Natural wonders in Chubu Region

Japan's Natural Water Wonders

This collection features significant aquatic landmarks across Japan's Chubu region, centered around the Fuji Five Lakes and the mountainous landscapes of Gifu and Shizuoka. It includes UNESCO-listed Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Shōji, which offer iconic views of Mount Fuji, alongside the brackish waters of Lake Hamana and the historical Taisho Pond in Kamikochi. The list also highlights dramatic cascades like the 76-meter Shiramizu Falls and the visually striking Monet's Pond, famous for its clear spring water and resemblance to French Impressionist art.

Japan's Natural Water Wonders — Map

Midori / CC BY 3.0

A

Lake Kawaguchi

The second largest lake of the five lakes in the Mount Fuji region. It is popular for its natural beauty and splendid scenery - an…

Alpsdake / CC BY-SA 4.0

B

Lake Shōji

Lake Shōji is one of the Fuji Five Lakes and located in the town of Fujikawaguchiko in southern Yamanashi Prefecture near Mount Fuji, Japan.

名古屋太郎 / CC-BY-SA-3.0

C

Tanuki Lake

Lake Tanuki is a lake near Mount Fuji, Japan. It is located in the city of Fujinomiya, Shizuoka Prefecture, and is part of the Fuji-Hakone…

菅野崇 / CC BY-SA 3.0

D

Lake Hamana

Lake Hamana is a brackish lagoon in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. Formerly a true lake, it is now connected to the Pacific Ocean by a channel.

Junichi / CC-BY-SA-3.0

E

Iruka

Lake Iruka is a reservoir located near the Meiji Mura theme park in Inuyama, Aichi, Japan.

Alpsdake / CC BY-SA 3.0

F

Shiramizu Falls

A 76-meter-high waterfall in Gifu Prefecture fed by the Shiramizu River. It measures approximately 8 meters in width and is surrounded by primary forest.

lienyuan lee / CC BY 3.0

G

Hirayu Waterfall

A 64-meter-high cascade in Okuhida Onsen, designated as one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls. The falls are known for freezing into a massive ice pillar during the winter months.

Takisaw / CC BY-SA 3.0

H

五竜の滝

Located in Susono, Shizuoka, this waterfall features five distinct streams falling over a cliff formed by ancient lava flows from Mount Fuji.

ちょしゃ / CC BY-SA 3.0

I

宇嶺の滝

A 70-meter vertical waterfall located in the Setonoya district of Fujieda. It is one of the largest falls in the prefecture and is accessible via a mountain trail.

J

モネの池

A nameless pond at Nemichi Shrine in Seki, Gifu, famous for its likeness to Claude Monet’s 'Water Lilies' paintings. It features clear spring water, lilies, and colorful koi.

Qurren / CC BY-SA 3.0

K

Taisho Pond

Formed in 1915 after the eruption of Mount Yakedake dammed the Azusa River. This Kamikochi pond is characterized by the submerged, decayed trees standing in its waters.

そらみみ / CC BY-SA 4.0

L

Midoritaki Fall

A nice waterfall trickling down into the small pond. Make a stop here when exploring Kenrokuen Garden.

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Chubu Region: The Unmissable Journey Editor's Choice: Japan's Must-See Destinations Japan's Hidden Gems Japan's Best Viewpoints and Peaks Sacred Sites of Japan Castles and Ruins of Japan Museums and Galleries of Japan Bridges and Dams of Japan