Hiking

Kurodake Ropeway (黒岳ロープウェイ). 黒岳ロープウェイ Technology helps even the most reluctant hikers up the mountains: a cable car and chairlift rise up the side of the gorge to 4,264 feet. Intrepid hikers can march one more hour to the top of Kurodake, 2,244 feet higher. From here, numerous well-marked trails lead either across volcanic gravel or shrubby plateaus. Crimson foliage sets the slopes ablaze in September. Daisetsuzan's beauty is best enjoyed slowly, as along with the breathtaking views you may encounter deer, foxes, and bears. Take care early in the season when bear cubs are being watched by their mothers. Sounkyo, Kamikawa Cho, Sounkyo Gorge, Hokkaido, 078-1701. 01658/5–3031; www.rinyu.co.jp/modules/pico01. ¥1,950 round-trip. June–Aug, daily 6–7; Sept.–May, daily 8–4.