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Explore the natural beauty of Lake Kussharo, enjoy boating or fishing on the lake, hike around the nearby mountains, and visit the hot springs in the area. The lake's picturesque landscape is perfect for photography, and the surrounding forests provide a tranquil escape for nature lovers.
Lake Kussharo, located in Akan National Park in Hokkaido, Japan, is the largest crater lake in Japan and the second largest lake in Hokkaido after Lake Sarugaken.
A major feature of this area is that the lake freezes in winter, but due to the high ground heat, some of the ice melts and turns into hot springs. Every year, hundreds of swans rest here, creating a spectacular sight that is a feast for the eyes. The constant flow of hot springs from the ground fills the area with steam, leading to the proliferation of open-air hot springs around the lakeshore.
Temperate maritime monsoon climate
free
All day
Lake Kussharo is the largest caldera lake in Japan, formed by volcanic activity. It's located in the Akan Mashu National Park and is known for its scenic beauty and unique ecosystem. The lake's surrounding area is rich in natural hot springs and offers a wide range of outdoor activities.
Lake Kussharo is located in Hokkaido, Japan. To get there, take a train to the nearest station (Kushiro Station) and then a bus or taxi to the lake. The area is also accessible by car from Kushiro, which takes about an hour. There are no metro services in the area.
Lake Kussharo is open year-round, with no specific hours for access. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the scenery is particularly stunning with blooming flowers or autumn foliage. Winter offers a more serene atmosphere, with fewer tourists.
There is no entrance fee to visit Lake Kussharo. Some specific activities like boat tours or visits to nearby hot springs may have associated fees, which can be paid on-site or booked in advance at local offices.
For general visits to the lake, no advance booking is necessary. However, for activities such as boat tours or hot spring visits, it's recommended to book a few days in advance, especially during the peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn).
A visit to Lake Kussharo can be comfortably completed in 3 to 4 hours if you're primarily exploring the lake and enjoying its surroundings. If you plan to engage in activities such as hiking or a boat tour, you may want to allocate 5 to 6 hours for a more leisurely experience.
Must-see highlights include the lake itself, the nearby hot springs, and the views from the surrounding mountains. The Kussharo Hot Spring area and the nearby Onsen (hot spring) village are also popular spots for relaxation.
Guided tours are available for boat rides on the lake and some local areas. These tours are typically in Japanese, but some operators may offer English-speaking guides upon request. Audio guides are not widely available.
For the best views of Lake Kussharo, head to the Kussharo Lake Observatory, where you can get panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The lakeside areas and the nearby mountain trails also provide excellent spots for photography.
Start by walking along the lakeside to take in the natural beauty, followed by a visit to the Kussharo Lake Observatory for panoramic views. You can then hike a nearby trail or take a boat tour. If time allows, visit the hot spring areas nearby to relax after your exploration.
Night visits are allowed, and the area offers a peaceful, quiet atmosphere at night. There are no regular light shows, but the lake and surrounding areas are tranquil after sunset, providing a serene experience.
Lake Kussharo can get busy during the peak seasons (spring and autumn), especially during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays in the off-season (winter and early spring).
There are public toilets and rest areas around the lake. Food options are available at small kiosks, restaurants, and nearby resorts, offering local specialties. Shops are limited but available for souvenirs and local products.
Yes, Lake Kussharo is generally accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. There are paved paths around the lake, and some areas, like the observatory, are wheelchair accessible. However, some hiking trails may be difficult for those with mobility issues.
Cash is commonly used at local food stalls and some attractions, but many places near the lake accept credit cards and mobile payments like PayPay or Suica, especially around major hotels and tourist spots.
There are several restaurants and cafes around Lake Kussharo offering local Hokkaido cuisine such as fresh seafood, ramen, and hot spring eggs. Nearby, you can also find small cafes serving coffee and snacks.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some restaurants, though they may be limited. Halal food options are rare but may be available at specific international restaurants in the area.
There are several accommodations near Lake Kussharo, including lakeside resorts, ryokan (traditional inns), and guesthouses. Some popular choices include Kussharo Onsen Hotel, Lake Kussharo Lodge, and nearby hot spring resorts.
Nearby attractions include the Akan National Park, the town of Kushiro, and the famous Akan Mashu National Park. You can also visit the Marimo Museum, known for its exhibition of rare algae found in the lake.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in the area offering Hokkaido specialties, including local crafts, snacks, and marimo-themed souvenirs, such as plush toys and decorative items inspired by the lake's unique algae.
After visiting Lake Kussharo, you can take a taxi or public bus to the nearby Kushiro Station to catch a train. For those traveling by car, the area is well connected to the main highways that lead to other parts of Hokkaido.
