basic information

When Mount Usu erupted in March of 2000, several new craters opened up on the west side of the mountain, expelling huge amounts of smoke several kilometers into the sky and destroying nearby buildings and roads.

The still smoking craters can be seen while exploring the walking trails in the area. There are also several destroyed buildings, disrupted roads and broken phone poles that have been left as they were so that visitors can see the effects of the destructive power of a volcano.

Main crater

Destruction caused by the eruption

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how to get there

The Usuzan West Craters are a five minute car or bus ride from Toyako Onsen. Buses between JR Toya Station and Toyako Onsen stop nearby. Get off at "Nishiyama Yuhodo Iriguchi" bus stop.

How to get to and around Lake Toya

hours and fees

Hours:	7:00 to 18:00 (until 17:00 in October and early November)
Closed:	Early November to mid April
Admission:	Free

news and reports

Shikotsu-Toya Autumn Color Report October 14, 2009

travel community

Popularity of Usuzan West Craters:
Users who have been to Lake Toya: 85
Users who have been to Usuzan West Craters: 14

4th of 4 most visited sights in Lake Toya.
421st of 553 most visited sights nationwide.

Ratings for Usuzan West Craters:

japan-guide.com Rating:		outstanding
User Rating (by 7 users):	80/100	recommended

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tours and packages

Free Plan Hokkaido Luxury Hotel Stay Two nights' stay in a Junior Suite at the Windsor Hotel Toya Resort and Spa and a 1-night stay in Sapporo.