Lake Akan

A Caldera Lake with Large Spherical Marimo Colonies

A caldera lake formed by a volcanic eruption about 150,000 years ago, with four islands - Oshima, Kojima, Yaitai, and Churui - scattered across the lake.


Surrounded by Mt. Meakan and Mt. Oakan, Lake Akan has Akan Onsen on its southern shore. The Marimo of Lake Akan, designated as a Special Natural Monument of Japan, are characterized by their large spherical colonies. They can be observed at the Marimo Exhibition and Observation Center on Churui Island and at the Akanko Visitor Center. A lakeside walking trail allows visitors to observe the surrounding natural environment on foot, while sightseeing cruises offer views of the lake from the water.


Lake Akan offers opportunities for nature observation and outdoor activities throughout the year. In summer, visitors can enjoy canoeing and trekking, while in winter, smelt fishing and snowmobiling are available on the frozen lake. In October, the Taimatsu Procession is held as part of the Lake Akan Marimo Festival. During the coldest part of winter, frost flowers may also appear on the surface of the lake. From February to March, the Fuyuhanabi fireworks display is held over the frozen lake.

  • * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
Nearest airports
New Chitose Airport Sapporo Okadama Airport Hakodate Airport Okushiri Airport Asahikawa Airport Wakkanai Airport Rishiri Airport Okhotsk Monbetsu Airport Memanbetsu Airport Nemuro Nakashibetsu Airport Tancho Kushiro Airport Tokachi Obihiro Airport

General Information

Postal code
〒085-0467 
Address
北海道釧路市阿寒町阿寒湖温泉
Telephone Number
0154-67-3200(Akan Tourist Association)
Open
9:00-18:00(Tourist Association)
Car Park
Charged
Directions
●By car: About 60 minutes from Tancho Kushiro Airport
●By car: About 80 minutes from JR Kushiro Station
Website

Official site

HOKKAIDO LOVE!youtube

* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.

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