What other travelers are saying about Wakasagi Smelt Ice-Fishing on Lake Akan
Sea Angels in Lake Akan
Appearance: Sea angels are small, gelatinous sea slugs (pelagic sea snails) that look like tiny, winged creatures, often called "naked sea butterflies".
Seasonal Appearance: While they live in Arctic and North Atlantic waters, they appear in Eastern Hokkaido, including Lake Akan, during the coldest months when drift ice arrives.
Essential equipment includes a fishing rod, bait, and a small stool. Many local shops and fishing guides offer rental equipment and guided services for beginners.
Yes, ice fishing on Lake Akan is beginner-friendly. Many guided tours and rental services are available to help newcomers get started.
It's important to dress warmly in layers, including waterproof boots, gloves, and a hat. The temperatures on the ice can be extremely cold.
Yes, Wakasagi smelt are edible and often cooked on-site. Many fishing spots have facilities where you can fry or grill your catch immediately.
The ice thickness varies but is generally safe for fishing from January to March, usually reaching a thickness of 20 to 30 centimeters (about 8 to 12 inches).
The marimo are interesting and adorably round, like Tribbles from Star Trek.
In mid-October, the colors are beautifully intense, the weather is enjoyably cool, and the views are amazing.
The boat tour was 2400 yen; quite decent considering we not only went around the lake, but also in the observation facility in the middle of the lake.
The marimo ice cream was good, though I thought I tasted a faint green tea flavor. I recommend the Lake Observation area; it's a short hike and the view is great.
My only complaint from this place that there are too much to explore and too little time.
Only have 3 hours to explore due to bus tour restrictions.
It is so beautiful and magical.
There is trekking path that provide some of the most stunning angle in this area. Look at the map from thw tourist center to find it.
If possible stay there for at least 2 nights, totally worth it.
If my stock rise by as much as 50% i will definitely visit Hokkaido again and stay at Lake Akan for 1 week. Thats how much i love this place.
Though i recommend you to bring food from 7-eleven, most food in this area taste kinda bland
Great experience! A lake with some volcanic geological traces. We took a walk around part of the lake, it is really pleasant. Snow, sulphuric air, mud, frozen lake, and some snow blizzard, all combined to unforgettable experience.
Lake Akan is home to the Marimo Algae balls.
I came here during mid of Dec. If you would like to escape from overwhelming tourist, come to Lake Akan.
If early winter spend max 2 days here. i went to the Ainu village, shopped for souvenirs, had Ainu lunch, walked the trails to see bokke boiling mud and soaked in Onsen.
During summer the trails to the mountains are opened and one can go for hikes. Or during winter when the lake is totally frozen, winter activities will be held on frozen Akanko.
