Daisetsuzan National Park, Hokkaido

Established in 1934, Daisetsuzan National Park is Japan's largest national park, covering 2,267 square kilometers across central Hokkaido. The park encompasses the Daisetsuzan mountain range, known locally as the "roof of Hokkaido," with Mount Asahi (2,291 meters) standing as the island's highest peak and one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains.

The park holds deep cultural significance for the indigenous Ainu people, who considered these mountains sacred and called the region Kamuy Mintara, meaning "playground of the gods." The volcanic landscape includes active peaks like Mount Tokachi and Mount Marimo, creating a diverse ecosystem that supports brown bears, red foxes, and over 140 bird species. The area is renowned for having Japan's shortest summer and longest winter, with snow covering the peaks for up to seven months annually.

Visitors experience some of Japan's most pristine alpine wilderness through an extensive network of hiking trails ranging from day walks to multi-day treks. The Daisetsuzan Grand Traverse offers experienced hikers a challenging 5-7 day route across the main peaks. Hot springs (onsen) dot the region, including Sounkyo Onsen and Tenninkyo Onsen, providing relaxation after mountain activities. The park transforms dramatically with seasons, offering alpine flowers in summer, spectacular autumn foliage in September, and world-class powder skiing in winter.

Cable cars and chairlifts at Sounkyo and Asahidake provide access to higher elevations for those preferring less strenuous visits. The park features numerous mountain huts and camping areas for overnight stays. Sounkyo Gorge, with its 100-meter-high columnar basalt cliffs and waterfalls including Ryusei Falls and Ginga Falls, offers dramatic scenery accessible by road.

The park is accessible via New Chitose Airport in Sapporo, followed by a 3-4 hour drive or bus journey to various entry points. Kamikawa and Asahikawa serve as primary gateway towns with regular bus services to trailheads and onsen areas. JR Kamikawa Station connects to local bus networks reaching Sounkyo Onsen and Asahidake Onsen. No entrance fees apply to the national park itself, though individual facilities like cable cars and accommodation require separate payment. Visitors should note that many mountain facilities close from November to May due to heavy snowfall.