Best Rivers, Lakes & Canyons Spot List

A trekking spot surrounded by mother nature

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

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.

Here at Bodaigi Pond, you can view a satoyama (mountain foothill) landscape. It is a tranquil spot where you can hear the chirping of birds.

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.

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.

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.

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

Japan's northernmost ice-free lake

Overwhelming in scale

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

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

Keep an eye out for plentiful wildlife

Aptly named, this mysterious hot spring transforms an entire river

Withered trees stand in a mystical pond

Discover the famous ”Mashu blue”

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

Picked as one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls