Enjoy winter at Lake Akan 冬の阿寒湖を楽しむ
Polar excursion
Located east of the island of Hokkaido, Akan National Park is set in a chain of volcanic mountains. At the heart of the park, the astonishing Lake Akan is a pleasure to discover in winter, nestled in a splendid landscape between the Meakan and Oakan mountains.
Lake Akan under the snow
Kushiro-lake Akan travel guide
Enjoying winter nature
Hokkaido is the island to visit in winter par excellence and Lake Akan is no exception to the rule. Its landscapes and surroundings are magnificent under a blanket of snow, as well as its waters caught in the ice.
Read : 5 reasons to go to Japan in winter
It is only during this period that a rare phenomenon occurs: the formation of delicate ice flowers on the surface of the lake. This true outbreak occurs when water vapor crystallizes on the surface of the frozen lake. However, this unique spectacle requires certain conditions, such as very low temperatures and clear, windless weather. Sometimes, large "lotus leaves" of ice also form.
Winter will also be the occasion for walks in the snowy forest around the lake, and along the Akan River: hikes with guides are organized in particular. On this occasion, you will be able to observe the rare Japanese cranes , black and white, a symbol of longevity and good fortune, which only show up during this season. They are mainly observable in the Tsumidai plain, where they come to look for their food.
Read also : Tsurui, the haunt of Japanese cranes
Akan lake ice flowers
Kushiro-lake Akan travel guide
What activities in winter?
Winter has no shortage of assets when it comes to entertainment at Lake Akan. The most popular is probably smelt fishing (small fish often used in frying) through the ice of the lake. For 1,500 yen (around €12), you can try this technique in a tent, and even fry your catches in tempura !
See : Akan National Park
Smelt fishing on Lake Akan
Wikimedia Commons
In addition to fishing, other winter-specific activities are offered as part of the "Ice Land Akan" event (from January 1 to March 31). In particular, you can enjoy rides on snowmobiles , but also on the popular towed "bananas", directly on the frozen lake! If you are not a fan of thrills, you can just as well turn to ice skating and cross-country skiing .
To discover : The Asahikawa Winter Festival
The lake and its city also host festivals such as the Akan Lake ice Festival "Fuyu Hanabi" (from March 3 to 10, 2018), which offers night fireworks launches, directly on the lake: an unforgettable moment.
Fireworks over the lake
Kushiro-lake Akan travel guide
Around the lake
The surroundings of the lake are also home to many attractions. The Akan Lakeside National Ski Area Ski Resort offers beautiful trails for powder enthusiasts.
On its shores, you can visit the Akankohan Eco Museum to better understand how the region's ecosystem works, but also learn more about the Ainu, the indigenous people who have always lived in Hokkaido. The Ainu village Akankotan is also nearby.
To go further : The Ainu minority
Finally, what would a cold winter day be without a moment of relaxation in the natural hot springs? The shores of the lake are home to the Akan-ko spa resort : you can relax in the onsen of your choice after a long walk in the snow. Some hotels like the Lake Akan Tsuruga Wings offer outdoor hot springs with stunning views.
Onsen on Lake Akan
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