Mt. Tarumae Guided Hiking Tour

Tour Overview

Hike One of Hokkaido’s Most Active Volcanoes!

Experience one of Hokkaido’s most spectacular volcanoes on this guided hike around Mt. Tarumae, a Category A active volcano located between Lake Shikotsu and the Pacific Ocean. Famous for its giant lava dome, steaming fumaroles and breathtaking panoramic views, Mt. Tarumae is one of Hokkaido’s most iconic volcano hikes.

Our hike begins in peaceful forest before climbing above the tree line onto the volcano’s rugged slopes. Along the way you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, while the enormous lava dome dominates the landscape on the opposite side. At the summit, we’ll follow the crater rim along a scenic ridgeline, stopping for a snack while taking in the spectacular volcanic scenery before completing the circuit back to the trailhead.

With dramatic volcanic landscapes, alpine plants and unforgettable views, the Mt. Tarumae Guided Hike is a fantastic introduction to hiking one of Japan’s most active volcanoes.

  • Availability: June-October
  • Duration: 6 hours (3-4 hours hiking) 8:00 AM start.
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Max participants: 7 people
  • Equipment: Hiking poles available
  • Clothing: Mountain weather can change quickly. Even if it is sunny, it might be wet and windy later!
    • Top:
      • Base layer:  Synthetic top (no cotton) that wicks away moisture.
      • Mid-layer: Thin fleece or down jacket that gives you some warmth while you rest.
      • Outer layer: Windproof and waterproof jacket that shields you from the wind and rain.
    • Bottom:
      • Trousers: Hiking trousers that are breathable, lightweight and comfortable (no jeans or skirts).
      • Socks: Wool socks that give your feet comfort.
      • Footwear: Hiking boots or shoes that have grip (no flat shoes).
    • Head and hands:
      • Cap or wide brimmed hat.
      • Hiking gloves (optional).
    • Additional items:
      • Sunglasses and Suncream
      • Insect repellent
      • Backpack  
  • Food and drinks: Please bring water. A sandwich and drink is included.
  • Pick-up: Free pick-up and drop-off is available in Noboribetsu and Noboribetsu Onsen.
  • Payment: Card payment via Stripe invoice.
  • Type: Loop
  • Distance: 7.5km
  • Maximum height: 1,041m 
  • Elevation gain: 490m
  • Route conditions: Gravel/dirt

8:00: Pick-up (Free pick-up from Noboribetsu and Noboribetsu Onsen)

8:00-9:00: Drive to the trailhead

9:00-10:00: Hike up to the summit

10:00-11:00: Hike around the caldera and have lunch with fantastic views

11:00-13:00: Continue hiking around the caldera and return to the start point

13:00-14:00: Drive back to Noboribetsu and say goodbye!

Details
  • Availability: June-October
  • Duration: 6 hours (3-4 hours hiking) 8:00 AM start.
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Max participants: 7 people
  • Equipment: Hiking poles available
  • Clothing: Mountain weather can change quickly. Even if it is sunny, it might be wet and windy later!
    • Top:
      • Base layer:  Synthetic top (no cotton) that wicks away moisture.
      • Mid-layer: Thin fleece or down jacket that gives you some warmth while you rest.
      • Outer layer: Windproof and waterproof jacket that shields you from the wind and rain.
    • Bottom:
      • Trousers: Hiking trousers that are breathable, lightweight and comfortable (no jeans or skirts).
      • Socks: Wool socks that give your feet comfort.
      • Footwear: Hiking boots or shoes that have grip (no flat shoes).
    • Head and hands:
      • Cap or wide brimmed hat.
      • Hiking gloves (optional).
    • Additional items:
      • Sunglasses and Suncream
      • Insect repellent
      • Backpack  
  • Food and drinks: Please bring water. A sandwich and drink is included.
  • Pick-up: Free pick-up and drop-off is available in Noboribetsu and Noboribetsu Onsen.
  • Payment: Card payment via Stripe invoice.
Route
  • Type: Loop
  • Distance: 7.5km
  • Maximum height: 1,041m 
  • Elevation gain: 490m
  • Route conditions: Gravel/dirt
Tour Schedule

8:00: Pick-up (Free pick-up from Noboribetsu and Noboribetsu Onsen)

8:00-9:00: Drive to the trailhead

9:00-10:00: Hike up to the summit

10:00-11:00: Hike around the caldera and have lunch with fantastic views

11:00-13:00: Continue hiking around the caldera and return to the start point

13:00-14:00: Drive back to Noboribetsu and say goodbye!

"Just went on Mt. Tarumae Caldera Hiking Tour, and can I say, the reviews lived up to expectations. Just amazing. Aiden is brilliant at sharing his knowledge and passion for the area. Paced to suit and encouraging when needed. And yes, the sourdough sandwich is really good! Don't hesitate booking. 😁"
Debra Woods
Australia
"I recently did the Mt. Tarumae Caldera Hiking Tour with Nobo Tours, and it was an incredible experience! Aidan, the guide, was fantastic: knowledgeable, friendly, and clearly passionate about the area. He made sure the pace was comfortable, shared interesting insights about the geology and local history, and created a welcoming atmosphere for me as a solo traveler. The sandwich with homemade sourdough bread was so yummy and Aidan even treated me to a homemade cookie which was the perfect mid-hike treat! I highly recommend this tour and any of Aidan’s tours when visiting Hokkaido, whether you’re traveling alone or with others. Thank you so much Aidan for the great day of hiking!"
Alexia Ivan
United States
Know before you go
  • This is a physical activity and participants should be able to climb up and down uneven terrain over a distance of 7.5km.
  •  Please prepare for bad weather even if it is sunny, mountain weather can change quickly.
  • Tour will be either be canceled or postponed (if possible) if bad weather occurs. 
  • If  there is an injury or the guide deems it unsafe to carry on, the tour will finish.
  • Please prepare your own insurance as Nobo Tours does not have insurance for its customers.