NATIONAL PARKS OF JAPAN

Akan-Mashu

PARKHighlights

Akan-Mashu National Park in Hokkaido is one of the longest-established parks on the island. The park is characterized by majestic volcanoes, ancient coniferous forests, and its three caldera lakes Akan, Kussharo, and Mashu. Mt. Oakan and Mt. Meakan form an impressive backdrop to Lake Akan and Lake Onneto, while pristine Lake Mashu is famed as one of the world's clearest lakes, and beautiful views of Lake Kussharo await from the surrounding mountains. Thermal springs bubble up on the banks of Lake Akan in Akanko Onsen. Soak in an outdoor 'rotenburo' bath for a perfectly relaxing lake view. Or in the Sunayu area of Lake Kussharo, you can dig your own onsen in the beach—the hot spring water rises from the sand. The shores of Lake Akan also houses one of the largest settlements of the indigenous Ainu people. In their belief that everything in nature is a representation of gods, they live in harmony with Akan-Mashu’s bountiful nature.

Getting There

From Haneda Airport fly about 95 min to Kushiro Airport, then ride the Akan Bus about 70 min to Akanko Onsen. Or, fly about 105 min to Memanbetsu Airport, then about 150 min to Kawayu Onsen by taxi and train.

Activitiesaround the Park

RECOMMENDEDItineraries

2 DAY TRIP / 1st day

11:25Fly to Tancho Kushiro AirportDeparting from Haneda Airport, land at Tancho Kushiro Airport around 13:00.
15:05See red-crowned cranes at the AICCVisit the Akan International Crane Center [GRUS] to see red-crowned tancho cranes, known locally as the 'Deity of the Wetlands.'
16:50Arrive at Lake AkanAfter arriving at Lake Akan Bus Terminal, check in to your hotel in the Akankohan lakeside area.
19:30Lake Akan Ice Festival (Seasonal)Only from early February to early March, see fireworks at the Lake Akan Ice Festival on the frozen surface of the lake itself.

2 DAY TRIP / 2nd day

9:30Trekking and Fishing at Lake AkanWalk atop the frozen lake, go ice fishing for 'wakasagi' smelt, and enjoy a beautiful wintery hike around the area.
15:00Akankohan Eco-museum CenterLearn more about the park through exhibits on its lakes and volcanoes, wildlife, and Lake Akan's famous 'marimo' (lake moss balls).
20:45Lost Kamuy at Akanko Ainu Theater IkorTake in the Lost Kamuy show, combining the ceremonial dance of the indigenous Ainu with digital art and contemporary dance.
22:00Get ready for your next adventureHead to your hotel or onsen, perhaps in the Kawayu Onsen or Mashu area, and rest up for another adventure tomorrow!

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