Section Hike No.8

Starting from Kotan Junction Bus Stop, the route follows the national highway through a landscape of colorful fields beneath wide-open skies. To the right, Wakoto Peninsula—formed by volcanic activity—comes into view, with an optional variation route that loops around the peninsula.

After passing the Kussharo Prince Hotel, the climb toward Tsubetsu Pass begins. The trail leads through forest rich with signs of wildlife, steadily ascending toward the rim of the caldera.

The day finishes at the Tsubetsu Pass Observatory, where sweeping views of Lake Kussharo and the vast caldera below provide a spectacular reward at the end of the hike.