We studied high-frequency earthquake swarm associated with the eruption of the Usu volcano in 2000 using the data observed by a national seismic network in southern Hokkaido. To get a precise hypocenter location, we applied the double-difference method and station correction to hypocenter determination. Systematic shift of epicenters possibly caused by heterogeneous velocity structure of the upper crust is needed to be consistent with the initial motions of the seismograms at the nearest station. Concentration of hypocenters under the northern flank of the volcano in the initial stage suggests that the magma started its activity at about 5 km in depth at the region. Concentric expansion of swarm area occurred before the eruption and formed doughnut pattern of which center is located near the summit of the volcano. Doughnut pattern may represent relaxation of stress under the volcano which is caused by magma movement and pore pressure change under the volcano.
