This is the 7th installment of our series introducing great spots for kayaking and SUP.
This time, we kayaked Shima Lake (Shimako) in Gunma Prefecture.
Its uniquely beautiful blue waters captivate visitors.
It's about a 2.5-hour drive from the city center, a nature-rich spot where you can enjoy a day trip.
A map is included at the end of this article, so please check it for details.
The appeal of kayaking and SUP at Shima Lake - Enjoy with your pet!
The biggest charm of Shima Lake is its uniquely blue waters, caused by the mixing of hot spring components.
Its painterly color is also known as "Shima Blue."
There is almost no current near the lake and little wind, making it an easy environment for beginners to enjoy SUP and kayaking.
With trees hanging over both sides of the lake, paddling a SUP or kayak underneath feels like cruising through a jungle.
There are also various ways to enjoy yourself, such as climbing trees and jumping into the lake.
Summers are comfortable with plenty of shade, and in autumn, you can enjoy SUP and kayaking amidst beautiful autumn foliage.
Shima Lake is home to several SUP and kayak schools.
Among them, "MACKEY’S" is a tour company that specializes in pet-friendly SUP tours.
"MACKEY’S" uses FOLBOT's SUP boards (ATTACK SUP), dog life jackets (TFD FOR DOG), and human life jackets (ATTACK PFD).
This is also recommended for those who want to try out FOLBOT products.
For those who wish to purchase FOLBOT products after the tour, "MACKEY’S" will issue a coupon code.
You can purchase them at a discounted price on FOLBOT's e-commerce site.
Click here for the latest information ▶ "MACKEY'S"
Launch!
About 2.5 hours from Tokyo via Shibukawa-Ikaho Interchange.
For day trips, several free parking lots are available.
However, be aware that there are limited spaces at the Shima Dam parking lot.
The only public restroom in the vicinity is "Otearai Ikkyu-san", so it's better to stop by beforehand.
This time, we used "Irie Camp Base", the only campsite near the lake.
The advantage is being able to access the lakeside directly from the campsite.
So, let's launch!
Leisurely kayaking on the calm lake surface.
We aimed for autumn leaves and visited in October, but it seemed a bit too early.
There was still a lot of green, and only a slight hint of color.
Although it was a bit disappointing, the time spent leisurely kayaking on the beautiful lake surface amidst lush trees was exceptional.
"Kearashi" is a winter phenomenon that occurs when the air temperature is colder than the water temperature.
We were also able to take some fantastic photos thanks to this mist.
We deliberately paddled under the trees, feeling like we were exploring a jungle.
We arrived under the bridge. With its red bridge, green trees, and blue water, the vibrant scenery makes it a recommended photo spot.
After enjoying taking photos, we returned to the campsite, enjoying kayaking as we pleased.
FOLBOT sells not only kayaks and SUPs, but also outdoor gear.
This time, we also took photos of a fire pit.
After the shoot, it's chill time.
Spending time with friends around a bonfire is one of the best parts of camping, isn't it?
Shima Lake, with its beautiful scenery and calm environment, is a water activity spot recommended for a wide range of people, from SUP and kayak beginners to dog lovers.
We hope you'll create lasting memories at this wonderful place.
≪MAP≫
≪Launch Location≫
≪Recommended Points≫
Direct access to the water from the campsite.
The unique blue color of "Shima Blue"
Experience a jungle adventure amidst lush trees.
Leisurely kayaking on calm waters.
Also great for SUP and kayaking with your dog.
≪Points to Note≫
▶Fluctuating Water Depth
The water depth varies depending on the dam conditions. Be careful as fins may get caught in shallow areas.
▶Carrying Gear to the Launch Point
You need to walk over the Shima Dam to reach the launch point, so you'll have to carry your gear. It's best to travel light.
▶Limited Public Restrooms
Public restrooms are limited, so it's a good idea to check their locations beforehand.
▶Restriction on entering the back of the lake
The back of the lake becomes shallow, and there are areas where you cannot proceed further.
≪Recommended Nearby Spots≫
Shima Onsen
There are many hot springs around Shima Lake. In particular, "Sekizenkan" is popular for its retro atmosphere. Day trips to the hot springs are available, as well as hotel stays.
Shima Terrace
Shima Terrace, where you can enjoy pizza and cafe menus made with local ingredients, has a pet-friendly terrace area.
*This information is current at the time of writing. Please always check the latest information yourself and enjoy responsibly by following the rules!
