Tokachidake Bogakudai Observatory

Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.

Tokachidake Bogakudai Observatory

A scenic spot with grand mountain views and a look out over the Furano Basin.

3.58 1

Last update :
Supervised by :  Biei Tourism Association

This viewpoint lets you see Tokachidake—selected as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains—up close, including the exposed rock faces unique to an active volcano and the steam rising from it. It is located on the mountainside of Tokachidake at an elevation of 930 m, around 5 km from the Shirogane Onsen area.

In addition to Tokachidake, you can enjoy panoramic views of mountains such as Asahidake, the main peak of the Daisetsuzan range and the highest mountain in Hokkaido, as well as Bieidake and Biei Fuji. This spot is proud of its 360-degree views, with cityscapes of Asahikawa and Furano spread out below. A 1.1 km walking trail loops around in Approx. 45 minutes; in summer you can stroll while admiring delicate alpine flowers, and in fall, beautiful autumn colors across the foothills, including dwarf pine and white birch. If you’re lucky, you may also spot wildlife such as Ezo pikas and wild birds.

With a parking lot and an observation deck, it also serves as a base for hiking around Tokachidake, and you can submit your climbing registration here. There is also a disaster-prevention shelter to protect you from volcanic rocks in the event of a sudden eruption.

Highlights

  • An observation deck where you can see the active volcano Tokachidake up close.
  • Enjoy 360-degree views of mountains such as Asahidake and Bieidake, as well as all the way to Asahikawa and Furano.
  • Alpine plants are beautiful in summer, and fall foliage is stunning in autumn.
  • Walking trails are maintained nearby, and you can enjoy a stroll of Approx. 45 minutes.

Photos

  • Get up close to the dynamic scenery unique to an active volcano

    Get up close to the dynamic scenery unique to an active volcano

  • Beautiful alpine plants in summer, and stunning fall foliage in autumn

    Beautiful alpine plants in summer, and stunning fall foliage in autumn

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Is there free Wi-Fi available in the area?

A

Yes, it’s available inside the disaster-prevention shelter.

Q

Are there coin lockers?

A

No.

Q

Are there restrooms?

A

Yes, they are inside the disaster-prevention shelter.

Q

Is there a smoking area?

A

No.

Reviews

1

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • See More

    I originally came for the magnificent views of Mount Tokachidake, but it was cloudy, and the mountain was completely hidden in the mist, which was a bit disappointing.
    However, looking back toward the Furano Basin, the vast plains were just as beautiful, and I still enjoyed that distinctive sense of openness you get in Hokkaido.
    This place is also perfect for people who don't hike often. After parking, it's only a short walk to the observatory, so you can easily enjoy the views from above without getting out of breath climbing a mountain.
    Travel doesn't always come with perfect weather. From a different perspective, cloudy days have their own unique atmosphere too.
    I'll consider this visit a preview and look forward to coming back next time for a clear view of Mount Tokachidake!

Details

Name in Japanese
十勝岳望岳台
Postal Code
071-0235
Address
Shirogane, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido
Phone
0166-92-4378 (Biei Tourism Association)
Closed on
Seasonal winter closure (early November to late April)
Hours
Open for walking at any time
Admission
Free
Access
35 min by taxi from “Biei” Station (JR Furano Line)
Credit Cards
Not accepted
Official website
Official website (Japanese)