Bogdan Khmelnitsky

Bogdan Khmelnitsky is a volcanic peak located on Iturup Island within the Kuril archipelago. It rises to approximately 1540 meters and forms part of a larger chain of volcanic mountains shaped by intense geological activity.

The territory changed from Russian to Japanese control through the Treaty of Shimoda in 1855 and returned to Russian administration in 1945. These boundary shifts shaped the island's political history and its current status remains contested between the two nations.

The volcano bears the name of a 17th-century Ukrainian leader who initiated a rebellion against Polish dominion, reflecting Russian historical influences.

Access requires special permits due to the island's contested status between Russia and Japan. Visitors planning a trip to Hokkaido should check with local authorities about current conditions and accessibility before departure.

The mountain slopes host specialized plant species that thrive in mineral-rich volcanic soils and vary by elevation zone. This botanical diversity makes the area interesting for nature observers but often goes unnoticed by visitors.

Location: Kurilsky District

Location: Nemuro Subprefecture

Location: Hokkaido

Elevation above the sea: 1,540 m

GPS coordinates: 45.33738,147.92063

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:21