Asahidake in October: autumn colours, early snow and a Sugatami Pond visit
October can bring autumn trees around Asahidake Onsen and snow on the mountain above them. Pack for cold mountain conditions even if this is a foliage trip. In 2026, the first snow was recorded on October 2; the ropeway’s October 10 blog subsequently showed snow melting. Conditions can change substantially within a single week.
This guide is for a ropeway visit and a possible Sugatami Pond circuit—not a climb to Asahidake’s summit.
Look lower for autumn trees
The seasonal colour moves down the mountain. The nature keepers’ October 2 bulletin described foliage around the base station and from the ropeway, with low-growing plants and berries along the upper walking route. Think of two landscapes: autumn trees below, and ponds, steam and open volcanic slopes above.
The photographs here were taken in October 2025. Use the operator’s camera and blog to see what your own travel date is likely to involve.
A pond circuit is not a summit hike
Sugatami Station is approximately 1,600m above sea level. The operator describes the local circuit as about 1.7km and one hour of walking; allow extra time for stops. Returning to the station after the ponds is a different undertaking from continuing towards the mountain summit.
Snow, ice and wet stones can turn a short circuit into a difficult walk. Ask about the paths at the station before setting off, and turn back rather than pressing on across icy ground or into poor visibility. A running ropeway does not establish that the whole circuit is suitable to walk.
- Bring a warm mid-layer and a windproof, waterproof outer layer.
- Wear sturdy shoes with grip, and carry gloves and a hat.
- Take a drink and choose a turnaround time; long photo stops can be cold.
For an alternative around the onsen area, consult the Asahidake Visitor Center for open routes, ground conditions and bear information.
The operating day shortens on October 21
The 2026 schedule is 8:00–17:00 for October 1–20 and 9:00–16:00 from October 21 to November 15. As checked on October 12, the operator announces departures every 20 minutes. An adult return ticket costs ¥3,500 in October. On a windy day, use the current operating notice rather than relying solely on the calendar.
Choose your descent with the bus home in mind, leaving time for a queue and the walk to the bus stop.
The last ropeway does not connect with the last bus
The No.66 Ideyu-go links Asahikawa Station and Asahikawa Airport with Asahidake. The current timetable has four return services daily. One possible outward journey leaves Asahikawa Station at 9:15 and reaches Asahidake at 11:03; return departures include 14:55 and 16:55.
Do not plan to descend on the final ropeway and then catch the last bus. Through October 20, the published final descent is at 17:00, after the 16:55 final bus departure. Take an earlier cabin if returning by bus.
Following the September 2026 revision, the adult one-way bus fare is ¥2,300 from Asahikawa Station or ¥1,650 from the airport. The bus does not wait for flights. Allow a generous margin if you are flying after the visit.
If the wind makes walking unpleasant, spending more of the day below the ropeway is a reasonable change of plan. Leave room to enjoy the mountain without making a full circuit the measure of a successful visit.
Comparing mountain outings? See where to stop on Tateyama in October for another way to plan autumn scenery by altitude and date.
Official information
Information checked: October 12, 2026.
