The Asahidake Ski Adventure: Epic Volcanoes and Powder Dreams

This article is your ultimate guide to an epic Asahidake ski adventure. Ditch the Tokyo Narita shuffle and get straight to the good stuff with our travel tips. Tackle gnarly hikes and shred exhilarating descents with confidence. We’ve got the scoop on top-rated lodgings, the best onsens to soak in after a day on the slopes, and must-try eats in Asahidake and Asahikawa. Get ready for an unforgettable ride!
Keep an eye on our Adventure Group Ski Trips as we may have ski adventures to Asahidake on offer!

Dropping in

There are two kinds of skiers in this world: those who talk about the best pow and those who live to find it. As a pow chaser with a passport full of ski stamps, I’m all about the hunt. When I caught word of the Asahidake adventure, with its legendary geysers and Hokkaido’s highest annual snowfall, I knew it was time to chase the storm to Japan’s northernmost island.

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Getting to Asahidake

The Best Way in

Your best bet is flying straight into Asahikawa, a rad little city close to Asahidake, and catching the bus from there. It’s a 1-hour ride into the Asahidake ski resort. Taxis are available, but they are more expensive and, with traffic and all, the ride isn’t significantly shorter.

Since international flights to Asahikawa are limited, you might be coming from New Chitose Airport in Sapporo. That’s a longer trek. From Sapporo airport, it’s a bit of a mission: 4.5-5.5 hours of travel via train and bus. First, hit up Sapporo Station with the Rapid Airport, then hop on a train to Asahikawa, which takes about 1.5 hours on the Japan Railways Limited Express. From Asahikawa take the bus to Asahidake to continue your Asahidake ski adventure.

Find the best flight deals / cheap flights to Asahikawa or Sapporo here.

Avoid the Tokyo Narita Shuffle

Pro Tip: If you are flying internationally, try to avoid flying into Tokyo’s Narita Airport and then transferring to Haneda Airport. I’ve done it once, and it felt like a marathon with all that ski luggage. Picture me at the terminal, dragging my ski bag like an unruly toddler, and realizing at the bus station that my avalanche backpack was missing. I had four minutes before the bus left, so I had to decide between leaving a thousand dollars on the table for a new airbag backpack, or potentially missing my bus and thus, my connecting flight.

I chose the latter. Like a maniac, I raced back into the baggage claim area, apologizing to all the airport staff who tried to stop me, pointing frantically at my watch and yelling, “I lost my bag in there and have to catch a bus!” Luckily, I found my backpack immediately and made it on the bus with literally seconds to spare. Good times.

Yep, changing airports in Tokyo can be a real headache, and during peak seasons, it’s tough to predict how long the whole process will take with immigration and baggage claim. If you have no other choice than to fly into Narita, you’ll want to allow at least 4-5 hours to make that connection, which is a huge hassle. I had a 4-hour layover and almost missed my connection.

Flight Route Alternatives

Note: Even if you do manage to land at Haneda and your next flight is from there, you’ll still have to claim your bags and re-check them, since the rule is you have to grab your luggage at your first point of entry into Japan. To avoid all that drama during your Asahidake ski adventure, I recommend having at least 2 hours between your flights.

A better option for your Asahidake ski adventure is to look at flying through a different hub, like Hong Kong or Seoul, and then connecting to Hokkaido from there. This way, you can skip the whole Tokyo airport shuffle and just focus on getting to the powder stashes. It’s way less stress, and you’ll be able to maximize your time on the mountain.

Rental Cars

If you’re a confident driver, renting a car from Sapporo CTS or Asahikawa Airport is a great option, depending on where you land. We’ve had excellent experiences with Expedia Car Rentals for this.

IMPORTANT: For drivers with licenses from France, Belgium, Switzerland, Monaco, Germany, Slovenia, or Taiwan, you’ll need a certified translation from the JAF (Japan Automobile Federation). We recommend using Drivinjapan to handle this remotely, so you don’t have to visit the JAF office in Sapporo. They’re affordable and reliable, and I’ve used them several times. You can have your translation sent directly to the rental car company before you pick up your car or to your hotel in Japan. Just make sure to arrange this a few weeks in advance.

Communication: Get a Local SIM Card

Since foreign radios are not allowed in Japan, we strongly recommend using your mobile phone to communicate with your riding buddies. It is crucial to stay in touch in case someone gets lost or separated from the group.

You can get a local Japanese SIM card at the airports, or if you have eSIM, we recommend ordering Yesim’s Japan package before you fly.

Moreover, the Japanese aren’t exactly winning any awards for their English skills. So, when you’re wandering around Japan, especially in the lesser-known spots such as local ski resorts, get ready to have Google Translate become your new best friend. Just think of it as a fun language adventure – who knows, you might even pick up a few quirky phrases along the way!

The Best Time to Visit Asahidake for Skiing

For the ultimate skiing experience in Asahidake, plan your visit between early December and mid-March. This period boasts the best snow conditions, with the highest historical snowfall typically occurring in the last week of December. During these months, Asahidake becomes a skier’s paradise, offering deep, powdery snow and stunning alpine scenery. While the highest snowfalls tend to occur at the end of December, it’s worth noting that the base layer tends to be better in the latter part of January and into February.

Check out our blog post about where it snows most in Hokkaido, where we crunched historical data, and Asahidake comes out on top!

Ski and Snowboard Rentals in Asahidake

Bad news, shredders. If you’re heading to Asahidake, don’t bank on snagging rental gear, especially for backcountry.

Seriously, pack your own kit – boots, skis, skins, crampons, backpack, avy beacon, shovel, and probe.

The Asahidake visitors center is bare bones for rentals – poles and a few boots, and that’s it. Your best bet for serious gear is Kamui Ski Links, but it’s a haul – 1.5 hours from Asahidake. If you’re stuck renting, crash in Asahikawa, grab your gear from Kamui on day one, and drop it back on your last. But heads up, they don’t have any backcountry gear, so you won’t be able to hit the prime spots in Asahidake.

Rentals in Asahidake

If you’re bunking at one of the below spots in Asahikawa, they’ve got some limited rentals available:

• OMO7 Hotel Asahikawa: Check out White Time Asahikawa inside the hotel for ski and snowboard rentals. No backcountry gear, though.
• Asahikawa Ride: A guesthouse run by a private owner with a small stash of ski and snowboard rentals.

Ski and Snowboard Shops in Asahidake

Asahikawa has a few shops with some sweet accessories, but for the heavy-duty stuff, it’s hit or miss – fit issues, wrong models, you name it. Don’t roll the dice, bring your own gear. But if you’re in a pinch, here are some snowsport shops in Asahikawa:

• Shugakuso Asahikawa: This is your mountaineering HQ for backcountry gear, boots, and ski/snowboard accessories. Best in the region for backcountry stuff, but watch out – their stock is limited. We couldn’t even score the right crampons for our touring skis.
• Spray Asahikawa : This spot has your ski and snowboard gear, snowsports wear, and accessories covered, with a few backcountry goodies. Plus, they offer a tuning service to keep your ride slick.
• Murasaki Sports Asahikawa: Located in the Aeon mall, they’ve got ski and snowboard gear, snowsports wear, and accessories. A solid place for your basic (non-backcountry) needs.
• Super Sports Xebio Asahikawa: This shop sells all kinds of sports gear, including a limited selection of ski and snowboard stuff. Might not be the motherlode, but you might find some emergency supplies here if needed.

So, if you’re in a pinch, these spots might help. But bring your own gear for the full Asahidake experience!

Where to Stay in Asahidake

When visiting Asahidake, you have a few accommodation options to consider, especially if you want to stay near the ropeway for convenient access to the mountain. There are a handful of lodges and ryokan-style inns that offer comfortable stays with beautiful natural surroundings. These accommodations typically provide easy access to hiking trails and the ropeway, making them perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty.

For a wider range of amenities and dining options, consider staying in Asahikawa. This city offers numerous hotels and is a great base for exploring the region. From Asahikawa, you can reach Asahidake by bus or rental car, allowing you to enjoy the best of both urban convenience and mountain adventure.

Accommodation in Asahidake

Find great accommodation deals in Asahidake through this Link. Below, you’ll find a selection of accommodations in Asahidake that are popular with our community. They’re perfect for relaxing after a long day on the slopes.

5-Star Hotels

La Vista Daisetsuzan

• Distance to Asahidake Ropeway: 0.4 miles
• Features: Located amidst nature with luxurious rooms and stunning views.
• Amenities: Public hot spring bath, free Wi-Fi, exquisite dining options.

4-Star Hotels

Asahidake Onsen Hotel Bear Monte

• Distance to Asahidake Ropeway: 0.2 miles (3-minute walk)
• Features: Spacious guestrooms close to the ropeway.
• Amenities: Private bathrooms, public onsen, restaurant.

Asahidake Yumoto Yukomanso

• Distance to Asahidake Ropeway: Approximately 3 miles
• Features: Traditional ryokan experience, serene environment.
• Amenities: Hot spring bath, spa center, family-friendly restaurant, free Wi-Fi, free private parking.
• Transportation: Taxi or rental car recommended to get to the ropeway. Or check with hotel if they have shuttle bus service.

Hotel Taisetsu Onsen & Canyon Resort

• Distance to Asahidake Ropeway: 8 miles
• Features: Spacious rooms with scenic views, ideal for family stays.
• Amenities: Indoor/outdoor public hot-spring baths, 24/7 hot-spring access, massage services.
• Transportation: Taxi or rental car recommended to get to the ropeway. Or check with hotel if they have shuttle bus service.

3-Star Hotels

Hotel Deer Valley

• Distance to Asahidake Ropeway: Approximately 1 mile
• Features: Nestled at the foot of Asahidake, this hotel offers a serene retreat with charming ambiance and picturesque views.
• Amenities: Hot spring baths with natural spring water, spacious guest rooms equipped with flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, electric kettles, slippers, and yukata robes. The hotel also has a restaurant, bar/lounge, and provides free Wi-Fi and parking​.
• Transportation: Taxi or rental car recommended to get to the ropeway. Or check with hotel if they have shuttle bus service.

Hostels

K’s House Hokkaido – Asahidake Onsen Hostel

• Distance to Asahidake Ropeway: 0.9 miles
• Features: Budget-friendly, ideal for solo travelers and backpackers.
• Amenities: Shared lounge, free Wi-Fi, well-equipped kitchen, beautiful onsen.
• Transportation: Taxi or rental car recommended to get to the ropeway. Or check with hotel if they have shuttle bus service.

Sounkyo Hostel

• Distance to Asahidake Ropeway: 9 miles
• Features: Friendly staff and a great experience.
• Amenities: Free bikes, shared lounge, free Wi-Fi, private parking.
• Transportation: Taxi or rental car recommended to get to the ropeway. Or check with hotel if they have shuttle bus service.

Accommodation in Asahikawa

If you want to stay in a bigger city instead where you have more variety in terms of restaurants and nightlife, consider staying in Asahikawa. There are busses to Asahidake from the JR Asahikawa Station. Some hotels may offer shuttle bus services. We recommend you to ask before you book. You can rent a car, but keep in mind that the streets in Hokkaido can be slippery when it snows.

Find great accommodation deals in Asahikawa through this Link. They’re perfect for relaxing after a long day on the slopes. Below, you’ll find a few choices our community particularly loves:

4-Star Hotels

JR Inn Asahikawa

• Distance to JR Asahikawa Station: Directly connected
• Features: Modern and comfortable, great for business and leisure travelers.
• Amenities: Public bath, laundry facilities, free Wi-Fi.

HOTEL AMANEK Asahikawa

• Distance to JR Asahikawa Station: Approximately 0.5 miles
• Features: Stylish rooms, popular with couples.
• Amenities: Non-smoking rooms, free Wi-Fi, highly rated breakfast.

Premier Hotel -CABIN- Asahikawa

• Distance to JR Asahikawa Station: Approximately 0.6 miles
• Features: Comfortable rooms, city views.
• Amenities: Restaurant, bar, 24-hour front desk, free Wi-Fi.

Art Hotel Asahikawa

• Distance to JR Asahikawa Station: Approximately 1 mile
• Features: Sauna and fitness facilities, Western-style rooms.
• Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, car parking (with fee), multiple dining options.

3-Star Hotels

OMO7 Asahikawa by Hoshino Resorts

• Distance to JR Asahikawa Station: Approximately 0.7 miles
• Features: Modern design, great for families.
• Amenities: Garden, terrace, restaurant, bar, ski pass sales, free shuttle bus to different ski resorts.

Court Hotel Asahikawa

• Distance to JR Asahikawa Station: Approximately 0.5 miles
• Features: Good location, budget-friendly.
• Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, massage services, restaurant.

Asahikawa Sun Hotel

• Distance to JR Asahikawa Station: Approximately 0.3 miles
• Features: Central location, ideal for short stays.
• Amenities: Massage services, Japanese/Western restaurant, free Wi-Fi.

2-Star Hotels

Tabist THE GREEN ASAHIKAWA

• Distance to JR Asahikawa Station: Approximately 0.8 miles
• Features: Basic amenities, budget-friendly.
• Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk.

Toyoko Inn Hokkaido Asahikawa Ekimae Ichijo dori

• Distance to JR Asahikawa Station: Approximately 0.3 miles
• Features: Convenient location, affordable rates.
• Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, breakfast included.

Asahidake: Japan’s Volcano Paradise

We started our journey to Asahidake as part of a ski safari through Japan. We hired a guide who drove us around in a van from place to place. Our guide was a character straight out of a travel comedy. Communication with him was a hilarious adventure in itself – he spoke almost no English, and our Japanese was non-existent. It was like playing charades on skis, with lots of exaggerated gestures and creative sign language. Somehow, he still managed to lead us through every backcountry route, bringing us back in one piece.

Asahidake is the king of Hokkaido’s peaks, towering at 2,291 meters. It’s a dormant volcano with some serious geothermal vibes, steam vents breaking up the snowy slopes. Asahidake is all about off-piste and backcountry action. Unlike the tourist-heavy Niseko, Asahidake serves up a raw, untamed adventure perfect for the purist and the thrill-seeker. This makes the Asahidake ski adventure one of the most sought-after experiences for powder enthusiasts.

A Day in the Life of Powder Hunters

Our first day kicked off with a killer breakfast at the Art Hotel Asahikawa, a massive, modern spot with 15 floors. Our guide scooped us up after our buffet breakfast on the top floor that hit all the right notes. We geared up, made sure our avalanche beacons were good to go, and got our action cams ready to roll.

As we geared up, one of our group members realized he left his avalanche beacon in the hotel room. Cue a mad dash back to the room, only for him to return triumphantly holding… the empty beacon holster. Classic mix-up. Meanwhile, we were stuck waiting forever for the hotel’s two overworked elevators (seriously, 265 rooms and only two elevators—who planned this?). We joked about leaving him behind as a lesson in preparedness. After all, no friends on powder days, right?

Asahidake Ropeway

The Asahidake Ropeway is the gateway to powder heaven. As the cable car climbed, we soaked in the surreal landscape. It was like stepping into a snow globe, with flakes swirling around us. At the top, we were greeted by a jaw-dropping view: endless stretches of untouched snow, framed by towering peaks and whispering pines.

Hike to the Peak

From there, we strapped on our skins and started the hike up. The morning fog added a mysterious vibe, and we passed steaming geysers, which were insanely cool. It felt like we were climbing through a scene from a fantasy novel, exploring a different planet. Halfway up, the clouds lifted, giving us some epic sunny weather – perfect for snapping a few killer pics. But just as quickly, the weather turned, and it got crazy windy and icy.

The hike became a treacherous adventure. The wind was so strong it felt like we were being sandblasted with ice crystals. At one point, we saw a guy from another group lose his glove to the wind, and we all watched it flutter away like a rogue balloon at a child’s birthday party. Another guy took a comical tumble, sliding down on his backside, skis in the air, before somehow managing to stop himself.

Some of us tried to bootpack, taking off our skis or splitboards since we didn’t have crampons. It was like trying to climb a frozen escalator going the wrong way. One brave soul even hiked up with the skis on his shoulder because he didn’t have ski straps on his backpack. Eventually, we had to admit defeat and bail on the summit, skiing down from a lower part. Lesson learned: bring crampons!

Skiing Down

The descent was an adventure in itself, with a mix of ice and powder that kept us on our toes – or on the toes and heels for the snowboarders. The top part of the run was icy, but as we dropped lower, the snow turned soft and magical. Further down, the pow was everything we’d dreamed of – light, fluffy, and perfect for wide, arcing turns. We made sparkling powder sprays as we carved our way down.

At the bottom, we jumped back on the ropeway for several more rounds. Each run delivered fresh thrills: tree-lined glades, steep chutes, and wide-open bowls. Asahidake’s lower terrain is a playground for off-piste enthusiasts of all levels, but reaching the top demands proficiency in backcountry skiing. Regardless, the descents were an unforgettable highlight of the Asahidake ski adventure.

Après-Ski in Asahidake: Onsen Bliss

After a day of chasing pow on your Asahidake ski adventure, nothing beats soaking in an onsen. We tried several onsens in the region, but Asahidake Onsen in the Hotel Deer Valley, with its mineral-rich waters, is by far the best. It’s clean and comfortable, unlike some other onsens I had been to.

I eased into the steaming pool, the hot water a perfect contrast to the cold air. As I soaked, I replayed the day’s epic moments in my head, feeling the adrenaline and reliving every thrilling descent. Just then, an American woman entered the onsen, blissfully unaware of the cultural norm to keep quiet. She started chatting loudly with a Japanese lady who barely spoke any English. The Japanese lady looked incredibly embarrassed, nodding politely and inching away while the American woman carried on about her day on the slopes, completely oblivious. The rest of us tried to stifle our laughs, and eventually, the American woman noticed the awkwardness and fell silent, finally soaking in the serene atmosphere. It was a funny, yet gentle reminder of the cultural nuances one encounters on such adventures.

Local Flavors: From Scallops to Sake

Skiing works up quite an appetite, and Hokkaido’s culinary scene does not disappoint. Dinner was a feast of local delicacies: fresh sashimi, tempura vegetables, and steaming bowls of ramen. Hokkaido is famous for its incredible seafood, and the scallops were a revelation – plump, sweet, and utterly delicious.

No meal is complete without a sip of sake. I sampled a variety of local brews, each with its own distinct flavor profile. My favorite was Asahidake Junmai Ginjo, a dry, crisp sake that perfectly complemented the rich flavors of the food.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Asahidake and Asahikawa

Asahidake

For an excellent dining experience in Asahidake, start with these Best Restaurants near Asahidake Ropeway through this link. They’re perfect for enjoying a delicious meal after a day of adventure. Below, you’ll find a few choices our community particularly loves:

1. La Vista Daisetsuzan Restaurant
   • Located within the La Vista Daisetsuzan hotel, this restaurant offers a refined dining experience with stunning views and a variety of Japanese and Western dishes.
2. Beer Grill Canyon
   • Situated in the Sounkyo Canyon Mall, this restaurant is known for its good atmosphere and delicious Italian cuisine, including pizza and pasta.
3. Restaurant Stellamonte
   • This cozy eatery in Asahidake Onsen is popular for its hearty meals and warm ambiance, making it a great spot to relax after a day on the slopes.
4. Asahidake Manseikaku Hotel Bear Monte Restaurant
   • Offering a range of local and international dishes, this hotel restaurant is praised for its buffet featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients.
5. Daisetsuzan Shirakabaso
   • Located near the trailhead, this spot is perfect for enjoying traditional Japanese meals with a focus on local Hokkaido ingredients.

Asahikawa

If you chose to stay in Asahikawa, start with these Best Restaurants in Asahikawa through this link. They’re perfect for enjoying a delicious meal after a day of adventure. Below, you’ll find a few choices our community particularly loves:

Known for its rich and hearty ramen, Hachiya offers a variety of ramen options that showcase the depth of Asahikawa’s ramen culture.

1. Baikohken
   • Famous for its Asahikawa-style ramen, Baikohken is a must-visit for noodle enthusiasts. Their rich and flavorful broth is a highlight.
2. Santoka
   • Another top ramen spot in Asahikawa, Santoka is known for its deliciously balanced shio (salt) ramen, which has garnered a loyal following.
3. Jingisukan Daikokuya
   • Specializing in the local Hokkaido dish Jingisukan (grilled mutton), this restaurant offers a unique and savory dining experience with high-quality lamb.
4. Kaiseki Saryou Taisetsu
   • For those seeking an exquisite Japanese dining experience, this kaiseki restaurant provides beautifully presented multi-course meals featuring seasonal ingredients.
5. Hachiya
   • Known for its rich and smoky shoyu ramen, which features a broth made from pork bones, fish, and grilled lard, served with medium-thick noodles and juicy chashu​.

Getting Around in Asahidake

If you stay in Asahikawa, there are several options to get to Asahidake:

• Shared Taxis: A convenient option from Asahikawa to Asahidake. Once there, everything is accessible by foot or short taxi rides.
• Hotel Shuttles: Some hotels, such as OMO7, offer free shuttle buses to the ski resorts, including Asahidake.
• Public Buses: Some hotels are near bus stops where buses run to Asahidake. We recommend inquiring at the hotel about the possibilities of getting there.

What to Pack for Your Asahidake Ski Adventure

For those planning their own Asahidake ski adventure, here are a few pro tips:

• Pack Smart: Layers are key. The weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for anything from bright sunshine to sudden snow squalls.
• Bring Your Own Backcountry Gear: As mentioned above, it can be tough to find suitable backcountry gear rentals in the region, so I highly recommend bringing your own.
• Bring Your Own Boots: Rental boots never fit quite right. Bringing your own ensures comfort and performance.
• Stay Hydrated: The cold, dry air can be deceptively dehydrating. Keep a water bottle handy and drink regularly, or use a hydrating system on your backpack.

Safety Tips for Your Asahidake Ski Adventure

For those gearing up for their first Asahidake ski adventure, here are some clutch tips:

• Plan Ahead: Book your flights and accommodations early, especially during peak season.
• Hire a Guide: The Asahidake backcountry terrain can be tricky. A local guide will not only keep you safe but also show you the best lines.
• Get Emergency Evacuation Insurance Coverage: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers skiing and emergency evacuation. We recommend insurance that covers incidents also with non-certified guides, as not all guides in Japan have internationally accepted certificates.
• Get a Local SIM Card: As already mentioned above, get a local Japanese SIM card for smooth communication on the slopes. You can get them at the airport, or if you have eSIM, we recommend ordering Yesim’s Japan package before you fly.

Trips from Sapporo – Lake Toya

If you didn’t have a choice but to fly over Sapporo and are back there for your return flight, carve out a few extra days to soak in everything this city and its surroundings have to offer. I highly recommend a day trip to the beautiful Lake Toya region – it’s totally worth it! Lake Toya is a volcanic caldera lake with crystal-clear waters, surrounded by hot springs and scenic trails. It’s one of Japan’s top spots for stargazing, thanks to its low light pollution. Plus, you can check out the active volcano, Mount Usu, and enjoy epic views from the ropeway.

If you’re planning to hit up Sapporo in early February, be sure to check the Sapporo Snow Festival website for the exact dates. This legendary festival turns the city into a snowy wonderland, drawing millions of visitors from around the world. You’ll see insane snow and ice sculptures, some towering over 15 meters high and stretching 25 meters wide. With nighttime illuminations and killer live performances, this festival is the ultimate winter playground.

Accommodation in Sapporo

A good middle-class choice close to the main station is 3* Hotel Route-Inn Sapporo Ekimae Kitaguchi.

Check the below map for other great accommodation deals:

Wrapping it Up: Asahidake Ski Adventure

If you’re hunting for a ski adventure with epic terrain, rich culture, and a dash of magic, Asahidake is where it’s at. So, pack your gear, strap in, and get ready to shred through Japan’s ultimate powder paradise.

Asahidake isn’t just another ski destination; it’s a journey into the heart of Japan’s winter wonderland. Whether you’re a seasoned shredder or a powder novice, Asahidake offers an experience like no other. So, gear up and get ready to ride the wildest lines of your life in the land of the rising sun!

Share in the comments which freeriding spots you’d like to see featured in a detailed Destination Guide, and we’ll do our best to include them in future posts! 👇