Departing from Muroran, you'll board your motorcoach for a scenic journey through rolling, forested countryside on your way to the Shikotsu-Toya National Park and the "Rim of Fire." Be sure to bring your camera.

Hokkaido abounds with volcanic activity, resulting in crystalline lakes, towering peaks and bubbling natural hot springs. As you travel, you'll pause by beautiful Lake Toya. The large caldera was formed when an eruption of a volcano about 100 thousand years ago diverted a stream to create this vast pool. You won't want to miss the chance to take photos of the spectacular scenery.

From there, it's a short drive to Mount Usu (Usuzan). This is one of the most active volcanoes in Japan, erupting four times within the last 100 years (in 1910, 1944, 1977 and 2000). It stands a towering 2,404 feet above sea level. A gondola ride up the Ropeway will bring you close to the volcano's summit. The upper station's observation deck offers you panoramic views of Lake Toya and neighboring Showa Shinzan, Japan's youngest volcano, "born" in 1945. A short walk away is a second observation deck with views of the Pacific Ocean and Mount Usu's largest crater.

After some time to explore, your adventure comes to an end as you re-board your motorcoach for the relaxing and scenic ride back to Muroran and your ship.