About:

Located in the Akan-Mashu National Park, the Kawayu Eco-museum Center is a must-visit spot for nature enthusiasts. Here, visitors can delve into the unique flora and fauna of the Mashu and Kussharo area, learning about the region's 30,000-year history and special plants that thrive due to geothermal activity. The center offers guided tours, winter gear rentals, and fun activities for kids, making it a great destination for all ages. Don't miss out on the chance to explore this fascinating natural wonderland!

Hiking:

This is the trailhead to Tsutsujigahara Nature Trail connects the Kawayu Onsen area to the foot of Mt. Io (Atosanupuri). The trail is a 2.5-kilometer route with minimal elevation gain (approx. 20 meters) and takes about an hour one way.

Trail Highlights

• Trail Length: 5 km (roundtrip)

• Time Required: 2 hour (roundtrip)

• Elevation Gain: 20 meters

The Tsutsujigahara Nature Trail offers a journey through diverse ecosystems, starting with the serene Sakhalin spruce forest near the Kawayu Visitor Center, ideal for forest bathing. It then transitions to a hardwood forest of oak, birch, and Japanese locust, featuring the accessible Tsutsuji Terrace lookout. Beyond this lies a stunning expanse of marsh Labrador tea, which blooms into a white floral carpet in June, offering both visual and aromatic delights. Closer to Mt. Io, the landscape shifts to alpine Japanese stone pines, uniquely growing upright in the gentler winds of this volcanic environment.

Mt. Io (Atosanupuri)

At 508 meters, Mt. Io, also known as Atosanupuri (“bare mountain” in Ainu), is an active stratovolcano. Its rugged landscape features a lava dome with numerous fumaroles releasing volcanic gases. The central crater, called “Kumaotoshi,” was formed by a steam explosion centuries ago. The yellow hues near the vents come from crystallized sulfur deposits, and the air is filled with a characteristic sulfur smell.

Tips for Hikers

• Visit in June for the best view of the marsh Labrador tea in bloom.

• Be cautious near fumaroles at Mt. Io; the volcanic gases can be strong.