Furebetsu Bokke
Overview
The Furebestu Bokke is located on Mt. Furebestu, to the south of Lake Akan. In the Ainu language, bokke is derived from pofuke, which means “to bubble up.” Bokke is a general term for mud volcanoes. The Furebetsu bokke, the bokke on the shore of Lake Akan, and the bokke around Mt. Hakuto Observatory are all situated in a straight line, following the underground volcanic belt that crosses the Akan region. This volcanic belt continues from Shiretoko to the Kuril Islands, the island chain stretching approximately 1,300km northeast of Hokkaido.
Activities
The Furebetsu bokke can be accessed by either car or foot from Akanko Onsen via the Furebetsu forest road. Located deep in the thick forest, the landscape suddenly changes to large pools of grey volcanic mud. The bokke can be seen steaming and gurgling. Although there are no signboards or fences in the area, the sulfuric gases emitted from the bokke can be strong, so please be careful not to approach too close. Depending on Mt. Meakan’s level of volcanic activity, entry to the Furebetsu bokke may be prohibited.
Warning: Do not get too close to the bokke, as they can reach temperatures close to 100°C.