10 Largest Lakes in Japan to Discover in 2025: A Traveler’s Guide

10 Largest Lakes in Japan to Discover in 2025: A Traveler’s Guide

Japan, an archipelago nation, boasts a diverse array of lakes, each with its own unique charm and natural beauty. From the largest freshwater lake to the serene mountain lakes, these bodies of water offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and cultural significance. This guide highlights the 10 largest lakes in Japan, providing insights into their locations, features, and the best times to visit.

1. Lake Biwa

Overview

Lake Biwa, located in Shiga Prefecture, is the largest freshwater lake in Japan. Covering an area of 670.3 square kilometers, it is an ancient lake over 4 million years old. The lake is a crucial water source, providing water to over 15 million people in the Kansai region.

Key Features

• Water Source: Supplies water to Kyoto and Ōtsu.
• Ecosystem: Home to over 1,000 species, including 60 endemic species.
• Activities: Boating, fishing, and visiting the Lake Biwa Museum.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March to May): Enjoy cherry blossoms and mild weather.
• Autumn (September to November): Witness vibrant fall foliage.

2. Lake Kasumigaura

Overview

Located in Ibaraki Prefecture, Lake Kasumigaura is the second-largest lake in Japan, covering 167.6 square kilometers. It is a popular tourist destination with a mix of freshwater and brackish water due to its connection to the Pacific Ocean.

Key Features

• Water Sports: Boating, fishing, and cycling.
• Attractions: Omitama City, gardens, parks, and aquariums.
• Festivals: Summer boat tours and fireworks.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June to August): Ideal for water activities and festivals.
• Spring (March to May): Enjoy cherry blossoms and mild weather.

3. Lake Saroma

Overview

Situated in the Abashiri-Quasi National Park, Lake Saroma is the third-largest lake in Japan, covering 151.9 square kilometers. It is a brackish lake, connected to the Sea of Okhotsk, and is known for its beautiful scenery and wildlife.

Key Features

• Wildlife: Home to various bird species and marine life.
• Activities: Fishing, bird watching, and visiting the nearby hot springs.
• Winter: Ice-covered landscapes and frozen lakes.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June to August): Mild weather and vibrant wildlife.
• Winter (December to February): Ice festivals and winter activities.

4. Lake Inawashiro

Overview

Located in Fukushima Prefecture, Lake Inawashiro is the fourth-largest lake in Japan, covering 103.3 square kilometers. It is known for its deep blue waters and surrounding mountain views.

Key Features

• Wildlife: Winter habitat for swans.
• Activities: Boating, fishing, and hiking.
• Surrounding Area: Mount Bandai and the surrounding national park.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June to August): Ideal for outdoor activities.
• Winter (December to February): Witness swan migrations.

5. Lake Nakaumi

Overview

Located in the San'in region, Lake Nakaumi is the fifth-largest lake in Japan, covering 86.2 square kilometers. It is a brackish lake connected to the Sea of Japan.

Key Features

• Ecosystem: Home to various fish and shellfish species.
• Activities: Boating, fishing, and visiting the nearby islands.
• Surrounding Area: Beautiful coastal landscapes and nearby cities.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June to August): Ideal for water activities.
• Autumn (September to November): Enjoy fall foliage and mild weather.

6. Lake Kussharo

Overview

Located in Hokkaido, Lake Kussharo is the sixth-largest lake in Japan, covering 79.3 square kilometers. It is a volcanic crater lake with a unique island in the middle.

Key Features

• Wildlife: Home to various bird species and fish.
• Activities: Boating, fishing, and hiking.
• Surrounding Area: Akan National Park and nearby hot springs.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June to August): Ideal for outdoor activities.
• Autumn (September to November): Enjoy fall foliage and mild weather.

7. Lake Shinji

Overview

Located in the Shimane Prefecture, Lake Shinji is the seventh-largest lake in Japan, covering 79.1 square kilometers. It is a brackish lake connected to the Sea of Japan.

Key Features

• Ecosystem: Home to eels, clams, and sea bass.
• Activities: Boating, fishing, and visiting the nearby hot springs.
• Surrounding Area: Beautiful coastal landscapes and nearby cities.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June to August): Ideal for water activities.
• Autumn (September to November): Enjoy fall foliage and mild weather.

8. Lake Shikotsu

Overview

Located in Hokkaido, Lake Shikotsu is the eighth-largest lake in Japan, covering 78.4 square kilometers. It is a volcanic crater lake known for its deep blue waters and surrounding mountains.

Key Features

• Wildlife: Home to various fish species.
• Activities: Boating, fishing, and hiking.
• Surrounding Area: Shikotsu-Toya National Park and nearby hot springs.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June to August): Ideal for outdoor activities.
• Winter (December to February): Enjoy winter sports and hot springs.

9. Lake Tōya

Overview

Located in Hokkaido, Lake Tōya is the ninth-largest lake in Japan, covering 70.7 square kilometers. It is a volcanic crater lake known for its clear waters and surrounding forests.

Key Features

• Wildlife: Home to various fish species.
• Activities: Boating, fishing, and hiking.
• Surrounding Area: Shikotsu-Toya National Park and nearby hot springs.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June to August): Ideal for outdoor activities.
• Winter (December to February): Enjoy winter sports and hot springs.

10. Lake Hamana

Overview

Located in the Shizuoka Prefecture, Lake Hamana is the tenth-largest lake in Japan, covering 65.0 square kilometers. It is a brackish lake connected to the Pacific Ocean.

Key Features

• Ecosystem: Home to various fish and shellfish species.
• Activities: Boating, fishing, and visiting the nearby hot springs.
• Surrounding Area: Beautiful coastal landscapes and nearby cities.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June to August): Ideal for water activities.
• Autumn (September to November): Enjoy fall foliage and mild weather.

Conclusion

Each of Japan’s largest lakes offers a unique experience, from the ancient waters of Lake Biwa to the serene beauty of Lake Hamana. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventurer, or a culture enthusiast, these lakes provide a perfect backdrop for your travels in 2025. Plan your visit during the best seasons to fully enjoy the natural beauty and activities each lake has to offer.

For more insights into Japan's natural wonders, you might also enjoy exploring the largest lakes in other countries. Check out our guides on the 10 Largest Lakes in Finland, 10 Largest Lakes in Russia, and 10 Largest Lakes in Sweden. Each offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, perfect for your next adventure.