The 10 Best Hiking Trails in Hokkaido

This active volcano located in central Hokkaido is the highest mountain in Akan National Park. At the summit, hikers can see the volcano’s bubbling crater from a close yet safe distance. On the opposite end of Lake Akan is Mt. Oakan, which is said to be the male counterpart to Meakin.

If the idea of climbing an active volcano isn’t really your thing, Mt. Yotei might be a safer bet; this huge volcano located in Shikotsu-Toya National Park hasn’t erupted since 1050 BC. Often compared to Mt. Fuji due to its similar appearance, Yotei has become one of the most popular hikes in northern Japan.

Sitting beside the famously beautiful Lake Mashu, this is another mountain location known for brown bear sightings – especially in the autumn. That said, hikers who make it to the peak of Mt. Mashu are treated to a panoramic view of the lake, the surrounding mountains, and Shiretoko National Park in the distance.

This rocky mountain is located halfway between the Shiretoko Peninsula and Akan National Park. On a clear day, the view from the summit is quite breathtaking as it is possible to see the town of Shari, the Sea of Okhotsk, Kunashiri Island, Mt. Rausu, and Mt. Meakan. The trail is somewhat challenging but perfectly doable for intermediate hikers.

Another rocky peak, Tomuraushi is part of Daisetsuzan National Park in central Hokkaido. To say the park is huge would be an understatement; the area of the entire park is roughly the size of Kanagawa prefecture. The area is also home to the Japanese pika, an endangered species and one of the highest living mammals on Earth, typically found at heights of over 6,000 meters.

Yet another active volcano, Mt. Tokachi is also located in Daisetsuzan National Park. At 2,077 meters tall, a trip to the summit will take hikers above the clouds, so bring a camera for this one. At the base of the mountain is a campground and natural hot spring, a perfect ending to a long day on the trail.