Lake Mashu & Observatory

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

You can enjoy marvelous nature and relaxing hot spring area of Kushiro. First, you will visit Lake Mashu. Lake Mashu is known as the world's clearest lake with transparent emerald colour. The Ainu people have revered this lake as the 'Lake of the Gods' since ancient times. Since you are not able to go down to the lakeshore, you can enjoy a splendid view from one of the three observatories. Next, you will visit Mt. Iou. Iou means sulfur, and you will smell sulfur since it's still active volcano. Around 130 years ago, Mt. Iou was opened as a mine, and hundreds of prisoners were gathered from all over Japan for mining, constructing infrastructure, farming and so on. They worked really hard, so you can say those prisoners made basement of Kushiro city. However, working at Mt. Iou was pretty hard because of strong gas and harsh environment. As a result, many of them got sick and lost their lives. Kind prison guards made action to close the mine for saving prisoners' lives, and now Mt. Iou became a scenic spot where you can feel heartbeat of earth. After having Japanese style lunch, you will enjoy shopping and foot bath at Kawayu hot spring area. This is a hot-springs resort town located northwest of Lake Mashu. The spring water features a high sulfuric hydrogen content, rare in Hokkaido. It acts as a natural antibacterial. In this quiet onsen (natural spa) town, Kawayu has numerous ashiyu (foot baths) where travelers can soak their tired feet in the natural hot water. These are found throughout the town. You will have good rest by foot bath after walking around a lot.

Special Notes:

When the road from Lake Mashu to Mt. Iozan is closed due to weather condition, it takes 30-50 min to get Mt. Iozan make a detour.
The view from the observatory is the weather dependent.