Mount Usu

Tourist sight

★ 4.9 (4K+ reviews) • 24K+ booked

Nestled within the scenic Shikotsu-Tōya National Park in Hokkaido, Japan, Mount Usu is a captivating active stratovolcano that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Mount Usu, an active volcano offering breathtaking bird's-eye views over the shimmering Lake Toya. This natural wonder, part of the UNESCO Geopark, promises an unforgettable adventure with its stunning landscapes and rich geological history. With its dramatic landscapes and rich geological history, this natural wonder offers a unique blend of breathtaking views and thrilling experiences.

Mount Usu, Showashinzan, Sobetsu, Usu District, Hokkaido 052-0102, Japan

Overview

Things to do

Hotels

4.9 /5

4K+ reviews

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Klook User

5 Sep

Lake Toya, Mt. Usu, and Hell Valley are must-see gems in Hokkaido, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and volcanic wonders. Lake Toya’s serene waters and panoramic views are breathtaking, while Mt. Usu’s active volcanic craters and ropeway ride add an exciting twist. Hell Valley, with its steaming vents and sulfurous landscapes, feels like stepping onto another planet. Our trip was made unforgettable thanks to Kee, an outstanding tour guide whose knowledge, humor, and care elevated the entire experience. Kee’s insightful stories and attention to detail made each stop more meaningful. Highly recommended for anyone looking to explore Hokkaido’s wild beauty with a top-notch guide!

Klook用戶

5 Sep

The environment is top-notch, but I personally found the food to be average, despite the wide variety. I booked a room with a private bath. If you're shy, enjoying the onsen in your room is a good option, but since it's not open-air, it's just okay. What I appreciated most was the ryokan's open-air onsen. The baths are separated by gender, and when I went in the morning, there was nobody there. I had the whole place to myself! 👍

Klook User

4 Sep

We had a great time in the central part of Hokkaido. The meeting point was easy to find and the bus ride to sightseeing locations was comfortable. Our guide Eric (Kaneshiro) grew up in Japan and spoke mainly Chinese (and some English) during our tour. We could tell that he is an experienced guide because he shared background info of the places we visited, kept to schedule, suggested time efficient ways to enjoy the sightseeing locations and recommended things to do/ eat after our tour. This is a good day tour if you do not want the hassle of driving on your own and see many must-see places in central Hokkaido within a day.

CHUNG *******

4 Sep

If you're visiting Lake Toya, please make sure to go here. The route is well-planned and the attractions are concentrated. In my opinion, it's the most beautiful spot in Toya.

Aloysius ****

2 Sep

Hotel staff were all very friendly and attentive. The lobby was very luxurious and you will have a welcome drink and snack while you wait for check in. If you are not staying in the suite, you have to park your car at another carpark, but 24/7 shuttle access will be provided. Buffet dinner and breakfast were great. However, the room is very stuffy, aircon isn’t very strong. Overall still a good stay for the fireworks.

Klook 用戶

1 Sep

Eric, our tour guide, was very friendly. We couldn't find the pick-up location at first, but thankfully he came down and showed us the way. After boarding, he gave a quick introduction to the whole group. During the journey, he also highlighted the key points of the next attraction and the order of sightseeing. It was my first time experiencing a Klook day trip, and it was great!

Wong ******

29 Aug

Our guide, Kelvin, did a great job planning the itinerary and provided detailed and comprehensive information. It would have been perfect if the tour bus air conditioning was stronger.

Yung *******

28 Aug

The itinerary was packed with activities, and our guide, Grace, was incredibly attentive. She helped us purchase ferry tickets to see the fireworks, and the other members of the group were also very cooperative. Highly recommended!

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Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Usuzan Ropeway

Embark on an unforgettable journey with the Usuzan Ropeway, where the thrill of ascending Mount Usu is matched only by the breathtaking views that await you at the top. As you glide smoothly to the summit, take in the sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscapes, including the striking Shōwa-shinzan. This is not just a ride; it's an experience that offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the majestic beauty of this active volcano.

Lake Tōya

Discover the tranquil beauty of Lake Tōya, a serene caldera lake nestled to the north of Mount Usu. This picturesque spot is perfect for those seeking relaxation and a touch of adventure. Whether you're strolling along its peaceful shores or simply soaking in the stunning natural scenery, Lake Tōya offers a refreshing escape into nature's embrace.

Ropeway to the Summit

Elevate your Mount Usu adventure with a scenic ropeway ride to the summit. From the base of Mt. Showa-Shinzan, ascend to new heights and be rewarded with spectacular panoramas of Lake Toya and the vast Pacific Ocean. Once at the top, explore the easy hiking trail leading to the observatory, where you can get up close and personal with the awe-inspiring crater. It's a journey that promises both excitement and tranquility.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Mount Usu boasts a rich history of volcanic activity, with eruptions in 1910, 1944-45, 1977, and 2000 that have sculpted its landscape. This has resulted in fascinating landmarks like Meiji-shinzan and Shōwa-shinzan. As part of the Shikotsu-Toya National Park and a UNESCO Geopark, Mount Usu and its neighbor, Mt. Showa-Shinzan, offer a unique insight into the Earth's dynamic processes, erupting every 30-50 years. Additionally, the area is steeped in local history, with the Seeholzer family playing a pivotal role in the development of the longest-running family-owned resort in the country, Beaver Mountain.

Geological Marvel

Mount Usu is a geological wonder within the Nasu Volcanic Zone, composed of basalt, andesite, dacite, and rhyolite. Its stratovolcano structure and location near the Northeast Japan Arc make it a prime site for geological research and education, offering visitors a chance to witness the raw power and beauty of volcanic formations.

Hiking and Nature Trails

For those who love the great outdoors, Mount Usu offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. These paths wind through breathtaking landscapes, circling Lake Toya and providing panoramic views of the volcanos, lush forests, and serene lake waters. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, there's a trail here that will captivate your senses.

Community and Inclusivity

The local community around Mount Usu is known for its strong sense of inclusivity and support for outdoor recreation. The area is home to organizations like Common Ground Outdoor Adventures, which ensure that people with disabilities can enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that this stunning region has to offer.

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