Mount Yotei, also known as Yotei-Zan, is a nearly perfectly shaped stratovolcano located on the island of Hokkaido, Japan. Standing at an elevation of 1,898 meters, it's one of the most prominent peaks in the region, often compared to Mount Fuji for its symmetrical cone shape.
The mountain is situated approximately 50 kilometers southwest of Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, in the towns of Niseko and Kutchan. It's part of the Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park, offering stunning views and being a major landmark in the area.
Mount Yotei is a dormant volcano, last erupting in 1739. Its last significant activity was recorded over 280 years ago, making it one of the older volcanic peaks in Hokkaido. The volcano is monitored for any signs of renewed activity due to its history.
The name "Yotei" is derived from the Ainu word "Yo-te-i", which means "an old fireplace". This name reflects the mountain's appearance, especially when snow-capped, resembling an extinguished fire. Historically, it has been a site of spiritual significance for the Ainu people, the indigenous inhabitants of Hokkaido. Its serene beauty has also inspired numerous artists and writers, making it a cultural icon in Japanese art and literature.
Mount Yotei is a popular destination for:
The lower slopes of Mount Yotei are covered by forests of Japanese larch, Japanese cedar, and beech. Higher up, alpine meadows give way to rugged terrain, hosting unique flora and fauna adapted to the harsh conditions.
Due to its ecological importance and scenic beauty, conservation efforts are in place to protect the natural environment of Mount Yotei. These include restrictions on development and efforts to manage tourism impact to preserve its natural state.