Lake Akanko is a freshwater lake located in eastern Hokkaido with a circumference of 30 km and an area of 13㎢.
The entire area is included in the Akan-Mashu National Park, which is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hokkaido.
The blue surface of the lake, the beautiful silhouette of Mt. Oakandake, Mt. Meakan and other mountains, and the deep greenery of the surrounding virgin forest is a brilliant sight.
The best way to fully enjoy the encompassing beauty of Lake Akan is to take a scenic cruise.
Lake Akan was formed into a caldera lake by two major volcanic eruptions (volcanic eruptions) that occurred roughly 175,000 years ago and about 158,000 years ago.
The eruption of Mt. Oakandake, approx.6,000 years ago, split the 3 lakes apart to what it looks like today.
There are four islands in the lake, of which Churui island is home to the moss ball exhibition and observation center, a special natural monument.
Marimo is a type of freshwater green algae known to form into green balls and assemble.
Their large size and beautiful green color make them one of the rarest marimos in the world.
On the south side of the lake is a hot spring resort where the views of Lake Akan are spectacular while bathing.
In winter, when the surface of the lake is iced over, you can enjoy activities such as fishing for Japanese pond smelt, skating, and snowmobiling.
