I made it to Kawayu-Onsen – and one of the more remote corners of Hokkaido – by another slow train (with some great views on the way). Kawayu-Onsen is situated right in the caldera of a volcano – and part of Akan NP.

I kicked it off with a hike over to Mt.Io and its steaming sulphur vents. After a short stop at the rest house, I continued along the Tsutsujigahara Nature Trail, observing the changes in plantlife I this unique acidic soil ecosystem … from sturdy pines in the harshest areas to rhododendron to birches and into proper coniferous forest.

After a visit to the NP visitor center and a quick lunch in the center of  Kawayu-Onsen, I made it back to the station area, had an ice cream treat – before heading to the hotel for an onsen soak and dinner.