Sounkyo, on the northeastern edge of Daisetsuzan National Park in central Hokkaido, is a spectacular gorge combined with a hot-spring (onsen) resort town, making it one of the region’s most popular natural destinations. The gorge stretches for around 24 km along the Ishikari River, walled by dramatic columnar cliffs of volcanic rock rising sheer above the valley. Its most famous sights are two beautiful waterfalls that plunge down the cliff faces — Ryusei (‘Shooting Star’) Falls and Ginga (‘Milky Way’) Falls, best viewed together from a nearby lookout. The compact onsen town of Sounkyo, nestled in the gorge, offers hot-spring hotels and baths where you can soak surrounded by the towering scenery. From here, the Sounkyo Ropeway rises toward Mount Kurodake, giving access to hiking and, in autumn, some of Hokkaido’s earliest and most brilliant fall colours. Waterfalls, cliffs, hot springs and alpine access make Sounkyo a superb year-round base — from summer hiking to autumn leaves to winter’s Ice Waterfall Festival.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Kamikawa, Daisetsuzan, Hokkaido |
| Hours | Gorge always open; ropeway/baths vary |
| Admission | Free (ropeway/onsen paid) |
| Time needed | Half day |
| Best time | Autumn colour; winter ice festival |
What to See
- Ryusei and Ginga waterfalls on sheer cliffs.
- Towering columnar cliffs along the gorge.
- A hot-spring resort town in the gorge.
- The ropeway to Mount Kurodake and alpine hiking.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with Daisetsuzan National Park .
- Pair with the Asahiyama Zoo near Asahikawa.
- Read our Hokkaido overview .
Getting There
- By car: in Kamikawa, on the edge of Daisetsuzan.
- By bus: from Kamikawa or Asahikawa to Sounkyo.
Tips
Visit the lookout for Ryusei and Ginga Falls together, and take the ropeway up Mount Kurodake for hiking and views. Come in autumn for some of Hokkaido’s earliest fall colours, stay overnight to enjoy the onsen town, and consider the winter Ice Waterfall Festival (Hyobaku Matsuri) with its illuminated ice sculptures.
