Daisetsuzan Sounkyo Kurodake Ropeway

The Daisetsuzan Sounkyo Kurodake Ropeway is an aerial tramway in Kamikawa that climbs from a valley to a mountain pass while gaining about 630 meters in elevation. The ride takes several minutes and offers views across the Daisetsuzan mountain range.

The system opened in 1967 to connect Sounkyo Hot Spring Resort with a mountain pass. Since then it has served as an important way to reach this part of the national park.

The ropeway gives access to seasonal mountain activities, from cherry blossom viewing in spring to hiking and autumn leaf watching. Visitors use the lift for different experiences depending on the time of year.

The ropeway operates from early morning until evening throughout the year, though weather can affect operating conditions. The base station can be reached by public transport from the nearest train station.

This system is Japan's northernmost aerial transport of its kind, after a competing ropeway further north closed in 2006. It has held this position since then.

Location: Kamikawa

Inception: 1967

Official opening: 1967

Operator: 株式会社りんゆう観光

Website: https://rinyu.co.jp/kurodake

GPS coordinates: 43.71775,142.94372

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:02