Volcanic restrictions affect autumn travel in Hokkaido
One week after Japan raised the volcanic alert for Mount Tokachi in Hokkaido to Level 3, meaning entry to the mountain is restricted, tourism businesses around the popular resort area are reporting a sharp increase in cancellations. The alert was raised as the region prepares for its autumn foliage season, one of the busiest periods of the year for sightseeing in northern Japan.
Mount Tokachi, known in Japanese as Tokachidake, stands 2,077 meters high in central Hokkaido. Its volcanic landscape, mountain views and nearby hot springs attract visitors from across Japan and overseas. However, authorities are urging people to stay away from areas close to the crater because of the possibility of falling volcanic rocks.
Visitors kept away from popular viewpoint
At the Tokachidake Bogakudai viewpoint, located directly below the main peak and renowned for its expansive mountain scenery, ropes and warning signs were installed in mid-September to prevent visitors from entering restricted areas. Tourists have continued to visit the site, but are now taking photographs of the mountain range from outside the regulated zone.
People familiar with the facility say more than 1,000 visitors typically arrive each day at this time of year. Since the alert was raised, however, daily visitor numbers have fallen to less than half that level. The timing is particularly difficult for local businesses, which rely heavily on autumn travelers before the arrival of winter in Hokkaido.
Hot-spring inns report widespread cancellations
The impact has also been felt in the Tokachidake Onsen area, a mountain hot-spring destination popular with visitors seeking scenic views and traditional Japanese hospitality. According to Noriko Aono, the 60-year-old proprietress of Yumoto Ryounkaku, more than 50 reservations were canceled after the alert level was raised.
“We had been fully booked through the second week of October, but cancellations have been coming one after another,” Aono said. Kamifurano Town has issued an evacuation notice for elderly residents and others who may need additional assistance in the Tokachidake Onsen district.
Authorities prepare for possible volcanic hazards
The Sapporo Regional Headquarters of the Japan Meteorological Agency is warning residents and visitors in one city and four towns around the volcano. Officials say volcanic rocks could be thrown to areas within approximately three kilometers of the crater. The restrictions are intended to protect the public while specialists continue to monitor the volcano’s activity.
Mount Tokachi also carries painful historical significance. An eruption approximately 100 years ago killed 144 people, highlighting the potential danger faced by communities in the surrounding valleys. The national government is accelerating construction of protective barriers and other measures in preparation for a possible eruption during the snow season, when volcanic material and meltwater could create dangerous mudflows.
Experts are advising authorities to prepare for a broad range of hazards rather than focusing only on mudflows. They say planning should also take into account ashfall, pyroclastic flows and other effects that could disrupt roads, accommodation facilities and local communities.
Safety remains the priority
For travelers, the situation underscores the importance of checking official Japanese weather and disaster information before visiting volcanic areas. Hokkaido’s volcanic mountains are among Japan’s most striking natural attractions, but conditions can change quickly. While the alert is a serious setback for local tourism, clear restrictions and careful monitoring are essential to protect residents, visitors and the long-term future of the region’s celebrated hot-spring and outdoor tourism industry.
