Mikurigaike, Volcanic crater lake in Ashikuraji, Japan
Mikurigaike is a crater lake situated at high elevation in a volcanic mountain setting. The lake is surrounded by a paved walkway that allows visitors to move easily around the water's edge.
The lake served as a sacred water source for mountain priests who performed ceremonies and offerings in ancient times. This religious role shaped its significance across generations.
The lake holds significance in local mountain worship traditions, connected to both sacred offerings and spiritual beliefs that shaped the area. Visitors can sense these meanings while walking around the water.
You can visit from July to November via a paved walkway starting at Murodo Terminal, while winter closes the area from December through mid-April. Dress warmly and check conditions before you go, as altitude and season affect the experience.
The northern shore contains Japan's highest-altitude hot spring, tucked away at extreme elevation. This thermal feature reveals the volcanic activity beneath the surface that shaped this landscape.
Location: Ashikuraji
Address: Japan, 〒930-1406 Toyama, Nakaniikawa District, Tateyama, Ashikuraji, ブナ坂外11国有林
Phone: +81764629971
Website: https://info-toyama.com/spot/31017
GPS coordinates: 36.58056,137.59722
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:47
Toyama offers visitors a balanced mix of culture, nature, and history. The city houses several notable museum institutions: the Toyama Glass Art Museum displays glassworks from Japan and internationally across six floors, while the Prefectural Museum of Art and Design showcases regional collections in a modern setting. The Science Museum complements this cultural offering with exhibits about space and biology, a planetarium, and interactive facilities for young visitors. Outdoor enthusiasts will find direct access to the surrounding mountains in Toyama. Mount Kurobegorō reaches 2,840 meters and provides views of the Northern Japanese Alps. Mount Washiba, at 939 meters, offers marked trails through the forest. In winter, the Tateyama Sanroku Ski Area opens its slopes from December to March. In the city, Kansui Park runs along the Fugan Canal with paved walkways, while botanical gardens feature native plants and tropical greenhouses. The Toyama Family Park combines a zoo, playgrounds, and green spaces, creating a spot for relaxation for all ages.
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