Excursion Lake akan & ainu village tour at Kushiro

Experience the natural beauty and Ainu culture of Hokkaido during this memorable, full-day excursion to Ainu Kotan, Lake Akan and the Kushiro Marshland.

Ainu Kotan

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximate two-hour drive to Ainu Kotan. The largest Ainu village, Ainu Kotan is located just outside Hot-spring Village and includes about 36 residences housing approximately 200 people. On the west-side of the village street are about 30 souvenir shops crammed side-by-side.

Traditional Ainu dances, which have been designated as important intangible cultural assets, can be seen in the Onne-Chise, or 'very big house' located in the centre of the Kotan. There are also places where you can take pictures wearing traditional Ainu costumes.

Lake Akan

Next, proceed for lunch at a hotel near Lake Akan, a beautiful and mysterious crater-lake located in Akan National Park. Lake Akan is renowned for its 'marimo', a curious-looking moss that grows in large green balls; a phenomenon that is unique to this lake. After lunch, re-board your coach and drive to the Kushiro Marshland.

Kushiro Marshland

The largest wetland in Japan, the Kushiro Marshland has been placed on the Ramsar Convention list of important wetlands. The marsh extends across the Kushiro Plain, and is fed by the waters of the Kushirogawa River. Reeds grow in the wettest areas, which are surrounded by grasslands and dense stands of alder trees. The Kushiro Marshland is home to approximately 600 plant species, and offers habitats for the Japanese crane and other migratory birds.  Wildlife sightings are not always guaranteed. Your tour concludes with an approximate 40-minute drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Hokkaido, Kushiro, Ainu Kotan, Traditional Dances, Onne-Chise, Lake Akan, Akan National Park, Kushiro Marshland, Plant, Tree and Bird Species

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.9 miles (about 1.5 kilometres), with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and approximately 100 steps at the Kushiro Marshland. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended. The lunch served during this tour includes a Japanese style set menu. For dietary restrictions please contact the on board Shore Concierge Team upon embarkation. Menu substitutions may be not be possible to accommodate. Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior the cruise. Local Tour Guides tend to have a strong accent therefore we urge flexibility.