Pure and Mythical. Seven Recommended Lakes You'll Want to Visit in Japan

1. Lake Shikotsu

Lake Shikotsu, which is one of the deepest and clearest lakes in Japan, is famous as the northernmost lake in Japan that does not freeze over. It has a circumference of approximately 40km and is surrounded by beautiful mountains. There are campsites, as well as jetties for canoes, ferries, and boats by the shore. With onsen hot spring towns (Shikotsu Onsen, Marukoma Onsen, Ito Onsen) and commercial districts where you can enjoy specialty dishes made with sockeye salmon nearby, it is a popular destination for tourists.

2. Lake Toya

Lake Toya is a caldera lake that is at the center of Shikotsu-Toya National Park. It has an area of approximately 7,000ha (17,297 acres) and, together with Lake Shikotsu introduced earlier, is known as a lake that does not freeze over despite Hokkaido\'s cold climate.
There are many places to stay around the lake, including a famous onsen resort that was established 100 years ago. The area, which is designated a Global Geopark, is full of great natural sites, and offers a variety of activities such as horse trekking and canoeing.

3. Lake Towada

Lake Towada is a caldera lake on the border of Aomori and Akita Prefectures. It has a circumference of approximately 46km. It is in an area blessed with rich nature, and is particularly popular among tourists when the trees turn green in the spring and during the fall foliage season.
Visitors can enjoy riding on a ferry, participating in various activities such as cycling, or walking around on the path along the lake. Experience for yourself the beautiful lake that reflects the sky and mountains like a mirror, and the refreshing panorama that will make you want to take a deep breath!

4. Lake Chuzenji

Lake Chuzenji, at the entrance of the popular tourist destination, Oku-Nikko, is a famous lake that is considered to be one of Japan\'s best 100 sceneries. It has a circumference of approximately 25km, and is located in a peaceful area with a warm climate at the foot of a mountain.
It is beautiful year round, but is particularly famous for the rhododendrons that bloom in early summer and the autumn foliage. You can enjoy the sites by walking around the perimeter, or from the lake on a ferry or boat. There are also kayaks available to rent!

5. Lake Ashi

Next, Lake Ashi is a caldera lake at the foot of Mt. Hakone\'s highest peak, Kami-yama. It is a long and narrow lake with a circumference of about 20km, and is famous as a tropical lake with a water temperature constantly above 4°C that does not freeze even in the middle of winter.
It is also known for the beauty of its contrast with Mt. Fuji, and the ferry boats on the lake and the ropeway are great places from which to see the fabulous views. There are many places to enjoy the day around the lake, including historical ruins, shrines, museums, campsites, and areas to fish for rainbow trout and smelt.

6. Lake Kawaguchi

Lake Kawaguchi has long been famous as a place to see Mt. Fuji from. It is one of the Fuji Five Lakes (five lakes in the Mt. Fuji mountain range) and is popular among painters and photographers as a place from which there is a symmetrical view of Mt. Fuji.
It has great transport links, and has numerous tourist facilities and overnight accommodations. There are many ways to enjoy the lake, such as boat rides, fishing, and cycling along the shore.

7. Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa is famous as Japan\'s largest lake. With an area of approximately 670 sq km and circumference of approximately 235km, it is a large lake that takes up 1/6 of Shiga Prefecture. The water quality, waterflow, and scenery changes in different parts of the lake, such as the northern area and the southern area, and the scenery, which is beautiful from sunrise to sunset, is one that visitors never tire of.
The ferry boats are the best way to enjoy the grand and beautiful scenery! You can see a 360-degree panorama from the sky deck.
There are many tourist destinations all around the lake, including historic sites such as the famous Hikone Castle, temples, canals, museums, ropeways, and athletic parks.

Ones of the appeals of lakes is their subtle change in expression by time of year and time of day. You are highly recommended to experience their beauty for yourself!