Mount Tarumae

Name: Mount Tarumae
Address: Mount Tarumae, Tarumae, Tomakomai, Hokkaido 059-1265, Japan
Rating: 4.5

4.5 (200)・Natural Feature・Establishment

Mount Tarumae is one of Hokkaido's most active volcanoes, offering a unique and thrilling adventure for those who visit. Located near Lake Shikotsu, this striking mountain provides a stark contrast to the serene beauty of the surrounding area with its rugged landscape and the stark, lunar-like surface near its summit.

What makes Mount Tarumae particularly fascinating is its accessibility. Unlike many active volcanoes, Tarumae can be climbed in just a few hours, making it an achievable trek for many visitors. The hike up the mountain is not just a physical journey; it's a visual experience. As you ascend, the lush greenery of Hokkaido's landscape transitions to a more barren, moon-like terrain, offering a glimpse into the raw power of nature.

The summit of Mount Tarumae presents a breathtaking view that is hard to match, with panoramic sights of the surrounding landscapes, including Lake Shikotsu. For those interested in geology and natural phenomena, the volcano's active crater, with its continuous plumes of smoke, is a compelling highlight.

Hours:

Accessable 24/7

Closed:

No closing days

Available:

All year

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome.

Fees:

Free

The area

Address

Mount Tarumae, Tarumae, Tomakomai, Hokkaido 059-1265, Japan

Top ways to experience Mount Tarumae

approx. 7-21 days

Ultimate JR Pass – Travel All of Japan Freely

From $193 /person

6hrs

Mount Tarumae Tour: Caldera Hike & Volcano Vistas

From $185 /person

What other travelers are saying about Mount Tarumae

We've been here in mid-september 2017. The climb is relatively short and not that hard. Once you leave the forest you can see the amazing view of lake Shikotsu and the ocean. The summit was very windy but the view of the huge lava dome was absolutely stunning and even scary. Drive carefully in the long unpaved road that reaches the parking lot. Allocate 3-4 hours for the trip, including spending time at the summit and walking around the rim.

Eyal Gur

Oct 28, 2017

Nice place for a trek along the volcano crater.

Bhanuka Senerath

Oct 31, 2024

A lovely hike from the parking lot up to the mountain. It takes roughly an hour to get up from the parking lot and you have several options to get back. From the top you get a stunning view. Bring enough water as there is no chance to get some from parking to the top. Toilets are available at the parking lot so better use them before you start your hike.

Stefan Hofer

Aug 1, 2020

Very easy to climb from the car park. Car park gets full in summer time in the weekend. So better be there earlier morning. Peak of East was very windy, you will need a jacket. Good things about Tarumae is There will be beautiful view of Lake Shiretoko all the way to the top. After exercise, recommendation is hot spring to Shiretoko and Marukoma. 1000jpy each but close for visitors by 15:00.

shinano m

Jun 3, 2019

Great short hike spot! We spent about 2.5hours for up and down including taking a rest few times on the way and top of the mountain. The parking area is quite limited so recommend to go early morning especially if you are going on the weekend. The path is very slippery so recommend to wear proper hike shoes.