This is the 10th installment of our series introducing great spots for kayaking and SUP.
This time, we kayaked and SUP-ed at Lake Sohara in Fukushima Prefecture.
The Urabandai area of Fukushima Prefecture is dotted with lakes where you can enjoy paddle sports like kayaking and SUP.
Among them, Lake Sohara is a hidden gem where you can fully enjoy water activities in a quiet and peaceful atmosphere because motorboat access is prohibited.
It's about a 4-hour drive from Tokyo, which is a bit far, but I've visited this place many times because of its wonderful atmosphere.
A map is included at the end of this article, so please check that as well.
Heading to Lake Sohara ~Enjoying detours to our favorite campsite~
This time, we are heading to Lake Sohara to photograph collaborative items with old sea, who has often cooperated with "FOLBOT meeting" and "FOLBOT OWNERS MEETING".
If you're driving from Tokyo to Lake Sohara, it's about a 4-hour journey, but there are plenty of attractive spots to stop by on the way there and back.
We left Tokyo around 3 AM.
Our destination was "Bannai Shokudo," where you can enjoy Kitakata ramen from 7 AM.
After enjoying a morning ramen to get into the holiday spirit, our group headed to the campsite.
The campsite we used this time was "Bandai Lakeside Garden".
It's one of my favorite campsites, comfortable, beautiful, and peaceful.
※Bandai Lakeside Garden website TOP
Recommended Point 1: Excellent Location
It's right by the lake, and some sites offer a spectacular view of Mount Bandai.
Recommended Point 2: Easy Access for Kayak/SUP Launching
Some sites are located so that you can launch kayaks and SUPs directly into the lake. Kayak rentals are also available.
Recommended Point 3: Beautiful Lawn and Moss
The lawn and moss are well-maintained and beautiful. The "Moss Garden Site," where you can pitch tents and shelters on a moss carpet, is also popular.
Recommended Point 4: Excellent Facilities
The campsite is equipped with Wi-Fi, and some sites have power outlets. Showers, flush toilets, and sinks are also available, and firewood is sold at the center house. Free trash disposal and parking are also welcome benefits. Services like pet-friendly and free for elementary school children and younger are great for families.
※Cited from Bandai Lakeside Garden Instagram
A point to note is that they are not open in winter, so it's better to plan your trip after checking their open season.
Since there are only seven sites, it's recommended to make reservations well in advance.
Also, it's not an auto-campsite, so the parking lot and sites are somewhat separated. You can drive close to the sites, but luggage must be carried by hand.
Additionally, the nearest supermarket is 30 minutes from the campsite, so it's best to do your grocery shopping in advance near Inawashiro. A convenience store is about a 7-minute drive away.
This time, we also took photos for collaborative items with old sea and for "OFFLINE," a Taiwanese brand for which FOLBOT serves as the import agent, right at the campsite.
Please also see the article below.
JOURNAL: "Our Encounter with OFFLINE" is here
Launching ~Silence, a spectacular view of Mount Bandai, and bass fishing~
Lake Sohara's greatest charm is its tranquility.
Since motorboats are not allowed, unlike the adjacent Lake Hibara, there's hardly any concern about your kayak being rocked by wakes.
Waves are rare, and it's usually very calm unless the wind is strong, making it a gentle and relaxing environment for both kayak and SUP beginners.
Lake Sohara is a relatively small lake, and its size makes it easy to paddle around the entire lake, which is another gentle point.
Now, let's launch.
From the lakeshore, you can enjoy kayaking and SUP with the dynamic Mount Bandai right in front of you, set against a magnificent backdrop.
Although it was drizzling during our kayaking trip that day,
the wet green trees created a mystical atmosphere that we thoroughly enjoyed.
Although I couldn't take pictures, we saw birds like ducks swimming on the lake, and sometimes they would come ashore at the campsite, which was adorable.
This time, since we were there, we also enjoyed bass fishing (unfortunately, we didn't catch anything..).
Kayaking and SUP at Lake Sohara offer a quiet environment, beautiful scenery, and bass fishing.
Why not visit while enjoying the gourmet food and hot springs along the way?
≪MAP≫
≪Campsite Used≫
BLG Bandai Lakeside Garden
≪Highlights≫
Spectacular views of Mt. Bandai from the water
Bass fishing
Tranquil atmosphere
Beautiful moss garden sites and comfortable camping
Plenty of nearby spots to explore
≪Recommended Nearby Spots≫
▶Kitakata Ramen "Bannai Shokudo Main Store"
The "Bannai Shokudo Main Store," famous for Kitakata Ramen, as introduced in the article. It opens around 7 AM, so you can enjoy morning ramen if you leave early.
▶Aizu Yamashio Ramen "Oku-Urabandai Ramen-ya"
As a spot to stop by on your way back, we recommend trying Aizu Yamashio Ramen at "Oku-Urabandai Ramen-ya," located in a scenic spot overlooking Lake Hibara. This is a rare ramen made with salt from this region.
▶Goshikinuma Ponds
Goshikinuma Ponds is a famous tourist spot. However, please note that SUP and kayaking are not allowed here.
▶Nakanosawa Onsen "Osakaya"
We recommend a day trip to "Nakanosawa Onsen" on your way back. We used "Osakaya," known for its highly acidic sulfur hot spring.
▶ Michi-no-Eki Inawashiro
This roadside station is a good stop if you're returning via Inawashiro. It's relatively large, and you can buy souvenirs and eat there, making it an enjoyable facility.
*This information is current as of the time of writing. Please always check the latest information yourself and enjoy responsibly!
