Lake Akan is Hokkaido's fifth largest freshwater lake and is known as a habitat for marimo moss balls. Marimo moss balls can be found in freshwater lakes all over the world, but the ones in Lake Akan have international significance due to their beautiful spherical shape with a diameter of more than 15 cm.
The marimo moss balls can be seen at the Marimo Exhibition and Observation Center on Churui Island, and admission includes a 90-minute sightseeing cruise. You can admire the beautiful water and natural scenery while rocking on the boat, and in the evening, it blends with the light of the setting sun to create a spectacular view.
The area around Lake Akan is Akan-Mashu National Park, a spiritual site where you can walk and feel the mysterious nature that is unique to Hokkaido.
Highlights
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This area is home to the Marimo, a species designated as a special natural monument.
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The Lake Akan Exhibition and Observation Center can be visited by a sightseeing boat.
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The area around Lake Akan is a national park.
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The lake is also known as a spiritual site.