Lake Kussharo, Japan’s largest caldera lake, captivates visitors with its majestic natural beauty. From early summer to autumn, the Tsubetsu Pass Observatory offers views of a sea of clouds enveloping the lake and surrounding mountains, creating a dynamic and fantastical landscape. On clear days, the transparent lake surface reflects the surrounding mountains, highlighting nature’s mystique. The
lakeshore features unique “sand baths” where digging into the sand reveals natural hot springs, providing visitors with an extraordinary hot spring experience.
Getting there: About 30 minutes by car from Lake Kussharo’s shore to Tsubetsu Pass Observatory. The mountain pass is well-maintained but has many curves, so drive carefully.
Photographed: Mid-July 2019, 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Temperature: 19°C
Text/Kenji Sakamoto
Photo/Kenji Sakamoto
Translation/Yumiko Sushitani
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