Lake Akan
Discover the Mystical Home of Rare Marimo Amid Volcanic Peaks
Witness the rare marimo algae and the seasonal beauty of a caldera lake born 150,000 years ago.
Formed by a volcanic eruption about 150,000 years ago, Lake Akan is a majestic caldera lake dotted with four islands: Oshima, Kojima, Yaitai, and Churui. Surrounded by Mt. Meakan and Mt. Oakan, the area offers pristine nature and the soothing waters of Akan Onsen along its southern shore.
The lake is best known for its unique ecosystem, especially the Marimo of Lake Akan. These perfectly spherical green algae, designated as a Special Natural Monument of Japan, grow in rare natural colonies. You can observe them at the Marimo Exhibition and Observation Center on Churui Island or at the Akanko Visitor Center in the hot spring town.
Lake Akan changes beautifully with the seasons. In summer, enjoy canoeing on calm waters or trekking through lush forests. Each October, the Lake Akan Marimo Festival features the glowing “Taimatsu Procession,” creating a spiritual nighttime atmosphere.
In winter, the lake freezes into a magical landscape. On cold mornings, delicate “frost flowers” form across the ice. Visitors can enjoy smelt fishing and snowmobiling, while the “Fuyuhanabi” fireworks (February–March) illuminate the frozen lake for a truly unforgettable experience.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Category
- With friends
- World Heritage sites, Jomon culture, Ainu culture
- History, culture, art
- Other experiences
- Sightseeing trains, pleasure boats, cruise ships
- Guys' trip
- Girls' trip
- Couple
- Travel style
- Activities & Outdoors
- Lake and marsh, waterfall, pond, dam
- Red leaves, scenic spots, observation platforms
- Natural scenery, spectacular views
- Mountain climbing, trekking
- Skiing, snow activities
- Experiences, tours
- Visit seas, rivers, and lakes
- Visit mountains and forests
- Canoeing, kayaking
- Smelt fishing, fishing
- Travel Inspiration
- Enjoy spectacular views
- Best for a girls' trip
- Adventure Travel
- Scenic routes
- Nearest airports
General Information
- 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
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
