Things to Do in Kamikawa

Sounkyo Gorge is a dramatic 24-kilometer canyon carved through volcanic rock in Hokkaido's Daisetsuzan National Park, featuring towering cliffs and spectacular waterfalls. The gorge offers year-round attractions, from vibrant autumn foliage that arrives earlier than most of Japan to frozen ice falls in winter, accessible via ropeway for panoramic mountain views. This remote natural wonder provides an authentic wilderness experience away from typical tourist crowds, with the Ishikari River flowing through its scenic depths.

The Sounkyo Onsen Ice Festival transforms this scenic hot spring town in Hokkaido's Daisetsuzan National Park into a magical winter wonderland each January through March. Visitors can marvel at massive illuminated ice sculptures, explore ice tunnels and buildings, and enjoy the unique experience of soaking in outdoor hot springs surrounded by frozen artistry. The festival combines traditional onsen culture with spectacular ice architecture, creating an unforgettable experience against the backdrop of dramatic gorge cliffs.

Daisetsuzan National Park is Hokkaido's largest national park, offering dramatic mountain landscapes, pristine hiking trails, and stunning seasonal transformations. Visitors can access breathtaking alpine scenery via the Daisetsuzan Sounkyo Ropeway or challenge themselves with multi-peak hikes like the demanding Asahidake to Kurodake traverse. The park is renowned for its early autumn colors and first snowfalls, wildlife sightings including foxes and deer, and vast summit vistas that reward properly equipped hikers.