Lake Nojiri (Shinano Town, Nagano Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Lake Nojiri, located in Shinano Town, Kamiminochi District, Nagano Prefecture, is a freshwater lake attractive for its calm surface reflecting the surrounding mountains and its abundant nature. Animal fossils and stone tools from the Paleolithic to Pleistocene periods have been discovered on the lakeshore and at the bottom, and it is particularly known for the discovery of fossils of the Naumann's Elephant (Palaeoloxodon naumanni). As a result, museums and exhibition facilities showcasing the results of excavations have been established around the lake, making it a place of great value in natural history and archaeology.

In terms of tourism, you can enjoy water sports such as boating, canoeing, and SUP, fishing (for trout, etc.), strolling and cycling along the lake, and seasonal scenery (fresh greenery, escaping the summer heat, autumn leaves, and snowy winter scenery).It is a relaxing tourist destination that combines tranquil scenery, wildlife observation, and historical experiences.

Highlights

• Lake Nojiri Naumann's Elephant Museum/Exhibition Facility: Exhibits include excavation materials, replicas, and explanations of archaeology and paleontology. Learn about the excavated items and the history of excavation.
• Lake cruises and pleasure boatsThere are regular and seasonal sightseeing boats that allow you to enjoy the surrounding mountain ranges and lakeshore scenery from the lake surface, making it a popular photo spot.
• Canoeing, SUP, and boating: Rental facilities are available and beginners can try out the experience. You can relax and enjoy the calm lake surface.
• fishing: A fishing spot where you can target trout and other species. Please check the fishing area and rules in advance.
• Lakeside walks and cyclingThe paths along the lake and the surrounding nature trails are great for walking, and from spring to autumn you can enjoy viewing flowers and autumn leaves.
• Photo spot (morning and evening light): The mirror surface in the early morning and the silhouette in the evening are popular among landscape photography enthusiasts.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Train + Bus/Taxi
  From the Tokyo metropolitan area, first take the Hokuriku Shinkansen towards Nagano. From Nagano Station, take a conventional train, local bus, or taxi towards Shinanomachi. The nearest public transportation point changes depending on the time of day and season, so we recommend checking before you set off. During the tourist season, direct buses and shuttles may operate from Nagano Station and surrounding stations.
• Nearest station (approximate)
  Kurohime Station (Kita-Shinano Line) is a relatively close gateway to the area, and the most common route to the lake is by bus or taxi from there. Travel times from the station vary depending on the means of transportation, so please check the latest timetable.
• car
  Accessible via the Kan-etsu Expressway/Joshin-etsu Expressway. It is easily accessible by car from Nagano City and Myoko Kogen, and there are many parking lots along the lake. Parking lots can get crowded on weekends and during peak tourist seasons, so it's best to arrive early.
• Estimated travel time (reference)
  ・Approximately 30-60 minutes by public transportation from Nagano Station (varies depending on transfers)
  ・Approximately 2-3 hours from Tokyo (metropolitan area) by Shinkansen and conventional train (including transfer time)
  *This is just a guideline. Times may vary depending on road conditions and timetables, so please check in advance.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short walk: 1-2 hours (visiting a few sights without going around the lake)
• Museum + Cruise + Lakeside Lunch: Half Day (3-4 hours)
• Enjoy activities such as canoeing, fishing, and cycling: 1 day (6-8 hours)
• If you include sightseeing in the surrounding area (highland walks, hot springs, nearby mountain hikes): 1 to 2 nights

Nearby spots

• Kurohime Plateau: With flower fields, highland resorts, and trekking routes, it's convenient to visit in conjunction with Lake Nojiri.
• Myoko Kogen/Madarao area: An area where you can enjoy ski and snow resorts, trekking, and hot springs. Many tourists combine their stay with skiing in the winter.
• Togakushi area: A spot where you can enjoy nature and history, including the Okusha Shrine, a village associated with ninjas, and hiking routes (convenient for travel by car).
• Local hot springs (day trip bathing): You can relax and unwind from your travels in the hot springs around Shinanomachi and nearby areas.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• congestion: The lakeside parking lots and sightseeing boats are crowded on weekends during Golden Week, summer vacation, and the autumn foliage season. Visiting early in the morning or on a weekday will give you a more relaxed experience.
• Water activity safetyWhen using a canoe or SUP, be sure to wear a life jacket and check the weather and wind direction. Follow the instructions of the rental company and enjoy your trip with safety as your number one priority.
• Nature Conservation and Manners: Please take your trash with you and avoid any behavior that may affect the lakeside vegetation or wildlife (such as feeding them or entering restricted areas).
• Seasonal precautions
  ・Summer: The sun will be strong, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Also bring insect repellent.
  ・Autumn: Bring a light jacket as it gets chilly during the autumn foliage season.
  ・Winter: Please be aware that there are traffic restrictions and winter closures due to frozen roads and snow accumulation, so if you are visiting by car, please wear winter gear (winter tires, etc.). The ice on the lake can easily crack, so please do not step on the ice.
• Facilities and business hours: Opening days and hours of museums, rentals, restaurants, etc. often change depending on the season. Please check the official website or call ahead to confirm the latest information.
• payment: Small shops and rental cars in tourist areas may only accept cash, so it's a good idea to carry some cash with you.

Finally, Lake Nojiri is a tranquil tourist destination where nature and history coexist in harmony. Before visiting, please check the latest weather and traffic information, as well as the latest information on each facility, to ensure a safe and comfortable stay.