ASAHIKAWA & BIEI GUIDE
AUTUMN GUIDE
AUTUMN GUIDE
Discover Japan’s Earliest
Autumn Colors.
From the brilliant autumn foliage of Daisetsuzan and the dramatic gorge of Kamui Kotan
to cycling through crisp autumn air, kayaking and rafting.
Discover the short but spectacular fall season of Hokkaido,
with Snow Resort Hermitage as your base in Asahikawa.
WHAT TO DO
How Will You Experience Autumn?
See Hokkaido’s fall colors from the mountains, the river or the saddle of a bicycle. Choose the experience that inspires you and discover autumn around Asahikawa and Daisetsuzan.
01 / EARLIEST AUTUMN
Autumn Starts Here.
In the Daisetsuzan mountain range, autumn colors begin high in the mountains before spreading across the slopes. Vivid reds and golds transform the landscape during Hokkaido’s brief fall season. It is one of the most unforgettable autumn sights to experience near Asahikawa.
Explore Recommended Spots →
02 / AUTUMN GORGE
Autumn Colors
Through a Dramatic Gorge.
Kamui Kotan combines the dramatic Ishikari River gorge with mountains glowing in autumn colors. Walk across the suspension bridge and around the historic former station for a peaceful way to experience fall in Hokkaido.
Explore Recommended Spots →
03 / RIVER ACTIVITY
See Autumn
from the Water.
Kayaking and rafting offer a completely different perspective on Hokkaido’s rivers and surrounding wilderness. Paddle beneath colorful trees and enjoy an active autumn experience beyond the usual sightseeing drive or walk.
Explore Recommended Spots →
04 / AUTUMN CYCLING
Cycle Through Asahikawa.
With the heat of summer fading, autumn is one of the best seasons for cycling around Asahikawa. Follow riverside paths and quiet country roads while discovering the everyday landscapes of Hokkaido at your own pace.
Explore Recommended Spots →
Daisetsuzan Autumn Foliage
Rising in the heart of Hokkaido, the Daisetsuzan mountain range is famous for some of the earliest autumn foliage in Japan. Colors begin near the summits and gradually sweep down the mountains, creating dramatic layers of red, gold and orange. For travelers visiting Asahikawa in autumn, this is one of Hokkaido’s essential seasonal landscapes.
- AREA
- Daisetsuzan / Mt. Asahidake Area
- BEST FOR
- Autumn foliage, scenic views & photography
- POINT
- Some of Japan’s earliest autumn foliage
Kamui Kotan
One of Asahikawa’s most striking scenic areas, Kamui Kotan is shaped by the powerful flow of the Ishikari River through a dramatic gorge. In autumn, the surrounding mountains turn red and gold, creating a beautiful contrast with the river below. Stroll across the suspension bridge and around the historic former station for a slower, quieter way to enjoy Hokkaido’s fall colors.
- ACCESS
- Approx. 15 minutes by car
from Snow Resort Hermitage - BEST FOR
- Autumn walks, nature & photography
- POINT
- A dramatic gorge framed by the Ishikari River and autumn foliage
Autumn Kayaking & Rafting
Autumn is a beautiful time to experience Hokkaido from the water. Kayaking and rafting let you take in colorful forests, rivers and gorges from a perspective you simply cannot get from a car or walking trail.
- BEST FOR
- Outdoor adventure & nature
- SEASON
- Spring–Autumn
Please check current availability before booking - POINT
- Experience autumn foliage from the water
Autumn Cycling
As summer heat gives way to cooler days, autumn becomes an ideal season for cycling around Asahikawa. Ride past farmland and along riverside routes, slowing down to notice the quiet Hokkaido scenery that is easy to miss by car. It is a rewarding way to explore the region at your own pace.
- BEST FOR
- Nature, cycling & photography
- SEASON
- Best in spring, early summer & autumn
- POINT
- Ride through the crisp autumn air
Shirogane Blue Pond
Shirogane Blue Pond is one of Biei’s most iconic scenic spots, known for its mysterious cobalt-blue water. In autumn, the surrounding larch trees and forests turn shades of yellow and red, creating a beautiful contrast with the vivid blue pond. The peaceful scenery offers a magical side of Hokkaido that feels completely different from summer.
- BEST FOR
- Autumn colors, scenery & photography
- SEASON
- Best from summer to autumn
- POINT
- Beautiful contrast of blue water and autumn colors
AUTUMN MODEL COURSE
A Perfect Autumn Day Trip,
Starting from Hermitage.
Snow Resort Hermitage
Set out from Asahikawa for a scenic autumn drive.
Kamui Kotan
Walk through the gorge where the Ishikari River meets brilliant fall foliage.
Scenic Drive to Biei
Head toward Biei through rolling hills gradually taking on their autumn colors.
Lunch in Biei
Enjoy a relaxed lunch featuring Hokkaido ingredients, local produce and Biei cheese dishes.
Explore an Autumn Scenic Spot
Choose the best nature spot around Daisetsuzan or Biei according to the season and current fall colors.
Return to Hermitage
Return to your room and unwind after a full day exploring Hokkaido in autumn.
OTHER SEASON
