Imuta Pond Prefectural Natural Park, centered in Satsumasendai City, Kagoshima Prefecture, is a natural park that protects volcanic landforms, a shallow pond, and wetland ecosystems.
Imuta Pond is known for its nationally designated Natural Monument, the peat-forming plant community, and as a habitat for rare wildlife, including the endangered bekko tombo dragonfly.
Rather than treating the lakeside as simply a walking path, it is important to observe from a distance that does not damage the wetland and to check access restrictions and facility availability before walking.
What Is Imuta Pond Prefectural Natural Park? A Place Protecting a Crater Lake and Wetlands
The prefectural natural park area includes not only Imuta Pond but also Sumiyoshi Pond and the surrounding region.
On your first visit, focus on the shore of Imuta Pond and do not assume that the entire natural park is contained within a single park site.
A Shallow Crater Lake Formed by an Eruption of Mount Iimori
Imuta Pond is a lake formed when water collected in a crater created by an eruption of Mount Iimori.
It is a shallow pond about 4 kilometers in circumference and about 3.5 meters deep, and the landform enclosed by mountains supports its wetland environment.
Look beyond the figures and notice how the scenery differs from that of a lake fed by large rivers flowing in from the surrounding area.
The Prefectural Natural Park Spans Three Municipalities
The park extends across Satsumasendai City, Satsuma Town, and Aira City, with a designated area of 3,938 hectares.
Do not judge the entire park area from lakeside information alone. If you plan to hike or visit a distant location, check the prefectural boundary map and guidance from each municipality.
Do not enter private land or conservation areas, and give priority to signs on site.
Observe the Floating Islands and Peat-Forming Plant Community
Floating islands created when low-lying marshland rose to the surface can be seen on Imuta Pond.
Although they may look like patches of grass from a distance, they are part of a wetland formed over a long period and are not places to stand on or objects to pull closer.
View the Floating Islands from a Safe Distance on Shore
The positions and shapes of the floating islands may change with the water level, wind, and condition of the plants.
Do not step into waterside vegetation in search of a better view. Use binoculars from the path or a designated observation area.
Do not throw objects into the water or move a floating island with a branch; leave it in its natural state.
Record Seasonal Changes Instead of Collecting Plants
Specialized plants grow in the wetland, and their community is designated a National Natural Monument.
Do not collect flowers or leaves. Preserve your observations with photographs, sketches, and records of the date and time.
Visiting the same place in different seasons lets you compare changes in water level, color, and vegetation, but check each time whether the accessible area has changed.
Learn About the Ramsar Wetland and Its Wildlife
In November 2005, Imuta Pond was designated a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention.
The designation is not a title for a tourist attraction but a framework for continuing wetland conservation and wise use.
| Subject to Observe | Where to Look | Rule to Follow |
|---|---|---|
| Floating islands | Lakeside path | Do not enter the vegetation |
| Dragonflies | Grassland and waterside | Do not chase them |
| Waterbirds | Distant shore | Keep voices low |
| Aquatic life | Aquaim | Learn from the exhibits |
Do Not Chase Bekko Tombo Dragonflies
Imuta Pond is designated as a habitat protection area for the endangered bekko tombo dragonfly.
If you find one, do not catch it with a net or push through grass to pursue it. Keep your distance from where it has perched.
Use a zoom lens and, even on days when none are visible, prioritize protecting the waterside and grassland that form their habitat.
In June 1996, Imuta Pond was designated a habitat protection area for the bekko tombo dragonfly under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species.
Do Not Release or Move Invasive Fish on Your Own
Invasive fish removal and ecosystem conservation are carried out at Imuta Pond.
Do not fish or move wildlife at your own discretion. Follow the rules on site or take part only in an official event currently being held.
Do not release caught fish, captive animals, or feed into the pond, and help prevent impacts on the ecosystem from introduced organisms.
Learn About the Ecosystem at Aquaim Before Walking
The Kedōin Ecosystem Preservation Resource Facility Aquaim on the lakeshore is a center for protecting rare plants and animals and raising public awareness.
Learning from the exhibits about the relationships between wildlife and the environment first makes it easier to understand what to look for and what to protect around the pond.
Find Clues for Observation in the Aquariums and Specimens
Aquaim has aquariums and other exhibits on the first floor and insect specimens and other displays on the second floor.
Use the exhibits to identify the shapes and features of wildlife that can be difficult to find outdoors, then observe without catching anything at the lakeside.
A biotope has been created on the pond's western side to maintain habitat for the bekko tombo dragonfly and support environmental education.
Exhibit content, opening days, and photography rules may change, so follow the information provided when you enter.
Ask About Wildlife Sightings and Path Conditions
The places and seasons in which bekko tombo dragonflies can be seen are not fixed and vary with the weather and habitat conditions.
When asking Aquaim for observation information, take care not to spread the precise location of a rare species in public.
At the same time, confirm the condition of the paths, campground, and construction areas, and walk only within the areas staff say are open.
What to Wear and How to Stay Safe on a Lakeside Walk
Even though the lakeside looks flat, it has places that become muddy in rain, fallen leaves, steps, and waterside edges.
Do not make walking all the way around your goal. Depending on the weather, accessible sections, and your companions' stamina, switch to an out-and-back walk.
| Conditions | Main Hazard | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy rain | Rising water and landslides | Cancel the walk |
| After rain | Mud | Choose a short section |
| Hot day | Heat illness | Rest in the shade |
| Construction in progress | Road closure | Check the detour |
Bring Slip-Resistant Shoes and Insect Protection
Start with comfortable shoes that cover your feet, drinking water, and a hat, and choose clothing that protects your skin for the season.
If you use insect repellent, do not spray large amounts near the water, and follow the product directions.
Do not enter grass barefoot, and after returning, check your clothes and body for insects.
Stay Out of the Water and Keep Children in Sight
Even in a shallow pond, feet can become trapped in mud or plants, and the condition of the shore varies by location.
Do not enter the water or cross fences or no-entry signs.
To prevent children from leaving the path while chasing wildlife, an adult should stand on the water side and watch their movements.
Check Construction, Campground Access, and Entry Restrictions Just Before Your Visit
On April 21, 2026, closures on the Imuta Pond Loop municipal road and the Imuta Pond municipal road were lifted after disaster restoration work was completed, and the campground also resumed full operations.
However, conditions of use may change with the weather or facility circumstances, so check the guidance before your visit and again on site.
Check Current Access Conditions Before Use
Even after restoration, not every path and facility is necessarily available at all times.
When planning your trip, ask the facility about availability and give priority to restriction lines on site.
Even if a road appears on an old map, do not cross a closure or enter an unofficial track.
Check How to Use the Campground
The campground reception location and procedures may change, so confirm them before your visit.
Also check the date of use, facilities, fire rules, and reservation method in advance.
The designated manager is listed as HS WORKS LLC, telephone 0996-56-0085.
Visitors who are only walking should also stay out of campsites and preserve a quiet environment for overnight guests.
Etiquette for Photography and Nature Observation
When photographing the water, mountains, birds, or insects, the standard is not to alter wildlife behavior or habitat for the sake of a picture.
Use a telephoto lens and quiet movements, and share the path with other observers.
Do Not Approach Nests or Emergence Sites
If you find a nest, eggs, or an insect emerging, do not touch them or flatten the surrounding grass to make a place for a photograph.
Before publishing a geotagged photo, consider whether it could affect the protection of a rare species.
Do not aim a flash or light directly at animals or surround the same individual for a long time.
Leave No Trash or Food
Giving human food to birds or fish can affect their behavior and water quality.
Do not leave food scraps, fishing line, or packaging. Take everything you bring home or dispose of it by the designated method.
Do not take plants or stones home; leave what you observed in place for the next visitor.
Summary: Observe Imuta Pond from a Distance That Protects the Wetland
At Imuta Pond Prefectural Natural Park, you can learn about a wetland ecosystem that connects a crater lake, floating islands, a peat-forming plant community, and rare dragonflies.
Learning the background at Aquaim first and then observing from the lakeside path at a respectful distance will deepen your understanding.
Construction and entry restrictions after heavy rain can change, so check availability immediately before your visit and choose a way to walk that does not compromise wetland conservation.
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