Sayama Lake
A tranquil man-made reservoir offering scenic walks, birdwatching, and picturesque views of intake towers and Mt. Fuji.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Chasing sunsets is a must!
Sayama Lake
Best Time
Chasing sunsets is a must!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil man-made reservoir offering scenic walks, birdwatching, and picturesque views of intake towers and Mt. Fuji.
"Its view is pleasing to the eye and so relaxing."
🌅 Sunset Views
Visit in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views over the lake. It's truly magical!
🚶♀️ Walking & Cycling
Perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. Bring your own bike or rent one nearby.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intake Towers & Dam
Sayama Lake Dam
Admire the unique Western-influenced architecture of the intake towers, a picturesque sight against the water.
Scenic Promenade
Top of Sayama Lake Dam
Enjoy a relaxing stroll or bike ride with stunning views of the reservoir and surrounding nature.
Mt. Fuji Views
Clear days from the dam
On clear days, catch a glimpse of the iconic Mt. Fuji in the distance, adding to the breathtaking scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the City Buzz
Getting Around & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Views
Visit in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views over the lake. It's truly magical!
🚶♀️ Walking & Cycling
Perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. Bring your own bike or rent one nearby.
🧺 Picnic Ready
Pack snacks and drinks to enjoy a relaxing picnic by the water.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The intake towers and dam offer great photo ops, especially with the water and hills.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Views
Visit in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views over the lake. It's truly magical!
🚶♀️ Walking & Cycling
Perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. Bring your own bike or rent one nearby.
🧺 Picnic Ready
Pack snacks and drinks to enjoy a relaxing picnic by the water.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The intake towers and dam offer great photo ops, especially with the water and hills.
🐦 Birdwatching Haven
The protected habitat makes it a great spot for birdwatching.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sayama Lake is praised for its serene natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere, making it a perfect escape from the city. Visitors enjoy the scenic walks, cycling opportunities, and picturesque views, especially during sunset. However, some find the accessibility from the train station a bit challenging due to limited signage.
"Sayama Lake, originally called Yamaguchi Lake, is a man-made reservoir that was built using an earthen dam, which was completed in 1929. Due to a lack of heavy earth-moving equipment in Japan at that time, the dam was constructed mostly by farmers who used picks and shovels. The majority of the workers were farmers hired to do the work after the growing season had come to a close. A total of 1,720 villagers were forced to leave their homes to make way for the dam as demand for fresh water increased with a population explosion in Tokyo.
During WWII, the embankment of the dam was reinforced with ballistic-resistant concrete and the towers were reinforced with a bullet-proof exterior as measures against the Tokyo air raids.
The design of the intake towers was heavily influenced by the trends of western architecture that were poplar in Japan in the early 20th century, as can be seen by the use of red bricks on the exterior, copper roofing, and artistic design elements above the doorway to the tower's interior. Although the bridge is currently painted white, early color photos from many decades ago show a bridge painted in a copper-red coat of paint, which makes it look like a miniature version of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.
On the occasion that the reservoir is partially drained for maintenance work on the water intake towers, remnants of the villages that were submerged can still be seen.
Since the reservoir is used to provide fresh water to the residents of Tokyo, the lake itself is off limits to any human activity in the water: no swimming, no boating, no fishing, etc. The hills surrounding the lake are also off limits. Except for the promenade running across the top of the dam, high fencing with several bands of barbwire encircle the rest of the hills that feed water into the lake. The lack of human access has created a small oasis of natural habitat where various species of insects, birds, mammals and flora can flourish.
★★Check out the Pix4Japan YouTube channel for a short video highlighting the vibe of this location.★★"
Daisei Iketani
"This place is worth visiting! Its view is pleasing to the eye and so relaxing. I wrote about this on my blog (thepinayajumma.com). Please check it out. I would have given it a 5-star rate if it wasn’t for the accessibility. It’s accessible by train but tricky to get there from the station. I think more English signs should be put up for clear guidance."
シェリル
"I really like this place. It's a place for cycling, a place to take photos, sit and admire the view, and relax. I came here to bike 20 kilometers with a friend. Alone but I don't feel lonely at all."
Pat Jirapat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sayama Lake is accessible by train from Tokyo. You'll typically take a train to a station like Sayama-shi or Kotesashi, and then it's a walk or short bus ride to the lake. Some travelers find the signage from the station a bit tricky, so having a map or navigation app handy is recommended.
Yes, Sayama Lake is reachable by public transport, primarily trains. However, the final leg from the nearest station to the lake might require some walking or a local bus.
Walking and cycling are the most popular ways to explore the area around Sayama Lake. The promenade on the dam is ideal for this.
Information on dedicated shuttle buses can be limited. It's best to check local transport schedules or rely on walking from nearby train stations.
While parking might be available, public transport is often recommended for ease of access and to avoid potential parking hassles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Sayama Lake and its surrounding park areas are generally free to enter. It's a great option for a budget-friendly outing.
Sayama Lake is an outdoor natural area, so it's typically accessible at all times. However, specific facilities like visitor centers or restrooms might have operating hours.
No, swimming, boating, and fishing are prohibited in Sayama Lake as it is a critical water source for Tokyo.
While the promenade on the dam is accessible, much of the hills surrounding the lake are off-limits due to its function as a water reservoir. High fencing is in place.
The Sayama Hills area, including the parts accessible around Sayama Lake, is generally free to enter.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, cycling, birdwatching, and simply relaxing while admiring the views. It's a peaceful spot for photography and picnics.
Yes, Sayama Lake offers beautiful scenery for photography, especially the intake towers, the dam, and the natural landscape. Sunset views are particularly popular. 
There are some playground facilities available in the park areas around Sayama Lake, making it a decent spot for families with young children.
Many visitors bring their dogs for walks, especially in the park areas. However, always check local regulations regarding pets in specific zones.
Late afternoons are popular for sunset views, while early mornings offer a more tranquil experience for birdwatching and quiet contemplation.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited dining options directly at Sayama Lake. It's advisable to bring your own food and drinks for a picnic or dine in nearby towns before or after your visit.
Absolutely! Sayama Lake is a great spot for picnics. Many visitors bring their own snacks and drinks to enjoy the scenery.
You'll find more dining options in the towns surrounding Sayama Lake, offering typical Japanese cuisine. Exploring these areas can be part of the experience.
Vending machines might be available in some park areas, but it's not guaranteed. Bringing your own refreshments is the safest bet.
Yes, you'll likely find convenience stores or small eateries near the train stations serving Sayama Lake, which can be a good place to grab supplies.
📸 📸 Photography
The promenade on the dam offers panoramic views, and the intake towers themselves are iconic subjects. The surrounding natural landscape also provides beautiful backdrops.
Drone usage might be restricted due to the lake's function as a water reservoir and potential proximity to protected natural areas. Always check local regulations before flying.
Golden hour, especially during sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Early mornings can also be serene and offer soft light.
Yes, the intake towers are a key feature and are popular subjects for photography. Their unique architecture stands out.
Many visitors enjoy capturing the reflection of the towers and the sky on the water's surface, especially during calm weather.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents should be aware that much of the area around the lake is fenced off for water conservation. However, the accessible parts are well-maintained and offer beautiful natural views. Bringing snacks and drinks is recommended, as dining options are limited on-site. It's a good spot for a relaxed day trip where kids can experience nature in a calm environment.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
The opportunity to photograph the unique intake towers and the natural landscape, especially during sunset, is a significant draw. It’s a place where you can feel connected to nature without the crowds often found in more popular tourist spots. The accessibility by public transport, though requiring a bit of navigation, adds to the sense of discovery for independent travelers.
🚴 Cyclists & Active Visitors
While the lake itself is off-limits, the Sayama Hills area provides opportunities for longer cycling routes. It's a great way to explore the natural beauty of the region. Remember to bring your own bike or check for rental options in nearby towns. The relatively flat terrain around the dam makes it accessible for most fitness levels.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Purpose of Sayama Lake
The architectural style of the intake towers is a fascinating blend of early 20th-century Western influences prevalent in Japan at the time. The use of red bricks, copper roofing, and decorative elements above the doorways reflects this aesthetic. Early photographs even show the bridge painted in a copper-red hue, reminiscent of San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge. When the reservoir is drained for maintenance, remnants of the submerged villages can sometimes be seen, offering a poignant glimpse into the past.
Due to its vital role in supplying Tokyo's water, human activities like swimming, boating, and fishing are strictly prohibited within the lake itself. The surrounding hills are also largely inaccessible, protected by high fencing and barbed wire to maintain water quality. This lack of human interference has inadvertently created a thriving natural habitat, allowing various species of insects, birds, mammals, and flora to flourish, making it a small oasis of biodiversity.
Experiencing Sayama Lake: Activities and Vibe
Birdwatching is another significant draw, as the protected environment supports a diverse avian population. The serene atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for quiet contemplation, photography, and picnics. While the lake itself is off-limits for water sports, the accessible areas provide ample opportunities for enjoying the outdoors. Some park areas also feature limited playground equipment, making it a suitable, though not extensively equipped, destination for families with young children.
The overall vibe of Sayama Lake is one of calm and natural beauty. Visitors often describe it as a relaxing and pleasing place to the eye. The picturesque scenery, especially during sunset, is frequently highlighted as a major draw. It's a destination that encourages a slower pace, allowing visitors to connect with nature and enjoy simple pleasures like a leisurely stroll or a bike ride.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit