Daisetsuzan National Park and Kurodake Ropeway Autumn Tour

2.5
(2 reviews)
Sapporo, Japan

10 hours 30 minutes (approximately)

Escape the city and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Hokkaido’s autumn season on this full-day tour from Sapporo. Travel comfortably by coach to the heart of Daisetsuzan National Park, home to some of Japan’s earliest and most vibrant fall foliage. Known as one of the earliest spots in Japan to welcome the autumn season, this tour takes you to five breathtaking locations where fall colors paint the landscape in brilliant shades of gold, crimson, and amber.

Ride the scenic Kurodake Ropeway for a bird’s-eye view of golden valleys and colorful mountainsides. Walk through peaceful river gorges, marvel at dramatic canyons framed by fiery leaves, and relax beside a quiet mountain lake mirrored with autumn hues. At the twin waterfalls of Ginga and Ryusei, witness the mesmerizing contrast of white water flowing through a forest ablaze with color.

What's Included

Round-trip bus transportation by coach
Ropeway ride
Japanese-speaking tour conductor using a translation app for assistance
Food and drinks
Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, shopping)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter
Lunch

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Sapporo Eki Kitaguchi

Meet at the North Exit Group Bus Stop at Sapporo Station, near the eastern side of the North Exit. NOT from the western side of North Exit! Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled meeting time. The tour conductor will be holding a flag and a placard with the local tour operator's logo

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 10 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1

    After meeting your friendly tour conductor, you’ll board a comfortable coach and begin your 3-hour journey deep into the heart of Hokkaido's stunning Daisetsuzan region. Your first destination is Mt. Kurodake, one of the most iconic peaks in the Daisetsuzan mountain range. Here, you’ll take the Kurodake Ropeway for a sweeping aerial view of the colorful tapestry below. As you glide up the mountain, you'll be surrounded by a sea of vibrant foliage—yellow birch, fiery maple, and golden larch trees blanketing the slopes in all directions. From the observation deck, the panoramic vistas stretch across rugged valleys and peaks, offering one of the most unforgettable views of Hokkaido’s fall season. (Best viewed mid-September to early October) Since lunch is not included, please be sure to prepare your own meal in advance before coming to the meeting place.

    2 hours Admission ticket included
  • 2

    Next, you’ll stroll through the serene Sounkyo Gorge Garden, a peaceful riverside area perfect for enjoying the crisp mountain air and reflective beauty of the season. The quiet trails are lined with deciduous trees that burst into shades of deep orange and ruby red, with the majestic cliffs of the gorge rising dramatically on either side. This lesser-known gem offers a more intimate encounter with nature’s transformation. (Best viewed late September to late October)

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3

    At Sounkyo Obako, the foliage takes on a dramatic tone as jagged rock formations rise above the colorful trees below. The gorge, carved over centuries by the Ishikari River, becomes an autumn masterpiece during the fall season. This area is especially popular among photographers for its raw natural beauty and the interplay of light and shadow on the stone walls and foliage. (Best viewed late September to late October)

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4

    Taisetsu Lake, a scenic reservoir nestled between the mountains, is your next stop. Here, the surrounding forest glows in the autumn sun, and the calm waters reflect the brilliant colors like a mirror. The combination of open sky, crisp air, and pristine natural beauty makes this an ideal spot for a short walk or simply a peaceful moment of reflection. (Best viewed mid-September to early October)

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Your final stop is at the famous twin waterfalls of Ginga (Milky Way) and Ryusei (Shooting Star). Set against the backdrop of towering cliffs and vibrant foliage, these cascading falls offer one of the most picturesque autumn views in the region. The sight of white water streaming through a fiery forest is nothing short of magical, and the sound of rushing water adds to the immersive natural experience. (Best viewed mid-September to mid-October) After a full day immersed in the beauty of Japan’s northern wilderness, your bus returns to Sapporo Station around 17:30.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infant (0-2 years old) are free of charge with no arrangement
  • Child (3-5 years old) rates apply, only bus seat is included
  • Lunch is not included on this tour. Please prepare your own meal in advance or purchase food at a service area during the trip. You may eat on the bus or during your free time while exploring Mt. Kurodake.
  • The best time to view autumn leaves varies depending on the weather and temperature of the season. The tour schedule is based on the condition of the autumn leaves in the past years. However, there are some cases where you are not able to enjoy the scenery as in the photo. Please note there will be no refund regardless of the conditions of the autumn leaves. If the conditions of the autumn leaves are poor, visiting times may be shortened. If access is closed, the activity will be skipped.
Supplied by Club Tourism International Inc.
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Tags

Day Trips
Nature and Wildlife Tours
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Trolley Tours
Seasonal
Cable Car Tours
Zombie

Cancellation Policy

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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Rating

2.5 Based on 2 2 reviews
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