What other travelers are saying about Lake Akan Observatory
Beautiful view, short hike. You can even drive right up to the area near the benches, though I walked easily from the bus station.
Bonus pictures of the facility on the walk up: boy, they sure can churn that water (smelled like some kind of fish farm, but I didn't see anything other than water wheels circulating)
Lovely view point for lake Akan, around 2km walk from the pier.
During summer there was a drink vendor in a kei truck so was a lovely coffee break with a great view.
During winter this is a ski location.
Rental car is strongly recommended as public transportation is infrequent and inconvenient. The observatory is accessible within 1-2 hours by car from major regional centers including Kushiro, Abashiri, or Bihoro, and approximately one hour from Tancho Kushiro International Airport. Limited public bus service is available via Akan Bus "Tsurui Line" with six daily departures (five on weekends) from Kushiro Station.
Access to the observatory viewing areas is typically free of charge. However, specific activities such as lake cruises and seasonal operations may require separate admission fees. Lake cruises operate hourly with 1.5-hour excursions available for an additional cost.
The observatory provides panoramic views of Lake Akan with Mount Oakan and Mount Meakan prominently displayed. The lake sits 420 meters above sea level and is famous for housing marimo, rare spherical green algae designated as a special natural treasure of Japan. The nearby Sokodai Observatory offers additional viewing points for Mount Oakan, Lake Panketo, and Lake Penketo.
Yes, the observatory serves dual purposes throughout the year. During winter months, it functions as a ski resort, while warmer seasons provide optimal conditions for scenic observation and photography. Summer months offer the easiest car access, though winter visits are possible with appropriate vehicle preparation for snow conditions.
Lake Akan is part of Akan-Mashu National Park, which encompasses three iconic lakes connected by scenic driving routes. Visitors can take lake cruises that navigate close to volcanic mountains, explore the pristine virgin forests surrounding the caldera lake, and visit nearby hot spring resorts. The area serves as an ideal base for exploring the broader national park region.
