Trekking the best way to enjoy outdoor experience
In the Asahikawa-Biei area in the center of Hokkaido, there are 15 peaks called “Daisetsu mountain range”, which rises in the center of Hokkaido.
Since it is not only a national special natural monument but also a national Daisetsuzan Bird and Beast Sanctuary, it is one of the most precious places in Hokkaido where you can enjoy beautiful nature.
Asahidake, the highest peak in Hokkaido, is particularly famous among the peaks of the Daisetsuzan range. Asahidake, which is 2,291 meters high, is one of the most popular mountains in Japan, and is visited by climbers and trekking enthusiasts from all over Japan.
At the foot of Mt. Daisetsu, there are hot springs, and many popular hot springs hotels are scattered around the area!
Trekking tours in Biei vary by season
What you can enjoy from April is a trekking tour where you can enjoy the remaining snow on Tokachi-dake.
The weather is getting warmer in late April, but there is still snow on Tokachi-dake, so you can still enjoy the snowy scenery.
Enjoy a mini-trekking for about an hour while feeling the cool, clear air!
The snow usually remains until early June, so you can play in the snow for a while!
You can also play in the snow!
From September, this plan changes to a trekking tour where you can enjoy the autumn foliage, and depending on the weather, you can also see the plumes of smoke and enjoy the powerful scenery.
It is known as one of the earliest places in Hokkaido where autumn leaves change color, and is visited by many people every year.
The contrast between the autumn leaves of the Japanese hemlock and birch trees and the green trees and blue sky is breathtaking.
The trekking plan for Tokachi-dake, which is selected as one of the 100 most famous mountains in Japan, usually takes about three hours one way to reach the top of the mountain, but this is a light plan that starts from observatory, located in the middle of Tokachi-dake in Daisetsuzan National Park, and allows you to enjoy walking around the middle of the mountain.
It only takes about an hour, so why don’t you try trekking casually?
If you have come to Asahikawa and Biei, why not try something you have never done before?
Trekking is a recommended activity that even first-timers will surely enjoy, so please take this opportunity to give it a try!
What to wear when trekking in Biei?
Waterproof hiking shoes that fully support your ankles/feet will be essential when trekking.
Moisture wicking shirts that dry up quickly are necessary too, especially in the summertime when visitors will be sweating a lot on the trail.
Bags with a 20-30 liter capacity, packed with snacks, ample supply of food, water, and waterproof ponchos will ensure you to have a safe trekking experience.
Also, don’t forget your camera to capture all the great scenery!
To wrap it up
Hokkaido is known for its abundant supply of nature.
It’s great to eat your way through Hokkaido, but it’s also a great experience to work up a sweat while trekking with your friend, significant other, or family!