Excursion Ancient akita tour at Akita

Departing from Muroran, you'll board your motorcoach for a scenic, approximately 45-minute journey through rolling, forested countryside on your way to the Shikotsu-Toya National Park and the "Rim of Fire." Be sure to bring your camera.

Muroran, Shikotsu-Toya National Park & Lake Toya

Departing from Muroran, you'll board your motorcoach for a scenic, approximately 45-minute journey through rolling, forested countryside on your way to the Shikotsu-Toya National Park and the "Rim of Fire." Be sure to bring your camera. Hokkaido abounds with volcanic activity, resulting in crystalline lakes, towering peaks and bubbling natural hot springs. As you travel, you'll pause by beautiful Lake Toya. The large caldera was formed when an eruption of a volcano about 100 thousand years ago diverted a stream to create this vast pool. You won't want to miss the chance to take photos of the spectacular scenery.

Mt. Usu, Cable Car Ride & Free Time

From there, re-board your coach for the approximately half hour drive to Mt. Usu. This is one of the most active volcanoes in Japan, erupting four times within the last 100 years (in 1910, 1944, 1977 and 2000). It stands a towering 2,404 feet above sea level. Enjoy a gondola ride that travels up, bringing you close to the volcano's summit with a 6 minute ride. The gondola service opened in 1965 and the length is just a little over 1km. Each of the two gondolas can hold up to 100 passengers. The upper station's observation deck offers you panoramic views of Lake Toya and neighboring Showa Shinzan, Japan's youngest volcano, "born" in 1945. A short walk away is a second observation deck with views of the Pacific Ocean and Mt. Usu's largest crater.

After some free time to explore the area, your adventure comes to an end as you re-board your motorcoach for the relaxing and scenic - approximately 50-minute - drive back to Muroran and your ship.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Lake Toya, Mount Usu and cable car ride, Hokkaido Coast

Note

Please note: This tour involves moderate amount (approximately 1.3km or 0.8miles) of walking over flat, gravel and also uneven surface with around 320 steps at the sites. This tour is not suitable for guests with guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. The volcanic eruptions cannot be seen these days however guests are advised that Mt.Usu is a still active volcano. The views from Lake Toya and Mt.Usu depend on the weather. After the cable car ride up Mt Usu, an optional walk climbs approximatly 150 stairs to the mountain's observatory. Mt. Usu cable car might be stopped due to the bad weather. In this case an alternative option will be offered upon availability. Although credit cards are mainly accepted, Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. The tour sequence may vary.