Eastern part of Hokkaido. Lake Koakan, which was originlly one large lake was split by the volcanic activity of Mt. Maekan due to crustal deformation about 10,000 years ago, and divided into the current Lake Akan, Lake Penketo, Lake Taro, and Lake Jiro. The slow nature activities in Akan still grow wild forests and “Marimo” which is a designated as a Special Natural Monument. Onsen (hot springs) are also welling up from the volcanic activity. The shore of Lake Akan was where Ainu people, the indigenous people of Hokkaido, set up a Kotan (village) and settled. (Ainu Kotan)
Akan Mashu National Park was certified as the First National Park in Japan (1934). Lake Akan Onsen (and Akan Enchi) which is the center of sightseeing in Lake Akan, is popular as a specialty of Akan along with Marimo and Japanese cranes. The various experiences that can be enjoyed in the great nature surrounding Akan and the interaction with the Ainu culture is becoming popular with tourists. For example, skiing and snowboarding at Lake Akan surprises even local Hokkaido people.
However, there is in fact a ski resort “UTARA” with ski rentals available as well as it is also an FIS-approved stadium. There is a course that can be enjoyed just as a family slope. It is double the fun if you combine it with an Onsen and Japanese cranes' sightseeing.
By all means please plan a trip visiting the nature of Akan. You can feel the depth of sightseeing and can fully enjoy the charm of Hokkaido. Where you can feel the origin of nature, the culture and history of the indigenous people of Hokkaido.
| Time required | Fee | Timetable | |
|---|---|---|---|
| JR Kushiro Station (all year) | 120minutes | 2,750 yen | Akan Bus Timetable |
| Kushiro Airport (all year) | 75minutes | 2,190 yen | Akan Bus Timetable |
| Asahikawa BT (all year) | 320minutes | 5,900 yen | Akan Bus Timetable |
| Sounkyo Onsen (all year) | 230minutes | 4,400 yen | Akan Bus Timetable |
| Kitami BT (all year) | 90minutes | 2,300 yen | Akan Bus Timetable |
Access to other areas is plentiful from the hot springs of Lake Akan at the center.
