The hot spring was amazing. Soaking in the outdoor bath while watching the snow was incredibly relaxing.
If you get a lake-view room, it really makes a big difference. Waking up to Lake Akan in the morning feels so peaceful.
Provided by: NPO Lake Akan Tourism Association Community Development Promotion Organization
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Akanko Onsen
A lakeside hot spring town where you can soak while taking in the spectacular views of Lake Akan.
4.30
5
Lake Akan is known as a natural habitat of marimo, a Special Natural Monument of Japan. On its lakeshore sits Akanko Onsen, the leading hot spring resort area in eastern Hokkaido with a history of over 100 years. A hot spring town stretches along the shore of Lake Akan, lined with around 20 ryokan, hotels, and guesthouses. Many hot spring facilities face the lake, offering sweeping views of Lake Akan and Mt. Oakan from the baths and guest rooms.
The surrounding area is rich in nature and home to wildlife, making it a great place to enjoy together with activities on Lake Akan such as canoeing, fishing, and sightseeing boat cruises. Many facilities also offer day-use bathing, so you can easily enjoy a hot spring soak after sightseeing or outdoor activities. The hot spring town also has restaurants and souvenir shops, making it pleasant for a relaxed stroll.
There is even more to see nearby, including Akanko Ainu Kotan and Ainu Theater Ikoro, where you can experience Ainu culture. It is also a great place to stay as a base for sightseeing.
Highlights
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A historic hot spring town stretching along the shores of Lake Akan.
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Many facilities let you enjoy spectacular views of Lake Akan from the hot springs and accommodations.
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Recommended to visit together with sightseeing and activities on Lake Akan.
Photos
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Many ryokan and hotels are located right by the lake Provided by: NPO Lake Akan Tourism Association Community Development Promotion Organization
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The hot spring town is lined with restaurants and souvenir shops Provided by: NPO Lake Akan Tourism Association Community Development Promotion Organization
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Is there free Wi-Fi available in the area?
A
Yes, there is.
Q
Are there any free footbaths or similar facilities available?
A
Yes, there are.
Q
Is there parking available?
A
Paid parking is available.
Reviews
5
Some reviews are AI-translated.
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The lake is right nearby, and the views in the morning or around sunset are really beautiful. On a nice day, it almost looks like a postcard.
The hot spring itself isn’t super luxurious, but it’s very comfortable. The water temperature was just right, and I stayed warm for a long time after soaking. It’s especially great in winter. -
The hot spring water has a smooth, silky feel that’s really nice to soak in. With the mist outside and the lake view, it honestly feels like being in a commercial.
There’s also a shopping street nearby with some Ainu-related souvenirs, and it feels very safe and pleasant for an evening walk. -
The whole area wraps around the lake, and soaking in the hot spring while looking out at the water is super relaxing. In winter, you can even watch the snow fall, which feels absolutely magical.
There are lots of ryokan to choose from here, and some even have open-air baths where you can soak and look at the stars.
The area is also pretty lively at night, with restaurants, little shops, and even Ainu cultural performances to enjoy.
The only small downside is that the location is a bit remote, so getting there without a car can be inconvenient. Still, the overall atmosphere is fantastic, and it’s definitely worth staying a night just to unwind. -
Lake Akan is seriously gorgeous! The surface of the lake is so still it looks like a mirror, and paired with the hot spring, it feels like paradise.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 阿寒湖温泉
- Postal Code
- 085-0467
- Address
- Akanko Onsen, Akan-cho, Kushiro, Hokkaido
- Phone
- 0154-67-3200 (Lake Akan Tourism Association)
- Closed on
- Varies by facility
- Hours
- Varies by facility
- Admission
- Varies by facility
- Access
- Just a short walk from the “Akanko Onsen” bus stop
- Credit Cards
- Varies by facility
- Official website
- Official website (Japanese)
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