We drove to Mt. Showa-Shinzan, and from a distance we could already see the distinctive shape of this volcanic wonder. Just standing on the grass by the wooden signs reading “Mt. Showa-Shinzan” and “Miracle of Showa” and looking ahead, the mountain’s bare rock face and volcanic terrain, occasionally emitting white smoke, were quite impressive. It was also surrounded by autumn trees beginning to turn yellow.
We slowly followed the trail toward the Mt. Usu Crater Basin Observation Deck. A long red staircase stretched downward, with lush green slopes on both sides and other visitors strolling along. From the observation deck, we could take in the deep blue waters of Lake Toya in the distance and the rolling mountains surrounding it.
There was also a stone compass marker engraved with the locations of the surrounding area, making it easy to identify the nearby towns and mountains. Walking through the entire park was relaxing and comfortable, with none of the pressure of rushing through an itinerary. We got to fully enjoy both the unique volcanic landscape and the expansive lake and mountain scenery at once.
