Rain or shine, sun or cloud, Lake Kussharo in Akan National Park near the town of Kawayu-Onsen offers stunning views. The surrounding natural hot springs provide the lake with a number of public and free-of-charge onsens and allow visitors to soak in the warm water while soaking in the view. Unlike the pristine and untouched Lake Mashu to the west, Kussharo is a recreational lake which allows boaters and those who love to fish to enjoy everything the lake has to offer. You may wish to visit the Ainu Folklore Museum, take a one hour hike around Wakoto Peninsula or spend the afternoon looking for the legendary monster that is said to make the lake its home, Kusshii. Or perhaps you’ll leave it for another day and slouch back under the surface of the water in your therapeutic onsen.
- 1 min read
Lake Kussharo in Akan National Park
Onsens, trails and mythical monsters

Community writer

One of many lakeside onsens (Photo: RS Reynolds)

Warm waters and stunning views (Photo: RS Reynolds)

Sulphur meets the water on the Wakoto Peninsula at Oyakotsu-jigoku (Photo: RS Reynolds)

Nature clings and climbs everywhere (Photo: RS Reynolds)

The "monkey stool" mushroom (English translation) (Photo: RS Reynolds)

Row, row, row your boat (Photo: RS Reynolds)

Boating season is getting going once again (Photo: RS Reynolds)

Beachside afternoon (Photo: RS Reynolds)

Spring has finally arrived at the lake (Photo: RS Reynolds)

Time for a nap on the boat (Photo: RS Reynolds)

Sunny, spring day (Photo: RS Reynolds)

Fly-fishers are out in force (Photo: RS Reynolds)

The legendary lake monster: Kusshii (Photo: RS Reynolds)
Join the discussion
Justin Velgus
10 years ago
In Akita, dragon gods are said to live in some of the lakes. I am fan of monsters; I guess lakes are popular real estate!
Olga
10 years ago
Thanks for sharing your photos, they are great!
2 comments in total
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