Fuppushi-dake from Lake Shikotsu. 1,103 masl
Fuppushi‑dake rises sharply above the eastern shore of Lake Shikotsu, forming an elegant, yet steep spur that offers some of the best caldera views in the region. The standard route begins just off Route 276 approximately 4km from Morappu Camping grounds, following a well‑marked forest path that climbs steadily through mixed stands of Sakhalin fir, Yezo spruce, and broadleaf birch. The trail is soft underfoot, with sections of exposed roots and narrow switchbacks as it gains height toward the northern lava chute.
After about an hour you should reach the small shelf area at the hip of the spur at 820masl. The forest begins to thin and the gradient increases. The route follows one of the mountain’s sharp northern shoulders, climbing through a mixture of Ermann's birch, Dwarf Stone Pine, and sasa. As you ascend, views open across the lake toward Eniwa‑dake, the highest peak of the Shikotsu caldera, and back toward the deep blue water far below.
The upper ridge is airy but not technical, with short steeper pitches leading to a wide summit plateau. From the top, the panorama is exceptional: the full sweep of Lake Shikotsu, the rugged skyline of Eniwa‑dake, and the distant peaks of the Yotei and Hidaka ranges on clear days. The descent follows the same route, offering continuous views as you drop back into the forest and return to the lakeshore.
Fuppushi‑dake is a rewarding half‑day climb with big scenery and a strong sense of volcanic landscape. It’s an excellent choice for hikers looking for a quieter alternative to Eniwa‑dake while still experiencing the dramatic terrain of the Shikotsu‑Toya National Park.
Difficulty- 5/10.


