Lake Akan’s hot spring town, nestled on the southern shore of the lake in eastern Hokkaido’s Akan Mashu National Park, is a remote area surrounded by stunning natural scenery. Dining options here are quite limited, with only a few restaurants available and no specific local specialties. As a result, it’s highly recommended to choose a ryokan with a dinner plan, where kaiseki cuisine or buffet-style meals are often a highlight. The area is renowned for its serene beauty, the unique Marimo algae that thrive in its clear waters, and its rich Ainu culture, which can be explored at the nearby Ainu Kotan village. Visitors can also enjoy the relaxing hot springs and local cuisine, often featuring fresh lake fish like wakasagi, offering a well-rounded experience that blends nature, culture, and gastronomy.
[Dinner Restaurants]Asahikawa-旭川 - Google マイマップ
Asahikawa-旭川
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1. Ajigokoro-味心
- DJ Recommendation
☆☆ - Google Map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/4WjZNTwQtF6ysoa37 - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Ajigokoro is a family-run restaurant located near Lake Akan, offering a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Known for its local Hokkaido dishes, the menu features unique items like the Miyama Don, a flavorful bowl topped with tender venison and sautéed wild garlic, and handmade gyoza. The restaurant is popular among both locals and tourists, especially during the colder months when visitors come to enjoy hearty meals after exploring the icy landscapes. The service is attentive, and the dishes are prepared with care, making it a great spot to experience regional flavors. While the décor is simple, the quality of the food and the warm hospitality make it a memorable dining experience in Akan.
2. Ryogoku Souhonten-両国総本店
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☆☆ - Google Map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ErGtpBUrzYchx7zf8 - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Ryougoku Souhon Ten is a charming, rustic restaurant located just a few minutes’ drive from Lake Akan, known for its locally sourced venison dishes. The restaurant is part of a traditional inn, and its quaint, no-frills interior exudes a nostalgic, laid-back atmosphere. The highlight of the menu is the venison, which is expertly prepared by the owner himself, ensuring tender, flavorful meat without any gamey taste. Dishes like the venison donburi (deer meat rice bowl) and grilled venison are particularly popular, offering a unique taste of Hokkaido’s culinary heritage. The restaurant also serves other local specialties, such as wakasagi (pond smelt) tempura, making it a great place to experience regional flavors. While the setting is simple, the quality of the food and the warm, welcoming service make it a memorable dining experience for those visiting the Akan area.
3. AKAN LEATHER / BAR Shikagoya-AKAN LEATHER / BAR鹿小屋
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☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/aXKjkqvi1zspDujN6 - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
AKAN LEATHER / BAR Shikagoya offers a unique dining experience in the heart of the Akan area, combining a leather goods shop with a cozy bar. The restaurant is renowned for its venison curry and hamburger steak, both of which are seasoned to perfection. The venison, with its low fat content and high protein, is a healthy yet flavorful choice, and the curry spices are expertly blended to complement the rich taste of the meat. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with friendly staff who go out of their way to make your dining experience special. The bar area, lined with bottles on the walls, creates an inviting space for a relaxing meal. Whether you’re stopping by for a hearty lunch or a casual evening drink, AKAN LEATHER / BAR Shikagoya offers a distinctive taste of the region, making it a spot worth visiting when you’re in the Akan area.
4. Bar de Pan-バル･デ･パン
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☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/9qBhd76zCdC22AHn8 - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Bar de Pan offers a casual dining experience in the heart of Akan, specializing in hearty sandwiches and flavorful meat dishes. Known for its generous portions, the restaurant surprises with its large and tender pork chops and beef hamburg steaks, both of which are perfectly cooked and satisfying. The ambiance is laid-back, with friendly staff that create a welcoming atmosphere. In addition to its dine-in options, Bar de Pan also offers a variety of takeout items, including freshly made sandwiches and pastries. While the prices reflect the touristy nature of the area, the quality and portion sizes make it worth a visit, especially for those looking for a filling and delicious meal after exploring the scenic surroundings of Lake Akan.