This is the 11th installment of our series introducing great spots for kayaking and SUP.
This time, we kayaked and SUPed through the submerged forest of Shirakawa Lake in Iide Town, Yamagata Prefecture.
The submerged forest of Shirakawa Lake is a spectacular spot where willows become submerged by meltwater flowing into Shirakawa Lake, formed by the Shirakawa Dam, in early spring, appearing as if they are growing directly out of the water.
The submerged forest can only be seen for about two months in spring (late March to mid-May), when the lake is full.
Kayaking and SUP cruising through the submerged forest is truly ethereal and mystical.
It's one of our favorite spots, which we've visited two years in a row.
A map is included at the end of this article, so please check that as well.
Seeking Shirakawa Lake and its Submerged Forest
It was a long journey, about a 5-hour drive from Tokyo.
Nevertheless, we didn't mind the long drive to experience the limited-time scenery and adventure.
There are few places to shop around Shirakawa Lake, so it's recommended to do your shopping in Yonezawa City or on the way before heading to the campsite.
The campsite we used this time was Shirakawa Dam Lakefront Auto Campground.
Free sites, auto sites, and a limited-time "submerged forest view site" are available. A nice feature is the option to choose between sites with or without power at the auto sites.
Located within Shirakawa Dam Lakefront Park, the park entrance features "Iide Shirakawaso," a hot spring inn where you can stay overnight, enjoy hot springs, and dine. It even has banquet halls, making it ideal for groups.
There's also a park golf course, and about a 3-minute drive from the park is "Yamagata Prefectural Genryu no Mori," where you can enjoy an athletic course.
It's an environment where people of all ages, from children to adults, can enjoy various activities.
A point to note is that the opening period of the campsite varies depending on the snowmelt situation, so it's essential to check their website in advance.
Also, if you plan to use kayaks or similar, advance registration may be required, so please check with tour operators or the campsite for information.
☞Click here for the Shirakawa Dam Lakefront Auto Campground website
Setting Sail ~ Paddling through the ephemeral beauty of the submerged forest ~
Upon arrival, the group immediately set up their tents and prepared their kayaks and SUPs.
Then, they set sail for the submerged forest.
That day, blessed with clear skies, they paddled through the submerged forest, watching the lake surface shimmer in emerald green.
They enjoyed the submerged forest to the fullest, taking photos of the reflections on the water and fully experiencing the cool air of Yamagata's nature, despite it being April.
They also tried SUP.
Since it was meltwater, it was very cold, so they enjoyed it while being careful not to fall in.
We visited in April, a beautiful season of fresh greenery, and even saw cherry blossoms on land.
Incidentally, this submerged forest is a spot where you can enjoy it with your dog.
We enjoyed nature's bounty with our companion.
Morning stillness and fog ~ Kayaking through the ethereal submerged forest ~
The next day, the group enjoyed kayaking in the submerged forest again from around 5 AM.
In the early morning, fog is prone to occurring, allowing you to enjoy paddling in a mystical landscape.
You can even capture such photogenic shots.
The submerged forest of Shirakawa Lake reveals various aspects depending on the location, time, and weather.
You never tire of visiting it.
The group enjoyed kayaking and SUP in the submerged forest for as long as time allowed.
Why not consider the Shirakawa Lake submerged forest for your spring outing?
≪MAP≫
≪Camping facilities used≫
"Shirakawa Dam Lakefront Auto Campground"
≪Recommended points≫
Limited-time submerged forest
A natural landscape that changes in appearance depending on the time, weather, and location
Well-equipped camping facilities
Can be enjoyed by children and pets
≪Points to note≫
▶Beware of opening times
The opening period of the campsite varies depending on the snowmelt situation, so it's essential to check their website in advance.
▶Advance application for kayak use
If you plan to use kayaks or similar, advance registration may be required, so please check with tour operators or the campsite for information.
▶Shop for groceries in advance
There are few places to shop around Shirakawa Lake, so make sure to do your shopping on the way.
▶Beware of water temperature
The water is meltwater and extremely cold. Prepare equipment in case of an accidental fall.
≪Recommended nearby spots≫
▶York Benimaru Narushima Store
A convenient supermarket for shopping.
▶Akayu Ramen Ryushanhai Yonezawa Store
The ramen shop we visited this time. It was delicious.
▶Roadside Station Yonezawa
A roadside station where local products gather. This is the place for souvenirs!
▶Yamagata Prefectural Genryu no Mori
A facility where you can enjoy over 40 types of athletic activities, as well as craft and pottery experiences.
*Information is current at the time of writing. Please always check the latest information yourself and enjoy responsibly by following the rules!
