Meet people in Kamikawa

The visitor center acts as a central hub for travelers and locals alike, providing information on trails and local conditions. Its spacious interior and informative displays make it a comfortable place to sit and plan activities. Because it is a common starting point for many excursions, it is a natural setting to strike up a conversation with fellow hikers or nature lovers about their upcoming routes or recent experiences in the mountains.

Check the notice board for information on local group activities or seasonal events.

As Japan's largest national park, this expansive wilderness area features towering volcanic peaks, alpine meadows, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore a vast network of trails that cater to various skill levels, ranging from gentle walks to challenging mountain ascents. The park is particularly renowned for its early autumn colors, which are among the first to appear in the country. The sheer scale and untouched nature of the landscape provide a profound sense of solitude and connection to the environment, making it a focal point for anyone visiting the Kamikawa region.

Check weather reports at the visitor center before heading into the high-altitude trails, as conditions change rapidly.

Located within the deep valley of the Ishikari River, Sounkyo Onsen is a famous hot spring resort town known for its dramatic cliffside scenery and therapeutic waters. The area is characterized by its towering columnar jointed rock formations, which create a striking backdrop for the traditional ryokan and public bathhouses. Visitors come here to soak in mineral-rich waters after a day of hiking or skiing. The atmosphere is peaceful and restorative, offering a quintessential Japanese wellness experience that highlights the geological wonders of the Daisetsuzan range.

Visit the public foot baths located around the village for a quick and relaxing way to enjoy the thermal waters.

These two iconic waterfalls, known as the Milky Way and Shooting Star, cascade down the sheer cliffs of the Sounkyo Gorge. They are located close to each other, offering a beautiful visual contrast as they tumble into the valley below. A viewing platform provides a perfect vantage point to admire the power and grace of the water, especially during the spring snowmelt or the vibrant autumn season. The area serves as a popular stop for those traversing the gorge, providing a moment of awe in the midst of the rugged terrain.

The waterfalls are particularly stunning in winter when they freeze into massive, glistening ice pillars.

The Kurodake Ropeway transports visitors from the base of Sounkyo up to the fifth station of Mount Kurodake, significantly shortening the trek to the alpine zones. The ride offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Daisetsuzan mountain range, revealing the vastness of the forest and the rugged beauty of the peaks. Once at the top, visitors can access well-maintained trails that lead to even higher elevations. It is a vital piece of infrastructure that makes the high-altitude experience accessible to a wider range of people, regardless of their climbing experience.

The ropeway operates year-round, offering different perspectives of the landscape in every season.

This facility focuses on environmental education and the promotion of the Daisetsuzan National Park's unique ecosystem. It serves as a hub for workshops, guided tours, and interactive exhibits that explain the geological and biological significance of the region. Visitors can learn about the local flora and fauna, as well as the conservation efforts required to protect this delicate wilderness. The center acts as a community space where nature enthusiasts gather to share knowledge and plan their explorations, fostering a deeper appreciation for the surrounding environment.

Inquire about their seasonal guided nature walks to discover hidden spots within the park.