Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway or simply Asahidake Ropeway (旭岳ロープウェイ) is a mountain cable car going from Sanroku Station / Asahidake Station (1,100 meters) to Sugatami Station (1600 meters). It is located in the town of Higashikawa in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.
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| Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway / Asahidake Ropeway |
Asahidake Ropeway details
Nestled within the rugged embrace of the western Daisetsuzan Mountains in Hokkaido, Japan, lies the Asahidake Ropeway, a breathtaking aerial lift operated by Wakasa Resort (ワカサリゾート). Established in 1968 and meticulously refurbished in 2000, this marvel of engineering offers a captivating journey up Asahidake, Hokkaido's tallest peak, beckoning travelers to embark on an unforgettable adventure amidst pristine alpine landscapes.
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| Daisetsuzan Asahikawa Ropeway - Higashikawa town, Hokkaido Prefecture |
Spanning a distance of 2.3 kilometers (1.4 miles) with a vertical interval of 489 meters (1,604 feet), the Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway provides a seamless passage to the summit, offering unrivaled vistas and access to a world of natural wonders. Whether you're a nature enthusiast seeking the vibrant hues of autumn or a winter sports aficionado eager to carve through pristine powder, this iconic lift promises an experience like no other.
Sanroku Station
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| Sanroku Station |
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| The ropeway at Sanroku Station |
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| Sanroku Station as seen from the ropeway |
During the summer months, the Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway operates with clockwork precision, ferrying passengers every 15 minutes to the lofty heights of Asahidake. In the winter, amidst a serene blanket of snow, the frequency adjusts to every 20 minutes, ensuring seamless connectivity for eager adventurers. Regardless of the season, the journey takes a mere 10 minutes, yet the memories forged amid the awe-inspiring vistas endure a lifetime.
Riding the Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway
At the foot of the ropeway lies Sanroku Station, also known as Asahi-dake Station, standing at an altitude of 1,100 meters. Here, travelers can indulge in a delightful array of attractions and amenities, including a charming foothills shop, the cozy Foothills Dining Room "Alpine Flora," and the rejuvenating Asahidake Onsen, offering respite after a day of exploration.
Sugatami Station
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| There is an orientation before visitors are allowed to leave Sugatami Station |
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| Hiking Registration at Sugatami Station |
As the lift ascends to Sugatami Station, perched at a lofty altitude of 1,600 meters, a world of wonder unfolds. Guests are greeted by the Mountain Top Shop, a seasonal delight brimming with treasures, while the ethereal Sugatami no Ike Pond captivates with its mesmerizing reflection of snow-capped peaks and volcanic steam. Embark on a journey through alpine flora, traverse scenic observatories, or embark on the invigorating 1.7-kilometer hiking course, culminating in the majestic summit of Asahidake itself, standing tall at 2,290 meters above sea level.
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| We did the Kamuimintara Walking Course during our visit |
Sugatami Restaurant
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| I ordered Spicy Miso Ramen with Tripe Stew Sugatami Restaurant |
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| Ella ordered curry rice with a pork cutlet |
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| It's self service here so you need to clean as you go. |
As you traverse the Asahidake Ropeway, a symphony of nature unfolds before your eyes, weaving a tapestry of color, texture, and tranquility. Whether you're captivated by the vibrant hues of autumn foliage, the pristine serenity of winter's embrace, or the vibrant tapestry of alpine flora in bloom, each season brings its enchanting allure to this mountainous sanctuary.
Team Nicerio rides the Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway
My family and I used the Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway for the first time last October 22, 2022, during our “October 22-23” Road Trip. It was my 355th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. Originally, we wanted to hike Asahidake but because we weren’t physically and mentally prepared, we just decided to take the ropeway and enjoy the scenery of Daisetsuzan National Park. The Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway is a very convenient transportation system for tourists who want to see the beautiful scenery of Hokkaido’s largest national park.
Asahidake Ropeway Fare
To ride the Asahidake Ropeway, you need to pay;
Regular Season (October 21 to May 31)
Adults – Round-trip 2,400 yen / One-way 1,400 yen
Students – Round-trip 1600 yen / One-way 1,000 yen
Peak Season (June 1 to October 20)
Adults – 3,200 yen / One-way 2,000 yen
Students – 1,600 yen / One-way 2,000 yen
Asahidake Ropeway Operating Hours
The Mt. Asahidake Ropeway operates with varying schedules throughout the year. During the summer season from June 1 to October 20, the first upward-bound run begins at 6:00 am, with subsequent runs every 15 minutes until 9:00 am.
From October 21 to May 31, the schedule adjusts to every 20 minutes, starting at 6:00 am until 9:00 am. The last downward-bound run typically varies between 3:40 pm and 6:00 pm. Travel time for each one-way trip is approximately 10 minutes.
Additionally, note that the ropeway may be temporarily closed on certain occasions.
Why ride the Asahidake Ropeway?
With its seamless blend of natural beauty and modern comfort, the Asahidake Ropeway stands as a gateway to Hokkaido's alpine splendor, inviting travelers to embark on a journey of discovery and wonder. Soar to new heights, immerse yourself in the majesty of nature, and let the Asahidake Ropeway be your guide to an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Japan's northern wilderness.
Getting to Asahidake Ropeway
From Asahikawa Station, walk towards the bus terminal in front of the station.
Ride Bus #66 Bound for Asahidake via Asahikawa Airport (旭川空港 経由 旭岳 行き) of the Asahikawa Electric Orbit bus company. Board down at Hotel Bear Monte bus stop (ホテルベアモンテ前).
Once there, walk for about 120 meters to Asahidake Ropeway Sanroku Station.
Travel time: 1 hour and 43 minutes
Fare: 1,800 yen
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