The Four Seasons of Mt. Asahidake Mt. Asahidake is a mountain of extremes; it is the last place in the entire Japanese archipelago for the yearly snows to melt and the very first place for fall foliage/the season's first snowfall to occur. �@ The Daisetsu Mountain Range system comprises the northernmost mountain chain in Japan. And on Mt. Asahidake, the tallest peak of this system, snow remains for the longest period compared to any other place in the country. Even in July, when the rest of Japan is approaching summer, lingering snowfall can still be seen on Mt. Asahidake. In autumn, a southward progression of fall foliage from northern latitudes down to the southern regions occurs as the season changes to winter. Due to its very high elevation above sea level, autumn arrives early on Mt. Asahidake and the leaves begin to gradually change color as early as late August. In other words, you can enjoy fall foliage at the same time when other parts of Japan are still suffering from the oppressive heat of late summer. And in mid-September, near the summit of Mt. Asahidake we can see the first snowfall of the season earlier than any other location in the country. The excellent panoramic view of Mt. Asahidake's four seasons as seen from a ropeway window vantage point will leave breathtaking, unforgettable memories in the hearts of all visitors who travel here. Spring Though spring comes late to Mt. Asahidake, the area is resplendent with new life as plant buds burst out of their hibernation in unison! A mizu-basho plant peaks its head out from the remaining snow. Spring gradually makes its way up the mountain slope, ultimately reaching the summit and covering everything in its verdant path. After enduring Hokkaido's long and harsh winter season, various species of flora awake from their slumber and burst into bloom. The scene of flowering plants coming out of their winter hibernation is quite a thrilling sight. Summer The diverse tapestry of alpine plants and the enormous scale of their growth range are the true highlights of Mt. Asahidake. The verdant mountainscape lush with summer's fresh green. A refreshing breeze that sways the treetops. Alpine plants in full bloom as they enjoy the limited days of summer. These are the scenes of summertime on Mt. Asahidake. The Daisetsu Mountain Range system forms a highland area comprising a group of 2,000m-class mountains, and all throughout this region you will find fields and slopes of blossoming alpine flowers during the summer season. Various flora and fauna coexist in nature in the Mt. Daisetsu area In the grand-scale mountain chain that makes up this region live mammals such as pikas, red foxes and chipmunks as well as many species of wild birds. Autumn The crimson foliage seen on Mt. Asahidake testifies to the fact that this area is indeed "burning" with life. In August, autumn begins to quietly make its arrival on the mountain. A vivid contrast of green, red and yellow hues cover Mt. Asahidake and before long fall's crescendo peaks, with the highlight of the foliage season being September through October. Nature's colorful and vivid canvas. The mountain is aglow with autumnal tints which migrate from its peak down to its base. Winter Here you can enjoy the best quality powder snow in all of Japan. A ride on the Asahidake Ropeway quickly takes you to mid-slope of the mountain where you can begin your ski adventure on Hokkaido's tallest mountain. Powder snow, highly sought after by skiing enthusiasts, covers the mountain from December through early March. Here, shouts of joy reverberate down the ski slopes in this silvery white wonderland, and the long months of winter are fun and enjoyable on Mt. Asahidake. Use of the ropeway gives you access to the four different ski grounds where you can ski till your heart's content. �@ | Top | Live Camera | Schedule/Fares | Sugatami Pond | Alpine Plant | Skiing | | Four Seasons | Facilities | Access | * Asahidake Ropeway * Asahidake Division, WAKASARESORT Co., Ltd. Asahidake Onsen, Higashikawa-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido 071-1472 TEL: 0166-68-9111 FAX: 0166-68-9112 Copyright(c) WAKASARESORT Co.,Ltd.