day 5: japanese loch ness

When our guide Michelle mentioned a foot sand spa, I was thrilled.

Known as Lake Swan, the water seeping through the beach edge was hot because there is a spring beneath. It must be at least 42 degrees because I could hardly put my feet down into the water.

Amazingly, when we took just three steps deeper into the water, it was cool enough to stand in! So we could in theory have one foot in hot water and the other cold at the same time.

Another reason why this lake left a deep impression is because it is known to be home to a Loch Ness Monster. Some students and teachers witnessed it and now, there's a huge Loch Ness Monster (which looks like a blue dinosaur) guarding the souvenir store.

We didn't see the swans today because it was too warm. But I'm sure it must be a sight to have them around.

• Activities: Okhotsk Lavender Farm, Lake Saroma, Lake Notoro, Abashiri Prison, Akan National Park, Lake Kusharo, sand spa, Mount Sulphur, Lake Mashu.
• Cost: 3,060¥ souvenirs, 150¥ bottle of oolong tea, 120¥ canned coffee, 350¥ peach soft cream, 525¥ milk cookies, 1050¥ lavender cream, 1360¥ potato farm, 120¥ cup noodles.
• Accommodation: Remote Hotel Gozensui is just next to the Ainu Village where there is a row of souvenir shops. Rooms are spacious and in traditional tatami style. The bathroom is small but we didnt mind since we take all our baths at the onsen.
• Highlight: Bearing the fire torch in the mass ritual walk to the Ainu Village was pretty memorable.