Best Rivers, Lakes & Canyons Spot List

Strolling around ponds colored subtle shades of blue

One of the most spacious ponds in metropolitan Tokyo and beloved as a cherry-blossom viewing site in Spring. The scenic pond was often the subject of ukiyo-e paintings in the mid-19th century.

Immerse yourself in the picturesque scenery of the nature

Stroll around the beautiful, mystical lakes and ponds

The namesake for the area and one of Japan's ”Top 100 Waterfalls”

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.

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

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.

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.

Both selected as part of Japan's 100 best waterfalls

Aptly named, this mysterious hot spring transforms an entire river

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

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

Withered trees stand in a mystical pond

Keep an eye out for plentiful wildlife

Picked as one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls

Overwhelming in scale

Japan's northernmost ice-free lake

Discover the famous ”Mashu blue”

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