Mount Meakan

What to know

Mount Meakan (雌阿寒岳, Meakandake or Matineshiri in Ainu) is an active volcano in Akan Mashu National Park, boasting some of Japan's most dramatic volcanic landscapes. It lies southwest of Lake Akan, and its name means "female Akan," contrasting with Mount Oakan ("male Akan") to the east of the lake.

From the summit, you get stunning views of the deep main crater, a flatter northern crater, and the beautiful cone-shaped peak of Akanfuji nearby. Hiking is usually possible from May to early October via three routes. A circular hike starting and ending at Meakan Onsen or Onneto Campground is the most popular and practical, taking about 4–5 hours. The climb is steep but requires no special gear beyond sturdy hiking shoes.

Meakan is one of Japan's more active volcanoes, with several eruptions in recent decades. Trails may close during heightened activity, so check the current alert level before you go and follow local instructions. Sirens are installed along the trail for emergencies.

A great way to end your hike is at Meakan Onsen, a hot spring with a single ryokan called Nonaka Onsen. The ryokan used to open its baths to day visitors, allowing hikers to soak in highly sulfuric waters after their trek. Unfortunately, the ryokan was destroyed by a fire in January 2025. Efforts are underway to reopen the bathing facilities, but it will take time.

There are three trailheads, none accessible by public transport. Two—Meakan Onsen and Onneto Campground—are a 20-minute car or taxi ride from the town of Akankohan on Lake Akan. A taxi costs about 6000 yen one way. Parking is available near both. The third trailhead is only reachable via a narrow unpaved forest road. Ambitious hikers could walk all the way from Akankohan, but that roughly doubles the hike duration.

How to get to and around Akan Mashu National Park