Four Itchy Feet

September 8, 2025. Higashiwaka, Japan.

Today we drove from Furano to Mount Asahi-dake. Asahi-dake, also known as Mount Asahi, is a majestic stratovolcano and the highest mountain on the island of Hokkaido, Japan. Standing at 2,291 meters (7,516 ft), it is a central and prominent feature of Daisetsuzan National Park. The mountain’s native Ainu name, “Kamui-mintara,” means “the playground of the gods,” a testament to its imposing presence and natural beauty.

As an active volcano, Asahi-dake features tell-tale signs of geothermal activity, including steaming vents and sulfurous ponds. One of the most famous sights is Sugatami Pond, which beautifully reflects the surrounding peaks, snow, and volcanic steam.

Asahi-dake is accessible year-round, thanks to the Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway, a cable car that transports visitors from the base at Asahidake Onsen (a hot spring resort village) to an altitude of 1,600 meters. The Ropeway ride up the mountain costs approximately $25, but once there, you have great access to the mountain. From the upper station, visitors can embark on various activities depending on the season.

After departing the rope car, you are ushered in for a safety presentation, and then those attempting to summit must register. We registered to summit and indeed attempted it, but halfway to the peak, we were out of water, cold, and found the trail required better preparation. The prudent course was to head down. For those not summiting, the loop at the base of the mountain offers spectacular views, and summiting is certainly not needed to enjoy the mountain.

A visit to the mountain is certainly a must when visiting this area of Hokkaido. Furano, by the way, is famous for its stunning lavender fields in the summer, which are a popular tourist destination, we are headed there tomorrow!