Enjoying Winter in Lake Akan
Experiencing Lake Akan
The nature of Lake Akan undergoes a dramatic transformation with each season, making it the ultimate playground that sharpens all five senses. During the green season, engage in activities such as mountain climbing, fishing, canoeing, cycling, and forest walks. In winter, indulge in winter sports and explore the woods freely wearing snowshoes, experiencing the vast beauty of the forest covered in snow.
Venue 01
Lake Akan Winter Illumination - Marimo Cave LAKE AKAN -
Lake Akan Onsen Town's focal point, the Akan Marimu Hall, hosts a special winter illumination event. This season, the theme revolves around marimo, featuring projection mapping and illumination to embellish the winter scenery of Lake Akan. Immerse yourself in a fantastical world of light, sound, and visuals.
- LAKE AKAN
- Experiencing Lake Akan
- Winter
Venue 02
Ice Fishing for Smelt
Experience hand-free ice fishing at Lake Akan, where you can enjoy it even without bringing your own equipment. Inside a tent, dangle a baited hook through a hole in the ice, feeling the movement of the smelt through your fishing rod. After catching smelt, savor the flavor by having them freshly fried right on the spot. So, indulge in the joy of fishing and treat yourself to a delicious meal afterward!
- LAKE AKAN
- Experiencing Lake Akan
- Winter
Venue 03
Kamuy Lumina An Enchanted Night Walk at Lake Akan
Embark on a night walk program at the shores of Lake Akan, exploring the national park while experiencing a story based on the ancient Ainu epic. This limited-time program weaves together digital art, blending light and sound in harmony with the great outdoors, offering a unique and special experience.
- LAKE AKAN
- Experiencing Lake Akan
- Winter
Venue 04
Ainu Kotan
Lake Akan is a place where Ainu culture is deeply rooted, a place to connect with the spirit of the Ainu people who have lived harmoniously with nature. At Akan Ainu Kotan's theater, you can enjoy traditional dances and performances like 'The Lost Kamuy,' immersing yourself in the songs and dances. Guided tours led by Ainu cultural guides take you through the forest, offering a unique opportunity to experience the forest as seen from the perspective of the Ainu people.
- LAKE AKAN
- Experiencing Lake Akan
- Winter
Ainu Kotan
Sightseeing
Winter at Lake Akan can be extremely cold, with temperatures dropping to nearly minus 30 degrees Celsius. The landscape freezes into a crystalline wonderland, presenting a mesmerizing and fantastical world. The lake, once bustling with sightseeing boats in the summer, becomes a vast expanse of ice. The lush forest, which was thick with foliage, transforms into a pristine white scene covered in snow. This dramatic change is a sensory experience, inviting you to perceive the nuances through all five senses. Witness various phenomena unique to the frigid season and see them with your own eyes.
Seeing 01
Frost Flowers
The Frost Flower, a phenomenon that can only be witnessed under specific meteorological conditions, lives up to its name. The scene resembles a burst of flowers blooming on the ice, appearing as if by magic. These delicate and beautiful Frost Flowers, which gently collapse with a breeze, are truly ephemeral.
Please note that the ice on Lake Akan can be dangerous due to hot springs. It is highly recommended to participate in guided tours to observe this enchanting phenomenon safely.
- LAKE AKAN
- Experiencing Lake Akan
- Winter
Seeing 02
Ice Bubbles
Ice bubbles, formed when bubbles are trapped within the frozen surface of a lake, create a mesmerizing display of ice art as layers upon layers accumulate. Experience the enchanting sensation of being drawn into the frozen lake's beauty.
Please note that the ice on Lake Akan can be dangerous due to hot springs. It is highly recommended to participate in guided tours to observe this enchanting phenomenon safely.
- LAKE AKAN
- Experiencing Lake Akan
- Winter
Seeing 03
Fireworks (Winter Hanabi)
In the winter night sky of Lake Akan, beautiful fireworks light up the darkness. The fireworks, seen in the crisp air, appear even more dazzling. Against the backdrop of the starry sky, vibrant fireworks burst, creating a unique spectacle in the night sky of Lake Akan during this season. Please do enjoy this special experience.
- LAKE AKAN
- Experiencing Lake Akan
- Winter
Seeing 04
Bird Watching
Lake Akan is home to a diverse range of wildlife, and encounters with these creatures are quite common in daily life. Among them, birds are frequently spotted, and it's not uncommon to wake up to the sound of a Japanese black woodpecker tapping on a tree, filling the air with its distinctive 'koon, koon' call.
- LAKE AKAN
- Experiencing Lake Akan
- Winter
from sightseeing boats
Dining
Experience fulfillment for both body and soul at Lake Akan Onsen! Indulge not only in the hot springs and various activities but also savor the local cuisine. Local delicacies like game meat and Lake Lobster convey the rich flavors that epitomize the charm of Lake Akan. Immerse yourself in the culinary culture rooted in the essence of Hokkaido, allowing you to fully appreciate the allure of Lake Akan through a gastronomic journey.
Gourmet 01
Spakatsu
Coffee & Restaurant Mocha
Spakatsu is a local dish from Kushiro City, featuring thick-cut pork cutlet served on top of meat sauce spaghetti. You can enjoy it at Coffee & Restaurant Moka by Lake Akan. Indulge in the hearty Spakatsu in the nostalgic and retro ambiance of the restaurant. For dessert, how about trying the nostalgic cream soda reminiscent of old-fashioned cafes?
Store Information
Gourmet 02
Lake Lobster・ Marimo Soft Serve
Parlor Marimo
In Akan, there's an initiative to promote the Uchida Zarigani, a freshwater crab inhabiting Lake Akan, as the 'Lake Lobster,' creating a new specialty. At Parlor Marimo, you can savor the boiled Lake Lobster with a pinch of salt. It boasts a flavor similar to authentic lobster, free from any undesirable odors. Don't miss the Marimo Soft Serve for dessert!
Store Information
Gourmet 03
Venison Steak / Venison Roast
Venison, compared to other meats, is lean with low fat content, high in protein, and features the distinctive flavor of game meat, making it an easily approachable ingredient. At Lake Akan Onsen, you can enjoy venison steak at Ban'ya and venison roast at Ajishin, along with various original venison dishes at different establishments. Indulge in each chef's deliciously crafted venison dish.
Taste of the North Ban'ya
Store Information
Ajishin
Store Information
Gourmet 04
Bar
Apeso
How about spending a relaxing evening at the Guest Lounge on the 1st floor of Tsuruga Wings? Enjoy a leisurely time with Apeso's original cocktails like the 'Fukufuku Marimo,' crafted using Kushiro's local sake 'Fukushi,' or the non-alcoholic 'Cinderella' cocktail. Cheers to the night with these delightful concoctions. Additionally, seasonal cocktails are available, offering a unique experience with each passing season.
Store Information
Gourmet 05
Bar
Shikakoya
Annexed to the apparel shop AKAN LEATHER is the Bar Lounge Shikakoya. Within its newly designed and clean interior, you can savor Hokkaido's local beers and various craft beers from around the region. Don't miss the venison salami, a unique snack available exclusively at Shikakoya – be sure to give it a try!
Store Information
Bar time 20:00-24:00(L.O.23:30)
non-scheduled holiday
Gourmet 06
Sweets
BAR DE PAN
Indulging in delicious sweets amidst the majestic scenery of Lake Akan is highly recommended. At BAR DE PAN, you can savor cream puffs inspired by the male and female peaks of Mount Akan. While enjoying them indoors is delightful, the charm extends to enjoying these delectable sweets outdoors on warm days, with the scenic backdrop of Lake Akan.
Store Information
18:00-23:00(L.O.22:00)
Closed on Tuesdays
the shores of Lake Akan
Accommodation
Accommodations in Lake Akan Onsen are nestled within walking distance of the lake. A short stroll reveals a sprawling silver forest, and with a bit more exploration, you might come across traces left by wild creatures on the snowy ground. The air sparkles in the morning sun, and the night sky unfolds into a canopy of stars. Step away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and relish your stay at Lake Akan, where you can experience the untouched beauty of nature up close.
Hotel Akankoso
1-5-10 Akanko Onsen, Akan-cho, Kushiro-shi, Hokkaido 085-0467 TEL:+81-154-67-2231 https://www.akanko.com/
Forest of Akan Tsuruga Resort HANAYUUKA
1-6-1 Akanko Onsen, Akan-cho, Kushiro-shi, Hokkaido 085-0467 TEL:+81-154-67-2311 https://www.hanayuuka.com/
New Akan Hotel
2-8-8, Akankoonsen, Akancho, Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0467 TEL:+81-154-67-2121 https://www.newakanhotel.co.jp/
Hotel Gozensui
4-5-1, Akankoonsen, Akancho, Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0467 TEL:+81-154-67-2031 http://www.gozensui.com/
TSURUGA Akan Yuku no Sato
4-6-10 Akanko Onsen, Akan-cho, Kushiro-shi, Hokkaido TEL:+81-154-67-4000 https://www.tsuruga.com/
Lake Akan Tsuruga Wings
4-6-10 Akanko Onsen, Akan-cho, Kushiro-shi, Hokkaido 085-0467 TEL:+81-154-67-4000 https://www.tsurugawings.com/
Akan Tsuruga Bessou HINANOZA
2-8-1 Akanko Onsen, Akan-cho,Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0467 TEL:+81-154-67-5500 https://www.hinanoza.com/
Hotel & Spa Resort La Vista Akangawa Kushiro
3-1 Akancho Okurushube, Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0468 TEL:+81-154-67-5566 https://www.hotespa.net/hotels/akangawa/
Tohokan
2-3-3 Akanko Onsen, Akan-cho,Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0467 TEL:+81-154-67-2050 https://tohokan.net/
Akanko Bus Center Inn
3-4-5 Akanko Onsen, Akan-cho,Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0467 TEL:+81-154-67-2655
Hachiya Hotel
1-3-29 Akanko Onsen, Akan-cho,Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0467 TEL:+81-154-67-2747
Tsuruga Lake Akan Lodge Turano
1-6-11 Akanko Onsen, Akan-cho,Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0467 TEL:+81-154-67-2655 https://www.akan-turano.com/
Tsuruga AKAN terrace
2-2-37 Akanko Onsen, Akan-cho,Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0467 TEL:+81-154-67-4000 https://www.akanterrace.com/
Ryogoku
2-1-3 Akanko Onsen, Akan-cho,Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0467 TEL:+81-154-67-2773
Yamaguchi
5-3-2 Akanko Onsen, Akan-cho,Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0467 TEL:+81-154-67-2555
Souvenirs
When it comes to souvenirs from Lake Akan, the iconic 'marimo' takes center stage. Indulge in delicious treats like 'marimo yokan' (sweet bean jelly) and 'Akan Shimpui,' both inspired by the marimo crafted right in Akan. How about savoring local specialties like 'Wakasagi Tsukudani' (seasoned smelt) or 'Lake Lobster Soup' as well?
Wakasagi Tsukudani
Lake Akan Fishery Cooperative Direct Sales2-7-2, Akanko-onsen, Akan-cho, Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0467, Japan
Lake lobster Soup
Lake Akan Fishery Cooperative Direct Sales2-7-2, Akanko-onsen, Akan-cho, Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0467, Japan
Enjoying Lake Akan
Akanko Onsen, located on the eastern side of Hokkaido within the Akan-Mashu National Park, is a hot spring town surrounded by rich and beautiful nature. Despite being compact, spanning about 1.5 kilometers from end to end, it offers a plethora of natural experiences, Ainu culture, and culinary delights. Throughout the town, you can immerse yourself in the joys of each season and engage in interactions with the local residents. We encourage you to explore the charm of Lake Akan through these experiences.