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Akan Mashu National Park
by Azharry
21 September 2023
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Hidden deep within the heart of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, lies a realm of unparalleled natural beauty and geological marvels. Akan Mashu National Park. This sprawling sanctuary, established in 1934, encompasses over 91,000 hectares of pristine wilderness that has been shaped by the forces of time, volcanoes, and the delicate dance of flora and fauna. As we embark on a journey through this captivating national park, we'll unveil its iconic tourist spots, each a testament to nature's grandeur and the indomitable spirit of Hokkaido.
Highlights of Akan Mashu National Park
Lake Mashu (摩周湖, Mashūko)
At the heart of Akan Mashu National Park rests Lake Mashu, a jewel in Hokkaido's crown of natural wonders. This lake, nestled within the caldera of a dormant volcano, has earned its reputation as one of the clearest lakes in the world, with depths plunging to 211 meters. However, it is not just the sheer clarity of its waters that enchants visitors, it is the mystique that surrounds it. Lake Mashu is often veiled in an ethereal mist, casting an aura of secrecy over its pristine waters. Visitors are drawn to the "tenboudai" or observation points that encircle the lake. Here, they patiently await the gradual unveiling of Lake Mashu as the mist dissipates, revealing the deep, azure depths beneath. Each visit to Lake Mashu is a unique encounter, a dance of nature's veils being lifted to unveil one of its most cherished treasures. Beyond its visual allure, Lake Mashu holds a profound geological significance. It stands as an exquisite example of a volcanic caldera lake, offering invaluable insights into the Earth's processes and the dynamic forces that have sculpted Hokkaido's landscapes for eons.
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Access
A one-way train ticket from Sapporo to Kushiro typically costs between ¥7,000 to ¥10,000 per person. These prices varied based on factors such as the type of train and class of service. The train journey provided travelers with an opportunity to witness the diverse landscapes of Hokkaido, from the urban allure of Sapporo to the tranquil countryside. Bus or train from Kushiro to Teshikaga. The closest town to Lake Mashu, travelers could expect to pay around ¥2,000 to ¥3,000 per person for a one-way ticket. This leg of the journey continued to offer glimpses of Hokkaido's natural beauty as buses or trains traversed the scenic terrain.Car rental costs an average daily rate ranging from ¥10,000 to ¥15,000 for a standard rental car. The specific model, rental duration, and rental agency influenced the final cost. This mode of travel allowed for stops at captivating viewpoints en route to Lake Mashu, enhancing the overall experience. The cost of a one-way flight from New Chitose Airport to Memanbetsu Airport fluctuated significantly based on factors such as the airline carrier, booking class, and booking timing. Travelers budgeted approximately ¥10,000 to ¥30,000 or more per person for their airfare. While this option expedited the journey, it also afforded travelers picturesque aerial views of Hokkaido's landscapes. Upon landing at Memanbetsu Airport, a brief 30-minute drive was all that separated travelers from Lake Mashu. Taxis and local buses were available at the airport, with an estimated cost of around ¥2,000 to ¥3,000 per person for the transfer.
Lake Akan (阿寒湖, Akanko)
Just beyond the borders of Akan Mashu National Park lies Lake Akan, a place of picturesque charm and ecological significance. This pristine lake is more than just a body of water; it is a sanctuary for rare and indigenous species, including the captivating Marimo. Lake Akan is globally renowned as one of the few places where Marimo thrive. These unique, spherical green algae, affectionately known as "lake balls," are a symbol of Lake Akan's ecological importance and are considered a national treasure in Japan. Tourists embark on boat tours that navigate the lake's crystalline waters, providing them with the privilege of glimpsing these captivating life forms in their natural habitat.
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Yet, Lake Akan is not just a biological marvel; it is also a repository of Ainu culture and heritage. The Ainu, Japan's indigenous people, have left their indelible mark on this region. Museums, exhibitions, and cultural interactions offer visitors the chance to delve into the rich tapestry of Ainu traditions, deepening their understanding of this unique cultural heritage within the context of the park.
Access
Train from Sapporo to Kushiro the approximate cost of a one-way train ticket from Sapporo to Kushiro ranged between ¥7,000 to ¥10,000 per person. The variability in price was influenced by factors such as the train type and the class of service chosen. This train journey offers a scenic voyage through Hokkaido's changing landscapes, providing glimpses of its unique beauty. Bus or train from Kushiro to Akankohan (Lake Akan) travelers could anticipate spending approximately ¥2,000 to ¥3,000 per person for a one-way ticket from Kushiro to Akankohan, the nearest station to the lake. This portion of the journey continued to reveal the region's natural charm through the windows of buses or trains. Car rental costs in Sapporo varied significantly, with an average daily rate spanning ¥10,000 to ¥15,000 for a standard rental car. The choice of vehicle and rental duration factored into the final cost. This option granted travelers the flexibility to stop and admire the picturesque landscapes en route to Lake Akan. Pricing was subject to factors such as the airline carrier, booking class, and the timing of the booking. Travelers budgeted an estimated ¥10,000 to ¥30,000 or more per person for their airfare, a cost that balanced the expediency of air travel with the charm of scenic aerial views Transfer from Memanbetsu Airport to Lake Akan upon arrival at Memanbetsu Airport, travelers found themselves approximately ¥2,000 to ¥3,000 per person away from Lake Akan. This short journey, usually completed by taxi or shuttle service, seamlessly connected visitors to the peaceful ambiance of the lake.
Mt. Io (Atosa-nupuri) 硫磺山
Nestled within the enchanting realm of Akan Mashu National Park in Hokkaido, Japan, Mt. Io, also known as Atosa-nupuri, stands as a captivating testament to the wonders of nature. Its location and surroundings offer a multitude of intriguing points of interest, making it an appealing destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Sulfuric Emission, one of the most captivating features of Mt. Io is its sulfuric emissions, which lend the mountain its distinctive name. The landscape here appears almost otherworldly, with billowing clouds of sulfurous gasses escaping from vents in the earth. This mesmerizing phenomenon is both an environmental marvel and a testament to the geological activity that has shaped the region over millennia. Visitors can observe these emissions from designated viewpoints, but it's essential to adhere to safety guidelines and remain within established boundaries, as the emissions can be hazardous if approached too closely. Hiking adventures on the volcano, Mt. Io provides an excellent opportunity for hiking enthusiasts to explore its volcanic terrain. The trails around the mountain offer a unique chance to witness the dynamic forces that have sculpted the landscape. As you ascend, the views become increasingly panoramic, providing breathtaking vistas of the surrounding natural beauty. Hikers should check with local authorities or visitor centers for trail maps and information on hiking routes to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Access
By Public Transport, start your adventure by making your way to Sapporo Station, the central transportation hub of Sapporo. The train journey from Sapporo to Abashiri typically took around 5 to 6 hours. The one-way train ticket cost ranged from approximately ¥10,000 to ¥15,000 per person, depending on the type of train and class of service chosen. This scenic route allows you to appreciate Hokkaido's picturesque landscapes. Upon arrival in Abashiri, you'll need to use local transport to reach Mount Io. You can take a local bus or taxi, and the travel time will depend on your specific destination near Mount Io. The drive from Sapporo to Mount Io typically took around 4-5 hours , although travel times may vary depending on traffic and road conditions. The cost of renting a car varied based on factors such as the type of vehicle, rental duration, and the rental agency. On average, you could expect to pay approximately ¥10,000 to ¥15,000 per day for a standard rental car. Another option is to fly to Memanbetsu Airport, the nearest airport to Mount Io. The flight time from Sapporo (New Chitose Airport) to Memanbetsu Airport in 2021 was approximately 1.5 hours. Upon landing at Memanbetsu Airport, you can take a taxi or a local bus to Mount Io, which is located relatively close to the airport. The travel time for this short journey would be approximately 30 minutes.
Mount Oakan (雄阿寒岳)
Towering majestically over Akan Mashu National Park is Mount Oakan, an active volcano that beckons adventurers and hikers with its rugged terrain and untamed wilderness. Mount Oakan offers an array of hiking trails, each catering to different levels of expertise. The challenging ascent to its lofty peak rewards trekkers with breathtaking, panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. From this vantage point, the Akan Caldera, Lake Akan, and the surrounding forests unfurl in all their splendor, a testament to nature's grandeur.
After an exhilarating day of exploration, visitors can unwind and rejuvenate in nearby hot springs (onsen), such as Akanko Onsen. These natural thermal baths not only provide relaxation but also offer a profound connection to the park's volcanic origins. Surrounded by the tranquility of the pristine wilderness, soaking in these soothing waters becomes a moment of serenity and introspection.
Access
Train from Sapporo to Kushiro the approximate cost of a one-way train ticket from Sapporo to Kushiro ranged between ¥7,000 to ¥10,000 per person. These prices varied based on factors such as the type of train and class of service. This train journey, spanning the breadth of Hokkaido, offered a visual narrative of the island's diverse landscapes, from urban settings to serene rural vistas. To reach Teshikaga, the gateway to Mount Oakan, travelers budgeted approximately ¥2,000 to ¥3,000 per person for a one-way ticket. The leg of the journey further unveiled Hokkaido's natural charm as buses or trains traversed the captivating terrain. Car rental costs showed variability, with an average daily rate spanning ¥10,000 to ¥15,000 for a standard rental car. Specific vehicle models, rental duration, and rental agency all contributed to the final cost. This mode of travel allowed for spontaneous stops at panoramic viewpoints en route to Mount Oakan, enhancing the overall journey. The cost of a one-way flight from New Chitose Airport to Memanbetsu Airport in 2021 exhibited significant variability, influenced by factors such as the airline carrier, booking class, and booking timing. Travelers allocated approximately ¥10,000 to ¥30,000 or more per person for their airfare. While this option expedited the journey, it also treated travelers to panoramic aerial views of Hokkaido's landscapes. Following arrival at Memanbetsu Airport, travelers embarked on a brief 30-minute drive, costing approximately ¥2,000 to ¥3,000 per person by taxi or shuttle service, to reach the base of Mount Oakan.