Asahidake is a mountain located near the town of Higashikawa, Hokkaido and the tallest mountain in Hokkaido. (the elevation of 2291m)
It is a part of the Daisetsuzan Volcanic Group of the Ishikari Mountains, located in the northern part of the Daisetsuzan National Park.
Its native Ainu name is Kamui Mintara, which means “the playground of the gods”.
The mountain is popular with hikers in the summer and can be easily reached by Asahidake Ropeway to Sugatami pond station, the elevation of 1600m.
From the Sugatami pond station, you can hike the trekking path for about one to one and half hours, enjoying the beautiful ponds such as Mangetsu pond, Suribachi pond, Kagami pond and Sugatami pond as well.
Sugatami Pond, directly below the peak, is famous for its reflection of the peaks and fumaroles, steam escaping from the volcanic vents. You hear the roaring sound and feel the volcanic activity of the mountain.
Asahidake is one of the most beautiful spots for Autumn colors that approaches in a few weeks or so.
A. Osanami
