Overview
Daisetsuzan (大雪山国立公園) is Japan's largest national park at 2,267.64 km², covering volcanic peaks where 15 summits exceed 2,000 m. The Ainu name kamui-mintara means 'playground of the gods' — apt for these dramatic ice-and-fire landscapes.
Mountains · Nature · Skiing · Trekking
Before you go
Accommodation
Sounkyo Onsen is the most convenient base with widest accommodation range. Book onsen hotels far in advance during autumn foliage (mid-September) and summer.
Fees
No park entry fee. Free parking available at most lots — some paid lots exist but are easily avoided.
Food
No food available on hiking trails. Bring all supplies; eat only outside forested areas to avoid bear encounters.
Safety
Hokkaido brown bears present; take precautions with food storage and wear bells. Echinococcus parasite exists in streams — boil water. Mountain trails require proper planning and equipment.
Transport
Car is essential for most park access. Roads circle the park rather than cross it, making cross-park drives surprisingly long. Buses operate seasonally and peak periods only.
Weather
Mean annual temperature at Mt. Kurodake summit (1,984 m) is -2.3°C; extremes range from -21.8°C in January to 18.7°C in July. October to June brings severe cold and heavy snowfall.
