Akan Mashu NP 阿寒摩周国立公園
Ainu culture, onsen, lakes & hiking
A highlight of this large national park in eastern Hokkaidō is its Ainu Kotan (village) in the small resort town of Akanko Onsen. The indigenous Ainu culture is making a comeback after nearly disappearing through forced assimilation.
The park boasts three gorgeous lakes - Akan-ko, renowned for its marimo, big green balls of algae; Kussharo-ko, with free outdoor open-air hot spring baths; and Mashu-ko, reputedly one of the clearest lake in the world.
The best hike is up the living volcano, Meakan-dake, one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains, while Kawayu Onsen is an attractive hot springs resort within the park.