Kaminokoike Pond and Uramashu Scenic Drive

A driving route that takes you through the beautiful forests and farmlands of the Mashu area

This scenic drive takes you through the serene forests of Mashu and the idyllic farmlands of Kiyosato. Start at the Mashu Onsen Roadside Station and head north. Stop by Kiyosato's Kiyoru tourist information center and take a free tour of the nearby shochu distillery. Take a soak in the hot springs of the Papas Land Sattsuru Roadside Station, followed by a visit to the pristine Kaminokoike Pond. Before you finish your excursion, visit the Ura-Mashu Observatory for spectacular views of Lake Mashu.

Highlights

Kiyosato's potato shochu distillery

Kiyosato

Kiyosato town, located at the base of the Shiretoko Peninsula, is known for potato farming and its shochu distillery. You can take a free tour to see how the shochu is made from local potatoes. Bottles of shochu are available for purchase at the neighboring Kiyoru information center. You can also enjoy udon and pizza at the facility's cafe, accompanied by beautiful views of Mount Shari.

Kaminokoike Pond

Lush forests surround the sapphire-blue Kaminokoike Pond. Although it is 5 meters deep, the water is so clear that you can see to the bottom. The water stays cold all year round, so submerged trees in the water do not rot. A promenade allows visitors to circle the pond and view it from up-close.

View from Ura-Mashu Observatory

Lake Mashu Observatory 1 and Lake Mashu Observatory 3 are in the town of Teshikaga, on the western rim of the Mashu Caldera. The Ura-Mashu Observatory sits on the northeastern rim, providing a different view of the lake. Ura-Mashu Observatory is also at a lower elevation, so the view of the lake is less frequently obscured by fog compared to the other observatories.

Route Map

Ura-Mashu Drive

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