Mt Tomuraushi

Mt Tomuraushi (Japanese: トムラウシ山) is a hyakumeizan* that is one of the great wilderness peaks of Hokkaido. It's a remote, wind‑scoured summit deep in the heart of the Daisetsuzan range, far from roads and towns. Reaching Tomuraushi requires commitment and either a traverse across the range or a long, long drive along a forest road.

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Tomuraushi is a high volcanic world shaped by ancient eruptions and long glacial erosion. The mountain rises gently from a sprawling tundra of boulders, wetlands and wind‑shaped ridges. Its summit is not a sharp peak but a wide, rocky dome, surrounded by rolling highlands that stretch toward the horizons in every direction. Snowfields linger well into summer, and melt to reveal a carpet of wildflowers that took my breath away.

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This mountain stands at the center of the high plateau of the range, far from the more accessible peaks like Asahidake (旭岳) or Kurodake (黒岳), and reaching it means crossing one of the most expansive alpine zones in the country. For serious hikers in Japan, it is a must-climb peak. The flora and fauna reflect the high‑latitude alpine environment. In early summer, the plateau blooms with delicate flowers that carpet the wetlands in white and pink. The Hokkaido wildlife is equally distinctive, with brown bears throughout the area.

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The hike to Mt. Tomuraushi is long, demanding and unforgettable. Most routes begin from the Tomuraushi Onsen trailhead, climbing through forest before emerging onto the vast alpine plateau. From there, the journey becomes a highland traverse of wetlands, boulder fields, gentle ridges and long stretches of open tundra where the wind is a constant companion. The final ascent to the summit is gradual, rising over rocky slopes to a broad crest with sweeping views of the entire Daisetsuzan massif. It is a full‑day undertaking, and requires both stamina and respect for rapidly changing weather. Like many hikers, I slept at the remote trailhead car park, before starting my hike early the next morning.

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* 100 famous mountains of Japan

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(All information here is based on personal observations and experiences. Check official sources before planning or starting any hikes.)