Port
Muroran, Japan
Activity Level
Moderate
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At
$189.95
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 6½ Hours
Meals Included
Meals not included
This exhilarating day begins with a comfortable motorcoach ride through the countryside to Lake Toya in Shikotsu-Toya National Park.
Lake Toya is a large caldera lake, 26 miles in diameter, formed more than 100,000 years ago when a volcanic eruption diverted a stream and created a massive pool. It is ice-free all year round due to geothermal heating, and trout and smelt fishing is plentiful here. The surrounding scenery is spectacular and is best appreciated from the water, so you will board a boat for a cruise on this tranquil, picture-perfect lake. You'll step ashore on one of the islands in the middle of the lake and take a short walk through the forest (weather permitting).
Next, a short drive brings you to Mount Usu. Towering 2,404 feet above sea level, it is one of the most active volcanoes in Japan. Mount Usu has erupted four times within the last 100 years - the most recent eruption being in 2000.
Pause on the lower slopes to enjoy a Japanese-style lunch.
This afternoon, board a gondola for a ride up the ropeway. The upper station's observation deck offers panoramic views of Lake Toya and neighboring Showa Shinzan. The latter is Japan's youngest volcano, born only in 1945. Climb the stairs to the second observation deck for views of Mount Usu's largest crater, which was formed in an eruption in 1977, and the picturesque Hokkaido coastline beyond it.
After photographing these majestic vistas, reboard your motorcoach and enjoy the scenic ride back to Muroran and the ship.
Notes:
Wear comfortable walking shoes. After the gondola ride up Mt Usu, an optional walk climbs 136 stairs to the mountain's observatory. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Mt Usu is an active volcano, and last erupted in 2000; it is Japan's most active volcano; participate at your own risk. Scenery during the tour is weather dependent.