Akan-Mashu National Park

Akan-Mashu Overview

Akan-Mashu National Park, or 阿寒摩周国立公園 (Akan-Mashu Kokuritsu Kōen) in Japanese, spans 349.9 square miles (906 square kilometers) in eastern Hokkaido, Japan. This stunning park is renowned for its pristine volcanic landscapes, serene crater lakes, dense forests, and geothermal wonders. It offers visitors a glimpse into Japan’s untouched natural beauty, with features that blend geological drama and tranquil ecosystems.

The park’s highlights include Lake Akan, Lake Mashu, and Lake Kussharo, each boasting distinctive characteristics. Lake Mashu, in particular, is celebrated for its remarkable clarity and often shrouded mist, earning it the nickname “the misty lake of the gods.” Surrounding these lakes are rugged volcanic peaks such as Mount Oakan and Mount Meakan, which add to the area’s dramatic vistas.

The terrain of Akan-Mashu National Park is a mosaic of volcanic calderas, alpine meadows, and dense, mixed forests. The forests are primarily composed of Japanese oak, Sakhalin fir, and Erman’s birch, interspersed with vibrant seasonal wildflowers that blanket the meadows. Thermal activity is evident in the numerous hot springs and fumaroles scattered throughout the park, with bubbling mud pools like Bokke located along the shores of Lake Akan. The park’s unique landscapes are also home to rare and culturally significant plant species, such as the marimo, a green algae that forms spherical clusters and thrives in Lake Akan. These marimo are highly revered and symbolize the ecological and cultural richness of the region.

The wildlife in Akan-Mashu National Park is equally diverse, providing a sanctuary for iconic Japanese species. Among the mammals, visitors may spot the elusive Hokkaido brown bear, Ezo deer, and red fox, each playing a crucial role in the park’s ecosystem. Birdwatchers are in for a treat with sightings of white-tailed eagles, black woodpeckers, and various species of waterfowl that inhabit the park’s lakes and wetlands. The dynamic interaction between the flora and fauna creates a vibrant ecosystem that captivates both scientists and nature enthusiasts.

Popular highlights include the serene hot spring towns of Akanko Onsen and Kawayu Onsen, where visitors can relax while surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Trails leading to viewpoints such as Bihoro Pass or the Mashu Third Observatory offer panoramic vistas of the crater lakes and surrounding landscapes. Cultural experiences are also integral, with opportunities to engage with the indigenous Ainu culture at Lake Akan, where traditional crafts, music, and cuisine offer a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage.

Visitors can explore the park through a network of hiking trails that range from leisurely lakeside walks to challenging mountain climbs. Canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife observation are popular activities on the lakes, while winter transforms the area into a haven for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Guided tours focusing on the geology, ecology, and cultural history of the region enhance the experience for those seeking a deeper connection with this remarkable landscape.

Akan-Mashu National Park faces conservation challenges, including the impact of invasive species, climate change, and human activity. However, effective management strategies have led to significant successes in preserving its unique biodiversity and cultural heritage. Efforts to protect the marimo, in particular, have garnered global attention, symbolizing the importance of sustainable practices in preserving natural wonders.

Park Map

Akan-Mashu National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Akan-Mashu National Park is a breathtaking natural area in Hokkaido, Japan, renowned for its pristine lakes, volcanic landscapes, and lush forests. The park is home to a wide variety of species that thrive in its unique environment, including endemic flora and fauna that are integral to its ecosystem. Below are some of the popular non-avian species found in Akan-Mashu National Park:

Ezo Brown Bear (Ursus arctos yesoensis)
This subspecies of brown bear is native to Hokkaido and a key species in the park’s ecosystem. They are powerful animals that roam the forests and mountains, feeding on berries, fish, and other food sources.

Ezo Deer (Cervus nippon yesoensis)
A subspecies of sika deer, these herbivores are commonly seen grazing in the meadows and forests. They are a vital part of the food web, supporting predators and shaping vegetation growth.

Hokkaido Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris orientis)
This small, agile mammal is known for its bushy tail and vibrant red-brown fur. It is frequently seen leaping through the trees or foraging on the forest floor.

Ezo Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes schrencki)
With its striking red coat and bushy tail, the Ezo red fox is a charming and adaptable predator that inhabits a variety of habitats within the park, including forests and grasslands.

Japanese Mink (Neovison vison haidarum)
A semi-aquatic mammal, the Japanese mink is often found along the shores of rivers and lakes. It is known for its silky fur and opportunistic feeding habits.

Hokkaido Salamander (Hynobius retardatus)
An endemic amphibian of Hokkaido, this salamander is often found in moist, shaded environments. It is an important indicator of ecosystem health in the park.

Siberian Salamander (Salamandrella keyserlingii)
This remarkable amphibian can survive extreme cold, even being frozen solid and thawing with no ill effects. It thrives in the wetlands of the park.

Japanese Weasel (Mustela itatsi)
A small carnivore, the Japanese weasel is an agile hunter that preys on small mammals and insects. It is an important part of the predator-prey dynamics in the park.

Ezo Mountain Hare (Lepus timidus ainu)
This hare, adapted to Hokkaido’s cold climates, sports a white coat in winter for camouflage in snowy landscapes and a brown coat in summer.

Japanese Pond Turtle (Mauremys japonica)
An aquatic reptile, this turtle is often found in the park’s lakes and ponds. It feeds on small aquatic creatures and contributes to the wetland ecosystem’s balance.

Birds

Birds of Akan-Mashu National Park are equally captivating, with many species adding vibrant life and song to the park’s tranquil environment. Below are some of the popular bird species found in the park:

Blakiston’s Fish Owl (Bubo blakistoni)
One of the largest owls in the world, this endangered species is a symbol of Hokkaido’s wilderness. It inhabits areas near rivers and lakes, preying on fish.

Red-crowned Crane (Grus japonensis)
This majestic and endangered bird is known for its graceful movements and elaborate courtship dances. It frequents wetlands and meadows within the park.

Japanese Robin (Larvivora akahige)
A small, brightly colored bird, the Japanese robin is often found in the park’s dense forests. Its melodious song adds charm to its presence.

Eurasian Nutcracker (Nucifraga caryocatactes)
Known for its intelligence and association with coniferous forests, this bird is often spotted foraging for seeds and nuts.

Hazel Grouse (Tetrastes bonasia)
A shy, ground-dwelling bird, the hazel grouse prefers dense forest habitats and is known for its subtle and camouflaged plumage.

Japanese Accentor (Prunella rubida)
This small, sparrow-like bird inhabits the rocky and shrubby areas of the park, feeding on seeds and insects.

Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major)
A common yet fascinating resident, this woodpecker’s drumming resonates through the park’s forests as it searches for insects.

Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus)
A delightful small bird with a distinctive long tail, the long-tailed tit often moves in flocks, foraging among trees and shrubs.

Steller’s Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus pelagicus)
This large, powerful raptor is a winter visitor to the park, where it preys on fish and adds grandeur to the landscape.

Japanese Green Pigeon (Treron sieboldii)
Known for its vibrant green plumage, this pigeon is often seen feeding on fruits in the forest canopy.