Lake Kussharo (Kussharo-ko) – Hokkaido’s Mystical Caldera Lake

Overview: A Volcanic Lake with Natural Hot Springs and Wildlife

Lake Kussharo (屈斜路湖, Kussharo-ko) is the largest caldera lake in eastern Hokkaido, set within Akan-Mashu National Park. Surrounded by mountains and forests, the lake is famous for its natural hot spring beaches (sunayu), where you can dig your own onsen in the sand, and for the graceful swans that gather on its steamy shores in winter. The area offers canoeing, hiking, cycling, and panoramic views from Bihoro Pass. For more ideas on what to see nearby, check out the "Find Recommended Sightseeing Spots Near Lake Kussharo" section below!

Lake Kussharo panoramic view Sunayu hot spring beach at Lake Kussharo Swans at Lake Kussharo in winter
Did you know? The Wakoto Peninsula (和琴半島) juts out into Lake Kussharo and is famous for its unique volcanic landscape, lakeside hot springs, and easy walking trails. It’s a great spot for nature walks, birdwatching, and enjoying the lake’s geothermal features up close.

History and Cultural Significance

Kusshii, the lake monster of Lake Kussharo

Lake Kussharo was formed by a massive volcanic eruption over 100,000 years ago. The Ainu people, Hokkaido’s indigenous inhabitants, have long revered the lake and its surrounding mountains as sacred. Today, visitors come for the healing hot springs, wild scenery, and the unique experience of digging their own onsen at Sunayu. The area is also known for mysterious legends and sightings of "Kusshii," a lake monster said to inhabit its depths.

Local Legend: The Kusshii of Lake Kussharo

Local folklore tells of "Kusshii," a mythical creature said to dwell in the lake’s deep waters, much like Scotland’s Loch Ness Monster. Sightings have been reported since the 1970s, adding a sense of mystery and fun to the area.

Local saying:
「屈斜路湖のクッシーに会えるかも」
Translation:
"You might meet Kusshii at Lake Kussharo."

How to Get to Lake Kussharo (Last updated: May 25, 2025)

Departure Station Route Estimated Time Estimated Cost
Kushiro Airport Kushiro Airport Shuttle Bus → JR Kushiro Station → JR Senmo Line (approx. 1 hr 40 min) → JR Mashu Station → Seasonal Eco Passport/Akan Bus → Wakoto Peninsula Approx. 2 hr 40 min ¥3,500~¥5,000
Memanbetsu Airport Memanbetsu Airport Line → JR Abashiri Station → JR Senmo Line → JR Shiretoko-Shari Station → JR Senmo Line → JR Kawayu Onsen Station → Seasonal Eco Passport → Wakoto Peninsula Approx. 2 hr 30 min ¥3,500~¥5,000
Memanbetsu Airport Memanbetsu Airport Line → JR Abashiri Station → JR Senmo Line → JR Shiretoko-Shari Station → JR Senmo Line → JR Mashu Station → Seasonal Eco Passport/Akan Bus → Wakoto Peninsula Approx. 2 hr 40 min ¥3,500~¥5,000
Nakashibetsu Airport Nakashibetsu Airport Line → Nakashibetsu Bus Terminal → Akan Bus (approx. 1 hr 30 min) → JR Shibecha Station → JR Senmo Line → JR Kawayu Onsen Station → Seasonal Eco Passport → Wakoto Peninsula Approx. 2 hr 40 min ¥3,500~¥5,000
Nakashibetsu Airport Nakashibetsu Airport Line → Nakashibetsu Bus Terminal → Akan Bus (approx. 1 hr 30 min) → JR Shibecha Station → JR Senmo Line → JR Mashu Station → Seasonal Eco Passport/Akan Bus → Wakoto Peninsula Approx. 2 hr 40 min ¥3,500~¥5,000
JR Mashu Station Local Bus (operates outside Eco Passport season) → Wakoto Peninsula Approx. 30 min ¥500–¥1,000
*Outside the Eco Passport season, a local bus runs from JR Mashu Station to Wakoto Peninsula.

From Kawayu Onsen Station or Mashu Station, take a local bus or taxi to Sunayu or other lakeside spots. Bus service is limited, so check schedules in advance.
Tip: Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility and exploring the area.

Access on Foot (From Kawayu Onsen Station to Lake Kussharo)

Walking from Kawayu Onsen Station to Sunayu (lakeside hot spring beach) is about 5 km (1 hour), but a bus or taxi is much more convenient, especially with luggage.

Once at the lake, major attractions like Sunayu, Wakoto Peninsula, and lakeside cafes are accessible on foot or by rental bicycle.

Don’t miss the lakeside promenade, especially in winter when swans gather on the steaming shores.

Official Website

For more details, please visit the official website.

Visit Official Site

Activity Information

  • Location: Lake Kussharo, Hokkaido, Japan
  • Opening Hours: Varies by facility (Sunayu open 24h, public baths 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM)
  • Recommended Season: Spring–autumn (canoeing, hiking), winter (swans, onsen)
  • Admission Fee: Free (some baths/attractions: ¥500–¥1,500)
  • Special Events: Swan migration (Nov–Mar), Kussharo Lake Festival (summer)
  • Notes: Some activities and cruises are seasonal; car rental recommended.

Find Recommended Sightseeing Spots Near Lake Kussharo