Lake Mashu
A beautiful and mysterious lake
Known in Ainu language as "Kamuito" (Lake of the Gods), this caldera lake boasts a circumference of about 20 km and a maximum depth of 212 meters, with world-class transparency. The deep blue color created by the reflection of the sky on the clear lake surface is called "Mashu Blue," and on windless days, this blue becomes even more vivid.
The lake is surrounded by caldera walls ranging from 150 to 350 meters high, and despite having no inflowing rivers, the water level mysteriously remains unchanged. While you cannot approach the lake surface, you can view the lake, the floating Kamuishu Island, and the towering Kamuinupuri (Mt. Mashu) from three observation points: "Mashu First Observatory," "Mashu Third Observatory," and "Ura-Mashu Observatory."
Made famous by the song "Mist of Lake Mashu," Lake Mashu is often shrouded in mist for about 100 days a year, particularly from June to July. Whether it’s the blue shining Lake Mashu or the mist-covered Lake Mashu, both are mystical and captivating sights.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Category
- With friends
- Solo trip
- Guys' trip
- Girls' trip
- Couple
- Travel style
- Activities & Outdoors
- Winter scenery, drift ice
- Lake and marsh, waterfall, pond, dam
- Red leaves, scenic spots, observation platforms
- Natural scenery, spectacular views
- Skiing, snow activities
- Visit seas, rivers, and lakes
- Travel Inspiration
- Enjoy spectacular views
- Adventure Travel
- Picturesque spots
- Nearest airports
General Information
- Postal code
- 〒088-3222
- Address
- 北海道川上郡弟子屈町原野
- Telephone Number
- 015-482-1530（Lake Mashu Rest House）
- Car Park
- Depending on the season, there is a fee (shared with the Mt.Io parking lot).
- Directions
- ●By Bus: About 25 minutes from JR Mashu Station to Lake Mashu Observation Deck 1
●By car: About 120 minutes from Doto Expwy Ashoro IC
※The third Observation Deck is approximately 40 minutes on foot from First Observation Deck. There is no public bus to reach there, so please use a tour shuttle bus or private transportation. - Website
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
