Yohtei-zan

Image: Yohtei from Nakayama-tohge (中山峠)- Summer 1970

Image: Yohtei from Nakayama-tohge - Winter 2002

Mount Yohtei (羊蹄山: Yohtei-zan), often referred to as 'Ezo-Fuji' due to its resemblance to Mount Fuji - Japan's tallest peak - is popular in Hokkaido. (Ezo: 蝦夷 is the historical name for Hokkaido used during Edo era.) Located about a two-hour drive from Sapporo, Yohtei-zan is bordered by the towns of Kyogoku, Kutchan, Niseko and Makkari village. Niseko, famous for its ski resorts, offers stunning views of the mountain while skiing if the weather permitting. 

Basically, the population in this region has been decreasing - except in the Niseko area. Niseko has recently been attracting people from all over the world, and many of them might not realise the surrounding area's population decline, as the ski resorts are bustling with tourists during the winter season. This has encouraged some foreigners to settle in Niseko. In fact, according to Niseko town, the number of foreign residents has been increasing while the Japanese population has been decreasing in recent years.

Image: Populations of the towns near Yohtei

*Statistics data sources: Kyogoku, Kutchan, Niseko, Makkari (Japanese sites)

As a result, Niseko has become an international resort destination. I believe many tourists would enjoy the scenic view of Mount Yohtei as they travel to Niseko and while skiing during the winter season. Also, the mountain shows different faces depending on the season, weather and time of day - each offering a unique kind of beauty.

 

Image: Mount Yohtei - June 2007

In addition, while the mountain may appear different shapes depending on your viewpoint, such as from Makkari Village, the familiar form endures, no matter the moment, just as shown in the images below. You can see the same lines formed by snow - one photo taken in early summer, the other in early winter. Although, the Prince Skyline in the photo, with the woman beside it - an early predecessor of the Nissan Skyline - captures a scene from the 1970s, Mount Yohtei still shows the same familiar face. Incidentally, both photos were taken by the same person in 1970 and 2008, who drove the Prince Skyline - my father.

Image: Mount Yohtei - July 1970 / Car: Prince Skyline

Image:  Mount Yohtei - October 2008

According to Kutchan Town, this mountain is not considered particularly high, with an elevation of 1,898 metres (6,227 feet) - ranking 24th in Hokkaido. While many people climb this mountain in summer, some climbers have reported seeing bears. So, it is a good idea to check the Kutchan Town website for bear-related information before heading out for a hike. You can also check the official guide book published by Kutchan Town, which provides basic information on trails, wildlife and nearby sightseeing spots. Of course, some climbers attempt the mountain in winter but I absolutely would NOT recommend climbing in winter unless you are truly experienced. According to Hokkaido Prefectural Police (Japanese site), two climbers lost their lives in avalanches in both 2023 and 2024 - a total of four fatalities over two consecutive years. Across Hokkaido, avalanche-related fatalities have occurred every year, which is why most locals avoid climbing or skiing off-course. So, if it is winter, simply enjoy the scenery - whether you are skiing or out for a drive.

Image: Mount Yohtei from Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort  - January 2011

Additionally, There are plenty of onsen (hot springs) around Mount Yohtei and natural spring water can be found in Kyogoku (Japanese site), Makkari and Kutchan. Many locals come to collect it in bottles - even in winter. The water is used for local sake, tofu, coffee, farming or simply as drinking water. In Hokkaido, even tap water tastes good but spring water has a distinct quality of its own. Some of you may not be especially interested in how water tastes - but we are. Similarly, several non-Japanese friends have asked me why I enjoy eating plain white rice as they believe it has no flavour. In truth, the taste of rice varies from prefecture to prefecture and most Japanese people have their own preferred brands. My favourite is Nanatsuboshi (ななつぼし) produced in Rankoshi Town - just next to Niseko. If you are fortunate, you might be served new season rice at a hotel or restaurant in the area - it is noticeably more flavourful. The new season's rice typically becomes available from September.

Map: The locations of spring water

I believe such high-quality rice is the result of the region's rich natural environment, and of course, the continued dedication of its producers.

As mentioned above, visiting Mount Yohtei offers a variety of experiences that are hard to find in city life. To be honest, I am not sure whether this mountain's appearance would resonate with those from overseas - but I would be delighted if you find it beautiful when you visit this symbolic mountain in Hokkaido.

Image: Mount Yohtei - November 2006

Image:  Mount Yohtei - March 2014