Day 1

Spot 1 Kawayu Eco Museum Center 9:00
The journey begins

There is nowhere better to start your journey than at the Kawayu Eco Museum Center, with exhibits detailing the origins and history of the town and surrounding nature. The helpful staff are always happy to chat and answer any questions. The center also conveniently serves as an information center for local travel information and activities, and outdoor gear is available for rent. The Aka-ezo-matsu (Sakhalin spruce) themed shop has unique gifts, and the excellent CHIP HOP CAFÉ serves various foods and drinks including the delightful masu-yaki cakes. Take your time to relax in one of the cozy rest areas or warm yourself beside the wood stove in the lounge.
More Information (Link to Japanese Page)

(From Eco Center walk to trailhead, 5 minutes)

Spot 2 Tsutsujigahara Nature Trail 10:00
The phenomenon of volcanic life

The Tsutsujigahara Nature Trail leads from the picturesque hot spring resort of Kawayu to the active volcano known as Mount Io. The predominantly flat path is approximately 2.6km long and can be walked in an hour.
The unusual ecosystem caused by the proximity of Mt. Io means that even alpine plants survive and thrive here. Enjoy witnessing up close various plants not usually seen at such low elevations, including thickets of Japanese stone pine and Labrador tea. From mid-June to late July, about 100 hectares of ground is blanketed with snowy white flowers produced by Labrador tea, the largest of such blossoms to be found in Japan.
More Information (Link to Japanese Page)

Spot 3 Atosanupuri (Mount Io) 11:00
Get up close and personal with an active volcano

Atosanupuri was given its name by the indigenous Ainu people, meaning “naked mountain”. It is also commonly known as Mount Io, literally “sulfur mountain,” and is characterized by its intensely sulfuric smell and gurgling plumes of steam. Whilst gazing at fumaroles dramatically spewing volcanic gases and sulfur crystals, you can feel the dynamic heartbeat of the earth. The mountain was historically mined for industrial purposes, but it is now protected as a Specified Natural Tourism Resource.
More Information (Link to Japanese Page)

(From Mt. Io walk to Kawayu Station, 10 minutes)
(Take the 12:15 bus returning to Kawayu Eco Museum Center, 15 minutes)

Eat Local Lunchtime 12:30

Teshikaga has a bounty of fresh local produce including Mashu soba noodles, named after the nearby famous caldera lake. Delicious locally sourced meats and vegetables are combined with expertise to make unique dishes for all to enjoy. For some recommendations on the array of restaurants and menus on offer, please refer to the “MADE in Teshikaga” guidebooks below.

• MADE in Teshikaga Guide Vol.1 (Japanese)
• MADE in Teshikaga Guide Vol.2 (Japanese)
• MADE in Teshikaga Guide Vol.3 (Japanese)
• MADE in Teshikaga Guide Vol.4 (Japanese)

(From Kawayu Hot Springs proceed to Lake Mashu by car, 15 minutes)

SPOT 4 Lake Mashu 14:00
A visit to the clearest lake in Japan

Lake Mashu has the highest water clarity in Japan and the second highest of any lake in the world. The startling blue color of Lake Mashu has its own name – “Mashu Blue”. On a sunny calm day, the smooth waters reflecting the azure sky make this color even more intense, seemingly drawing you into its deep, crystal waters. This breathtaking scene can be peacefully enjoyed either from Lake Mashu Kamuy Terrace on a warm sunny day, or from inside the Lake Mashu Rest House during inclement weather. Whilst admiring the magnificent scenery, try local delicacies such soft-serve ice cream or Mashu soy coffee made with local soybeans.
More Information (Link to Japanese Page)

(Proceed by car to one of: Kawayu Hot Springs 15 min/Mashu Hot Springs 15 min/Lake Kussharo 25 min)

Early check-in to enjoy the hot spring baths and an evening stroll 16:00

As the Teshikaga region is set in the middle of a large caldera basin, there are in fact up to seven different hot spring areas, and the qualities of each spring differ according to their source. Take advantage of an early check-in to bathe in the hot springs and relax at your own pace.
For those staying at Kawayu hot springs, take a magical stroll along the steaming hot spring river. For those staying at Lake Kussharo, you only have to step outside to marvel at the clear, starry skies. If you are staying at Mashu hot springs, an evening walk around town is a delightful diversion.

Day 2

(From hotel proceed to Kussharo Lake by car, 15-20 minutes)

SPOT 5 Canoe down Kushiro river 9:00 – 12:00
Drift through primitive forest along the beautiful Kushiro river

The start of your journey is the largest caldera lake in Japan, Lake Kussharo and the source of the Kushiro River. Here, you can witness the start of Kushiro river’s epic journey to the Pacific Ocean. As there are no dams or weirs, Kushiro River is considered a Mecca for canoeists. Starting at Kussharo Lake, a guide will expertly lead you through enchanting virgin forest and clear, calming waters to create an unforgettable voyage.
More Information (Link to Japanese Page)