We left Lake Toya for Noboribetsu in the morning. The weather was initially cloudy but the blue skies beckoned and we took the opportunity to visit Mount Usu.
The way up Mount Usu is via the ropeway.
On a ropeway tram up Usu-san.
Mount Usu is an active volcano of 2400 feet tall.
View of Uchiura Bay.
Berry fruits surviving the harsh winter on the mountain.
A long way to climb.
The crater that last erupted in 2000.
Lookout point.
Snowman saying hi.
A reverse view from the bay is Lake Toya.
One of my favourite photos.
Evidence of abominable creature?
More of Lake Toya with a glimpse of Nakajima island
Bear Park at Showa Shinzan.
Showa Shinzan is another active but smaller volcano.
It was an hour plus drive before we got to Noboribetsu Onsen Town.
3 snowmen and a bear.
Interesting welcoming fellow.
Antique post box.
Noboribetsu Hell Valley, Jigokudani.
Blue Oni(devil) guarding the entrance to the Hell Valley.
A red Oni.
Hot steam vents showing sign of volcanic activity below.
Sulfurous streams formed the main source of the hot spring.
When cold and hot meet.
A shot that I like, but couldn't get the right exposure.
All the touring made us hungry.
Tasty corns, but they are rather expensive.
Not forgetting the compliments of every meal.
It only make sense that we experience an onsen treatment when we are in an onsen town. And we took to the challenge by booking an indoor/outdoor onsen to ourselves. Although it cost more, we have the privacy to enjoy the hot spring without having to share. It was the most relaxing experience I had, trying both indoor & outdoor onsen in winter.
And another travel trip awaiting....
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