Best Rivers, Lakes & Canyons Spot List

Japan’s largest lake, replete with noteworthy places and leisure opportunities

Hirou Shrine’s object of worship is famous for the large volume of water and for having the country’s highest drop off

The blessed spring water from Mt. Chokai

A lake found at the opening of the Oku-Nikko region. Enjoy the changing of the seasons from the lakeshore at the foot of Mt. Nantai.

Ryuzu Falls is one of the representative waterfalls in Oku-Nikko. Its forked cascade resembles the head of a dragon.

The Otaru Canal is a sightseeing spot emblematic of Otaru. About 1.1 km long, old warehouses stand side by side along one edge; along the other runs a promenade ideal for a pleasant stroll.

A caldera lake formed by an eruption from Mt Oakan, Lake Akan rests among a rich natural environment and is famous for the marimo growing in it.

Five lakes surrounded by forest in Shiretoko. Feel at one with nature as you stroll along pathways in this World Natural Heritage Site.

Lake Toya is the second largest caldera lake in Japan, having a circumference of about 40 km. Enjoy a walk along the lakeside or take a cruise on one of the pleasure boats.

Aptly named, this mysterious hot spring transforms an entire river

Experience the earth's energy in the remains of a volcanic crater

A snow-white curtain of water falls into a blue river

Overwhelming in scale

Keep an eye out for plentiful wildlife

Plumes of steam and the scent of sulfur rise from this hot spring pond

Withered trees stand in a mystical pond

Japan's northernmost ice-free lake

Picked as one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls

Both selected as part of Japan's 100 best waterfalls

Discover the famous ”Mashu blue”