Lake Mashu

A mist-shrouded crater lake clear to its depths, with a volcano at its heart

Lake Mashu, located in Akan-Mashu National Park, is a truly remarkable destination. With its pristine waters and steep crater walls, it offers a breathtaking experience for visitors. The lake’s deep blue color and the volcano at its center create a mesmerizing sight that will leave you in awe.

Don’t Miss

One of the highlights of visiting Lake Mashu is the opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking views from the observation decks. These decks offer panoramic vistas of the lake, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its beauty. The scenic hiking trails around the lake also provide a fantastic way to explore the area and immerse yourself in nature.

How to Get There

Getting to Lake Mashu is relatively easy. The lake is just a 15-to 20-minute drive from Mashu Station in the town of Teshikaga. While the best way to visit is by car, there is also some public transportation available. Infrequent buses operate between Mashu Station and the lake throughout the year, making it accessible to those without private transportation.

Quick Facts

Lake Mashu’s caldera was formed around 7,000 years ago, making it a geological wonder. The small island in the middle of the lake is actually a 240-meter volcano, adding to the allure of the area. The lake itself is an impressive 212 meters deep, making it one of the deepest lakes in japan.

Misty, mysterious Mashu

One of the unique characteristics of Lake Mashu is the mist that often forms close to the surface of the water. This mist can create an otherworldly atmosphere, making it quite challenging to get a clear view of the lake. The peak fog times tend to be in June and July, but the weather around the lake is changeable, and the fog can disappear as quickly as it forms. This unpredictability adds to the mystique of the lake and makes each visit a unique experience.

Around the lake

Take your time to admire the view of the pristine lake, which is said to be one of the clearest lakes in the world. The immensity of the caldera lake is truly impressive and is best appreciated by walking around the edge of the crater to the top of Mt. Mashu, the smaller crater sitting on the south side of the lake. The hike will take you at least two hours each way, but the stunning beauty you will encounter along the way makes it a worthwhile endeavor.

A lesser-known viewpoint

While there are two well-known observation decks on the west side of Lake Mashu, there is also a lesser-known third observation deck on the east side called Ura-Mashu. This deck is open from late April to early November and offers a quieter and closer view of the lake. On foggy days, Ura-Mashu guarantees a better view and allows more time to capture the perfect photo. While in the area, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the nearby crystal clear waters of Kaminoko-ike Pond and the healing waters of Yoroushi Onsen.

Lake Mashu is a place of natural wonder that should not be missed. Its ethereal beauty and mysterious atmosphere make it a truly special destination. Whether you choose to explore the observation decks, hike around the lake, or visit the lesser-known viewpoints, you are sure to be captivated by the stunning scenery and unique experiences that Lake Mashu has to offer.

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