Daisetsuzan Circuit 2 Day Hiking Tour
Overnight Guided Hiking Tour from Asahidake Onsenfrom
Leave civilization behind on this overnight hiking tour deep into the backcountry of Daisetsuzan National Park. Challenge yourself in this inspiring alpine environment as we traverse the Roof of Hokkaido.
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Tour Duration
2 Days -
Minimum Travellers
2 People -
Accommodation
1 Night at Kurodake Ishimuro Refuge -
Tour Starts
Asahidake Onsen -
Included Meals
1 Breakfast
2 Lunches
1 Dinner -
Tour Finishes
Asahidake Onsen
Tour Highlights
- Climb to the summit of Mt. Asahidake, Hokkaido’s tallest peak
- Hike along the ridgeline around the caldera of Ohachidaira
- Stay overnight at Kurodake Ishimuro Refuge
- Enjoy a foot spa at Nakadake Onsen, a wild hot spring surrounded by untouched alpine terrain
About Daisetsuzan National Park
Designated as Japan’s National Park in 1934, Daisetsuzan holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Hokkaido. The national park covers over 2,300 square kilometres (bigger than the size of Tokyo!) and is home to a dramatic mountain range, giving Daisetsuzan the nickname “the Roof of Hokkaido”.
Keigetsu Omachi, a writer of the Meiji and Taisho period (late 1800s, early 1900s), challenged the length of these peaks long before a trail had been established. He famously said “To understand the height of a mountain, climb Mt. Fuji. To understand the vastness of a mountain, climb the Daisetsuzan mountains.”
Who is this tour for?
- Active hiker who love challenging themselves on alpine trails for more than 7 hours per day
- Adventurers who love the idea of spending a night out in the backcountry
- Curious travellers who want to discover the off-beat tracks and unique experiences Japan has to offer
The four seasons of Daisetsuzan
We run this tour from June to September and anytime during these months is the perfect time to go! During the June and July months, expect some snow on the trails. Generally on this trip we approach the snow-covered areas during the day when the temperature is milder to avoid icy conditions. If you’re interested in seeing the alpine flowers in full bloom, we suggest hitting the trail between June and mid-July for the spring season in the mountains. Summer arrives in Daisetsuzan in August, when most of the snow has melted away. During September, the mountain sees a change in colour with the leaves blazing with yellows, oranges and reds. The first snowfall occurs just before October on Mt. Asahidake marking the end of the autumn hiking season.
Tour Inclusions
Items that are included in the cost of tour price.- 1 breakfast, 2 lunches and 1 dinner
- Fare for overnight stay at Kurodake Ishimuro Refuge
- Return trips of cable car from/to Mt. Asahidake
- English speaking local guide(s)
Not included
Items that are not included in the cost of tour price.- Transport to/from Asahidake Onsen
What to bring on your Daisetsuzan Circuit 2 Day Hiking Tour
Essentials
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Mid- to high-cut hiking boots
- Fleece or down jacket (even in the summer the temperature can drop below 10℃)
- Thermal layers top & bottom
- Base layers top & bottom
- At least one spare pair of socks
- Gloves, beanie, and items to keep you warm
- Sun hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- Water bottle or hydration system of more than 2L
- Sleeping bag (3 to 4 seasons)
- Sleeping mat
- Plate/bowl, cup, and cutleries
- Head torch
- Quick-dry hand towel
- 2 lunches and snacks
- Toiletries
- Personal medications
- Rain cover for backpack
- Backpack with enough capacity to carry all the above
- Travel insurance
Recommended
- Walking poles
- Cellphone power bank
- Ear plugs
- Snacks which you’re used to eating while hiking
- Camera
We supply
- First aid kit
- Drinking water
- Safety equipment and maps
- A blanket at Kurodake Ishimuro
Average temperature at Kurodake Ishimuro
June | July | August | September |
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6.6℃/43.8℉ | 10.8℃/51.4℉ | 11℃/51.8℉ | 5.8℃/42.4℉ |
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Getting ready for the big walk!
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On the way up to Mt Asahidake
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At the summit of Mt Asahidake, Hokkaido's highest peak
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Guide Yasu showing how to hike down on the snow safely
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Long slope of snow on Mt Asahidake
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Hikers heading for Ohachidaira
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Chinguruma avens in bloom
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Admiring the entire view of Ohachidaira from the lookout
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The view near Mt Hokkai
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In the deep wilderness of Daisetsuzan
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Walking on the edge of Ohachidaira Caldera
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River crossing on Day 1
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A big patch of snow waiting ahead!
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Mountain slopes still covered by snow in the early summer
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Kurodake Ishimuro Shelter
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On the way up to Mt Hokuchin
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Looking down Nakadake Onsen from the trail
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Guests and Guide Yasu enjoying the foot spa at Nakadake Onsen
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Nakadake Onsen is a popular rest stop for local hikers
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Hiking down from Nakadake Onsen
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Heading back from Nakadake Onsen to Sugatami Station