[autumn][ Hokkaido Kamikawa Town]Sounkyo: A dynamic canyon of autumn leaves
Sounkyo is a valley located in Kamikawa, Hokkaido, where you can enjoy the charm of nature. This 24km long gorge is known as part of the Daisetsu mountain range, and is particularly crowded with tourists during the autumn foliage season. One of its attractions is the spectacular scenery created by the colorful autumn leaves covering the mountains. The entire mountain is dyed in yellow, red, and orange colors, catching the eye of visitors. In addition, the Ishikari River flowing through the valley harmonizes with the autumn leaves, giving an even more dynamic impression. Sounkyo is evaluated as a "breathtaking view symbolizing Hokkaido's autumn" due to the beauty of its autumn leaves, and is a spot visited by not only locals but also tourists from all over the world. The peak of the autumn leaves is said to be from late September to mid-October, but you can enjoy the most beautiful scenery by visiting at that time. In addition to the autumn leaves, you can also enjoy the natural art created by the majestic mountains and rock walls at Sounkyo. For example, the uniquely shaped rock walls called "Obako" and "Kobako" are one of the most spectacular views of Sounkyo. In this way, Sounkyo is a place where you can experience not only the autumn leaves but also the various charms created by nature.
The appeal of Sounkyo: Hokkaido's best spot for viewing autumn leaves
Sounkyo is a valley located in Kamikawa, Hokkaido, where you can enjoy the charm of nature. This 24km long gorge is known as part of the Daisetsu mountain range, and is particularly crowded with tourists during the autumn foliage season. One of its attractions is the spectacular scenery created by the colorful autumn leaves covering the mountains. The entire mountain is dyed in yellow, red, and orange colors, catching the eye of visitors. In addition, the Ishikari River flowing through the valley harmonizes with the autumn leaves, giving an even more dynamic impression. Sounkyo is evaluated as a "breathtaking view symbolizing Hokkaido's autumn" due to the beauty of its autumn leaves, and is a spot visited by not only locals but also tourists from all over the world. The peak of the autumn leaves is said to be from late September to mid-October, but you can enjoy the most beautiful scenery by visiting at that time. In addition to the autumn leaves, you can also enjoy the natural art created by the majestic mountains and rock walls at Sounkyo. For example, the uniquely shaped rock walls called "Obako" and "Kobako" are one of the most spectacular views of Sounkyo. In this way, Sounkyo is a place where you can experience not only the autumn leaves but also the various charms created by nature.
Enjoy activities and hot springs in Sounkyo
When you visit Sounkyo, you can not only enjoy the autumn leaves, but also enjoy its charms through various activities. The Sounkyo Ropeway is particularly popular. This ropeway offers a luxurious experience of seeing the canyon colored by autumn leaves from above. When you arrive at the summit station, you will see a magnificent view of Daisetsuzan, and from there you can take a lift to Mt. Kurodake. You can enjoy trekking at Mt. Kurodake, and walking through the autumn leaves will make you feel even more moved. There are also many walking trails in Sounkyo, so you can enjoy a leisurely stroll in nature. Walking through the quiet valley surrounded by autumn leaves and listening to the sound of the trees swaying in the wind and the murmuring of the river will be a valuable experience that will free you from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And the best way to end your visit to Sounkyo is to take a dip in the hot springs. Sounkyo Onsen is a healing place surrounded by rich nature, and is perfect for soothing your fatigue after enjoying the autumn leaves. In particular, the open-air baths offer a luxurious experience of gazing at the colorful autumn leaves while soaking in the hot springs. There are plenty of accommodation options in the hot spring town, so instead of just taking a day trip, we also recommend staying overnight and fully enjoying the charms of Sounkyo.
Access to Sounkyo and sightseeing tips
Sounkyo is easily accessible and an easy spot to plan your trip. It is about an hour and a half by car from the nearest Asahikawa Airport, or about two hours by bus from JR Asahikawa Station, so it can be visited in a relatively short time from major cities in Hokkaido. If you visit by car, the driving course that runs through Daisetsuzan National Park is one of the attractions. Especially during the autumn foliage season, the scenery along the way is also a must-see. Even if you use public transportation, it is convenient because there are tourist buses in operation. Also, when visiting Sounkyo, you should be careful about your clothing and belongings. The temperature in Hokkaido in autumn is quite low in the mornings and evenings, so it is important to prepare warm clothes. In addition, if you are planning to go trekking or walking, don't forget to bring comfortable shoes and drinks to stay hydrated. You can also enjoy local specialties in Sounkyo. Tasting the dishes made with local ingredients served in the hot spring town between sightseeing will further increase your satisfaction with your trip. Sounkyo is a spot that combines not only natural beauty, but also ease of sightseeing and local charm. Therefore, if you are planning a trip to Hokkaido, Sounkyo during the autumn foliage season is a place you should not miss.
[ Autumn leaf viewing]Other recommended spots
Jozankei Onsen: Spectacular views of the valley and autumn leaves
Hokkaido Sapporo City
It's about an hour by bus from central Sapporo. Buses to the autumn foliage spots also run from the Jozankei Tourist Information Center.
Shiretoko Five Lakes: Autumn Lakes and Fall Foliage
Hokkaido Shari Town
Take a bus from JR Senmo Main Line "Shiretoko Shari Station" and get off at "Shiretoko Goko Bus Stop"
Cape Erimo: Contrast of the sea and autumn leaves
Hokkaido Erimo Town
Approximately 4 hours by highway bus from Sapporo
Onuma Park: A stroll and enjoy the autumn leaves by the lake
Hokkaido Nanae Town
About 5 minutes walk from JR Onuma Koen Station
Lake Mashu: Contrast of the lake surface and autumn leaves in autumn
Hokkaido Teshikaga Town
From Kushiro Station, take the JR Senmo Line for about 90 minutes, then get off at Mashu Station and take a bus to Lake Mashu.
Koshimizu Primeval Flower Garden: Autumn alpine plants and autumn leaves
Hokkaido Koshimizu Town
A short walk from "Gensei-kaen Station" on the JR Senmo Main Line
Sounkyo: A dynamic canyon of autumn leaves
Hokkaido Kamikawa Town
About 35 minutes from Kamikawa to Sounkyo (Dohoku Bus)
Hakodate Mountain: Autumn leaves and city views
Hokkaido Hakodate City
The summit can be reached in about 3 minutes by using the Mount Hakodate Ropeway.
Mt. Niseko Annupuri: Autumn foliage and hiking
Hokkaido Niseko Town
Take the Niseko Bus "Niseko Line" from JR Hakodate Main Line "Niseko" Station and get off at the "Goshiki Onsenkyo" bus stop.