Do you want to look for a secret realm combining natural wonders and daily life aesthetics? “Higashikawa Town” located at the foot of Daisetsuzan is your top choice. Here, it is praised as the “Town of Photography.”
It possesses the earliest autumn foliage in all of Japan, natural underground spring water, and cafes full of craftsmanship feel. This Higashikawa town tour guide will lead you deep into the unique charm of this town without a public water supply system.
Because Higashikawa’s popular attractions such as Mt. Asahidake and Tenninkyo Gorge are scattered, and public transportation schedules remain at a low frequency in 2026, choosing a Higashikawa private car charter service is currently the best choice for highly efficient independent tourists.
Higashikawa Town Tour Guide: Secret Realm Exploration — The Shock of Tenninkyo Gorge, Hagoromo Falls, and Daisetsuzan Mt. Asahidake
Higashikawa Must-Visit: Daisetsuzan Mt. Asahidake and Sugatami Pond
Mt. Asahidake: The highest mountain peak in Japan. It features countless attractions inside. Furthermore, every season offers different ways to play.
For example, you can go hiking in spring and summer. Winter must be experiencing the joy of skiing. Moreover, you cannot miss enjoying Tenninkyo Onsen within the region and viewing Hagoromo Falls, which is one of the Top 100 Waterfalls of Japan.
If you do not possess mountaineering equipment, you can also choose to ride the ropeway. The total length is 2.36 kilometers, leading to an altitude of 1,600 meters. It goes directly to Sugatami Pond of Mt. Asahidake, allowing you to stroll around and view the scenery.
Strolling Above the Clouds: Sugatami Station Landscapes
Sugatami: After riding the ropeway to arrive at Sugatami Station on Mt. Asahidake, you can walk along the trails on the mountain. Appreciate various types of alpine plants and look at the beautiful Mt. Asahidake scenery.
Since Mt. Asahidake is an active volcano, you can see volcanic vents left by eruptions emitting white smoke everywhere. Walking further down can lead to various large and small lakes such as Sugatami Pond and Meoto Pond.
Mountaineers’ Rest Stop: Asahidake Onsen
Asahidake Onsen: A hot spring area located on the western mountainside of Mt. Asahidake. It serves as the base for the trailhead in summer, and is also called the “front gateway” of Daisetsuzan. Compared to Sounkyo Onsen, which is a popular hot spring area on the eastern side of Mt. Asahidake, the Asahidake Onsen area is more rustic and pure.
Primitive Nature: Tenninkyo Gorge
Tenninkyo Gorge: Located on the southwest side of Mt. Asahidake, it is also the upper stream of the Chubetsu River. In Tenninkyo Gorge, you can see primitive and natural columnar rock walls.
The most famous attraction here is Hagoromo Falls, one of the Top 100 Waterfalls of Japan. Of course, you must also enjoy the century-old Tenninkyo Onsen. There are also hot spring ryokans available here to stay overnight.
Top 100 Waterfalls: Hagoromo Falls
Hagoromo Falls (羽衣の滝): One of the Top 100 Waterfalls of Japan. It is also the second highest waterfall in Japan, reaching up to 270 meters.
Because the geology has suffered water flow erosion over many years, combined with the relationship of different geological layers, it forms a winding and delicate water current scenery. It looks exceptionally magnificent when viewed up close.
Daily Life Aesthetics: Daisetsu Asahidake Gensui Park and Coffee Culture
Daisetsu Asahidake Gensui Park: If you want to taste the natural spring water after the snow melts on Mt. Asahidake, you must visit this park. This is the source fountain location formed by the melting snow accumulation of Mt. Asahidake. The spring water maintains a temperature of 6 to 7 degrees year-round, allowing people to directly fetch water from the source to drink.
Higashikawa Town Seasonal Clothing Recommendations
| Season | Months | Climate Overview | Clothing & Outfit Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | Apr – May | Cool alpine air, lingering snow, refreshing mountain breezes | Layered clothing: Windbreaker jacket + thin sweater or hoodie. Mornings and evenings remain chilly. |
| Summer | Jun – Aug | Mild and pleasant, peak hiking season, strong UV in highlands | Short sleeves + lightweight windproof jackets or cardigans. A sun hat and sunglasses are highly recommended. |
| Autumn | Sep – Nov | Temperatures drop rapidly, Japan’s earliest autumn foliage | Medium-thickness coat or jacket + scarf. After October, warm gloves and beanies are needed for outdoor mountain tours. |
| Winter | Dec – Mar | Severe mountain cold, deep powder snow, freezing winds | Professional winter gear: Heavy down coat, waterproof snow boots with strong grip, thermal underwear, and beanies. |
Why Choose a Hokkaido Private Car Charter to Tour Higashikawa Town Attractions?
- Flexibly Connecting Itineraries: The above are the famous attractions of Higashikawa Town. Since Higashikawa Town is adjacent to Asahikawa City, when arranging your itinerary, everyone can also consider connecting the attractions of Asahikawa, Higashikawa, and Biei together.
- Private Photography Spots: Professional drivers are deeply familiar with various private angles of the Town of Photography, making your photos stand out on social media platforms.
- Hokkaido Private Car Charter: Hong Kong drivers / Chinese drivers, customized itineraries, and solving the inconvenient transportation of Tenninkyo Gorge.
✨ Exclusive Bonus for Your Private Tour:
The beauty of Hokkaido goes beyond the famous landmarks. To make your journey more heartfelt, we’ve prepared a list of “Hidden Gems” tucked away within our classic itineraries.
🔒 How to Unlock Your Secret Map?
Simply complete your booking to instantly unlock these hidden spots. We will send you a personalized custom itinerary, ensuring your Hokkaido memories are truly one-of-a-kind.