Mount Tokachi, Active volcano in Daisetsuzan National Park, Japan.

Mount Tokachi is an active volcano in Daisetsuzan National Park that rises to 2,077 meters, with its slopes displaying a mix of different ecosystems and rock formations. Several hiking routes cut through the mountain, offering varied terrain and views as you gain elevation.

Eruptions are documented since 1857, when Matsuda Ichitarō climbed the mountain and noted its sulfur activity. In 1926 a steam explosion collapsed part of the central crater and sent a mudflow 25 km to Kami-Furano, killing or leaving missing 144 people. The 1962 eruption killed 5 at a sulfur mine office. Small steam eruptions occurred in February and April 2004; in September 2026 the warning level rose to 3, restricting access.

The name Tokachidake comes from the Tokachi River, whose source lies on the mountain. Sulfur was mined near the central crater until the 1962 eruption destroyed the facilities and buried most fumaroles of the Taisho crater, ending the operation. Since 2019, nine stone monuments in Biei and Kamifurano recalling eruptions, including the 1926 disaster, appear as disaster heritage monuments on the Geospatial Information Authority's web map.

Three main trails lead to the summit: the easy Wayakudai course, which climbs over the Taisho eruption mudflow deposits, the Sannodake course via the "horse's back" section, now closed as too dangerous, and the Kamihorokamettoku course from Tokachidake Onsen past the Ansei crater. The summit area stays above 300°C in places, so follow closure rules and turn back when conditions change. A rebuilt hut stands near 1,330 m on the Wayakudai route.

Natural hot springs emerge from the mountainside where visitors can rest while watching steam and gases rise from volcanic vents in the rock. These warm waters provide a surprising comfort during or after the demanding climb.