Asahi-dake presides over the Ishikari Mountains in the northern part of Daisetsuzan National Park. It is the tallest peak in Hokkaido at 2,290 meters and remains an active stratovolcano. A combination of skiing, hiking, and a diversity of flora and fauna attribute to this location’s cultural namesake “garden for the gods”.
An elevation of 1110 meters is attained via popular gondola or rigorous hiking trails and complemented with base shops, restaurants, and various observation points. The mountain serves as an infamous outdoor destination in winter equipped with fresh powder bowls for skiing. The summit in summer boasts exquisite views of the fragile ecosystem extending from the mountain across the infamously beautiful Sugatami Pond at its base.
Asahi-dake’s popularity is partially due to its accessibility via the Asahidake Ropeway at Asahidake Onsen. The location is easily reached via 60- minute car ride or 90-minute bus ride from Asahikawa City.
While the mountain lacks historical notation of volcanic activity, radiocarbon dating has determined early BC eruptions attributing to the modern day steam exertion. A smaller volcano named Rear Mount Asahi rises from the southern shoulder of infamous Mount Asahidake, creating a secondary peak with unsurpassed views of the undulating alpine landscape below.