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Lake · Omachi, Nagano
Lake Aoki
The deepest of the three Nishina lakes, north of Omachi, with clear water surrounded by mountains, beaches for swimming, kayaking and boat rides in summer, and views of the Northern Alps.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
A look at the place
Lake Aoki in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Discover
About Lake Aoki
Aoki is the northernmost and deepest of the three Nishina lakes, which follow one another in a valley north of Omachi on the way to Hakuba: Kizaki, Nakatsuna and Aoki. It is about 58 meters deep and is fed mainly by groundwater, which keeps the water very clear. The three lakes are part of Chubu‑Sangaku National Park.
The shores are forested, with a few small beaches and camping areas, and the western slope rises directly into the mountains. On clear days peaks of the Northern Alps appear behind the lake, with snow remaining into early summer. Yanaba Station on the Oito Line is near the northern shore.
In summer the lake is used for swimming, kayaking, stand‑up paddle and small boats, and a trail skirts part of the shoreline. Kizaki Lake, to the south, shallower and warmer, has a village with inns, a beach and boat rentals; Nakatsuna, in the middle, is the smallest and quietest.
In autumn the slope foliage is reflected in the water. In winter the Yanaba ski area is next door and the lake lies quiet. Visits are often combined with the Alpine Route from Omachi or with Hakuba about 15 minutes to the north. Outside summer there are few services open on the shore, and the place is visited more for the scenery than for infrastructure.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 to 2 hours for a shore stop; half a day if you swim, kayak or visit all three lakes.
Best time
July and August for swimming and water sports; mornings, when the water is usually calm and reflects the mountains. October brings autumn colors. Confirm rental services before you go.
How to get there
From Shinano‑Omachi Station, the Oito Line reaches Yanaba Station near the north shore in about 20 minutes. By car it’s about 12 km via the road toward Hakuba.
Tip
Do the loop of the three lakes by car or bicycle, stopping at Kizaki for lunch and at Aoki for a swim. The water is cold even in summer.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lake Aoki
Can you swim in Lake Aoki?
Yes, in designated areas during summer. The water is clear and cold, and the lake is deep near some shores.
Which lakes make up the Nishina lakes?
Kizaki, Nakatsuna and Aoki, north of Omachi, connected by a river and surrounded by mountains.
How do you reach Lake Aoki without a car?
By Line 8 to Yanaba Station, about 20 minutes from Shinano-Omachi, near the northern shore.
Is Lake Aoki near Hakuba?
It's about a 15-minute drive south of Hakuba, on the way to Omachi.
Beyond the guide
