2574
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
Getting There
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By Car
If you are traveling by car, begin your journey from Sapporo, which is about 2.5 to 3 hours away from Daisetsuzan National Park. Take the Hokkaido Expressway (道央自動車道) towards Asahikawa and exit at Kamikawa IC. From there, follow Route 39 towards Sounkyo. The park entrance is well-marked, and you will find ample parking available. Note that there may be toll fees on the expressway, which typically range from ¥1,000 to ¥2,500.
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By Public Transportation
To reach Daisetsuzan National Park via public transportation, start by taking a train from Sapporo to Kamikawa Station. The train ride takes approximately 2.5 hours. Upon arrival at Kamikawa Station, you can take a local bus (approximately 30-40 minutes ride) to Sounkyo Onsen, which is the closest area to the park. Make sure to check the bus schedule in advance as it may not run frequently, especially during off-peak seasons. The bus fare is around ¥1,000.
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Combination (Train & Bus)
An alternative route involves taking a train from Sapporo to Asahikawa, which takes about 1.5 hours. From Asahikawa, transfer to a bus heading to Sounkyo Onsen. This bus ride will take approximately 1 hour. Make sure to check the bus schedules as they can vary. The total cost for this journey (train + bus) will be around ¥3,000 to ¥4,000.
Attractions Nearby to Daisetsuzan National Park
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Observation Deck for Taushubetsu Bridge
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Namidaiwa
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Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway
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Asashidake Ropeway
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Chishima Sakura
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Komadome Waterfall
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Higashitaisetsu Nature Centre
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Ginga Waterfall
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Ryusei Waterfalls
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Soubaku Dai
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Shirahige Waterfall
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Shirogane fudo no taki Falls
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Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoiike)
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Mount Furano
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Goro’s Stone House
Landmarks nearby to Daisetsuzan National Park
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Mount Ishikari
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Taisetsu Lake
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Asahi-dake
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Sugatami Station
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Asahidake Visitor Center
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Daisetsuzan Sōunkyō Kurodake Ropeway
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Mount Tokachi
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Lake Shikaribetsu Nature Center
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Lake Shikaribetsu
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Sounkyo Gorge
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Aoi Pond
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Ippanshadan Hojin Hokkaido Kitahiro Sight Seeing Information Center
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Sahoro Resort Ski Area
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Farm Tomita Lavender East
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Glass Forest In Furano