What is Lake Inawashiro?
Lake Inawashiro (Inawashiro-ko) is Japan’s fourth-largest lake, located near the center of Fukushima Prefecture, known for its clear, beautiful waters.
It’s also called Tenkyo-ko (Tenkyō-ko), meaning “Heaven’s Mirror,” and the sight of the lake surface reflecting the sky like a mirror is breathtaking.
In the background stands the majestic Mount Bandai (Bandai-san), offering stunning scenery throughout the four seasons.
Lake Inawashiro is also a popular tourist spot: water activities in summer and swan migrations in winter make it an attractive destination year-round.
This article introduces the highlights of Lake Inawashiro, how to enjoy it, and access information!
Highlights of Lake Inawashiro
1. Spectacular views — beauty in every season
Lake Inawashiro shows different faces with each season, making it a destination you can enjoy all year round.
Spring (April–May): Cherry blossoms against the lake
- Cherry trees bloom around the lake, creating a magnificent view of Mount Bandai, the lake, and the cherry blossoms
- Enjoy lakeside walks or drives while feeling the arrival of spring
Summer (June–August): Activity heaven!
- Canoeing, SUP, sailing, jet-skiing, and other water sports are popular
- There are campsites along the shore where you can enjoy barbecues and outdoor life
Autumn (September–November): Beautiful contrast of autumn leaves and the lake
- The autumn colors of Mount Bandai reflect on the lake, creating a spectacular scene
- Ideal season for hiking and scenic drives
Winter (December–March): Swan migration & ice activities
- Parts of the lake freeze, allowing for ice fishing for wakasagi (pond smelt)
- Swans fly in from Siberia, where you can observe their graceful姿
No matter the season, Lake Inawashiro’s natural beauty is a major attraction!
2. Enjoy popular activities!
Lake Inawashiro is also known for the variety of activities available.
Recommended summer activities
- Canoe & SUP (stand-up paddleboard)
- Relaxed water strolls on the lake’s calm surface
- Jet-ski & banana boat
- Experience thrilling marine sports
- Lakeside camping & barbecues
- Enjoy camping and outdoor life with lake views
Recommended winter activities
- Swan watching (December–March)
- Observe the beautiful swans that visit the lake
- Wakasagi ice fishing (January–March)
- When the lake freezes, enjoy ice fishing for wakasagi (pond smelt)
If you love the outdoors, the activities at Lake Inawashiro are a must!
3. Scenic spots & tourist attractions
The area around Lake Inawashiro is full of scenic viewpoints and attractions where you can enjoy beautiful landscapes.
1. Tenjin-hama (Tenjin Beach)
- A spot with panoramic views of the clear lake and Mount Bandai
- Especially beautiful at sunset
2. Nagahama
- Famous as a spot where swans gather
- In winter, hundreds of swans can be seen swimming gracefully on the lake
3. World Glass Museum (Inawashiro Town)
- An exhibition hall and shop displaying beautiful glassware
- Great place to buy glass crafts as souvenirs
Be sure to enjoy the attractions around Lake Inawashiro along with sightseeing!
4. Relax in hot springs — onsen near Lake Inawashiro
There are also many hot spring facilities around Lake Inawashiro.
Recommended onsen spots
- Inawashiro Onsen (Inawashiro Town)
- Hot springs where you can soak while looking out over the lake
- Bandai-Atami Onsen (Kōriyama City)
- Famous for its skin-beautifying effects
- Urabandai Onsen (Urabandai area)
- A secluded hot spring surrounded by great nature
After activities, unwind and recharge in a hot spring!
Traveler information
Access (how to get to Lake Inawashiro)
By train
- From Tokyo: Take the Tohoku Shinkansen to “Kōriyama Station” → transfer to the Ban’etsu West Line to “Inawashiro Station” → bus or taxi to the lakeshore
- From Sendai: Take the Tohoku Shinkansen to “Kōriyama Station” (about 50 minutes). From Kōriyama Station, take the JR Ban’etsu West Line to “Inawashiro Station” (about 35 minutes).
By car
- Tohoku Expressway → Ban-etsu Expressway to “Inawashiro-Bandai-Kōgen IC” → about 10 minutes to Lake Inawashiro
Wi‑Fi information
- Free Wi‑Fi is available at the Inawashiro Town tourist information center
- Some campsites and cafes also offer Wi‑Fi
Language support
- Tourist information centers have brochures in English and Chinese
- Some onsens and restaurants can handle basic English
Summary and FAQs
Lake Inawashiro is a representative scenic spot of Fukushima where you can enjoy nature throughout the seasons.
Highlights include summer water activities, winter swan watching, lakeside camping, and hot springs, offering many ways to enjoy the area.
If you travel to Fukushima, be sure to visit Lake Inawashiro!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is the best season to visit Lake Inawashiro?
A: Summer (June–August), the autumn foliage season (October–November), and winter (December–March) are especially recommended!
Q: What activities can you do at Lake Inawashiro?
A: Canoeing, SUP, fishing, camping, swan watching, wakasagi ice fishing, hot springs, and many other outdoor activities are available.
Enjoy nature and activities to the fullest at Lake Inawashiro in Fukushima!
