Ura-Mashu Observatory: The Quiet Far Side of Lake Mashu

By Chaporo, a Sapporo local Published
Ura-Mashu Observatory: The Quiet Far Side of Lake Mashu

Quick answers

  • A quiet viewing deck in the forest on the far, northeastern side of Lake Mashu
  • About an hour by car from Observatories No. 1 and No. 3
  • Free car park, toilets and a small summer shop; the road is closed from late October to late April
  • About 20 to 30 minutes is enough

Ura-Mashu ("back Mashu") Observatory is the viewpoint on the far, northeastern side of Lake Mashu, away from the main Observatories No. 1 and No. 3. Apart from a small summer shop and toilets there is no big building, just a viewing deck in the forest, and far fewer people. It is a place to take in the atmosphere of Lake Mashu rather than tick off the famous view, and it is about an hour's drive from the other two.

What is Lake Mashu?

Lake Mashu is a caldera lake in Teshikaga and one of the clearest lakes in the world. On a clear day its deep "Mashu blue" seems to pull you in. It is also known for fog, and is often hidden. Whether you see the water or not, it is a lake with a strong presence.

What is Ura-Mashu like?

The wooden viewing deck at Ura-Mashu Observatory in autumn, with Lake Mashu and Mt. Kamuinupuri beyond

The first thing you notice is how few people there are. Apart from a small rest house, there is only forest around you, so you hardly hear voices or cars; what stays with you is the wind and the birds. It felt less like sightseeing and more like sitting quietly with the lake.

Lake Mashu and Mt. Kamuinupuri rising from its shore, seen through autumn trees from Ura-Mashu Observatory

The lake does not fill your view here; it sits quietly beyond the trees, and that distance makes it feel more mysterious. Even when it is not sunny, light cloud or the first fog rolling in seemed to bring out the Ura-Mashu atmosphere even more.

Ura-Mashu, No. 1 or No. 3?

  • Observatory No. 1: the classic first stop, with full facilities and the clearest view of Mashu blue, but the most people.
  • Observatory No. 3: fewer people than No. 1, and the lake feels closer: a balance of convenience and calm.
  • Ura-Mashu: atmosphere over convenience. Minimal facilities, but quiet time with the lake.
Lake Mashu Observatory No. 1: The Classic View, Parking and the FogA local's guide to Lake Mashu Observatory No. 1 in eastern Hokkaido: the view, the Kamuy Terrace shop, how the three observatories compare, parking and what to do if the lake is in fog. Lake Mashu Observatory No. 3: The Quieter View of Mashu BlueA local's guide to Lake Mashu Observatory No. 3: how the view compares with Observatory No. 1 and Ura-Mashu, who it suits, how long to stay, and what to do about the fog.

Where is it, and how to fit it in

On the map, Observatories No. 1 and No. 3 sit close together on the west side of the lake, while Ura-Mashu is on the opposite side and reached by a completely different road. The roads go around the lake and its mountains, so it is about an hour by car from No. 1 or No. 3. Seeing all three on the same day is quite possible, but it takes time.

If you want the easiest view or are short of time, stick to No. 1 and No. 3. If you are happy to spend the time driving for a quieter, calmer view, add Ura-Mashu.

Go ready for fog

Ura-Mashu is not a place to count on seeing the water; some days it is hidden in fog. Even then, the feel of the forest and the sense of the lake below stay with you. Go without expectations and you will not be disappointed.

How long to stay and things to know

  • Time: about 20 to 30 minutes.
  • Getting there: you need a car, and the way is a mountain road, so watch the weather and the road surface.
  • Facilities: a free car park for about 15 cars, toilets, and a small rest house with a shop from late April to October.
  • Winter: the access road is closed from about late October to late April.

My eastern Hokkaido road trip has the route around the lakes.

Lake Mashu, Lake Kussharo and Lake Akan: A Local's Eastern Hokkaido Road TripA two-night road trip around Lake Kussharo, Lake Mashu and Lake Akan to the Kushiro Wetland, from a Sapporo local who drove it: the order that works, what each lake is like, the boat to the marimo, and weather and driving tips.

FAQ about Ura-Mashu Observatory

Q1. How far is Ura-Mashu from Lake Mashu Observatory No. 1?

About an hour by car, around the lake.

Q2. Is Ura-Mashu worth it?

If you want a quiet view and have the time, yes. For the classic view, No. 1 and No. 3 are easier.

Q3. How long do you need at Ura-Mashu?

About 20 to 30 minutes.