Passo Bihoro
Bihoro Pass, on Route 243 at the boundary between Bihoro and Teshikaga in Hokkaido, sits at 525 m elevation as the central viewpoint of Akan-Mashu National Park. Below lies the caldera lake Kussharo (57 km in circumference, Hokkaido's largest lake and Japan's largest caldera lake), with Mt. Mashu (857 m) and Mt. Shari (1,547 m) beyond, and on clear days even the Shiretoko Range — making this one of Hokkaido's most spectacular panoramic spots. From September to November on clear, windless mornings with a big temperature differential, a sea of clouds rises from Lake Kussharo and spreads beneath the pass, with Mt. Mashu's peak emerging above — a phenomenon often called «paradise in the sky.» The barrier-free observatory adjoins Michi-no-Eki «Gurutto Panorama Bihoro-toge.»
Highlights
- Bird's-eye view of Lake Kussharo — Japan's largest caldera lake (57 km circumference), seen from the observatory atop a 520-step climb
- Sea of Clouds (September–November) — appears on clear, windless mornings with a big temperature gap; Mt. Mashu floats above the clouds
- Mt. Mashu at sunset — the western sun gilds the peak, contrasting with Lake Kussharo for a stunning composition
- Mt. Atosanupuri (Mt. Iou) — an active volcano emitting plumes, on the opposite shore of Lake Kussharo
- Michi-no-Eki Gurutto Panorama Bihoro-toge — restaurant, shop, and free observation deck; famous «Age-imo» fried potato dumplings
