三国峠（北海道）
"Mikuni-toge Mountain Pass 三国峠," which showcases beautiful expressions throughout the four seasons, is a spectacular viewing spot where you can enjoy the grand landscape of the Tokachi Mitsumata Caldera, designated as a Hokkaido heritage site, and the Eastern Daisetsu Mountain Range with its mountains reaching elevations of around 2,000 meters. The pass is situated at the boundary of the former regions of Ishikari, Tokachi, and Kitami, which is why it is named "Mikuni."
The Tokachi Mitsumata Caldera was formed approximately one million years ago through a massive volcanic eruption. Around 300,000 years ago, it became a lake area and later disappeared, giving rise to a forested area. The unique feature of this region lies in the coexistence of cold areas with permafrost and geothermal areas with hot springs, which enhances the diversity of life.
Mikuni-toge Mountain Pass is within the larger Daisetsuzan National Park (226,764 ha) and is the highest pass on a national road in Hokkaido, with an elevation of 1,139 meters. The forest of Sakhalin spruce, Sakhalin firs, White birch, Gold birch, and Japanese rowan is particularly stunning in autumn when the reds, yellows, and greens intertwine, creating a remarkable landscape.
Furthermore, the view of Matsumi Ohashi Bridge, which forms gentle curves, is also a highlight. This red bridge, floating amidst the forest at a height of 30 meters and a length of approximately 330 meters, boasts a sculptural beauty akin to a work of art.
This magnificent view is from the Ryokushin Bridge 緑深橋. From Lake Nukabira, take National Route 273 towards Mikuni-toge Mountain Pass. After passing the Tokachi Mitsumata Bus Stop, you'll be surrounded by rows of birch trees on both sides of the road. After a while, you'll reach Matsumi Ohashi Bridge 松見大橋, and in the distance, you'll see the Mikuni-toge Bridge 三国峠橋around the mountainside. Once you pass Matsumi Ohashi Bridge, the next is Komakusa Bridge コマクサ橋. After passing through the Komakusa Covered Road, you'll reach Ryokushin Bridge.
The sea of trees at Matsumi Ohashi Bridge and the Tokachi Mitsumata Caldera, visible from here, are popular scenic spots often seen in travel pamphlets. There's limited parking available around Ryokushin Bridge, so please be cautious not to obstruct traffic. From Ryokushin Bridge, you'll proceed to Mikuni-toge Bridge and then to the Mikuni-toge Observatory. Unfortunately, you won't be able to see the splendid view of Matsumi Ohashi Bridge from the Mikuni-toge Observatory.
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