Sounkyo Kurodake Ropeway – Gateway to Daisetsuzan’s Peaks
Overview: Dramatic Cliffs, Alpine Trails, and Panoramic Views
The Sounkyo Kurodake Ropeway (層雲峡黒岳ロープウェイ) carries visitors from the hot spring village of Sounkyo up the steep cliffs of Daisetsuzan National Park. The ropeway and connecting chairlift provide access to Kurodake’s 7th station (1,520m), a popular starting point for hiking, autumn foliage viewing, and winter sports. Enjoy sweeping views of the Sounkyo Gorge, volcanic peaks, and alpine meadows.
History and Highlights
Opened in 1967, the Sounkyo Kurodake Ropeway is the main gateway to the northern Daisetsuzan mountains. The upper ropeway station (5th station) connects to a chairlift (to the 7th station), from where hikers can reach Kurodake’s summit (1,984m) or continue deeper into the national park. The area is famous for its dramatic autumn colors, wildflowers, and powder snow in winter.
The map below shows the location of the Sounkyo Kurodake Ropeway station and access from Kamikawa.
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How to Get to Sounkyo Kurodake Ropeway (Last updated: May 25, 2025)
| Departure Point | Route | Estimated Time | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| JR Kamikawa Station | Bus (Dohoku Bus/道北バス) to Sounkyo bus stop, walk to Ropeway station | Approx. 30 min | ¥870 |
| JR Asahikawa Station | JR Sekihoku Line to Kamikawa, bus to Sounkyo bus stop, walk to Ropeway station | Approx. 2 hr 30 min | ¥2,800 |
| Asahikawa Station | Direct Dohoku Bus to Sounkyo | Approx. 2 hr | ¥2,140 |
| Asahikawa Airport | Airport shuttle bus (Asahikawa Denkikido/Asahikawa Airport Bus) to Asahikawa Station, JR Sekihoku Line to Kamikawa, bus to Sounkyo bus stop, walk to Ropeway station | Approx. 3 hr | ¥3,000 |
| By Car (from Asahikawa) | Route 39 to Sounkyo bus stop, parking available at Ropeway | Approx. 1 hr 30 min | Toll/parking: Free–¥500 |
| *Bus services are limited; check schedules in advance. Ropeway and chairlift may be suspended in bad weather. | |||
The ropeway operates year-round (except for maintenance), with departures every 20
minutes during peak season. The chairlift to the 7th station operates seasonally. From
the upper stations, you’ll find trailheads for Kurodake summit and longer hikes into
Daisetsuzan.
Tip: Weather changes quickly—bring warm, waterproof clothing and check
ropeway operation status before visiting.
Access on Foot (From Onsen Town to Ropeway)
Sounkyo Kurodake Ropeway station is a 5–10 minute walk from most Sounkyo Onsen hotels. Local taxis are also available.
In autumn, the ropeway is renowned for spectacular foliage. In winter, it’s a gateway to powder snow and backcountry skiing.
Activity Information
- Location: Sounkyo Kurodake Ropeway, Daisetsuzan National Park, Hokkaido, Japan
- Operating Hours: 8:00–17:00 (varies by season)
- Recommended Season: Autumn (foliage), summer (hiking), winter (skiing, snowshoeing)
- Ropeway Fare: ¥2,600 round-trip (adult), ¥1,300 (child)
- Special Events: Autumn foliage (late Sep–early Oct), alpine flower season (July)
- Notes: Weather is unpredictable; ropeway and chairlift may close in strong winds. Some trails require proper hiking gear.