Lake Akan

Attraction

Prefecture

Hokkaido

Type

Attraction

N/A

0 reviews

Free

Entry Fee

Free Entry Restaurant Cafe

About This Destination

A volcanic lake cradled by forested mountains, famous for its rare spherical marimo moss balls and the vibrant Ainu Kotan cultural village on its shore.

Lake Akan is a volcanic caldera lake renowned for its mysterious marimo, rare spherical green algae colonies that grow naturally only here and in a few other places worldwide. The lake's crystal-clear waters and surrounding virgin forests provide habitat for diverse wildlife including the endangered Blakiston's fish owl. Visitors can explore by boat, soak in lakeside hot springs, and experience the rich Ainu culture at the adjacent kotan village.

Location

Prefecture: Hokkaido

Address: Hokkaido, Japan

Nearest Station: Kushiro Station (bus transfer)

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Accepted

Food Options: Lakeside onsen hotels serve Hokkaido cuisine including venison, smelt tempura, and local dairy. Ainu Kotan village offers traditional Ainu dishes and unique deer meat burgers.

Official Website

Access

Akanko Onsen, Akan-cho, Kushiro, Hokkaido

Get Directions

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Lake Akan?

Buses run from Kushiro Station and Kushiro Airport to Akanko Onsen in roughly 1–2 hours. A rental car suits the long distances of eastern Hokkaido best.

What is Lake Akan known for?

It is famous for the rare spherical marimo algae, a protected national treasure seen at the lake's Marimo Exhibition Center, as well as the lakeside Akanko Ainu Kotan cultural village, lake cruises, and the smoking Mt Oakan.

What can I do at Lake Akan in winter?

The frozen lake hosts ice fishing for smelt, snowmobiling, and the 'Fuyu-hanabi' winter fireworks. Nearby Lake Mashu and the frost-flower phenomenon make icy mornings special.

🎯 Other Attraction in Hokkaido

Shiretoko Peninsula Lake Toya Biei Asahiyama Zoo

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