Asahidake is the tallest mountain in Hokkaido, standing at over 2,290m high. It is located in the impressive Daisetsu Mountain range which comprises of numerous 2,000 metre peaks spread over a 50km distance. This 230,000 ha area has been designated a National Park that offers visitors spectacular scenery, incredible back powder country skiing and beautiful hiking trails featuring stunning scenery in summer. The 101 person Mt. Asahidake ropeway is the gateway to the park. It climbs from the Sanroku Station up to the Sancho Station 1,600m above sea level. In winter the landscape is bucketed by fine dry powder snow as far as the eye can see. In summer lush fields of alpine flowers surround the mystical marsh landscape of Sugatami Pond. In Autumn crimson foliage covers expansive mountain ridges. Asahidake is a true all season resort.

The western style Hotel Bear Mont is located adjacent to the base of the gondola. All rooms feature ensuite bathrooms and as with many Japanese hotels the standard bedding configuration is a twin setting. Of the Japanese pensions close to Asahidake we recommend Nutapukaushuppe and Shirakabaso. Of the two, Nutapukaushuppe is perhaps the more up market whilst Shirakabaso offers back packer style bunk rooms. Both lodges are adjacent to the Nordic cross country ski trails and about 400m from the ropeway. Eating options on the mountain are fairly limited. A cafe and restaurant can be found at the ropeway base station and a small eatery is housed in the upper Sancho ropeway station.

In winter Asahidake is all about back country skiing. Forget about trail maps, you can point your skis downhill, choose your line between tree gladed runs, open bowls or ridges and enjoy. To gain the most out of the mountain we recommend choosing a guided back country tour with a reputable company such as Hokkaido Powder Guides. Under the expert guidance of a professional you can hike further up the mountain and enjoy pristine powder. In spring Asahidake explodes with vibrant hues of green. ?Later in June rare alpine flora species blossom on the expansive hillsides and verdant forests of Erman's birch can be seen for miles. Later as autumn approaches the entire region is tinted in crimson red and orange hues. Hiking trails lead from the ropeway to nearby hot springs, a dormant volcano and spectacular gorges. No matter what season you visit the relaxing Asahidake onsen is well worth a visit.

Asahikawa international airport is only 30km from Asahidake, however most buses and transfers operate from Asahikawa JR railway station. In summer a bus operates once a day from the Asahikawa station to the Asahidake onsen. Travel time is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. In addition several tours operate to and from Asahikawa to the ropeway in summer. For further information contact the Asahikawa Tourism Association. In winter we strongly recommend arranging a private transfer or tour to Asahidake as transfer options are almost non-existent. From Furano several companies operate day tours and overnight tours to Asahidake. The travel time is around 50 minutes.