How do I get to Ginsendai trailhead?

By bus: From JR Kamikawa Station, take a Dohoku Bus bound for Sounkyo (about 30 min), get off at the last stop, then transfer to the Dohoku Bus for Ginsendai (operates July–September only, about 60 min), get off at the last stop and walk a short distance to the trailhead. By car: From Asahikawa-Monbetsu Expressway Kamikawa Sounkyo IC, take Route 39 for 60 km (about 70 min) via Sounkyo.

What is the best season for Akadake and Ginsendai?

July for alpine flowers, late September for spectacular autumn foliage.

Are there hiking trails at Ginsendai?

Yes, trails lead from Ginsendai to Akadake and further into Daisetsuzan’s interior. Routes vary in difficulty and length.

Can I drive to Ginsendai?

Private vehicles are restricted during the autumn foliage season. Use the shuttle bus from Sounkyo or Ryusei-no-taki.

Akadake & Ginsendai – Flower Meadows and Autumn Colors

Overview: Alpine Flowers, Fiery Foliage, and Panoramic Trails

Ginsendai (銀泉台) is one of Daisetsuzan National Park’s most celebrated trailheads, famous for its sweeping alpine flower meadows in summer and brilliant autumn colors in late September. From here, hikers can ascend Akadake (赤岳, 2,078m) for panoramic views of the Daisetsuzan range, or continue to the highlands of Hokkaido’s largest national park.

History and Highlights

Ginsendai is renowned for its accessibility to high alpine scenery. The trail to Akadake is popular among both casual hikers and experienced trekkers, especially during the short but spectacular flower and foliage seasons. Private vehicles are restricted during peak autumn, with shuttle buses operating from Sounkyo or Ryusei-no-taki. The area is also a gateway to multi-day traverses across Daisetsuzan.

The map below shows the location of Ginsendai trailhead and access from Kamikawa and Sounkyo.

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How to Get to Ginsendai Trailhead (Last updated: May 25, 2025)

Departure Point	Route	Estimated Time	Estimated Cost
JR Kamikawa Station	By bus: Take a Dohoku Bus bound for Sounkyo (about 30 min), get off at the last stop, then transfer to the Dohoku Bus for Ginsendai (operates July–September only, about 60 min), get off at the last stop and walk a short distance to the trailhead.	About 1.5 hours	Approx. ¥2,000 one-way
Asahikawa-Monbetsu Expressway Kamikawa Sounkyo IC	By car: Take Route 39 for 60 km via Sounkyo (about 70 min).	About 70 min	Toll + fuel
*Shuttle bus operates only during flower and autumn foliage seasons. Private vehicles are restricted during peak periods.

The Ginsendai shuttle bus schedule varies by season. In autumn, expect crowds and limited capacity. The trail to Akadake is well-marked but steep in places. Weather can change rapidly—bring warm, waterproof clothing and check trail conditions before hiking.

Access on Foot (From Shuttle Bus Stop to Trailhead)

The shuttle bus drops hikers at the Ginsendai parking area, a short walk from the trailhead. There are basic toilets and information boards at the start.

In July, enjoy carpets of alpine flowers. In late September, the slopes blaze with red and gold foliage, making Ginsendai one of Japan’s top autumn destinations.

Official Information

For more details, please visit the official Daisetsuzan National Park website.

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Activity Information

Location: Ginsendai trailhead, Daisetsuzan National Park, Hokkaido, Japan
Operating Season: Late June–early October (varies by snow)
Recommended Season: July (flowers), late September (autumn foliage)
Shuttle Bus Fare: ~¥1,000 one-way (subject to change)
Special Events: Alpine flower season (July), autumn foliage (late Sep)
Notes: Weather is unpredictable; shuttle bus and trails may close in bad conditions. Bring proper hiking gear.

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