Mount Usu & Lake Toya
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Port
Muroran, Japan
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$129
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
4 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Discover the incredible beauty of Japan's volcanic origins. Departing from Muroran, you'll board a motorcoach for a scenic journey through rolling, forested countryside.
Your destination is Shikotsu-Toya National Park and the Rim of Fire. Hokkaido abounds with volcanic activity, resulting in crystalline lakes, towering peaks and bubbling natural hot springs.
Make the most of a photo stop by beautiful Lake Toya. This large caldera lake was formed when a volcanic eruption 100,000 years ago diverted a stream to create this vast pool.
From there, it's a short drive to Mt Usu. Towering 2,404 feet tall, it is one of the most active volcanoes in Japan. Mount Usu has erupted four times within the last 100 years -- most recently in 2000. A gondola ride brings you close to the volcano's summit. The upper station's observation deck offers panoramic views of Lake Toya and neighboring Showa Shinzan -- Japan's youngest volcano, formed in 1945. Climb the stairs to a second observation deck for views of Mount Usu's largest crater, which was formed in an eruption in 1977, and the picturesque Hokkaido coastline.
After photographing these majestic vistas, reboard your motorcoach and enjoy the drive back to Muroran and the ship.
Notes:
Bring local currency, as many vendors do not accept credit cards or US dollars. 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.