赤谷湖
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Lake Akaya Akaya Dam

4
·97 reviews·Minakami, Japan

A serene reservoir with calming blue waters, offering canoeing, waterside walks, and views of Mount Tanigawa.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Spot wildlife and enjoy peace

CrowdLow
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赤谷湖

Lake Akaya Akaya Dam

Best Time

Early mornings

Spot wildlife and enjoy peace

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene reservoir with calming blue waters, offering canoeing, waterside walks, and views of Mount Tanigawa.

4
(97 reviews)

"Enjoy the tranquil scenery with beautiful blue waters and views of Mount Tanigawa."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎣 Fishing Fees

Be aware of pier fees for fishing; catch rates can vary.

🐒 Early Bird Wildlife

Visit early morning for a chance to see local wildlife like monkeys.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tranquil Blue Waters

Tranquil Blue Waters

Lake Akaya

Experience the serene beauty of the lake's calming blue-colored water, perfect for a peaceful escape.

Mount Tanigawa Views

Mount Tanigawa Views

Observation Platform

Enjoy picturesque views of Mount Tanigawa from the dedicated observation platform.

Seasonal Spectacles

Seasonal Spectacles

Lake Akaya

Witness cherry blossoms in spring or summer fireworks for a vibrant and memorable visit.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Tranquility

Visit early morning to avoid crowds and potentially spot wildlife like monkeys. Check for seasonal events like summer fireworks or cherry blossom viewing for a different experience. Construction can sometimes limit access, so check ahead.

Fishing Fees and Expectations

If you're planning to fish, be aware of pier fees. Some visitors have found the catch-to-fee ratio disappointing, so manage your expectations for smelt fishing. Enjoy the calming blue waters regardless of your fishing success.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Spot wildlife and enjoy peace
Crowd
Low
When
Spring (cherry blossoms)
Why
Beautiful floral scenery
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer (fireworks)
Why
Festive evening entertainment
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎣 Fishing Fees

Be aware of pier fees for fishing; catch rates can vary. Reddit

🐒 Early Bird Wildlife

Visit early morning for a chance to see local wildlife like monkeys. Reddit

🌸 Spring Blooms

Catch the cherry blossoms in full bloom for stunning views. Reddit

🎆 Summer Fireworks

Enjoy spectacular fireworks displays during the summer months. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎣 Fishing Fees

Be aware of pier fees for fishing; catch rates can vary. Reddit

🐒 Early Bird Wildlife

Visit early morning for a chance to see local wildlife like monkeys. Reddit

🌸 Spring Blooms

Catch the cherry blossoms in full bloom for stunning views. Reddit

🎆 Summer Fireworks

Enjoy spectacular fireworks displays during the summer months. Reddit

🚧 Check Construction

Construction may limit access to certain areas like the observation deck. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4
(97 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Lake Akaya Dam is praised for its tranquil blue waters and scenic views of Mount Tanigawa, offering a peaceful escape. Visitors enjoy seasonal highlights like cherry blossoms and summer fireworks. However, some find the fishing pier fees to be high relative to the catch, and construction can occasionally limit access to viewpoints.

"Nice calming lake with blue coloured water."

QF S

"I always use it for smelt fishing. I don't have an annual pass so I pay each time, but I've never been satisfied with the catch for the 3,000 yen pier fee."

ひろ

"The cherry blossoms were in full bloom when we visited 250420! I saw 4 monkeys around 6:30 in the morning and got scared (・∀・)"

ポンコツ

What People Like

Calming blue waters
Scenic Mount Tanigawa views
Seasonal events (fireworks, blossoms)

What People Dislike

Fishing pier fees
Occasional construction access limits

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Information on public transport or driving directions to Lake Akaya Dam is not readily available in the provided reviews. It's recommended to check local transport guides or use a GPS navigation system.

While not explicitly mentioned, it's common for dam reservoirs to have parking facilities. Visitors should look for designated parking areas upon arrival.

The observation platform offers views of Mount Tanigawa. Access may be affected by construction, so it's advisable to inquire locally about the best route.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General entry to the lake area appears to be free, but specific activities like fishing from the pier have associated fees, around 3,000 yen for a pier pass. Reddit

Specific opening hours are not detailed, but early morning visits are recommended for wildlife spotting and tranquility. Reddit

Yes, if you plan to fish from the pier, you will likely need a pass. Annual passes are available, or you can pay per visit. Reddit

Construction can sometimes limit access to certain areas, such as the observation deck. It's wise to check for any ongoing work before your visit. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Visitors can enjoy the calming blue waters, waterside walks, and fishing. Summer fireworks and spring cherry blossoms offer seasonal attractions. Reddit

The description mentions canoeing as an activity available at the reservoir. Reddit

Early morning visitors have reported seeing monkeys. The lake also supports fish populations for angling. Reddit

The tranquil blue waters and views of Mount Tanigawa make it a scenic spot. Seasonal events like cherry blossoms also offer great photo opportunities. Reddit

The water is described as a beautiful calming blue color. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Information regarding dining facilities at Lake Akaya Dam is not provided in the reviews. It's advisable to bring your own food or check for nearby options.

While not explicitly stated, picnic areas are common at scenic reservoirs. Visitors can likely enjoy a picnic by the waterside.

📸 📸 Photography

The observation platform for Mount Tanigawa views and the serene blue waters are prime spots. Don't miss capturing the cherry blossoms in spring or the festive carp streamers. Reddit

Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the tranquil atmosphere and potentially wildlife. Reddit

The sight of carp streamers decorated slightly out of season adds a unique touch. Summer fireworks also provide dramatic photographic moments. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lake Akaya Dam offers a peaceful natural setting that families can enjoy. The calming blue waters and waterside walkway provide a pleasant environment for a stroll. While specific playgrounds aren't mentioned, the open space around the reservoir is ideal for children to explore. Early morning visits might offer a chance to spot wildlife, which can be an exciting experience for kids. Reddit

Consider visiting during seasonal events like summer fireworks for added entertainment. However, be aware that construction can sometimes limit access to certain areas, so it's good to check ahead. Bringing your own snacks and drinks is recommended, as dining facilities are not detailed. Reddit

🎣 Anglers and Fishing Enthusiasts

For those interested in fishing, Lake Akaya Dam is a spot for smelt fishing. Be prepared for the pier fees, which some visitors have found to be on the higher side relative to the catch. You can purchase a pass for each visit or consider an annual pass if you plan to fish frequently. Reddit

While the catch might be inconsistent, the tranquil environment and the opportunity to fish by the serene blue waters can still be a relaxing experience. It's advisable to manage expectations and focus on enjoying the process and the beautiful surroundings. Reddit

📸 Nature Photographers

Lake Akaya Dam presents a picturesque setting for photographers. The calming blue waters and the backdrop of Mount Tanigawa offer stunning natural compositions. Early mornings provide soft, diffused light and fewer distractions, perfect for capturing the serene atmosphere. Reddit

Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the cherry blossoms in spring for vibrant floral shots. Seasonal decorations like carp streamers can also add unique elements to your photos. While the observation platform is a key viewpoint, be aware of potential construction that might affect access. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Embracing the Seasons at Lake Akaya

Lake Akaya Dam transforms with the seasons, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Spring brings the delicate beauty of cherry blossoms, painting the landscape in soft pinks and whites. Visitors who time their trip right can witness this stunning natural display. Summer is a time for vibrant festivities, with fireworks lighting up the night sky, creating a lively atmosphere around the reservoir. Even outside of peak seasons, you might find charming decorations like carp streamers, adding a touch of local culture. Reddit

Autumn, while not explicitly detailed in reviews, typically offers beautiful foliage in mountainous regions, and Lake Akaya is no exception. The surrounding nature likely transitions into warm hues of red and gold. Winter, though less discussed, would offer a stark, peaceful beauty to the reservoir. Checking local event calendars for seasonal festivals or specific bloom times can greatly enhance your visit and ensure you catch the most picturesque moments. Reddit

Fishing at Lake Akaya: What to Expect

For anglers, Lake Akaya Dam is known for smelt fishing. However, it's important to approach this activity with realistic expectations regarding the catch. Several visitors have noted that the pier fee, around 3,000 yen, may not always translate into a satisfying catch. This suggests that while fishing is an option, it might be more about the experience of being by the water than guaranteed success. Reddit

Visitors can opt for a per-visit fee or consider an annual pass if they plan to frequent the lake for fishing. It's worth noting that the satisfaction with the catch can be subjective and dependent on various factors like weather and time of day. For those who enjoy the process and the serene environment, fishing can still be a rewarding activity, regardless of the size of the haul. Reddit

Wildlife Encounters and Observation

An early morning visit to Lake Akaya Dam can reward you with glimpses of local wildlife. One visitor reported seeing four monkeys around 6:30 AM, highlighting the potential for unique animal encounters. This emphasizes the benefit of arriving early to experience the area in its most natural and quiet state. Reddit

The observation platform is designed to offer scenic views, including vistas of Mount Tanigawa. While construction can sometimes impede access to this platform, it remains a key feature for appreciating the surrounding landscape. Being mindful of the time of day and potential wildlife activity can add an extra layer of excitement to your visit. Reddit

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