Sunayu Lake Kussharo
Discover Sunayu Lake Kussharo, where you can dig your own hot spring in the sand and witness swans in winter. A unique geothermal wonder in Hokkaido.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Swans gather, mist is magical
Sunayu Lake Kussharo
Best Time
Swans gather, mist is magical
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Sunayu Lake Kussharo, where you can dig your own hot spring in the sand and witness swans in winter. A unique geothermal wonder in Hokkaido.
"Dig your own hot spring in the sand and enjoy the company of swans at this unique Hokkaido gem!"
♨️ Dig for Warmth
Bring a small shovel to dig your own hot spring in the sand at Sunayu Beach. :athletic_shoe:
🦢 Swan Spotting
Visit in winter for the best chance to see migrating Whooper Swans. :bird:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dig Your Own Hot Spring
Sunayu Beach
Dig into the sandy shore to discover natural hot springs, perfect for a relaxing foot soak.
Migrating Swans
Lake Kussharo
Witness flocks of majestic Whooper Swans resting and bathing in the warm waters during winter.
Caldera Lake Views
Lake Kussharo
Experience the vast beauty of Japan's largest caldera lake, especially magical with morning mist or sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Winter Wonders
Campervan Comforts & Night Drives
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
♨️ Dig for Warmth
Bring a small shovel to dig your own hot spring in the sand at Sunayu Beach. :athletic_shoe:
🦢 Swan Spotting
Visit in winter for the best chance to see migrating Whooper Swans. :bird:
🚐 Campervan Friendly
Overnight parking is available for campervans with clean facilities. :motorhome:
🌅 Sunset Views
The western shore offers beautiful sunset views over the lake. :city_sunset:
Tips
from all over the internet
♨️ Dig for Warmth
Bring a small shovel to dig your own hot spring in the sand at Sunayu Beach. :athletic_shoe:
🦢 Swan Spotting
Visit in winter for the best chance to see migrating Whooper Swans. :bird:
🚐 Campervan Friendly
Overnight parking is available for campervans with clean facilities. :motorhome:
🌅 Sunset Views
The western shore offers beautiful sunset views over the lake. :city_sunset:
🚗 Night Drive Caution
Roads can be dark at night; drive with care. :oncoming_automobile:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique experience of digging their own hot springs at Sunayu Beach, finding it incredibly relaxing and a must-do activity. The natural beauty of Lake Kussharo, especially with migrating swans in winter, is a major highlight. While the area is peaceful and offers great views, some note that the roads can be dark at night.
"My experience at Sunayu Beach, Lake Kussharo, Hokkaido.
During our recent Hokkaido trip, we visited Lake Kussharo early one morning. The scenic Sunayu beach, with its stretch of sandy shore, offered breathtaking views of the lake. What made this spot unique was the natural hot-spring water flowing directly onto the beach – dig a hole in the sand, and warm water would gush out! It is perfect for soaking one's feet and unwinding. The surrounding area featured plenty of trees and ample space for a leisurely morning stroll, which we thoroughly enjoyed. The combination of natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere made Sunayu beach an unforgettable experience."
Ms Cheng
"Very interesting as the sand is warm but water in the lake is cold. There is a beautiful morning mist that makes the scenery beautiful. You can see sunset here. There are big parking spaces facing the lake and public toilet which is clean. I came here in a camper van for 1 night. The road leading to this destination is dark at night."
LYDIA Chua
"This was really a splendid stopover for us. The sand beside the lake has hot water underneath and people brought their chairs to sit by the water. Toilet is clean, you could also stop your campervan in the parking lot to sleep overnight. There is a trash bin which was amazing because we finally threw out trash. Loved this place!"
Matilda Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sunayu Lake Kussharo is located in Akan-Mashu National Park, Hokkaido. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transport options are limited, so renting a car or joining a tour is recommended for easier access.
The destination is well-marked, especially if you're using GPS. The roads leading to it are scenic, though can be dark at night, so plan accordingly.
While the swans are a winter attraction, Lake Kussharo is beautiful year-round. You can still enjoy the caldera lake views and the unique geothermal activity on the beach.
Renting a car offers the most flexibility to explore Lake Kussharo and the surrounding Akan-Mashu National Park, including nearby attractions like Mount Io.
Yes, several tour operators in Hokkaido offer day trips or multi-day tours that include Lake Kussharo and its attractions, often focusing on wildlife viewing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Sunayu Beach and Lake Kussharo are natural attractions and generally do not have an entrance fee. Enjoying the sand baths and swan viewing is free.
As a natural area, Sunayu Lake Kussharo is accessible 24/7. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery.
No advance booking is required for general visits to Sunayu Lake Kussharo. If you plan to camp overnight in a campervan, check with local campgrounds for availability.
Yes, there are public toilets available, which are noted as clean. There are also shops and parking facilities nearby.
While the sand baths are warm, the lake itself is cold. Swimming is generally not recommended due to the cold temperatures, especially outside of the hot spring areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique sight of swans bathing in the warm sand, the vast caldera lake with morning mist or sunset, and the experience of digging your own hot spring. 
Early mornings offer beautiful mist and fewer crowds, while late afternoons provide stunning sunset colors. Winter light can be particularly dramatic. +1
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. For wildlife photography, a telephoto lens can be beneficial for capturing swans from a distance.
There are no specific restrictions on photography for personal use. Please be respectful of the natural environment and any other visitors.
Focus on close-ups of the bubbling hot springs in the sand, or wider shots showing people enjoying the warm foot baths with the lake as a backdrop.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Sunayu itself is a natural attraction, there are dining options in nearby towns like Teshikaga or Kawayu Onsen. Some facilities near the lake may offer snacks or simple meals.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is a great option, especially if you're camping or enjoying a picnic by the lake. There are trash bins available.
Expect fresh seafood, dairy products, and local produce. Dishes like ramen, sushi, and Jingisukan (grilled lamb) are popular in Hokkaido.
There might be small convenience stores or cafes in the immediate vicinity or in nearby villages. It's advisable to stock up on supplies before heading to more remote areas.
While not explicitly stated, if camping facilities are available, barbecuing might be permitted. Always check local regulations and campground rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the lake itself is cold, the shallow, warm sand baths are safe and enjoyable for children to play in. The ample space on the beach allows for running around and exploring. If visiting with a campervan, the overnight parking facilities offer a convenient and potentially more relaxed option for families. Remember to dress children warmly, especially during winter months.
🚐 Budget Travelers & Campervan Enthusiasts
Bring your own food and drinks to further minimize expenses. The peaceful environment and stunning natural scenery provide a rich experience without a hefty price tag. It's a perfect spot to enjoy the tranquility of Hokkaido's nature and wake up to beautiful lake views. Just be mindful of the dark roads if you're driving at night.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Winter is a particularly rewarding season, with the chance to capture the majestic Whooper Swans against the backdrop of snow-covered scenery and the unfrozen lake.
The morning mist that often blankets the lake adds an ethereal quality to photographs. Whether you're capturing wildlife, landscapes, or the unique geothermal features, Sunayu offers a diverse range of photographic subjects. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Sunayu's Sand Baths
This natural phenomenon is particularly captivating during the colder months. The warm springs prevent the vast caldera lake from freezing over completely, creating a starkly beautiful winter landscape. It's this warmth that also attracts large numbers of migrating Whooper Swans, turning the lakeshore into a haven for these magnificent birds.
+1When visiting Sunayu, remember to bring a small shovel if you want to dig your own bath. It's a simple yet profound way to connect with the natural geothermal forces of Hokkaido. The experience is often described as peaceful and incredibly relaxing, making it a must-do for any visitor to the area.
Winter Wildlife: The Swans of Lake Kussharo
+1During winter, the swans are a major draw for visitors, offering incredible opportunities for birdwatching and photography. The contrast of their white plumage against the icy landscape and the dark, open water is visually stunning. It's a testament to the unique ecological balance of the region, where natural heat sustains life even in the harshest conditions.
To best enjoy the swans, visit during the colder months, typically from late autumn through early spring. While they are present, their numbers are highest during the peak winter season. Remember to maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing the birds and their habitat.
Campervan Adventures at Sunayu
The experience of waking up by the lake, perhaps with a morning mist rolling in, is highly recommended. Many visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the ability to enjoy the sunrise or a quiet evening by the water. The proximity to the lake and the unique hot spring feature makes it an ideal base for exploring the eastern Hokkaido region.
While the parking is convenient, it's worth noting that the roads leading to Sunayu can be quite dark at night. Travelers should exercise caution when driving after sunset. Despite this, the overall experience of staying overnight in a campervan at Sunayu is overwhelmingly positive, offering a budget-friendly and intimate connection with the landscape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit