Nakadake Onsen Explorer 1-Day Guided Hiking Tour

HIGHLIGHTS
Explore Daisetsuzan National Park, the largest national park in Japan
Enjoy a foot spa in a thermal spring surrounded by untouched alpine terrain
Marvel at the spectacular sweeping views of the Daisetsuzan mountain range
Hike through the Sugatami area, the most popular part of Daisetsuzan National Park
Learn about the local fauna and wildlife from your knowledgeable local outdoor guide
Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you journey to Nakadake Onsen, a secluded hot spring tucked away deep in the valleys of Daisetsuzan. Ride a cable car with panoramic views and traverse your way to “The Roof of Hokkaido”, a befitting name for the 2,000-plus meter peaks surrounding the valley. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the alpine environment and enjoy dipping your feet into the natural hot waters of the wild onsen after a 2.5-hour hike.

Combined with dramatic views over the rugged, alpine scenery of the Daisetsuzan mountain range and easy access via a ropeway, it’s not surprising to see why the Sugatami area is one of the most popular destinations for local hikers and visitors alike. Join us on this guided tour for the ultimate wild onsen experience.

THIS TRIP IS PERFECT FOR TRAVELLERS THAT ENJOY…
A leisurely hike with gentle ascent in the high country
Hiking in the alpine terrain for more than 5 hours
Off-beat tracks and unique experiences Japan has to offer

LANDSCAPES OF THE FOUR SEASONS
We run this tour from June to early October and anytime during these months is the perfect time to go! In June and July 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 color with the leaves blazing with yellows, oranges, and reds. The first snowfall occurs just before October on Mt. Asahidake which marks the coming end of the autumn hiking season.

ITINERARY

Kick off your adventure at 8am with a convenient hotel pick up service or at a pre-arranged location in central Asahikawa and drive out to Asahidake Onsen village. Hop in a cable car to skip the long, arduous climb and arrive at 1,600m altitude at Sugatami Station. Overall, the terrain is gentle inclination over a mix of hard-packed trails, rocks and boardwalks. Together with your experienced outdoor guide, slowly gain altitude as you hike towards Susoaidaira, home to Nakadake Onsen at 1,830m.

The hot spring emerged from the underground water channels and joins the mountain stream in the valley, making for the perfect spot for a foot spa.

Relax and enjoy dipping your feet in Nakadake Onsen, then re-energise yourself with a picnic lunch prepared using local, seasonal produce. After lunch, we’ll take a detour to Sugatami Ike where Mt. Asahidake’s reflection can be seen in the clear, still waters of the lake on fine days.

Around mid-afternoon, we’ll jump on the cable car and head back to Asahidake Onsen village. We highly recommend staying overnight in Asahidake Onsen and enjoy a leisurely soak in the local onsen resort, otherwise we will drop you off back at your hotel or in a nearby town.

Hiking distance: 10km / Required time: 8-9 hours