Lake Shidaka - Image 1
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Lake Shidaka

4.3
·822 reviews·Beppu, Japan

A tranquil oasis offering serene lake views, wildlife encounters, and recreational activities like paddle boating and camping.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Cherry blossoms and magnolias bloom

CrowdLow
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Lake Shidaka - Image 1

Lake Shidaka

Best Time

Spring mornings

Cherry blossoms and magnolias bloom

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil oasis offering serene lake views, wildlife encounters, and recreational activities like paddle boating and camping.

4.3
(822 reviews)

"Peaceful place. Not crowded with tourists. Locals go here for a little walk, sitting under the tree, enjoying surroundings."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Small Change

Carry 100 yen coins for fish food to feed the swans and koi! :moneybag:

Wear Layers

The wind can be strong, so a windcheater is recommended. :wind_face:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Serene Lake Views

Serene Lake Views

Gaze upon the tranquil waters reflecting the surrounding mountains. A perfect spot for quiet contemplation.

Wildlife Feeding

Wildlife Feeding

Feed the charming swans and vibrant koi fish for an interactive and memorable experience.

Paddle Boat Adventures

Paddle Boat Adventures

Glide across the calm waters in a paddle boat, enjoying the picturesque scenery from a unique vantage point.

Camping Under the Stars

Camping Under the Stars

Pitch a tent and spend a night surrounded by nature's tranquility, with designated camping sites available.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace Tranquility

Lake Shidaka offers a peaceful escape with ample space for picnics and relaxation. It's a favorite spot for locals seeking quiet enjoyment, making it less crowded than typical tourist hotspots. Plan for a leisurely day to truly soak in the serene atmosphere.

Animal Encounters & Activities

Bring small change for fish food (100 yen) to delight the swans and koi. Paddle boats are available for rent, offering a unique perspective of the lake and its inhabitants. Western-style restrooms are also on-site for convenience.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Cherry blossoms and magnolias bloom
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Vibrant fall foliage paints the landscape
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Enjoy maximum peace and quiet
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Destination of the Week: Oita, Japan 🇯🇵 1. Begin your journey in Beppu, the hot spring capital of Japan, easily reached from Oita Airport. Local buses and taxis make it simple to explore every onsen district. 2. Witness the otherworldly Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour) - from the cobalt-blue Umi Jigoku to the crimson Chinoike Jigoku and the bubbling mud pools of Oniishibozu Jigoku. These geothermal wond...
@skyscanner
84.1K likes • 3.2M views

Bring Small Change

Carry 100 yen coins for fish food to feed the swans and koi! :moneybag:

Wear Layers

The wind can be strong, so a windcheater is recommended. :wind_face:

Who wants to see the hot spring capital of the world? ♨️ Beppu is the most unique city we have EVER visited and you MUST see this place at least once! 📍Beppu Seven Hells 📍Hyotan Onsen (world’s first Michelin onsen) 📍Jigokumushikobo Kannawa (🔥 steamed cuisine) 📍Okamotoya (Onsen steamed pudding restaurant) #beppu #kyushu #japan #travelgoals #japantrip #japan🇯🇵 #travelling
@hangrybynature
25.4K likes • 351.5K views

Parking Pointers

Parking can be a bit confusing; look for signs near the Forest Adventure area. :car:

Easy Access

The paths are very flat, making it accessible for elderly visitors and families with young children. :baby:

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Small Change

Carry 100 yen coins for fish food to feed the swans and koi! :moneybag:

Wear Layers

The wind can be strong, so a windcheater is recommended. :wind_face:

Parking Pointers

Parking can be a bit confusing; look for signs near the Forest Adventure area. :car:

Easy Access

The paths are very flat, making it accessible for elderly visitors and families with young children. :baby:

Picnic Perfect

Ideal spot for picnics with plenty of grassy areas and benches. :sandwich:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(822 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Lake Shidaka for its exceptional tranquility and natural beauty, highlighting the peaceful atmosphere ideal for picnics and relaxation. The opportunity to feed the swans and koi, along with paddle boating, adds interactive fun. While parking can be confusing, the accessible paths and available restrooms make it a comfortable experience for all.

"Nice lake with lots of roaming/picnic spaces. There are camping sites surrounding the lakes too. We paddled the boat in the lake and the swans and kois surrounded us. It was a nice experience and the view from the lake to the mountain was exquisite. The boat ride was 1000 yen and the car park was free. There's also a fish food dispenser near the "jetty" at 100 yen."

Jeffrey Yong

"Peaceful place. Not crowded with tourists. Locals go here for a little walk, sitting under the tree, enjoying surroundings with a cup of tea and biscuits. From the bus stop at the T-junction near a little farm shop, you need to walk around 800m to the lake."

Wewey Heuw

"The lake is beautiful, and it has a large amount of coy fish and swans. They have a feeding area for the animals, if you pay 100yen you can get food for them. They also have paddle boats and good restrooms with western toilets available.
The parking is a little confusing, we ended up having to park by the forest adventure place. I would've loved a walking path around the lake. They just have grass and benches. The grass was a nice change though. Overall I really enjoyed our visit."

Faith Minter

What People Like

Peaceful and tranquil atmosphere
Wildlife feeding opportunities
Scenic lake and mountain views

What People Dislike

Confusing parking situation
Lack of a full lake walking path

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From the bus stop at the T-junction near a little farm shop, it's about an 800m walk to the lake. Taxis are also an option, though parking can be a bit confusing. Reddit

Yes, you can reach the vicinity by bus. From the nearest bus stop, a short walk will lead you to the lake. Reddit

While public transport is an option, driving might offer more flexibility, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas. Reddit

While Lake Shidaka is known for its tranquility, the Beppu area, famous for its hot springs, is relatively nearby and worth exploring. TikTok+1

Parking can be a bit confusing; some visitors have parked near the Forest Adventure place. It's advisable to look for clear signage. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no entrance fee for Lake Shidaka itself. However, activities like paddle boat rentals and fish food dispensers have associated costs. Reddit

Paddle boat rentals are typically around 1000 yen. Reddit

Yes, there's a fish food dispenser near the jetty for 100 yen, allowing you to feed the swans and koi. Reddit

Operating hours for paddle boats are not explicitly stated but are generally available during daylight hours when the park is open. It's best to check on arrival.

Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for picnics, making it a great spot for a leisurely meal. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy picnicking, walking, paddle boating, and feeding the local wildlife like swans and koi. Camping is also popular. Reddit+1

Absolutely! It's a peaceful place with flat paths, making it easy for kids and elderly visitors. Feeding the animals is a highlight for children. Reddit

Yes, there are good restrooms available, including western-style toilets for visitor convenience. Reddit

Currently, there isn't a complete walking path around the lake; the experience is more focused on the grassy areas and benches by the shore. Reddit

Expect beautiful lake views with surrounding mountains, especially stunning during spring with cherry blossoms and magnolias, or autumn with vibrant foliage. Reddit

🎫 🏕️ Camping & Facilities

Yes, Lake Shidaka features camping sites, making it an excellent destination for an overnight stay surrounded by nature. Reddit

While specific details on camping facilities are limited, the presence of good restrooms suggests basic amenities are available for campers. Reddit

Information on camping fees is not readily available, but it's generally a low-cost or free activity in many Japanese natural parks. It's advisable to inquire locally.

Bring your tent, sleeping gear, and any cooking equipment if you plan to prepare meals. Also, pack layers as the weather can change. Reddit

Specific barbecue facilities are not mentioned, but many campers bring their own portable grills. Check local regulations before use.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lake Shidaka is a fantastic destination for families. The flat, accessible paths make it easy for little ones to explore, and the opportunity to feed the swans and koi is a guaranteed hit. Reddit Bring small change for the fish food dispensers! Paddle boats offer a fun way to experience the lake together, and the open grassy areas are perfect for letting kids run around. Reddit

couples

For couples seeking a romantic and peaceful getaway, Lake Shidaka offers a tranquil setting. Enjoy a leisurely picnic by the water, take a calm paddle boat ride, or simply relax on the benches and admire the scenic views. Reddit The serene atmosphere is ideal for quiet conversation and enjoying each other's company amidst nature's beauty.

Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers

Nature lovers will appreciate the serene environment and the chance to observe local wildlife. The lake's reflections, surrounding mountains, and seasonal foliage (especially in spring and autumn) provide excellent photography opportunities. Reddit The tranquility of the location allows for unhurried exploration and capturing the essence of Japanese natural landscapes.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Experiencing Lake Shidaka's Wildlife

Lake Shidaka is a haven for local wildlife, particularly its resident swans and vibrant koi fish. Visitors can purchase fish food for a small fee (around 100 yen) from dispensers near the jetty, offering a delightful opportunity for interaction. Watching these creatures gracefully swim towards you for a treat is a highlight for many, especially families with children. Reddit The calm waters also attract various bird species, adding to the serene natural ambiance.

Beyond feeding, simply observing the wildlife in its natural habitat contributes to the tranquil experience. The lake's ecosystem is well-maintained, ensuring these animals thrive. Remember to be respectful of their space and avoid overcrowding them, especially during peak seasons. The presence of these animals is a key reason why many describe Lake Shidaka as a peaceful and charming destination. Reddit

Activities and Recreation at the Lake

While Lake Shidaka is primarily known for its tranquil atmosphere, there are a few recreational activities available. Paddle boat rentals are a popular choice, allowing visitors to explore the lake at their own pace and enjoy the picturesque scenery from the water. The rental fee is typically around 1000 yen. Reddit This offers a unique perspective of the surrounding mountains and the lake's inhabitants.

For those who prefer to stay on land, the expansive grassy areas surrounding the lake are perfect for picnics. Many visitors bring their own food and drinks to enjoy a leisurely meal amidst nature. Reddit While there isn't a full walking path around the lake, the accessible, flat terrain makes it suitable for gentle strolls and relaxation. Camping is also a significant draw, with designated sites available for those wishing to spend a night under the stars. Reddit

Accessibility and Visitor Comfort

Lake Shidaka is designed to be accessible and comfortable for a wide range of visitors. The paths around the lake are notably flat, making it easy for elderly individuals and families with young children to navigate without difficulty. Reddit This thoughtful design ensures that everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

In terms of facilities, western-style restrooms are available, providing a familiar and convenient amenity for international travelers and locals alike. Reddit The availability of these facilities enhances the overall visitor experience, allowing for longer and more comfortable stays. The ample grassy areas and benches also provide plenty of spots to rest and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Reddit

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