In the heart of Hokkaido, Daisetsu-zan is the largest national park in Japan. Its 2 300km2 area encompasses a series of volcanic peaks. The "Roof of Hokkaido" is known by the Ainu as "Kamui Mintara" or "Playground of the Gods". In both summer and winter the gorges, cliffs, waterfalls, lakes and hot springs wreathed in steam draw visitors here to the lush foothills of one of the most impressive mountain ranges in Japan, which can be explored on foot, skis or with snowshoes.