Observe the Japanese crane (Tancho-no-Sato)｜Visit the Japanese cranes (Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary)｜Frost flower｜Kearashi｜Omiwatari in Lake Kussharo｜Diamond dust｜Smelt fishing｜Snowshoes｜Ski｜On ice festival｜Lost Kamuy｜Ainu Kotan in Winter ｜Ainu folk crafts shop｜Ainu cuisine
Nature/Animals
Let's see a Japanese crane!
They almost went extinct about 100 years ago. Japanese cranes were designated as a national natural treasure around 70 years ago. They are a large bird of about 160cm in height, weigh 6-12kg and can be as wide as 240cm when they open their wings. Although they are migratory birds that move depending on the season, the Japanese cranes around Akan live in the Kushiro Marshland and can even be seen in summer. They were known as “Kamui” meaning ”god” since the days of the Ainu. Recently the population increased from 1600 and is currently 1800. They are especially famous in winter scenery.
Observe the Japanese crane
(Roadside Station Akan Tancho-no-Sato indoor and outdoor)
The International Crane Centre (indoor) and the Annex Observation Centre (outdoor) in Roadside Station Akan Tancho-no-Sato. The International Crane Centre is open year round. The observation centre is open from November to the end of March during the winter season (approximately 150 birds fly in). Take the Akan bus and get off at the "Tancho-no-Sato" bus stop on the Akan line.
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Visit the Japanese cranes
(Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary indoor and outdoor)
It is an area where they were successfully fed during the time they were facing extinction. Approximately 200 cranes fly in during winter (none in summer). It is open between late October until the end of March. Get off at the “Tsurui” bus stop on the Tsurui line of the Akan bus which departs from in front of Kushiro Station. There is a 10 minute walk from the bus stop.
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It is a miraculous natural phenomenon which happens during the coldest time of winter around the Akan area.
It is “art” of winter scenery. Both the cherry blossoms and the autumn leaves are illuminated by sunlight, and the blue sky in the background enhances their beauty. The air gets very clear in winter around Akan which creates a perfect sky-blue background for “miracle arts created by the cold”. Frost flowers, diamond dust and Kearashi frost smoke are are all breathtaking.
Mysterious frost flower (flower-shaped frost)
When Lake Akan is frozen on a really cold morning of under -15 degrees celsius, water vapour keeps getting frozen and starts connecting together which creates a miraculous phenomenon which resembles flowers.
Mysterious Kearashi frost smoke (ice fog)
A miraculous phenomenon in the middle of winter in which water vapour from the waters of lakes and rivers freeze and looks like fog. It happens when it’s around -20 degrees celsius.
Omiwatari in Lake Kussharo
This miraculous natural phenomenon occurs on extremely cold days when ice expands and the frozen surface of the lake forms cracks and is pushed upwards. It creates cracking sounds.
Mysterious diamond dust (fine ice)
It is a mysterious winter miracle phenomenon in which the air shines like a diamond against background light.
Water vapour in the air freezes and slowly falls.
Not only just for watching. How much you can enjoy nature and feel the strength of life at Lake Akan.
For example, if you wear snowshoes and walk through the snow on the Bokke promenade, you will be impressed that your weight does not cause you to sink into deep snow. When you discover the footprints of an animal, you will find yourself wanting to follow them. The natural instinct of animal tracking. One step in winter gives you enjoyment from the bottom of your heart.
Smelt fishing on a frozen lake
Set up a cold weather tent on the frozen Lake Akan, drill a hole until it reaches the water, then you can start fishing for smelt.
Bokke Walking Trail (Snowshoes)
Rent snowshoes and walk along the Bokke path leading to the Onsen street! Don't forget your camera.
Lake Akan Hot Spring Ski Gelande Utara
There are family courses and competition courses. Rental ski and snowboard rental sets are also available.
On ice festival
(Ice/Aisu/Akan“Fuyuhanabi” )
Games that use snow and ice, warm drinks, and fireworks on the ice at night (1st February to early March) are beautiful for children and adults alike.
Lost Kamuy
The Ezo wolf (Horokeu-kamui in Ainu) which used to hunt alongside humans are now extinct. Horokeu-Kamui were resurrected with CG at Ikoro Theatre. You can head to Ikoro Theatre if you wish to see it.
Ainu Kotan in Winter
There are 36 houses and about 120 people who live in Ainu Kotan (Ainu village). There are shops surrounding the middle square. They are open until about 10pm at night. You can purchase souvenirs of Lake Akan there.
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Souvenir shop (Ainu-kotan, Main road)
One of the most popular souvenirs of Akan are Ainu wood carvings. You can buy owls, brown bears and Japanese crane wooden statues, as well as frames and necklaces hand crafted by each artist. There are many shops around Ainu Kotan and Onsen street near Kotan.
Souvenir shop (wood-carved bears and owls)
In the Ainu folk crafts shop you will find small items and accessories carved out of wood, accessories with deer horns and bear claws, and pouches with unique Ainu patterns.
Ainu cuisine
The signature flavour of Ainu cuisine is based primarily on Dashi (broth) and Shio (salt) from meat, fish, and wild vegetables (not miso or soy sauce).
Preserved food is usually dried or half-frozen (Louibe) food.
Akan Sightseeing Association Town-Made Promotion Organization 6-20, Akan-ko Onsen 2chome, Akancho, Kushiro, Hokkaido TEL：+81-154-67-3200
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