Tsubetsu Toge Observatory
The Tsubetsu Toge Observatory is a large mountaintop facility that offers beautiful views of the surrounding environment. It is the highest point (947 m) overlooking Lake Kussharo, making it the ideal place to view the large caldera lake and the rugged volcanic landscape around it.
A superb viewpoint
From the top of the observatory when the weather is good, you can see three of Hokkaido’s national parks—Akan-Mashu, Daisetsuzan, and Shiretoko. Sprawling mountain ranges dominate Daisetsuzan National Park, and Shiretoko National Park is the peninsula jutting out into the Sea of Okhotsk. The Tsubetsu Toge Observatory is the only place in Hokkaido where all three parks can be seen from one spot.
The observatory
The exterior of the observatory building resembles a European castle. There is a spiral staircase that leads up to the observation tower and onto the roof. On the second floor, there are large maps of the surrounding region on the walls and plenty of leaflets and pamphlets to browse. Toilet facilities are on the first floor. The large parking lot may be used free of charge.
Note to drivers
The mountain road up to the observatory is winding, with sharp bends and narrow sections, and is open only from June to October. It is closed during the winter because of heavy snowfall.