A Magnificent Journey to the Peaks of Mount Kurodake and the Milky Way & Shooting Star Waterfalls

Daisetsuzan & Sounkyo Gorge

🕰️ Operating Hours:

• Mount Kurodake Ropeway: Summer 6:00 AM–6:00 PM, Winter 8:00 AM–4:00 PM (seasonal adjustments apply).
• Milky Way & Shooting Star Waterfalls: Open year-round, no time restrictions.
• Sounkyo Onsen Hotels: Check-in at 3:00 PM, check-out at 10:00 AM.

🏖️ Environment/Facilities:

Sounkyo Gorge, located in Kamikawa Town, Hokkaido, is one of the most iconic valleys within Daisetsuzan National Park. Known for its towering cliffs, seasonal natural beauty, and hot spring resorts, the area offers a variety of attractions. The Mount Kurodake Ropeway takes visitors to the peaks for views of sea clouds and autumn foliage, while the Milky Way and Shooting Star Waterfalls, celebrated as "husband and wife waterfalls," showcase contrasting water flows of elegance and power.

📍 Address:
Sounkyo, Kamikawa Town, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido

💰 Average Costs:

• Mount Kurodake Ropeway + Chairlift Round Trip: Approximately 2,400–3,000 JPY (adults).
• Milky Way & Shooting Star Waterfalls: Free admission.
• Sounkyo Kanko Hotel Accommodation: Around 12,000–18,000 JPY per person per night (includes dinner and breakfast).

🏞️ Mount Kurodake: A Sanctuary of Sea Clouds and Autumn Leaves

Mount Kurodake, part of the Daisetsuzan mountain range, stands at an elevation of 1,984 meters. In summer, visitors can easily reach the summit via the ropeway and chairlift to enjoy panoramic views of the mountain range and sea clouds. In autumn, the area is renowned for its vibrant foliage, with valleys resembling colorful carpets. During winter, Mount Kurodake transforms into a ski resort with fine-quality snow, making it a hidden gem for skiing enthusiasts.

The ropeway ride takes about 7 minutes, followed by a chairlift to the fifth station. Here, an observation deck offers clear views of the Daisetsuzan peaks, making it an ideal spot for stargazing and witnessing the sunrise over the sea clouds.

💧 Milky Way & Shooting Star Waterfalls: A Natural Wonder of "Husband and Wife Waterfalls"

Near the Sounkyo Onsen area, two iconic waterfalls stand out:
• Milky Way Waterfall: With its delicate and graceful flow resembling white silk cascading down the rock face, it is known as the "female waterfall."
• Shooting Star Waterfall: With its powerful and majestic flow, it symbolizes the "male waterfall."

The two waterfalls are located close to each other, allowing visitors to admire both simultaneously and capture panoramic views from the observation deck. In spring and summer, the waterfalls are at their fullest, while autumn offers a stunning combination of foliage and water. In winter, the waterfalls freeze into magnificent ice formations.

♨️ Sounkyo Onsen: A Relaxing Retreat in a Snowy Wonderland

After hiking or sightseeing, Sounkyo Onsen is the perfect place to unwind. The area features several hot spring hotels, with Sounkyo Kanko Hotel being the most iconic choice.

Highlights include:

• Open-Air Baths: Enjoy soaking while admiring the gorge and seasonal scenery. The atmosphere is especially romantic in winter with falling snow.
• Variety of Hot Spring Pools: Options include rock baths, cypress baths, and foot baths to suit different preferences.
• Dining: Offers Hokkaido specialties such as king crab, sashimi platters, Genghis Khan grilled lamb, and kaiseki meals made with local ingredients.

🌸 Seasonal Highlights:
• Spring: Fresh greenery emerges as the snow melts, and the waterfalls are at their fullest.
• Summer: Ideal for hiking and enjoying alpine flowers and cool weather.
• Autumn: The gorge is blanketed in vibrant foliage, making it one of Hokkaido's top spots for autumn leaves.
• Winter: Famous for its snowy landscapes and ice waterfalls. From January to March, the "Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival" features enchanting nighttime illuminations.

📸 Must-Visit Photo Spots:
• Mount Kurodake Ropeway Observation Deck: Stunning views of sea clouds and sunrises.
• Milky Way & Shooting Star Waterfalls Observation Deck: Capture both waterfalls in one frame.
• Ice Waterfall Festival Night Views: A dreamy world of ice sculptures illuminated in blue lights.
• Open-Air Baths at Onsen Hotels: Soak in hot springs while enjoying snowy scenery for an authentic Hokkaido experience.

🚗 Transportation:
• By Car: About a 90-minute drive from Asahikawa City via Route 39 directly to Sounkyo.
• Public Transport: Take the Dohoku Bus from Asahikawa Station to Sounkyo Onsen Station, approximately a 2-hour ride.
• Day Tours: Some travel agencies offer combined tours such as "Asahiyama Zoo + Sounkyo Gorge."

✨ Tips:
1. Mount Kurodake Hiking: If planning to hike further, prepare proper gear.
2. Winter Precautions: Temperatures often drop below -10°C; wear warm clothing and anti-slip shoes.
3. Accommodation Booking: Reserve Sounkyo Kanko Hotel in advance during peak seasons (autumn foliage and winter ice waterfall festival).
4. Camera Protection: For winter photography of ice waterfalls, ensure lens defogging and battery longevity.

Daisetsuzan & Sounkyo Gorge combine majestic mountains and seasonal beauty. The Mount Kurodake Ropeway offers sea clouds and autumn foliage, while the Milky Way and Shooting Star Waterfalls showcase nature's elegance and power. The winter ice waterfall festival adds a dreamy touch. Paired with the relaxing experience of hot spring hotels, this destination is not just a sightseeing spot but a journey that deeply touches the soul.

If you're planning a trip to Asahikawa or the Daisetsuzan area, don't miss this travel gem where you can experience gorges, waterfalls, hot springs, and seasonal landscapes all in one place.