What is Lake Hamana?
Lake Hamana (Hamanako) is a beautiful brackish lake located in the western part of Shizuoka Prefecture.
This location, where the lake connects to the Pacific Ocean, is characterized by its rich natural environment and tranquil scenery, making it popular with tourists both domestically and internationally.
There are numerous tourist spots scattered around the lake, where you can enjoy activities and local specialties.
The unique environment, where seawater and freshwater mix, produces many specialty products, including eel, making it famous as the "home of eel."
Attractions of Lake Hamana
1. Enjoy the Scenic Views
The area around Lake Hamana offers beautiful scenery viewed from the lakeside.
Particularly at sunset, the lake becomes magical, making it a perfect location for photography enthusiasts.
Recommended spots:
- Ōkusa-yama Observation Deck
- You can view the entire lake, and the sunset is especially breathtaking.
- Kanazuen Hot Spring Area
- A hot spring area facing the lake where you can relax and enjoy the view.
2. Plenty of Activities
Lake Hamana offers a variety of water activities.
You can enjoy programs suitable for beginners to experienced participants, including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and sailing.
Additionally, there are cycling paths around the lake, allowing you to enjoy a refreshing ride along the lakeshore with rental bicycles.
3. Local Specialties and Gourmet
The most renowned specialty of Lake Hamana is eel.
You can savor fluffy grilled eel at many local restaurants.
Besides eel, you can enjoy dishes using fresh ingredients like whitebait and oysters, which benefit from the blessings of the sea and the lake.
Especially in winter, oyster huts open up, allowing you to taste Lake Hamana oysters on the spot.
4. Surrounding Tourist Spots
If you visit Lake Hamana, be sure to check out the surrounding tourist spots as well.
- Kanazuen Hot Spring
- The hot spring town offers relaxation facilities and hot springs with views of the lake.
- Lake Hamana Garden Park
- A park with a vast area filled with seasonal flowers, recommended for families with children.
- Flower Park
- A spot where you can enjoy flowers in every season, with tulips in spring being particularly popular.
Access Information
Access by Train
- Take the JR Tokaido Main Line to "Hamamatsu Station."
- Transfer at Hamamatsu Station to the Tenryu Hamanako Railway, and get off at "Kanazuen Station" or "Bentenjima Station."
Access by Car
- From Tokyo
- Use the Tomei Expressway and exit at "Hamamatsu Nishi IC" or "Kanazuen IC."
- Travel time is approximately 2.5 hours.
- From Nagoya
- Approximately 1.5 hours via the Tomei Expressway.
There are many free and paid parking lots around Lake Hamana, making access by car convenient.
How to Enjoy Lake Hamana
1. Experience Water Activities
Renting a kayak or SUP to enjoy the stunning views from the lake is a highly popular activity.
There are tours available for beginners, so you can easily give it a try.
2. Relax in Hot Springs
At Kanazuen Hot Springs or lakeside inns, you can spend time relaxing while enjoying the scenery.
Accommodations with open-air baths, in particular, offer a luxurious experience.
3. Savor Local Gourmet
At lakeside restaurants and eateries, you can taste eel and oyster dishes.
Gyoza is also popular in Hamamatsu City, so be sure to try it for lunch.
4. Connect with Nature
At the Garden Park and Flower Park, you can enjoy the nature of each season.
These spots are perfect for families and couples.
Useful Information for Travelers
- Recommended Visiting Seasons
- Spring (March-May): The season of cherry blossoms and fresh greenery. Perfect for sightseeing with pleasant weather.
- Autumn (September-November): A beautiful season for foliage. Spending time leisurely in hot springs is also recommended.
- Precautions
- When enjoying water activities, always wear a life jacket.
- The lakeshore can be windy, so bringing a windbreaker is handy.
- Access Tips
- To avoid crowds, especially during summer and holidays, plan ahead.
- The Tenryu Hamanako Railway can also be enjoyed as a sightseeing train, recommended for train enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Lake Hamana is one of Shizuoka Prefecture's premier tourist destinations, offering beautiful scenery and rich nature.
With a wide range of activities like lake activities, hot springs, and exquisite gourmet experiences, it has something for everyone.
It's easily accessible from Tokyo and Nagoya, making it perfect for day trips and weekend getaways.
Why not spend some special time at Lake Hamana, where you'll discover something new every visit?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can you swim in Lake Hamana?
Lake Hamana is primarily focused on water activities, and swimming is not common.
We recommend using nearby Bentenjima Seaside Park for swimming.
Q2. Is there English guidance available?
Some tourist facilities and hotels offer English support.
Additionally, major guideboards and pamphlets have English translations.
Q3. Is it suitable for families?
Yes. There are plenty of spots like the Garden Park and lakeside walking paths where families can enjoy.
There are also numerous activities and dining options for children.
Enjoy a trip filled with nature, gourmet, and relaxation at Lake Hamana!
