Attractions around Lake Mashu Youth Hostel

Teshikaga Town:
A Place to Become One with the Earth

Mashu Lake Youth Hostel is located in Teshikaga, Hokkaido—
a place where you can become one with the Earth.
One of the lakes here, Lake Mashu,
is called “Kamuy-to” in Ainu,
meaning the Lake of the Gods, a sacred place.
By sharpening your five senses, and even your sixth,
you can fully experience
the power of the Earth and Universe.

About a 20-minute drive
from Lake Mashu lies Lake Kussharo.
Relax your body in the natural hot springs
warmed by geothermal heat.
Then immerse yourself in Lake Kussharo itself to
feel the deep connection between Earth and the Universe.

We believe that this connection between humans and nature
is one of the things modern humanity lacks.
Especially in Japan, where ties with nature are limited,
what is even more lacking is
the connection between people themselves.

Coexisting with nature, helping one another,
and sharing the joy of living—
these were once natural ways of life.
Teshikaga Town in Hokkaido is a place
where such values are still cherished.
Please come to Mashu Lake Youth Hostel
and experience what it feels like to be one with the Earth.

Recommended Spots

※Click the text to open the map site.

※Photos are for illustrative purposes.

Mount Mashu

Mashu Youth Hostel is the closest lodge to Mount Mashu.
From afar, you can already feel the pulse of the Earth
and the mountain’s mystical energy.
The 360-degree horizon from the summit is breathtaking,
and the trail itself offers many awe-inspiring views.
You’ll feel as if you’re looking down on yourself from another planet.
The hike takes about 5 hours round trip, with gentle and flat paths,
making it suitable even for beginners.
The sunrise is spectacular—starting early in the morning is recommended.
Lake Mashu

The world’s second-clearest lake!
(Maybe more believable than being #1? haha)
A mystical lake that makes you want to pray with hands together.
Just a 7-minute drive (6 km)
from Mashu Youth Hostel—some even walk there.
There are two main observatories:
First Observatory and Third Observatory. Visit both if you can!
Also check out the Uramashu Observatory,
and the sacred Kaminoko Pond,
where underground spring water from Lake Mashu emerges.
A truly refreshing and purifying experience.
Kotan Onsen

Lake Kussharo

Japan’s largest caldera lake!
Hot springs bubble up along the shore, with some free to enter.
Kotan Onsen is especially recommended.
Women (and swimmers) should bring swimsuits
since it’s mixed bathing.
In summer, try “Sunayu” for
swimming and natural sand baths.
On Wakoto Peninsula, enjoy free mixed hot springs
and trekking trails around the lakeshore.
Mount Iou (Sulfur Mountain)

Feel the living heartbeat of the Earth!
The sulfur vents erupt with a bubbling roar
that resonates through your body.
Don’t miss the Tsutsujigahara Nature Trail,
starting at the Kawayu Visitor Center and ending at Mount Iou.
The scenery changes dramatically as you go,
making it a fascinating walk.
For the return, take the bus from Kawayu Onsen Station back
to the Visitor Center for an easy ride.
Kawayu Onsen

A famous hot spring known for
its strong acidity—comparable to lemon juice!
For day visits, we recommend Kawayu Kanko Hotel and Kinkiyu.
Or try the rare “Mashu Soba” at Soba Douraku.
For a quick warm-up, there are also free foot baths.
At night, stroll the Kawayu Promenade with its magical light-up,
and feel the richness of nature with all your senses.
Near Teshikaga Town

Nakashibetsu Town

A neighboring town where you can feel the planet itself!
Astronauts say
the grid-like windbreak forests of Nakashibetsu
are even visible from space.
From Kaiyodai Observatory, enjoy a 360-degree horizon.
The vast grasslands and grazing cows are soothing to the soul.
After immersing yourself in untouched nature,
treat yourself to a rich meal at Restaurant Boksha,
famous for curry.