Teshikaga, a town in the eastern part of Hokkaido known as Doto, is famous for its tourist attractions, including Lake Mashu, which boasts some of the clearest water in the world, and Kawayu Onsen, one of Hokkaido's premier hot spring resorts. Memanbetsu Airport is a convenient gateway to Teshikaga, and from September 2 to October 30, 2022, a limited-time Airport Liner will connect the airport to the town's accommodations. Here, we introduce the charms of Teshikaga, perfect for the autumn sightseeing season!

Photo courtesy of Lake Mashu Tourist Association

The Airport Liner runs between Memanbetsu Airport and various accommodations in Teshikaga, such as the Kussharo Prince Hotel and hotels in Kawayu Onsen. The journey will fly by as you gaze at the scenery from the window. Once you arrive at your destination, how about starting by soothing your travel fatigue in a footbath?

Photo courtesy of Lake Mashu Tourist Association

At JR Kawayu-Onsen Station, you can actually soak your feet in a footbath right inside the station. Being indoors, you can enjoy it regardless of the season. The tables and benches made from logs add a warm, rustic charm.

On the other hand, for a more rustic, open-air footbath experience, head to JR Mashu Station. It's said to be popular not only with tourists waiting for their train but also with locals. Bringing a towel is a must when using the station.

Photo courtesy of Lake Mashu Tourist Association

Mount Iou (Iozan), located about 1.6 km from JR Kawayu-Onsen Station, is another popular tourist spot in Teshikaga. As its name, which means "Sulfur Mountain," suggests, the mountain is rich in sulfur, and you can even see sulfur crystals near the fumaroles.

Photo courtesy of Lake Mashu Tourist Association

Mount Iou still vigorously vents steam today. The surrounding area is filled with the distinct smell of sulfur, allowing you to feel the dynamism of nature up close.

Of course, a trip to Teshikaga wouldn't be complete without visiting Lake Mashu! The view of the lake on a clear day is breathtaking. The "Mashu Blue," a color born from its world-class water clarity, has captivated many people.

Photo courtesy of Lake Mashu Tourist Association

Furthermore, the "Mashu-ko Kamuy Terrace" opened in the Lake Mashu First Observatory area in the summer of 2022! From the three-tiered rooftop terrace, you can see various natural expressions of Lake Mashu depending on where you stand. The facility also has a lounge and an exhibition corner, offering plenty of enjoyment beyond the scenery, so you might find yourself staying for a while.

Photo courtesy of Lake Mashu Tourist Association

Another must-see in Teshikaga is Lake Kussharo. It is Japan's largest caldera lake, and numerous hot springs gush out along its shores. There are free open-air baths and sand bath spots scattered around, so be sure to take a dip. It will surely be a unique hot spring experience, different from what you'd find at a traditional onsen inn.

Photo courtesy of Lake Mashu Tourist Association

After sightseeing at Teshikaga's popular spots, all that's left is to relax in a hot spring, stroll through the onsen town, and fully enjoy your trip. Of course, you can also use the Airport Liner for your return journey, so you can enjoy sightseeing to the fullest until the very last minute.

Photo courtesy of Kawayu Onsen Oyado Kinkiyu

Why not take a trip to Teshikaga this autumn, a town full of natural charm? Hop on the Airport Liner for an easy and comfortable journey!

Abashiri Bus Co., Ltd.
Address: 1-15 Minami 2-jo Nishi, Abashiri, Hokkaido
Contact: 0152-43-4101
Official Website: https://www.abashiribus.com/

Lake Mashu Tourist Association
Address: 3-3-1 Mashu, Teshikaga-cho, Kawakami-gun, Hokkaido
Contact: 015-482-2200
Official Website: https://www.masyuko.or.jp