Lake Akan (Kushiro City, Hokkaido)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Lake Akan is a caldera lake located in Kushiro City, Hokkaido, and is one of the main tourist destinations in Akan-Mashu National Park (an area that now includes Akan-Mashu Prefectural Natural Park). A hot spring town (Lake Akan Onsen) spreads out along the lakeside, and the area is attractive for its magnificent mountain views, including the surrounding active volcanoes Mount Meakan and Mount Oakan, as well as its primeval forests and marshland scenery.

Lake Akan is especially known worldwide for its marimo (round algae), which grow in round shapes and are designated as a natural monument. The area is also home to a strong Ainu culture, and traditional crafts and dance can be seen at the Ainu Kotan (village) on the shores of Lake Akan.

Highlights

• Marimo (round algae of Lake Akan): A famous Lake Akan specialty. You can see them at the Marimo exhibition and observation facility or from a sightseeing boat (collecting and taking them home is prohibited).
• Lake Akan Pleasure Boat and Sightseeing Cruise: You can enjoy the magnificent scenery from the lake. The mountain ranges and lakeside scenery seen from the lake surface are exceptional.
• Lake Akan Hot Springs: A walking area lined with hot spring inns where you can stay overnight or take a day trip to bathe, foot baths, and souvenir shops.
• Akan Ainu Kotan: You can see and experience traditional Ainu woodcarving crafts and dances (such as Iomante). Folk art and crafts can also be purchased.
• Mountain climbing and trekking: Hiking in the mountains of Mount Oakan and Mount Meakan. You can enjoy observing the volcanic terrain and marsh plants (please check the equipment and information beforehand for hiking).
• Nature Observation: The lakeside walking trails, observation deck, and bird watching (lake birds) are also attractive.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest major station: Kushiro Station (JR Nemuro Main Line/Kushiro-Nemuro Main Line).
• Train + Bus: Direct buses such as Kushiro Bus run from Kushiro Station to Lake Akan Onsen, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. The number of buses varies depending on the season, so please check in advance.
• car: It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours from central Kushiro via national and prefectural roads. Parking is available in the hot spring town and tourist facilities (it may be full during peak season).
• From the airportFrom Kushiro Airport, it takes about 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes by rental car. There are also airport limousine buses and shuttles available, but the number of services is limited.
• Long-distance travelFrom Sapporo, take the JR express train to Kushiro (approximately 4-5 hours) or drive on the expressway or regular roads (approximately 4-5 hours). If using public transportation, please allow for transfer times.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short visit: 1-2 hours (walk around the lakeside + visit to the Marimo exhibition hall and foot baths)
• Standard sightseeing: Half a day to a full day (cruise boat, Ainu Kotan tour, hot spring bathing)
• Relaxed stay: 1-2 nights (hot spring stay + hiking, observing the surrounding nature, viewing the early morning and evening views)

Nearby spots

• Akan Mashu National Park area (nature walks around the lake, view points)
• Hiking routes to Mt. Oakan and Mt. Meakan (the trailhead is accessible near the lakeside)
• Kushiro Marsh (about an hour by car): Japan's largest marsh, famous for bird watching such as red-crowned cranes
• Lake Mashu and Lake Kussharo (approximately 1-1.5 hours by car): Combine this with Lake Akan and explore the lakes of eastern Hokkaido.
• Akan Ainu Theater and folk craft shops (cultural experience spots on the shores of Lake Akan)

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Consideration for Marimo: Marimo are a natural monument. Touching or collecting them is prohibited. Please follow the instructions of the exhibition facility and management.
• Season and weather: In winter (December to March), roads freeze and snow accumulate, so winter equipment (studless tires, chains, etc.) is required. Mountain climbing and trekking require equipment and experience appropriate for snow conditions. In autumn, the area is crowded with people as the leaves change color.
• Check information on volcanic activity: The Akan region is subject to volcanic activity. Restrictions on climbing and access may be imposed, so please check with the meteorological observatory or local government beforehand.
• Number of trains and opening hours：The number of buses and other public transportation services and the opening hours of tourist facilities vary greatly depending on the season. There are fewer buses in the early morning, evening, and winter, so be sure to plan your trip well in advance.
• Consideration for nature and culture: When visiting the lakeside or Ainu Kotan, please be considerate of the local area and culture, such as taking your trash home with you, observing proper photography etiquette, and handling souvenirs (no theft).
• Mobile phone and cash: It may be difficult to pay by card at some facilities or during certain seasons. It is a good idea to have cash on hand and check the signal strength of your mobile phone beforehand.

Lake Akan is a spot with a variety of attractions, including natural scenery, hot springs, Ainu culture, and the unique Marimo balls. Before visiting, be sure to check seasonal information, transportation, volcano and mountain climbing information to ensure a safe and pleasant trip.