If you dig into the sandy beach along Lake Kussharo, you'll find warm hot spring water bubbling up! It's such a unique experience, so definitely check out the 'Sunayu' area if you visit!

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Lake Kussharo
Japan’s largest caldera lake surrounded by abundant nature.
Lake Kussharo is Japan's largest caldera lake, stretching approximately 20 kilometers north to south, and the largest freshwater lake that freezes over on its entire surface. Mt. Mokoto, which created Lake Kussharo, is known for its volcanic eruptions that covered the entire Hokkaido region with its ash in ancient times.
Surrounded by abundant nature, it is renowned for the quality of its water, and 80% of its sources are said to be spring water. It is also a popular spot for water activities such as yachting and canoeing.
The panoramic view of Lake Kussharo from an observatory on Bihoro Pass, which is 525 meters above sea level, would be spectacular.
Lake Kussharo is also known for its hot springs that gush out from everywhere. It is recommended to visit the free open-air bath Kotan-no-Yu or the Sunayu (sandy beach) where hot water gushes out.
Highlights
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Lake Kussharo can be visited throughout the year, but please keep in mind that some spots are closed during the winter.
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The lake was formed by volcanic activities, and there are many hot springs along its shores.
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There are also many lodging facilities around the lake.
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The lake is also famous for the large number of swans that flock to it during the winter.
Photos
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Lake Kussharo from the observatory on Bihoro Pass.
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Bihoro Pass Observatory
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The Sunayu at Lake Kussharo
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Many swans come to the lake during the winter.
Reviews
Some reviews are translated by AI.
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The beach at Lake Kussharo is full of people digging in the sand because you can find warm hot spring water underneath. I also saw people camping here—summer seems like the perfect time for it! It's a bit of a shame we're just tourists, because camping here would be such a treat.
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If you dig in the sand at the beach, you'll find natural hot springs bubbling up! There's also a free foot bath nearby where you can soak your feet. In winter, you can relax in the foot bath while watching swans that have flown in all the way from Siberia. Such a unique experience!
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Details
- Name in Japanese
- 屈斜路湖
- Postal Code
- 088-3201
- Address
- Biruwa, Teshikagacho, Kawakamigun, Hokkaido
- Directions
- Take a local bus from Utoro to JR Shiretoko-Shari Station (about 50 minutes), then take a JR train to JR Mashu Station (about 75 minutes).
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)