As the third day of our caravan trip with the Japanese student, the weather remained steadfastly cloudy. Undeterred by the overcast skies, we made the exciting decision to have a short and quick exploration of the base of Mt. Io, also known as Atosa-nupuri. As we approached the base of the mountain, the landscape began to change. 

The ground beneath our feet shifted from earthy terrain to a sandy expanse. The sand here had a unique character, it was predominantly white but with a subtle, almost ethereal grayish tint.The mountain itself loomed above us, its slopes also cloaked in the same ashen hue. The cloudy skies above seemed to blend seamlessly with the muted colors of the landscape, creating an almost monochromatic panorama.

In the midst of this desolation, we couldn't help but notice small sulfur vents, scattered like tiny volcanic chimneys, emitting wisps of smoke. The scent of rotten eggs hung in the air, adding an element of mystery to the already surreal scene.Our curiosity drove us deeper into this captivating landscape, and soon we stumbled upon a natural wonder which was a pool of warm, sulfuric water. 

The contrast with the grayish surroundings was stark and kind of otherworldly. The water had a pale blue tint, and it sent up little swirls of steam, creating an eerie but fascinating vibe. The strong sulfur smell was a reminder that there was some serious volcanic action happening beneath the surface.

This unexpected and surreal adventure at the base of Mt. Io, where grayish white ash covered the land and sulfuric steam and hot springs provided a stark contrast, added an exciting layer of intrigue and wonder to our caravan trip on this cloudy day. It was a reminder that nature's surprises are often found where you least expect them, and that the diversity of landscapes in Hokkaido is truly astonishing.