This is the fifth installment of our series introducing great spots for kayaking and SUP. This time, we went kayaking at "Sugenuma" in Gunma Prefecture, which boasts one of the highest transparency levels in Japan.
The water was so clear it looked as if we were floating in mid-air. Its beauty was breathtaking.
The route starts from Shimizunuma, adjacent to "Sugenuma Camp Village," proceeds through Bentennuma and Kitaginuma, and finishes at Sugenuma.
A map of the route is provided at the end of this article, so please refer to it for details.
"Sugenuma" in Gunma Prefecture is best accessed by car.
From Tokyo, it takes about 2.5 to 3 hours by car.
It's truly a hidden gem for kayak and SUP enthusiasts.
If using public transport, take a train to JR Jomo Line "Numata Station" and then transfer to a bus.
Alternatively, it seems that you can now take the seasonal highway bus "Katashina Snow Express" from Tokyo directly to Sugenuma.
※Click here for highway bus details
To kayak at Sugenuma, you need to use "Sugenuma Camp Village."
Sugenuma Camp Village operates annually during the summer season, from May 1st to October 20th.
Please note that it is closed during winter due to snow.
With its high altitude, it's not too hot even in summer, making it an attractive summer retreat.
It's highly recommended to take thorough precautions against the cold, as temperatures can drop significantly at night and in early autumn.
Sugenuma Camp Village is not an auto campsite, so you cannot drive your car directly to the tent sites.
You will need to transport your luggage about 200-300 meters from the parking lot.
Therefore, it's better not to bring too much luggage.
Accommodation options include tents or bungalows.
Regarding bringing kayaks and SUPs, only overnight guests are permitted to bring kayaks. Unfortunately, bringing a SUP on its own is generally not allowed.
If you wish to bring your own SUP, please note that you must book a designated SUP tour.
Launching onto the lake is permitted after entering the campsite, and you can do so immediately upon arrival after checking in, or the following morning.
Our group also arrived at the campsite by car, immediately assembled our kayaks, and set off.
Entering from Shimizunuma, we were overwhelmed by the beauty of nature and enjoyed a relaxing time.
The entire area is not very large; it's big enough to circle in about an hour even with leisurely paddling.
The waterway connecting the marshes was shallow, and when photographed from above, the bottom of the lake was clearly visible.
Sugenuma boasts incredibly high transparency, with past records showing a visibility of approximately 13 meters.
When the sun is high and shadows fall on the shallow lakebed, it's even possible to take photos that make it look like you're floating in the air.
We could clearly see large fish, such as trout, swimming around.
Sugenuma's lake color changes to emerald green or deep blue depending on the light conditions.
We were able to capture beautiful photos of nature from every angle.
The group also paddled early the next morning after staying overnight.
The morning sun reflected on the water, shining brightly, allowing us to enjoy kayaking in a different atmosphere and scenery than the day before.
Sugenuma, where cell phone service is often unavailable, allows you to fully immerse yourself in nature, escape daily life, and refresh.
We had an extraordinary experience, escaping the usual hustle and bustle to enjoy the magnificent natural scenery from the water.
≪Route Map≫
≪Launch Point≫
≪Highlights≫
Beautiful natural scenery that makes you want to visit again
A lake with stunning transparency
Lake colors that change with light and time
Relax and immerse yourself in nature
The special feeling of being in a "hidden gem"
≪Important Notes≫
Public transportation is inconvenient
Kayaking is only for overnight guests
SUP requires participation in a tour
Fishing requires a designated boat and fishing permit purchase
Tent sites are in designated areas
Presence of wild animals at night
No cell phone service in many areas
≪Recommended Nearby Spots≫
Oko-Nikko Yumoto Onsen
There are many hot springs with a sulfur scent. Many facilities offer day-trip hot spring access.
Nikko Shirane-san Ropeway
Marunuma Kogen Ski Resort has the Nikko Shirane-san Ropeway, and near the summit station, there's a "Sky Footbath."
Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji
Towards Tokyo, there are major Nikko tourist attractions like Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji, where it seems possible to bring your own kayak for an experience.
*Information is current at the time of writing. Please always check the latest information yourself and enjoy responsibly while adhering to the rules!
