Autumn colored forests, snow covered mountain peaks... This was a perfect trip for a few days of hiking. Pity that we were ambushed by a snow blizzard (in September) and could not continue the trip.

There are actually two rope-ways up this mountain, one from the Sounkyo Gorge side and the other one from Tennokyo Ropeway. We went up from the Tennokyo side, after staying a local ryokan the night before.

The cost is from memory 2900 yen both ways, but you can hike down if you want, which will take a few hours and may even encounter a bear or two (maybe).
It is well preserved national park with a few different hiking tracks showing spectacular views of the national park.

There are significant seasonal variations but from the photos, autumn is probably the best time but summer is good too. The only drawback is that it is not worthwhile going up if the weather condition if poor due to visibility issues as you will not see much.

Can be done in a daytrip if staying in Asahikawa or Furano. Around about 1.5 hours drive each way.

Also, highly recommended to have some decent hiking shoes and prepare some food and water (there is also a shop you can buy stuff at the ropeway station at the top) as the trails lead up to Mt. Asahidake, the highest peak in Hokkaido. It is a relatively easy and safe climb climb with no cliffs or ledges, ( you see lots of over 60s doing it with ease), however the path is lined with rocks and gravel so it can be a bit slippery. We had to stop halfway as we did not have the right shoes, so it was a bit of a shame as we came a long way.

In short, if the weather allows, definitely make the trip there. You will not regret it and make sure you bring good hiking shoes.

This is the largest national park in Japan. It's lush and verdant and if you are in the area you must not miss it. I didn't have time to hike through the trails but I took the cable car to the top and then the chair lifts to go further up the mountain.
The views were spectacular. With the chair lift you feel that nature is right at your finger tips.
If you want to hike you need several hours. Hikers are briefed on what to do with bear encounters as they are quite real in this area. Wear a bell so it scares the Bears away.