Excursion Views of muroran tour at Muroran

Explore the amazing volcanic origins and scenery of Japan during this captivating, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Muroran, Rolling, Forested Countryside, Lake Toya, Large Caldera, Photo Stop

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive through the rolling, forested countryside en route to Shikotsu-Toya National Park, which lies along the fabled ‘Rim of Fire’. Hokkaido abounds with volcanic activity, resulting in crystalline lakes, towering peaks, and bubbling natural hot springs. Your first stop is at beautiful Lake Toya. This large caldera measures approximately 26.7 miles (about 43 kilometres), and was formed when an eruption of a volcano about 100,000 years ago diverted a stream to create this vast pool. During a photo stop here, marvel at the exquisite beauty and photo opportunities of your surrounds.

Mt. Usu, Active Volcano, Cable Car-Ride, Breath-Taking Views, Hokkaido Coast

Leaving Lake Toya, re-board your coach and head to nearby Mt. Usu, which formed on the southern end of the caldera containing Lake Toya. One of the most active volcanoes in Japan, Mt. Usu has erupted four times within the last 100 years (in 1910, 1944, 1977, and 2000). This towering volcano stands approximately 2,404 feet (about 733 metres) above sea level. Upon arrival at Mt. Usu’s Cable Car (Ropeway) Station, a cable car-ride offers breath-taking views of the Hokkaido coast and brings you close to the volcano’s summit in approximately six minutes.

Summit, Observation Decks, Lake Toya, Showa Shinzan, Pacific Ocean, Largest Crater

Upon arrival at the upper-station’s Observation Deck, de-board the cable car and enjoy breath-taking panoramic views of Lake Toya and neighbouring Showa Shinzan, Japan's youngest volcano, which was ‘born’ in 1945. A short walk away, a second Observation Deck offers exquisite views of the Pacific Ocean and Mt. Usu's largest crater. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board the cable car for the short ride back down to the Cable Car Station, then re-board your coach and commence the picturesque, approximately 50-minute drive back to the pier.

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 a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.93 miles (about 1.5 kilometres), at times over uneven, gravel, and natural surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, 20 steps at Lake Toya, and 300 steps at Mt. Usu. This tour is not suitable for guests with a fear of heights, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, a sweater or light jacket, bottled water, and Japanese Yen or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Although credit cards are mostly accepted, Japanese Yen is required for any purchases; guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. Proper attire is required to enter temples and shrines; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Guests must be at least 20 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Infrastructure in Muroran may be basic, and local conditions may be challenging; coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other ports. Therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding as we visit unique, less-touristic destinations. The cost of providing a tour programme in this area is proportionately more expensive than in neighbouring regions, as vehicles and guides are brought in from the whole region. This may be reflected in the prices of the tours, and we thank you for your understanding. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.