Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost mountainous region, home to 9 of Japan’s 100 famous mountains. It is characterized by spectacular scenery and a relatively short climbing season.
🏔 Mt. Rishiri (1,721m) — A magnificent mountain rising above Rishiri Island
It is the symbol of Rishiri Island, also known as “Rishiri Fuji.” The sight of it rising directly from the sea is a sight to behold.
Rishirifuji-cho, Rishiri-gun, Hokkaido
Approximately 2 hours by ferry from Wakkanai (to Rishiri Island) → Approximately 20 minutes by bus or taxi from Oshidomari Port to the trailhead
Climbing season: Mid-June to early October (snow remains in June, and stability begins in July)
A bear bell is required because it is a brown bear habitat. Climbing the summit in bad weather is dangerous. Day trips are possible, but it is recommended to stay the night before.
🏔 Mt. Rausu (1,661m) — the highest peak on the Shiretoko Peninsula and a World Heritage Site
The core of Shiretoko, a world natural heritage site. Spectacular views of the wild mountain range and Shiretoko mountain range.
Rausu Town, Menashi District, Hokkaido
Shuttle bus available from Utoro Onsen Town to the trailhead (operating in summer)
Climbing season: Early July to late September (August is best as there is a lot of remaining snow)
Beware of brown bears (be sure to use a bear bell). Shiretoko National Park entry fee (100 yen) is required. Climbing notification required.
🏔 Mt. Sharidake (1,547m) — A mountain with clear streams where you can enjoy mountain climbing
A mountain rich in water, dotted with many clear streams and waterfalls. A mountain trail with elements of sawawobori.
Shari Town, Shari District, Hokkaido
Approximately 30 minutes by bus from JR Shiretoko-Shari Station → Trailhead
Climbing season: Mid-June to early October
Many roads run along streams, so be careful when the water rises. Beware of brown bears.
🏔 Mt. Akan (1,499m) — active volcanoes of Mt. Meakandake and Mt. Oakandake
An active volcano that is still emitting smoke. Beautiful scenery of Lake Akan.
Kushiro City/Akan District, Hokkaido
Approximately 20 minutes by bus from Lake Akan Onsen to Mt. Meakandake trailhead
Climbing season: June to October
As it is an active volcano, it is necessary to check the volcano information (especially Mt. Meakandake). It is prohibited to enter the mountain if the eruption alert level is 1 or higher. Disaster prevention masks recommended.
🏔 Daisetsuzan/Mt. Asahidake (2,291m) — Hokkaido’s highest peak
Japan’s largest national park. A treasure trove of alpine plants. You can easily reach up to 2,000m by ropeway.
Higashikawa Town, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido
About 1 hour 30 minutes by bus from JR Asahikawa Station → Asahidake Ropeway (about 10 minutes)
Climbing season: Mid-June to mid-October (ropeway operates all year round)
The weather changes rapidly. Warm clothing is required even in summer. Beware of brown bears. Be careful of altitude sickness.
🏔 Mt. Tomuraushi (2,141m) — a hidden region of the Daisetsuzan Mountains
A primeval mountain, also known as Japan’s last unexplored region. A beautiful landscape dotted with ponds.
Kamikawa Town/Shintoku Town, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido
Approximately 30 minutes by bus from Sounkyo Onsen to the trailhead → approximately 8 hours on foot
Climbing season: Early July to late September
Access is very poor and course times are long. 1 night and 2 days required. Area with many bears. For experienced users.
🏔 Tokachidake (2,077m) — Beautiful ridgeline and hot spring area
You can see the crater of an active volcano up close. The view from Bihoro Pass is spectacular.
Shirogane Onsen, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido
Approximately 1 hour by bus from JR Biei Station to Shirogane Onsen → Trailhead
Climbing season: Late June to early October
Check the volcano information as it is an active volcano. Entry into the mountain is restricted at eruption alert level 2 or higher.
🏔 Mt. Horoshiri (2,052m) — Japan’s 100 most difficult mountains
The highest peak of the Hidaka Mountains. Due to the length and difficulty of the approach, it is one of Japan’s 100 most difficult mountains to climb.
Hidaka Town, Saryu District, Hokkaido
About 3 hours by car from Sapporo towards Hidaka → 6 hours on foot from the forest road gate
Climbing season: Early July to late September
An extremely difficult mountain. Requires 3-4 days round trip. There is an element of climbing. For advanced users only. Climbing notification is absolutely required.
🏔 Mt. Yotei (1,898m) — a beautiful conical shape called Ezo Fuji
A perfect conical shape called Mt. Fuji of Hokkaido. Located in Shikotsu-Toya National Park.
Makkari Village and Kyogoku Town, Abuta District, Hokkaido
Approximately 30 minutes by bus from JR Kutchan Station → Each trailhead
Climbing season: Mid-June to early October
It is possible to do a day trip, but there is a steep climb. From the 8th station onwards, you will need to take measures to protect yourself from the cold as you will be exceeding the forest limit.