Guida
Mount Usu is an active volcano with an elevation of 733 meters, situated south of Lake Toya in Hokkaido. Located within the Shikotsu-Toya National Park, it is known as an active volcano under constant observation. By using the ropeway, visitors can easily access the area near the summit to enjoy a magnificent panoramic landscape overlooking Lake Toya, Uchibura Bay (Funka Bay), and even the Pacific Ocean.
The name 'Usu' is derived from the Ainu word 'usu' (meaning inlet/bay). The current mountain structure consists of the main volcano with a rim diameter of 1.8 km, several lava domes, and parasitic cones such as Mount Donkoro. Volcanic activity occurs periodically, and the current topography has been shaped through the history of crustal movements and eruptions. The surrounding area also serves as a Geopark, where visitors can coexist with the living history of volcanic activity.
Mount Usu offers extensive facilities to learn about volcanic mechanisms and history. The 'Volcano Village' at the base station features an 'Eruption Experience Room' that uses sound, light, and video to simulate an eruption, allowing you to experience the movement of magma beneath the earth. Additionally, the 'Mount Usu Eruption Story' educational panels located at the summit station and other points allow for visual learning. From the ropeway, you can enjoy the stunning beauty of Lake Toya from a high vantage point.
While Mount Usu can be visited throughout the year, the scenery changes with the seasons. From spring to autumn, the contrast between the lush greenery and the blue lake waters is beautiful, making the ropeway ride very pleasant. In winter, you can enjoy a breathtaking white panoramic view. However, please note that the outer rim hiking trail is closed from November to April due to snow. We recommend checking the latest operational status before your visit.
In addition to the scenic ropeway ride, you can engage in educational experiences regarding volcanic history. A well-maintained hiking trail, the 'Usu Outer Rim Trail,' is available near the summit. A trek of approximately 1.1 km (about 40–50 minutes one way) leads to the Usu Outer Rim Observatory, where you can observe the crater and surrounding nature in much closer detail. You can also enjoy meals and breaks at the facilities within the Volcano Village.
The foot of Mount Usu is home to several tourist-friendly facilities. The 'Volcano Village' at the base station includes the 'Usuzan Shokudo Funkatei' and 'Cafe Mt. USU' for light meals and snacks, as well as the 'Oyama Venditen Shinzan-do' for souvenirs. The area also features walking paths near the Nishiyama crater and remains that illustrate the landscape's transformation caused by crustal movements, offering a chance to observe geological changes firsthand.
As the summit and hiking trails are natural environments, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and practical clothing. Since temperatures can change drastically depending on the season, please bring warm clothing. The ropeway operating hours vary by season and day of the week, so it is advisable to check the official website in advance. Please respect local rules and maintain etiquette to preserve the natural environment.