Sarurun Observatory
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Kushiro Marshland and Toro Lake from this serene hilltop observatory.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer views, lush greenery
Sarurun Observatory
Best Time
Clearer views, lush greenery
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Kushiro Marshland and Toro Lake from this serene hilltop observatory.
"The absolute silence from the hilltops with the view made it worth while."
🎯 Find the Correct Entrance
Look for the sign with a red flag and 'observatory entrance' to avoid marshland mishaps. :pushpin:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential as trails can be muddy and uneven. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sarurun Observatory Viewpoint
Summit
Panoramic views of Toro Lake and the vast Kushiro Marshland. Experience absolute silence.
Kushiro Marshland Scenery
Trail to Observatory
Witness the unique beauty of the marshland, with potential wildlife sightings like red foxes.
Toro Lake Vista
From Observatory
A serene view of Toro Lake, often shrouded in mist, adding to the mystical atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Entrance
Best Footwear and Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Find the Correct Entrance
Look for the sign with a red flag and 'observatory entrance' to avoid marshland mishaps. :pushpin:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential as trails can be muddy and uneven. :athletic_shoe:
👖 Long Pants Recommended
Protect your legs from brush and potential mud on the hiking trails. :pants:
⏳ Allocate 1-1.5 Hours
Allow ample time for the round trip hike and to soak in the stunning views. :stopwatch:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Find the Correct Entrance
Look for the sign with a red flag and 'observatory entrance' to avoid marshland mishaps. :pushpin:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential as trails can be muddy and uneven. :athletic_shoe:
👖 Long Pants Recommended
Protect your legs from brush and potential mud on the hiking trails. :pants:
⏳ Allocate 1-1.5 Hours
Allow ample time for the round trip hike and to soak in the stunning views. :stopwatch:
🤫 Embrace the Silence
The absolute silence from the hilltop is a highlight; enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. :microphone2:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Sarurun Observatory for its stunning, serene views of the Kushiro Marshland and Toro Lake, highlighting the peaceful atmosphere. However, some caution is advised regarding the entrance and trail conditions, which can be muddy and require appropriate footwear. The hike itself is considered worthwhile for the panoramic vistas.
"This is better than the Sarubo viewpoint. Word of caution: don’t be dumb like me and enter via the wrong entrance - the place with the mobile toilet and parking space is NOT the entrance. I walked a little into it and nearly sunk into the marshland. The correct entrance should show a path going up, says “observatory entrance” on a sign beside a red flag (see photo).
The trail starts with a steep climb before coming to a fork - turning left brings you to Sarurun, right to Sarobo. The 710m to Sarurun is generally a series of up and downs but the path is well trodden. I might avoid the trail if it’s rainy though.
The observatory itself boasts good views, but note that it’s a really simple and small space without benches.
PS: A red fox crossed my path as I was leaving the entrance!"
Hui Ning Lau
"We've been here in mid September 2017. The view from the hilltop is very beautiful. You can see the Toro lake and some swampy areas. The absolute silence from the hilltops with the view made it worth while.
While ascending, be careful not to slip as the paths can be very muddy.
From the parkig lot go along the road until you will see the entrance on the left side. Climb to the first view point ad then continue to the second one. Allocate 1-1.5 hours for the total trip."
Eyal Gur
"It takes 40 minutes to an hour for round trip to Sarurun Observatory. You must wear comfortable shoes with long pants. It is worth to go hiking to see the awesome view of Kushiro shitsugen."
Renny Y
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
GPS navigation can be tricky. Ensure you're looking for the correct entrance marked with a red flag and 'observatory entrance' sign, not just any parking area. The path starts with a climb.
While the Senmou Line train goes through the Kushiroshitsugen marshland, direct public transport to the observatory entrance might be limited. It's often best accessed by car.
Follow signs for the observatory entrance, which should be clearly marked. Avoid following generic GPS coordinates that might lead to incorrect parking spots.
Yes, driving is a common way to reach the area. Be mindful of the specific entrance signs to avoid confusion.
Yes, parking is available, but it's crucial to identify the correct parking area associated with the observatory entrance to avoid getting lost or stuck in the marsh.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of ticket purchases for Sarurun Observatory in traveler feedback, suggesting it may be free to access. +1
Specific opening hours are not widely published, but it's generally recommended to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
Based on reviews, it appears to be a natural viewpoint accessible without an admission fee. +1
Visiting in winter, like late February, might lead to path closures due to snow or ice, making access difficult or impossible.
Trails can be closed, especially during winter months or adverse weather conditions. It's advisable to check local conditions if possible.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The trail involves a steep initial climb, followed by up-and-down sections. It's generally well-trodden but can be muddy.
The round trip to Sarurun Observatory typically takes about 40 minutes to an hour, with the total trip including Sarubo taking 1-1.5 hours.
The observatory itself is described as a simple, small space without benches. Mobile toilets might be available near some parking areas, but not at the summit.
Expect stunning panoramic views of Toro Lake and the expansive Kushiro Marshland, offering a sense of absolute silence and natural beauty.
Yes, it's a great spot for landscape photography, especially during summer mornings or autumn, capturing the marshland and lake.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Summer mornings offer clear views and lush landscapes, while mid-September can provide beautiful autumn colors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive marshland and lake views. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
The main observatory viewpoint offers the most iconic vistas. The trail itself also presents opportunities for nature photography.
Yes, there are reports of wildlife sightings like red foxes along the trails, so keep your camera ready!
Morning light can be soft and beautiful for landscape shots. Be prepared for changing light conditions, especially if fog rolls in.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the observatory itself is basic, the adventure of the hike and the stunning panoramic views of the marshland and lake can be captivating for older children. Keep an eye out for wildlife sightings, which can add an exciting element to the outing. The peaceful atmosphere at the top is also a great opportunity to teach kids about nature and conservation.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature lovers will appreciate the serene environment and the chance to experience the absolute silence of the marshland. The well-trodden path, though potentially muddy, is manageable with the right footwear. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife; spotting a red fox can be a highlight of the visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Kushiro Marshland Experience
The trails leading to Sarurun are designed to immerse you in this environment. While the hike can be challenging with its inclines and potential mud, the reward is a profound connection with nature. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna; sightings of red foxes have been reported, adding an element of surprise to the trek.
This observatory is more than just a viewpoint; it's an invitation to appreciate the delicate balance of the marshland ecosystem. The absolute silence from the hilltop is a powerful reminder of the tranquility that nature offers, making the effort to reach it truly worthwhile.
Navigating to Sarurun Observatory: A Traveler's Guide
The trail itself begins with a noticeable steep climb, which can be demanding but is well-trodden. After this initial ascent, the path presents a series of up and downs as it winds towards the observatory. While generally manageable, the path's condition can deteriorate significantly if it rains, making sturdy, waterproof footwear and long pants highly recommended.
For those planning their visit, allocating 1 to 1.5 hours for the round trip is a good estimate, allowing time to enjoy the views and the hike. While the observatory itself is a simple structure, the unparalleled silence and the breathtaking vistas of Toro Lake and the marshland make the journey a memorable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit