Akan National Park: Mystical Lakes with Marimo Balls and Ainu Culture
Akan National Park
In eastern Hokkaido, Akan National Park is known for Lake Akan — home to special natural monument marimo algae balls — plus the mystical caldera lakes of Mashu and Kussharo, and the living Ainu culture of the Ainu Kotan village.
Highlights
- Lake Akan: Home to marimo balls growing up to 30cm in diameter - Ainu Kotan: Lakeside Ainu village with woodcraft and traditional dance - Lake Mashu: Ultra-clear "Misty Mashu" caldera lake of extraordinary beauty - Lake Kussharo: Japan's largest caldera lake, visited by swans in winter
Experiences
- Boat tours to observe marimo - Ainu dance performance (Yukara) - Hot spring bathing at lakeside onsen
Getting There
- From Memanbetsu Airport by car: about 1.5 hours to Akan Kohan Onsen - From Kushiro Station by bus: about 2 hours
Tips
Lake Akan is also a hot spring resort — staying lakeside is highly recommended. Ainu woodcraft makes excellent souvenirs.
📍 Location & Access
Share this article