ADVENTURE AWAITS
Your Northern Adventure begins here
At an elevation of 2,290 meters, Asahidake unquestionably stands as the pinnacle of Hokkaido skiing and riding, serving as the island’s highest mountain.
It is a paradise for powder enthusiasts, although it diverges from the traditional concept of a resort, but functioning more as a backcountry ski area, it enjoys the added convenience of partial accessibility through a cable car, the Asahidake Ropeway.
Renowned for offering some of the finest powder conditions globally, there are moments when the snow reaches waist-deep, making it irresistibly appealing to avid powder enthusiasts.
When fortune smiles, parting clouds reveal Asahidake’s majestic crater, shaped like a horseshoe, exuding a breathtaking charm that resonates with the local indigenous designation, the ‘Playground of the Gods’ (Kamui Mitara).
The journey from Asahikawa, winding through the snow-laden pine forests of Daisetsuzan National Park, unfolds as a picturesque experience. Along the route to the ropeway base at 1100 meters, several hotels and pensions line the road.
The ascent continues with a 500-meter vertical gain on the sole lift, the ropeway/cable car, operating every 20 minutes. Beyond that, an additional nearly 700 meters can be conquered by skinning/hiking to the peak, unlocking exhilarating descents of almost 1200 meters back to the Asahidake Ropeway base.
There is only one narrow groomed run from the top to the bottom, more of an access trail. As the top is exposed, the weather can be challenging, but you will be rewarded with deep powder on the lower sections.
If you haven’t skied or ridden here before, then it would be advisable to get equipped with a guide as it can make a massive difference to your experience. Safety is always critical and you will need to make sure you have the right equipment, including avalanche gear.
Need a private guide, you can book with one of our Miura Snowsports Guides
After a big day in the POW, what better way to relax than a well deserved Onsen. The base of Asahidake has plenty of options for casual visits.
