10 Alluring Lakes In Japan That Look Like They’re From Another World!

Japan is a place that is well-known for its massive population and its natural beauty. Tourists come from all over the world to visit the beautiful mountains, amusement parks, historical sites, and its landscape that is almost always breathtaking. The food is delicious, the people are friendly and there is always so much to see and do. Japan is indeed popular for many reasons. But the most striking reason is its lakes. There are hundreds of beautiful lakes in Japan which make great tourist spots. If you visit during the cherry blossom season or any other season, the sight is absolutely spectacular.

10 Best Lakes In Japan

Here are the 10 most beautiful & best lakes in Japan that you must visit for an up close and personal encounter with its beauty and cultural heritage:

1. Lake Kawaguchi

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This lake is located on Mt. Fuji and is considered as a World Heritage Site. This is one of the most famous lakes in Japan. The lake is surrounded on three sides by mountain ranges and on the fourth side is where Mt. Fuji towers over everything. When the weather is good, the reflection of Mt. Fuji is seen in this lake. It is actually called ‘Reverse Fuji’ and is one of the most beautiful sights you can come across. You can experience all the seasons here. The cherry blossoms in spring, the green forests in Summer where you can take part in different sports, the fallen leaves in Autumn and the snow-covered peak in Winter. The best time to see the Reverse Fuji is during the Winter.

Location: Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan

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2. Goshiki-Numa (The five colored lakes)

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These volcanic lakes are located in the Ura-Bandai district and these different lakes have their own names and color. What makes this place especially beautiful and mysterious is that the color of the lakes here continue to change according to the season. You can trek to the ponds to experience the green forests here. If you visit during Autumn you will be able to find the beautiful fallen leaves in the emerald green ponds.

Location: Japan 966-0400, Fukushima Prefecture

3. Lake Biwa

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This is one of the largest lakes in Japan that comes before Lake Kasumigaura and dates back to millions of years ago. Lake Biwa Japan can be found in the Shiga Prefecture and has plenty of small towns and cities surrounding it. If you head out on the water, you will be able to get an amazing view of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding mountains. Biwa is a musical instrument and the lake resembles the shape of the instrument. Since it is a freshwater lake, you can find plenty of freshwater fish including trout and much more. The towns that surround the lake are filled with shrines, castles, onsen, and resorts.

Location: West Central Honshu, Shiga Prefecture

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4. Lake Chuzenji (Nikko)

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This lake is one of the major lakes in Japan near Tokyo. The lake is located in the mountains just above the town of Nikko. If you visit during Summer, you can really have a great look at Western history here. There are many of those buildings surrounding the lake here. Many people usually come here to experience the best of Nikko which is a great Summer resort. During the Summer, the lake keeps the atmosphere around the place cool and in the Autumn the view is absolutely stunning. You can find the best view from the Chuzenji Skyline, which is a bridge that is free to use.

Location: Chugushi, Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture 321-1661, Japan

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5. Lake Yamanaka

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This is one of the largest lakes out of the five located on Mt. Fuji. Since it is cool around the mountain, the Yamanaka resort is set up around here with several houses and hotels. The lake is well-known for the recreational activities that can be performed here. You can take a bicycle and ride around the lake or go windsurfing, water-skiing, swimming, fishing or boating. If you visit during the Summer it would be the best time for a boat ride. If you visit during the Winter, then you can try fishing by creating a hole in the ice.

Location: Yamanako, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan

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6. Lake Kasumigaura

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Lake Kasumigaura is the second largest lake after Lake Biwa Japan. Although the lake was mostly used by fishing industries, it ended up becoming a very popular tourist spot. It is a good idea to spend Summer here because you can take several boats or vessels out on the water to explore. There is a vessel called ‘hobikubune’ where you can sail in leisure. Apart from the amenities such as lodging and air conditioning. The vessels also have their own hot springs or Onsens, which are artificial of course, but still do the job well. The city is nearby where you can check out the beautiful gardens, parks, and aquariums.

Location: Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan

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7. Shiretoko Five Lakes

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The lakes are collectively called Shiretoko lakes and are located in Hokkaido. They are surrounded by the lush green forests and the Shiretoko mountains. If you want to experience nature at its best then you won’t be disappointed with all the colorful fauna and flora. You can take a wooden boardwalk that goes on for 800m and takes you to the shores of one lake or you can take a nature trail if you are feeling adventurous. It is advisable to take a guide with you in case you are visiting during the Brown bear season. If you visit during the Winter, the boardwalk will be closed so you can experience the wildlife up close.

Location: Onnebetsumura, Shari, Shari District, Hokkaido, 099-4110, Japan

8. Lake Motosu

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Lake Motosu is one of the five lakes on Mt. Fuji and one of the deepest. It is well known for the spots it offers for hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and other sports. The lake is so popular because it is shown on the reverse side of the 1000 yen bill. Although it is difficult to get to the lake, it is definitely worth it. The area around the lake is underdeveloped but you can still find plenty of campsites around the shores and there is still plenty of opportunities for water sports and other fun activities. This is one of the popular lakes in Japan.

Location: Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan

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9. Lake Tagokura

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This lake is one of the best lakes in Japan near Tokyo. It was formed from the Tagokura Dam and is well-known because of its size and beauty with the changing seasons. If you head to the top of the dam, you can get a great view of the lake downstream. If you head to the back, you can find an amazing view of Mt. Asakusadaki and Mt.Gamoudaki which form a part of the three mountains of Tadami. Snow will still be present on Mt. Asakusadki and this reminds tourists of the Swiss Alps. You can go walking, hiking or cycle around the lake and the area. You can even go fishing at the docks or take a boat to head upstream. The area is closed during the winters, but it opens again at the beginning of spring where you can see the beautiful flora and fauna.

Location: Tagokura, Tadami, Miniamiaizu District, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan

10. Lake Tazawa

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This is one of the deepest lakes in Japan. It is found in the Akita Prefecture and the area still holds a rustic charm. The lake is popularly visited because of the breathtaking view of Mount Akita-Komagatake which is located close by. Tourists come here to visit the onsen resorts nearby and to take part in the sports here. You can go skiing or take a sightseeing boat on the water. There are also pleasure boats where you can enjoy some luxury amenities while sailing. There is a golden statue located at the west of the lake in memory of a local girl who was cursed and became a dragon.

Location: Semboku, Akita Prefecture, Japan

Further Read: 11 Beaches In Japan: Explore The Surreal And Pristine Beaches At This Timeless Paradise

You can find plenty of lakes around Japan, but these were some of the best that you can explore if you are visiting Japan. If this guide interested you, why wait? Plan your holiday in Japan right away and grab this chance to visit all these best lakes in Japan!

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Frequently Asked Question About Lakes In Japan 

Arpita Kumari