Tokachidake is on volcano alert level 3. Can we still visit Biei's Blue Pond and Furano? Yes, the entry ban covers only the area around the crater
This week's news · Checked 2026-09-29
What happened. Tokachidake, the volcano above Biei and Furano in central Hokkaido, was raised from alert level 2 to level 3 (no entry to the mountain) at 09:30 on 12 September 2026 (Biei Town). In its latest bulletin (No. 27, 28 September 2026, 16:00 JST), the Japan Meteorological Agency says volcanic activity has increased, with several large-amplitude volcanic earthquakes, and warns of large volcanic rocks within about 3 km of the crater. A field survey on 25 September measured about 1,000 tonnes of sulphur dioxide gas a day (same bulletin).
What is and isn't restricted. Biei Town says the restriction applies only around the crater, not to the Shirogane area or residential areas, and that the Shirogane Onsen area is operating normally (Biei Town page, updated 25 September 2026, 16:00). The Shirogane Blue Pond is in Biei-cho Shirogane (Biei Tourism Association). Prefectural road 966 is closed between the Tokachidake Bogakudai gate and Tokachidake Onsen; Bogakudai itself can still be reached (Biei Town).
What it means for you.
- Sapporo → Biei → Furano day trip: no reason to cancel. The Blue Pond is in Shirogane, which the town says is not restricted. Don't climb Tokachidake, and don't go beyond Bogakudai towards Tokachidake Onsen.
- On the morning of your trip, check JMA's alert level for Tokachidake (level 3 means entry to the mountain is restricted; the town's page lists road closures). Tour operators may change routes, so read your tour's notice.
- Staying in Sapporo for a day trip: see Sapporo hotels for Muslim families (a 24-hour prayer room, December prices), or check Sapporo hotels for 2 adults + 2 kids on Trip.com (filter "free cancellation"). Halal food on the way back: halal food in Sapporo.
Affiliate links may be used; your price does not change. Sources: Japan Meteorological Agency, Tokachidake volcanic bulletin No. 27, 28 September 2026 16:00 JST (Japanese); Biei Town, "Tokachidake volcanic alert level" page, updated 25 September 2026 16:00 (Japanese); Biei Tourism Association, Shirogane Blue Pond page and notice of 12 September 2026 (Japanese). Checked 29 September 2026.