SearchThe 10 Best things to do in Kushiro and Lake Akan in autumn.
Various outdoor activities can be experienced in Kushiro area and Lake Akan in autumn season.
1. Savor the authentic Japanese Sake
Fukutsukasa Brewery, With its blessing name, this time-honored brewery started the business in 1919. Its most popular “Junmai-Ginjo” is made from best selected locally-sourced rice with naturally filtered river bed water. If you are the beginner, it’s the best to start with it to learn how the real flavor & taste sake is.
2. Visit the old merchant house museum “Yonemachi Furusatokan”
This building was constructed in 1900 as a marine products store with residence, which is the oldest wooden house in Kushiro. Stepping inside, you immediately feel as if you traveled back in time when the fishery trade was booming in Kushiro. Displays include vintage photographs of the Meiji and Taisho periods. Let’s be time travelers!
3. Participate in the Ainu ritual
The “Thousand Torches Parade” is held every year in September and October in Akanko Onsen. Hundreds of torches are raised as an expression of strong determination to protect the abundant nature of Lake Akan, which nourishes the Marimo as well as to give thanks to the Ainu goddess of fire, Ape Kamuy, and to the great northern lands. From the hot spring district to the Ainu Kotan Village, the countless dancing flames indicate the path for the gods to travel.
4. Relish Autumn Leaves at “Takimi Bridge”.
The bridge is perfectly located at 5 min. drive from Akanko Onsen to view magnificent waterfalls coming out of the Lake Akan and Lake Taro. From late September to early October, colorful leaves of Japanese maples and Japanese Judas trees in reds and yellows hang over the vigorous waters and create spectacular scenery. This is one of the natural work of art. Best place to take great photos!
5. Mt. Hakuto climbing
Mt. Hakuto lies to the south of the Lake Akan, reaching a peak height of 950 m. It offers points of interest such as autumn leaves, flowing river, “bokke" mud volcano vents, etc. From the observatory at the peak, you can get the panoramic view of Lake Akan and Mt. Oakan at the north side and Mt. Meakan at the other side.
6. Canadian canoe boat
Canoeing in Lake Akan, surrounded by the primeval forest with a special guide. With the dreamy lakeside scenery reflected on the water, and rare wild birds such as White-tailed sea-eagle, Osprey, etc., both adults and children will have the great fun.
7. Akanko Onsen hot spring resort
As the air gets colder in fall, soaking in a onsen will be a precious moment. Akanko Onsen, which is on the shore of Lake Akan, is well-known for its quality across Hokkaido. Many hotels have open air onsen where you will have breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
8. Take a stroll in the " Light Forest"
“Hikari-no-Mori” Walking Tour gives you the privilege to enter the primeval forest near Lake Akan. A tour with a special licensed guide allows you to enter the private area which is closed to ordinary people. The 800 years old Japanese Judas tree and the volcanic mud pool called “Bokke” are the highlights of the tour. It’s a delightful moment to see colorful foliage and all kinds of mushrooms growing under the feet.
9. Hakuryu Shrine
The Hakuryu Shrine is on the Yaitai Island in Lake Akan. So you take a boat ride to land on the island. With a perimeter of 300m, this inhabited island has Hakuryu Shrine, which is said to be able to feel sacred power of deities. It will be an unforgettable experience to look out at the majestic mountains of Mt. Meakan, Mt. Oakan and Mt. Fuppushi in such a spiritual field.
10. Traditional Ainu Dance
Designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Heritage of Japan and registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, the traditional Ainu dance shows respect and gratitude to kamui (the gods) and ancestors. Enjoy the traditional dance at Akanko Ainu Theater “Ikor” and then dance together to experience the Ainu culture.
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