Lake Akan

Lake Akan, situated in the eastern part of Hokkaido, forms part of the Akan-Mashu National Park along with Lake Kussharo and Lake Mashu. Boasting a circumference of about 30 kilometers (19 miles) and a depth of 45 meters (150 feet), it is a mysterious Crater Lake where Marimo, a special natural monument, thrives. On the lake lie four islands, namely Oshima Island, Kojima Island, Aiyatai Island, and Churui Island. The lake water is enchanting deep blue, exhibiting high transparency. Surrounded by a dense forest, it offers a favorable ecological environment where numerous wild animals make their home.

Lake Akan

In summer and autumn, with its clear lake water and beautiful scenery, one can take a boat tour to relish the views. During the winter, it transforms into a snow paradise, allowing you to engage in ice fishing and snowmobile ride on the lake. The area around Lake Akan is one of the settlements of the Ainu people, who possess unique culture and traditions. While sightseeing, you can experience their culture. Additionally, the Akanko Onsen are among the renowned hot spring resorts in eastern Hokkaido.

Best Things to Do in Lake Akan

1. Take a cruise or a speedboat

The cruise will take you around the entire Lake Akan. Sitting on the cruise, the green reflection of the trees along the lake shore and the magnificent Mount Oakan in the distance can be seen. On a clear day, you can sit on the open deck and enjoy the cool breeze of Lake Akan. Along the way, you will stop at Churui Island, where you can visit the Marimo Exhibition and Observation Center and meet the mysterious Marimo. The entire tour takes about 85 minutes, including a 15-minute stop at Churui Island.

Also, you can choose a speedboat tour, which allows you to enjoy the scenery and experience the excitement of a speedboat ride, with the same route as the cruise, but only takes 45 minutes.

A cruise on Lake Akan

●Tickets:
※Cruise:

Tickets	Adults	Children aged 12 or below
Individual	JPY2,400	JPY1,240
Group tickets for 15 or more members	JPY2,100	JPY1,090
Note: This fee includes the 420 yen entrance fee to the Marimo Exhibition and Observation Center.

※Speedboat:
4,100 yen per person

●Departure time:
※Cruise:
April 15 - April 30: The boat will depart at irregular intervals according to the number of tourists.
May 1 - October 20: 8:00 - 11:00, 13:00 - 16:00, every hour.
October 21 - November 10: 8:00 - 11:00, 13:00 - 15:00, every hour.
November 11 - November 30: 9:00, 11:00, 13:00, 15:00
Closed from December 1 to April 14.

※Speedboat:
Operate only in summer: 6:00 - 18:00

2. Ride a snowmobile

In winter, Lake Akan becomes entirely frozen. Venturing onto the expansive ice on a snowmobile is an extremely thrilling experience. As the wind whistles past your ears, it feels as if you are starring in a blockbuster movie.

Reference price: Adult: 330 yen; Children aged 12 or below: 220 yen

3. Experience ice fishing

In winter, the Lake Akan is a world of ice and snow, and ice fishing is a special activity here. When the lake freezes, small tents are set up on the ice, each with three ice holes, fishing gear, and bait. Visitors can experience the joy of ice fishing in a relatively warm environment. 

Reference price: 1,500 yen

4. Hiking in primeval forest

The primeval forest by Lake Akan is a must-see attraction that requires reservations and a guide. It's an excellent opportunity to experience the pristine forests of Hokkaido. From encountering 800-year-old giant trees to mud volcanoes, you can experience the forest's harmony with the earth firsthand. In the summer, the forest presents a stunning array of green hues. In the fall, the red leaves are breathtaking, and mushrooms of various kinds grow at your feet, providing endless fun. In winter, the forest is covered in white snow, and you may even encounter Hokkaido deer.

5. Visit Ainu Village

The Ainu are the indigenous people of the area. In Ainu Village, visitors can taste Hokkaido and Ainu delicacies and get a close look at Ainu culture. Additionally, visitors can enjoy performances such as “Ainu Traditional Dance” designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and “Akan Yukar Lost Kamuy,” which combines video and modern dance, at the Ainu Theater “Ikoro.”

Price:
Akan Yukar Lost Kamuy: Adults: 2,200 yen; Children aged 12 or below: 700 yen
Ainu Traditional Dance: Adults: 1,500 yen; Children aged 12 or below: 700 yen

6. Enjoy Hot Spring

Lake Akan's hot springs are among the best in Hokkaido. Many hotels around Lake Akan have outdoor baths, so you can enjoy a hot spring bath while admiring the magnificent views of Lake Akan and the surrounding mountains.

How to Get to Lake Akan

1. From Kushiro Airport - By bus

From Kushiro Airport, take the Akan Airport Liner and get off at Akanko Bus Center. It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

2. From Kushiro Station - By White Pirika, a winter-only sightseeing tour bus

Departs from Kushiro Station at 8:00, passes Tsurui Village → Sunayu Onsen → Mount Iō → Lake Mashu, and arrives at Lake Akan at 15:00.

Recommended tour time: 1 day

Admission fee to the lake:  Free Entry