Lake Akan

Overview

Lake Akan is a stunning volcanic lake located in the eastern part of Hokkaido, Japan. It is famous for its beautiful sunsets, hot springs, and the rare marimo algae balls that grow in its waters.

Lake Akan is known for its unique ecosystem and cultural significance, particularly the marimo algae balls, which are a designated natural monument of Japan.

Natural Park Lake Hot Springs

Location

Address

Kushiro, Japan

Neighborhood: Lake Akan

Coordinates

43.466700, 144.166700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

¥500

Children

¥250

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

June-August

Best Time of Day

Afternoon

best sunsets

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

3 hours

Recommended

half day

Full Experience

overnight stay

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

• cherry blossoms
• mild weather

summer

warm

• festivals
• warm weather

autumn

cool

• autumn colors
• cool weather

winter

cold

• snow activities
• hot springs

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead
Check weather
Respect nature

What to Bring

essential

ID water warm clothing

seasonal

jacket umbrella sunscreen

not allowed

large bags drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• uneven terrain

Medical facilities: first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

JPY

Typical Costs

entry ¥500

parking ¥500

food ¥1000

souvenirs ¥1500

Dress Code

casual, comfortable shoes, layers for weather changes, hiking shoes, waterproof boots, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1 month
• official website
• 48 hours
• available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Akan Lake Guide

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Weather info

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Memambetsu Airport (MMB)

Distance: 30 km

Travel Time: 45 minutes

taxi

¥8000 45 min

public_transport

¥1000 1 hour

From City Center

Distance: 15 km

bus

¥1000 30 min

taxi

¥3000 20 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Natural beauty, cultural significance

Historical Significance: Important Ainu cultural site

Insider Tips

Free entry early morning
Best food at local restaurants

Local Recommendations

• Try local onsen
• Ask for guide Japanese

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello こんにちは (Konnichiwa)

thank_you ありがとう (Arigato)

where_is どこですか (Doko desu ka)

how_much いくらですか (Ikura desu ka)

beautiful きれい (Kirei)

ticket チケット (Chiketto)

Guide Languages: Japanese, English, Chinese

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Lake Viewpoint

Best Time: Sunset

Tips: Wide angle

Result: Stunning sunset

#sunset #lakeakan

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, viewpoints

prohibited areas hot springs

flash photography not allowed in some areas

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited

tripod policy restricted

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Akan Mashu National Park

Distance: 10km

Walking: N/A

Type: National Park

Kushiro Marshland

Distance: 30km