While all three are great for fishing, camping, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), each has something that sets it apart:
Lake Aoki: SUP and Firefly Viewing
The largest of the Nishina Lakes, Lake Aoki is famous for its strikingly blue waters and heart-like shape. <3 Calm days offer perfect reflections of the surrounding Japan Alps, making it a favorite spot for stand-up paddleboarding in autumn, when the trees blaze with color.
By night, Lake Aoki transforms into something magical. In summer, fireflies dance in great numbers along the lakeshore, filling the evening with flickering light. Since they are rarely visible from land, guided boat tours (reservation required for groups of 4–7) allow visitors to drift across the lake and experience this natural wonder up close, a serene and unforgettable highlight.
Lake Nakatsuna: Ice Fishing
The smallest of the three, Lake Nakatsuna is beloved for its seasonal charm. In winter, the lake freezes over, creating the perfect conditions for ice smelt fishing (wakasagi-zuri). Visitors can set up tents directly on the frozen surface and fish through the ice, enjoying a warm meal afterward. Even outside the winter season, smelt fishing continues by boat until late October. The lake’s surroundings are also known for cherry blossoms in spring, and in winter you can enjoy views of nearby Kashimayari Ski Resort while relaxing on the ice.
Wakasagi Tsuri: A Japanese Tradition
Wakasagi tsuri, or ice fishing for wakasagi smelt, has been practiced in Japan for centuries. Originally a way of gathering food during the cold months, it has since evolved into a beloved cultural pastime. Anglers drill small holes into the frozen lake, drop in baited lines, and wait for the tiny fish to bite, a simple yet rewarding experience that brings families and friends together on the ice.
While popular at Lake Biwa in Shiga, Lake Yamanaka in Yamanashi, and sites across Nagano, Aomori, and Ibaraki Prefectures, Lake Nakatsuna offers one of the most accessible and scenic places to try it in the Japan Alps region. For many visitors, it’s not just about catching fish but also about enjoying the quiet beauty of the frozen lake, sharing warm food inside a tent, and experiencing a piece of traditional Japanese winter culture.
Lake Kizaki: Motorboating and Outdoor Fun
Close in size to Lake Aoki, Lake Kizaki offers a more adventurous atmosphere. Here, visitors can try motorboating, wakeboarding, and tube-riding, with plenty of lakeside campsites for an extended outdoor stay.
For those seeking relaxation after a day of activities, the nearby Kuzu Onsen in Takase Valley provides the perfect chance to soak in a traditional hot spring while surrounded by nature.
Year-Round Enjoyment
Whether you’re visiting in the heat of summer or the snows of winter, the Nishina Lakes offer an array of outdoor experiences worth adding to your Omachi or Hakuba itinerary. Each lake has local operators who provide tours, rentals, and guided experiences, making it easy to plan your day on the water.
No matter the time of year you are visiting Omachi or Hakuba, a visit to the three Nishina Lakes provide worthwhile outdoor experiences! The activities discussed above that take place on the lakes have various providers, but you can always inquire on this page about how to get in touch with the organizers to get your great day on the water.
