Akkeshi – Nature, History and Birdlife

A viewpoint on a summit about 60 metres high offers views over Akkeshi Bay, Lake Akkeshi and the town. Akkeshi combines these scenic landscapes with a remarkable history: at the Kokutaiji site, temple history meets a nationally designated historic site. There are also museums, cherry blossoms in May and a tour on the lake. You can tailor your stay to a wide range of interests.

Views Over the Lake, Bay and Town

The Osonae Viewpoint is located on the summit and offers views of three distinct aspects of Akkeshi: the bay, the lake and the town. To reach the viewpoint, climb the completed stairway and then walk for about five minutes.

Lake Akkeshi is also of interest in winter: it does not freeze over completely and is an important wintering ground for whooper swans. Steller’s sea eagles and white-tailed eagles also overwinter in the surrounding area. A view of the lake can therefore be paired with a distinctive nature experience, different from Akkeshi’s historical sights. The nationally designated Akkeshi–Bekanbeushi–Kiritappu Wildlife Protection Area is located in the wider region. This area includes, among other places, Lake Akkeshi as well as the Kiritappu and Bekanbeushi wetlands.

Temple History and Museums

The grounds of Kokutaiji convey the character of an Edo-period temple complex, although most of the surviving buildings were remodelled later. Kokutaiji is one of the three Ezo government temples whose construction was decided upon in 1804. The grounds are part of a nationally designated historic site covering about 130,000 m². This also includes the former sites of Aikappu and Shimmei-gū, the predecessor of Akkeshi Shrine. The Osonae-chashi group, a historic site designated by the town, is also located near the Osonae Viewpoint.

Another chapter in the town’s history is explored at the Akkeshi Maritime Memorial Museum. It presents the town’s historical links to herring fishing, kelp fishing and whaling. Visitors interested in local history can explore these subjects alongside the history of the temple. The Aikappu Natural History Museum has a different focus: it is run by the Hokkaido University Field Science Center for the Northern Biosphere and displays about 2,000 exhibits, including animal specimens and fossils.

Cherry Blossoms and Experiences on the Lake

Nenohi Park is a major cherry blossom spot in eastern Hokkaido. Ezo-yamazakura and yaezakura bloom there in succession from early to late May. If you plan a stay during this period, you’ll find a distinct seasonal highlight, different from the historical themes described as year-round attractions. A tour to dig for large Venus clams is also offered at Lake Akkeshi. It adds an activity centred on the lake itself to the nature and culture experiences.

When choosing a holiday apartment in Akkeshi, consider which aspect of the town you’d like to shape your stay: the history of Kokutaiji and the museums, the views and birdlife around the lake, or a seasonal visit for the cherry blossoms. These different highlights provide a concrete starting point for considering Akkeshi as a destination for nature and culture enthusiasts.

More destinations: Niikappu, Iwamizawa, Minamifurano, Abashiri, Kitami, Kenbuchi, Erimo, Otaru.

For the main travel overview: Hokkaido.