What's the difference between canoeing and kayaking? A comprehensive guide to the different types, their appeal, and popular tours.
first time" canoe "or" Kayak When I thought about trying to do this, the first thing I thought about was The difference between these two .
Both are rowing in small boats Water Activities It refers to actually Canoes and kayaks have completely different origins and paddling methods. That's it!
So this time, I don't know surprisingly Difference between canoe and kayak I would like to introduce about
table of contents
- 1 In fact, "canoe" and "kayak" have completely different roots and rowing methods
- 2 Tell me about the Canadian canoe!
- 3 The Canadian canoe is perfect for relaxing!
- 4 What is the difference between "SUP" and "Canadian canoe", which has been a hot topic in recent years?
- 5 Tell me about Kayak!
-
6
Introducing Kayak types and popular tours!
- 6.1 "Sea kayaking" is recommended for those who want to enjoy the location!
- 6.2 If you want to feel like exploring, "River Kayak" is recommended!
- 6.3 If you want to learn how to paddle properly, we recommend "Fun Kayak"!
- 6.4 Try kayak fishing, the best part of kayaking and fishing!
- 6.5 You might even see fireflies in the summer! "Night River Kayaking" is also popular!
- 6.6 It's like a jungle! "Mangrove Kayaking" is also a hot topic, allowing you to fully enjoy the mysteries of nature!
- 7 What is the difference between "rafting" and "kayaking" in the same river?
- 8 Summary of the differences between canoes and kayaks
-
9
Frequently asked questions about canoeing and kayaking
- 9.1 Q: What is the difference between a canoe and a kayak?
- 9.2 Q: What are the features of canoes and kayaks?
- 9.3 QCan beginners go canoeing or kayaking?
- 9.4 Q: What are the best seasonal clothing for canoeing and kayaking, and what are the most popular areas?
- 9.5 QCan I experience canoeing and kayaking in winter?
- 10 Editorial department recommended feature articles
In fact, "canoe" and "kayak" have completely different roots and rowing methods
"
canoe
” means
A general term for boats that move forward by using paddles to paddle through the water.
I'm talking about
Among them, canoes can be broadly divided into
canadian canoe
"and"
Kayak
" are classified into two types.
In other words,
Kayak is a type of canoe
That is what it means.
Then, " canadian canoe "and" Kayak " So what exactly is different?
Canoe/Kayak
The difference is
Paddles and deck (upper hull) to be used
is located.
Generally,
The hull is open
Open deck type
in"
Single-bladed paddle
" is used
canoe
, the hull is covered
Closed deck type
in"
Double-bladed paddle (with blades on both ends)
" is used
Kayak
It is called.
Tell me about the Canadian canoe!
Generally in Japan
canoe
The so-called Canadian canoe.
Characteristics of the Canadian canoe
I tried to summarize.
1. Use a single-blade paddle
" single blade paddle ” means A paddle with only one blade About say.
First, how to row The boat moves forward by alternately rowing the right and left sides. Changing Strokes " There is a way to do this. However, if you paddle on the right side, the bow will naturally turn to the left, so you have to quickly change your paddle and paddle on the other side, which can be a challenge. It's easier if two or more people get on board and row each side. You will be able to proceed.
Other strokes include the "J stroke," "rudder stroke," and "Canadian stroke," which allow you to move in a straight line by rowing only one side of the boat.
These require skill, but some tour companies will provide a lecture from an experienced guide before boarding.
2. The hull is an open "open deck" type
The Canadian canoe is
Originally used by the indigenous people of North America (Native Americans) to travel and carry luggage.
It is said that...
At that time
Made from animal bones and skin
Yes, but that
The shape has remained almost unchanged since ancient times.
.
Because it is made so that multiple people can board and move with a lot of luggage,
"Open deck" where the structure of the upper part of the hull is open
Its distinctive feature is its construction.
again,
Because the lower body is not fixed
Easy to maneuver, and the safety of the hull is more important than speed.
It has been done.
The Canadian canoe is perfect for relaxing!
canadian canoe
Some surfers use a "single-blade paddle" which has only one blade, so it is not suitable for exciting waters with rapids and rough waves.
Recommended for those who want to enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace on calm rivers and lakes where there are not many waves.
is.
The hull has a spacious open deck,
Children and dogs
It is easy to put on,
It's also a popular activity for the whole family to enjoy.
is.
There is plenty of space to carry luggage, so you can enjoy yourself by dropping a fishing line and catching fish that live in the clear streams while touring.
《Boats floating in the air!? A canoeing experience where you will be soothed by the miraculous transparency》 ~ Approximately 2 hours (Meeting time - Disbanding) / Guided tour for multiple groups ~ ◆ Highly recommended! 3 points ◆ ① You must visit "Niyodo Blue" once, the world's best water quality in Japan! The mysterious blue color known as Niyodo Blue is a must-see! You can even observe fish swimming in the water so clear that you can see the river bottom. ② Floating in the air
Canoe type: The Canadian canoe used in the experience is a type of canoe, and is usually carried by 2 to 3 people, and is paddled using a tool called a paddle. It is relatively stable, has an open deck, has a high loading capacity, and is characterized by its leisurely touring. Field: The experience will be held in the Fuji Five Lakes at the foot of Mount Fuji, a World Heritage Site.
★The secret menu of a muffin specialty store located on the shores of Lake Shikotsu in Hokkaido! ◎Summer (4/25-2025.11/4): Home-roasted coffee time available! (Other drinks available for those who don't like coffee or for children) ◉Winter (2025.11/5-2026.4/24): Organic tea time available! ◎Lake Shikotsu and the source of the Chitose River, which are among the best in Japan in terms of both transparency and water quality.
Enjoy a relaxing Canadian canoeing experience on the Alexinai River, a tributary of the Kushiro River, a winter fantasy world. We will take you on a leisurely round trip in a Canadian canoe about 3km up the Alexinai River, a tributary that flows from Lake Toro, located on the east side of the Kushiro Wetlands, to the Kushiro River. A guide will accompany you on the canoe, so even first-timers can participate with peace of mind.
What is the difference between "SUP" and "Canadian canoe", which has been a hot topic in recent years?
For water activities similar to Canadian canoeing " SUP What is the difference between a Canadian canoe and a SUP?
SUP is an abbreviation for "Stand Up Paddleboard."
As the name suggests,
An activity in which you stand on the board and paddle alternately left and right to advance on the surface of the water.
is.
Depending on the tour company, there are tours where you can choose between Canadian canoeing and SUP, so if you get used to Canadian canoeing, you can try SUP!
A professional guide certified by the World Heritage Site Taketomi Town Tourist Guide Ordinance will guide you on a leisurely cruise down the mangrove river in a SUP (stand-up paddleboard) canoe. Explore the hidden jungle and visit the hidden waterfalls! During the mangrove and jungle exploration, a professional guide will provide easy-to-understand explanations of the creatures and plants of Iriomote Island. In the afternoon, cool down with a canyoning adventure, a popular water activity.
Cheerful wants you to experience the beautiful ocean of Miyakojima even more! With the idea in mind, we conduct tours on "Clear SUP" SUP boards that are all clear. With Clear SUP... ☆ Beautiful ocean ☆ ☆ Colorful fish and coral reefs ☆ ☆ Cute sea turtles ☆ You can see them through the transparent SUP boards. Furthermore, Cheerful
Tell me about Kayak!
It is a type of canoe
Kayak
can be further divided into many different types depending on the field used and how you play.
kayak features
is summarized below.
1. Use a double-bladed paddle
"
double blade paddle
” means
with blades on both sides of the paddle
say.
Compared to a single blade paddle, there is no need to change the handle,
Easy to control even for beginners
is.
The most common way to row is to move forward by rowing both blades equally, a technique called the "forward stroke."
Instead of just using your hands and arms, you have to move the paddle in a balanced manner while twisting your body around your spine.
If you are not confident in your physical strength, we recommend starting with a two-seater.
2. "Closed deck" type, where the deck is covered except for the seating area
Kayak is said to have originally been used by Eskimos in the sea for hunting.
Therefore, even if you fall over while on board, it is possible to get back up using a technique called "Eskimo roll".
The hull is different from the Canadian canoe,
"Closed deck" where the deck is covered except for the seat
The basic construction is as follows.
Even if the waves hit you from above,
Water does not easily get inside the boat and it does not sink easily.
This has the advantage that:
Even in the case of a two-seater
Each boarding area is separate
We are doing it.
again, When using a double-bladed paddle, even if the hull is an open-deck construction, Kayak is classified as .
Introducing Kayak types and popular tours!
the kayak
There are various types depending on the field to be used and the type of play.
Therefore,
How to enjoy kayaking by type and purpose, popular tours
We will introduce you to the following:
If you'd like to try kayaking, be sure to check this out!
"Sea kayaking" is recommended for those who want to enjoy the location!
"
sea kayak
"teeth,
Kayaking in the sea
I'm talking about
To avoid being affected by waves, wind, and tides,
The ship is characterized by its long and slender hull.
is.
It is used not only for walking on the sea, but also for traveling from island to island.
sea kayak
The charm of
Underwater topography, coral reefs, schools of fish, etc. can be seen up close!
Sea kayaking allows you to look into the ocean from a level close to the water surface, and during the day when the waves are calm, you can observe the ocean with your naked eyes.
Also, in the evening Sunset Kayak Tour If you participate in Enjoy a romantic kayaking experience while watching the sun set over the ocean. .
★ [Okinawa, Miyakojima] Clear Kayak Tour (approx. 60 minutes) ★ Drone photography service! *Drone photography may not be available depending on the weather. Enjoy the blue ocean of Miyako in a clear kayak! We will guide you to the best location depending on the weather on the day. ■ Plan details ■ [Price] Adults ¥9,500 / person Elementary school students ¥4,75
We will take a kayak and land on the mysterious island (Uninohama). A professional guide from Miyakojima who is a nationally certified maritime lifeguard will show you a new way to enjoy Miyakojima that is unique to the local area. This is a water sport that can be enjoyed all year round, regardless of the season. Even children and beginners can rest assured that we will carefully teach them the basics of kayaking. *On the day
[Mie/Shima] Ago Bay Kayak Tour (1.5 hour course)
Let's take a kayak out into Ago Bay, the calm waters where pearls grow in Ise-Shima National Park! This is an adventurous touring tour that takes you around islands large and small. A guide will accompany you, so it is popular with many people, including families with small children, the elderly, and beginners. The experience begins with a boarding lesson, so you can rest assured.
\Book online and get a great deal!/★300 yen off per person★ Adults: Usually 5,800 yen → 5,500 yen Children: Usually 4,800 yen → 4,500 yen Perfect for making memories with friends, family, lovers, or groups! Of course, solo travelers are also welcome! Spend a special time in nature♪ ■Applicable period [Web discount applies]
If you want to feel like exploring, "River Kayak" is recommended!
"
river kayak
"teeth,
kayaking on the river
I'm talking about
To prevent the hull from breaking even if it hits rocks,
It is characterized by being made to be sturdy
is.
It also has excellent maneuverability to handle the strong currents of rivers.
Let yourself be relaxed in the gentle flow of the river, or challenge the rapids and enjoy the sense of accomplishment of overcoming difficult spots. The charm of river kayaking is that you can enjoy various ways to enjoy it depending on the flow of the river.
Some tour companies also offer exciting plans that allow you to slip between rocks or walk directly below the cliffs.
You'll feel like you're in a scene from an adventure movie!
You can enjoy a kayak that most flow was slowly without. First one and to be a kayak, is the experience area recommended for family. Of course, for those who want full-fledged spear the River kayak will be recommended area. To those who fear we will provide the stability outstanding two-seater rubber dinghy type kayak in the kayak.
[Wakayama Kozagawa] Beginners welcome Kozagawa River Kayaking
This is a kayaking experience on the crystal clear Kozagawa River. Because it is a clear stream, there are no waves like in the ocean, making it an easy environment to enjoy. Why not try paddling your kayak leisurely while watching the ever-changing scenery? A guide will accompany you, and the kayaks used are recreational kayaks for beginners, so beginners can join with peace of mind. *Freshwater kayaks are available.
・A simple kayak tour that you can experience in the afternoon after your arrival♪・A walk on the clear water in the deep green forest♪・This is a tour in a calm brackish water area, so children from 3 years old can experience it♪ Even beginners can participate with confidence♪・Children (up to elementary school students) get a 2000 yen discount! The whole family can experience it♪・Free transportation・Photo gifts・Tea time♪・Ka
This special experience plan is recommended for those who are greedy and want to try two different activities in half a day. Experience both SUP (stand-up paddling) and river kayaking (single-seater for whitewater rafting) at the same time. You can sit, stand, or lie down on the SUP, and ride in any way you like. ◎ Although you sit on the river kayak, it is a little unstable and may tip over (sink).
If you want to learn how to paddle properly, we recommend "Fun Kayak"!
"
fun kayak
"teeth,
kayaking on the lake
I'm talking about
It has excellent stability and is relatively easy for beginners to move in a straight line.
is.
It may also be used in calm waters.
Unlike oceans or rivers, there is no current in a lake, so you have to row your boat using only your own strength.
In other words,
One of the attractions of Fun Kayak is that you can enjoy the pure operation of the paddle without being disturbed by the water current.
That's it.
For beginners and those who are not used to paddle operation, it may be a good idea to try fun kayaking first.
・In fact, 95% of participants are beginners. It is also popular with people with dogs! Casual clothing is allowed! The good thing about kayaking is that anyone can easily paddle. The kayaks we use are "leisure kayaks" that are highly stable and suitable for beginners, so you can enjoy it with peace of mind. "What is Lake Saiko?" ・Long ago, most of the huge lake was buried by lava flows from Mt. Fuji.
[Shiga, Lake Biwa] Visit Shirahige Shrine and the Torii Gate in the Lake by Kayak (120 minutes)
Why not try kayaking on Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan? This plan allows you to visit the torii gate of Shirahige Shrine, the oldest shrine in Shiga Prefecture, from the lake. This popular tour allows you to fully experience the divine torii gate and the vastness of Lake Biwa.
Hakone is one of Japan's leading tourist destinations, and Lake Ashi is one of its attractions. There are several ways to enjoy Lake Ashi, but kayaking is the best way to experience nature. You can experience the wind, temperature, sounds, scenery, trees, and the scent of the water with just a few tools, so why not try spending a wonderful time enjoying the experience with all five senses? Even if you're a beginner, you can start paddling after a simple lesson.
[Tokyo/Okutama] Lake Shiramaru Kayaking Experience Tour ♪ Half-day Short Course
You can enjoy a canoe/kayak experience tour at Lake Shiromaru, an oasis in Tokyo. The purpose of this tour is to relax in the nature of Okutama while operating a canoe/kayak. This course is aimed at inexperienced people and beginners, so even if you are not good at exercise or can't swim, it's okay. Experienced instructors will carefully teach you how to operate the canoe/kayak and what to be careful of.
Come empty-handed! 10,000 people experience the facility every year! Experience the natural beauty of Japan's top-class lakes and rivers in a clear kayak, the first of its kind in Hokkaido! You'll also receive free photos of your tour! *Lockers, changing rooms, and foot towels are available at the on-site shop. *Certified as a tour business authorized by the Ministry of the Environment, the shop is a member of the "JSPASUP"
Try kayak fishing, the best part of kayaking and fishing!
"
kayak fishing
” is, as the name suggests,
Kayak for fishing
I'm talking about
It features a holder for standing fishing rods and a trunk space where you can store items that make fishing more comfortable.
kayak fishing
The biggest attraction of
A place where you can casually enjoy fishing in spots that cannot be approached by large fishing boats!
If you are lucky, you may encounter big fish.
Depending on the tour company
Some also offer rental services for fishing rods, etc.
So if you're interested, check the plan in advance.
This kayak fishing tour is unique to the tropics, offering everything from light fishing in the in-reef and mangrove areas to top fishing for GTs. We provide gentle and careful guidance for lure beginners, women, and children. Please let us know if you have any requests regarding the type of fish you would like to catch. The guide will take into account the weather, wind direction, and tide on the day and will guide you to the best spot.
This plan allows you to enjoy lure fishing from a pedal kayak around Nakama, Onna Village. ♪ Beginners are welcome. We will provide you with a lesson on kayaking and fishing tips! The kayak is equipped with comfortable seats that make it easy to sit in for long periods of time, and because it is a foot-paddled kayak, you can experience amazing propulsion power! Recommended points: ・Your legs will be less tired than if you were rowing by hand.
Lure fishing in the mangroves of Ishigaki Island ♪ Rental tackle is available, so reservations can be made the day before! Even first-timers might be able to catch something! The large canoe provides excellent stability! The life jackets are easy to move in and have good buoyancy, so you can feel safe!
This is an experience where you can enjoy kayaking at the mouth of the Tama River. Of course, you can also try kayak fishing! The Tama River flows through a big city, but it is home to a huge variety of creatures. Why not come and enjoy the great outdoors? Our experienced staff will give you a thorough lesson, so even first-timers can enjoy the experience with peace of mind.
You might even see fireflies in the summer! "Night River Kayaking" is also popular!
Depending on the kayak tour company, you can fully enjoy the river at night.
night river kayak
” can be enjoyed.
night river kayak
It is attractive that you can enjoy the location of nature that can only be enjoyed at night!
Looking up at the starry sky from the water away from the lights of buildings and street lights is truly a masterpiece.
And if you're lucky,
Nocturnal creatures
Or depending on the season
Fireflies
You may also encounter
there is.
This is recommended for those who want a thrilling experience that is a little different from regular kayaking.
◆◇ Recommended points of this tour ◇◆◎Enjoy the night view of the Skytree as if you have it all to yourself◎Enjoy authentic kayaking close to the station.◎Children will love it! The whole family can have a little outdoor experience nearby.◎Anyone can enjoy it, from beginners to women, families and seniors♪◎Weekdays are especially recommended! Solo activities for women and women
Due to the tides, we hold special events about eight times a month! Everyone from children to adults can enjoy both marine life and the starry sky while kayaking in the mangroves of Oura, located on the east coast of Nago, the gateway to Yanbaru. ☆ 彡 As it is a pitch black place, if the weather is good, you can lie down in the kayak and enjoy the seasonal constellations while listening to the explanations of the star guide.
Explore the mangroves by kayak on Miyakojima, where there are few nighttime activities. The trip takes approximately 60 to 70 minutes.
★Sunset and starry sky tour combined with night mangrove exploration! Watch the sunset while floating in a kayak in Miyara Bay♪ Once the sun sets, cruise deep into the mangroves by kayak. This is an overwhelming adventure tour that allows you to explore the mangroves while looking at the starry sky, making it a very ambitious plan♪ [Schedule on the day of the tour]
It's like a jungle! "Mangrove Kayaking" is also a hot topic, allowing you to fully enjoy the mysteries of nature!
In areas where mangroves grow thickly,
mangrove kayak
” can be enjoyed.
This mangrove kayak
in Japan
Okinawa
and
Kagoshima
A very valuable tour that can only be experienced in
is.
You can fully enjoy the overwhelming scale of the scenery and the mystery of nature.
Mangroves are originally formed when seawater fills up at high tide.
A general term for plants that live in the area known as the "intertidal zone"
That is what I mean.
The natural environment remains untouched, and the mangrove forests are full of
Lots of never-before-seen plants and rare creatures
I live here.
If you join a tour, you can rest assured that you will be guided by a veteran guide who is well-versed in the terrain.
If you're lucky, you might encounter some rare plants and animals and wild birds.
!
☆Five features of the plan☆ 1) Includes professional high-definition camera photography 2) Participants are anyone from 3 to 70 years old (those confident in their physical strength) 3) Free pick-up and drop-off from nearby hotels 4) The only place on Okinawa Island where you can see all four types of mangroves 5) Over 4,000 people participated last year!
[Reservations can be made up to 2 hours before the tour start time!] Free tour photos available ☆★ Various limited-time discount campaign plans available! ★ [Family Discount Plan] - Discounts for families! One child under junior high school age is free! Second and subsequent children are half price! Applicable dates: 2026/4/24-5/7 7/18-8/31 Click here for the family discount plan ↓ https://acti
\Book online and get a great deal!/★300 yen off per person★ Adults: Usually 5,800 yen → 5,500 yen Children: Usually 4,800 yen → 4,500 yen Perfect for making memories with friends, family, lovers, or groups! Of course, solo travelers are also welcome! Spend a special time in nature♪ ■Applicable period [Web discount applies]
Enjoy the overwhelming natural beauty of Ishigaki Island's mangroves! ・Parking, simple changing rooms, foot washing area, and temporary toilets are all available! A convenient kayaking tour lasting approximately 2.5 hours♪ ☆ Reasons why Hikari Oceans is recommended ☆ ★ Island-born and island-raised guides are available! ★ Guides provide smartphone photography services! ★ As over 80% of participants are beginners, careful guidance is provided.
This tour starts late, so you can join on the day you arrive! You can reserve a private tour (free of charge), so you can request a start time that suits your flight time! The tour starts as the sun sets and the sky turns red, with a canoe ride through the mangroves! The sky gradually darkens, and eventually it becomes pitch black as you canoe through the mangroves. If you're lucky, you can see the starry sky.
What is the difference between "rafting" and "kayaking" in the same river?
When it comes to river rafting activities, in addition to kayaking, " Rafting " There is, Kayak and Rafting What is the difference between
Kayak is usually ridden by 1-2 people,
Rafting is a large rubber boat with 6 to 8 people including an instructor.
Also, rafting often refers to a tour that involves descending powerful rapids.
The key is that all members must work together to move forward.
is.
Therefore,
Recommended if you want to have fun with a large group
is.
Summary of the differences between canoes and kayaks
canoe
- The Canadian canoe originated from Native Americans
- The paddle uses a single blade
- Open decks are the mainstream structure.
- Suitable for calm rivers and lakes
Kayak
- A type of canoe
- Kayaks originated from the Eskimos
- The paddle uses a double blade
- Closed deck structure is the mainstream
- There are various types depending on the purpose of use
More than " canoe "and" Kayak "The difference of becomes.
canoes and kayaks,
Water activities that can be enjoyed almost all year round
is.
Many tour companies offer tours that are easy for beginners to try, so let's figure out how to enjoy each and try canoeing or kayaking on this occasion!
Frequently asked questions about canoeing and kayaking
Q What is the difference between a canoe and a kayak?
A "Canoe" is a general term for a boat that moves forward by using a paddle to paddle the water. Canoes can be broadly divided into two types: "Canadian canoes" and "kayaks," with kayaks being a type of canoe. The deciding factors for categorizing "Canadian canoes" and "kayaks" are the paddle and the deck (the upper part of the hull), and the name of a canoe/kayak is determined by the type of paddle blade used and the shape of the deck. For more detailed characteristics of each, Here Please also refer to the following.
Q What are the features of canoes and kayaks?
A Canadian canoes are said to have been used by Native Americans for travel and carrying luggage, and are characterized by their wide, open hulls and "open decks," emphasizing stability over speed. They're recommended for relaxing and enjoying the scenery on calm rivers and lakes with little swell. They're also easy to carry children and dogs, making them a popular activity for multiple people. Kayaks, on the other hand, are said to have been used by Eskimos for hunting in the ocean, and their "closed decks" make them less susceptible to water and easier to control, even for beginners. Popular activities include sea kayaking on the ocean, river kayaking, which allows you to enjoy various river currents, and kayak fishing, where you can enjoy fishing while kayaking. Prices vary depending on the tour and plan, but there's not much difference in price between canoes and kayaks.
Q Can beginners go canoeing or kayaking?
A Canoeing and kayaking are activities that even beginners can easily try. Kayaking is especially recommended for beginners. Canoes typically use a "changing stroke," where a paddle with a web on only one side is used to move the boat forward by alternating between the right and left sides of the hull. On the other hand, kayaks typically use a "forward stroke," where the boat has webs on both sides and is moved forward by paddling equally with both blades. Since there is no need to switch hands, kayaking is said to be relatively easy for beginners to control. Since kayaking requires balancing by twisting the body around the spine rather than just using the hands and arms, two-person kayaking is easier to enjoy than one-person kayaking.
Q What are the seasonal clothes and popular areas for canoeing and kayaking?
A Since it is expected that you will get a little wet when getting on and off the canoe or kayak or while paddling, it is recommended that you wear clothes made of synthetic fiber material that is easy to dry and retains heat. In the summer, there are tours where you can wear a swimsuit, but be sure to wear a rash guard, hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. From autumn onwards, layered clothing such as a windbreaker that is easy to control and easy to move in is recommended. We recommend marine shoes, sports sandals, and rain boots that can be fixed on the heel, even if they get wet. From Okinawa, where you can enjoy the beautiful sea and mangroves, to Hokkaido, where you can enjoy the quiet lakeside, choose a venue and enjoy canoeing and kayaking throughout the year.
Q Can you experience canoeing and kayaking even in winter?
A The recommended season is summer when the water temperature is high, but canoeing and kayaking can also be experienced in winter. In Hokkaido, there are "drift ice kayaking" tours where you can enjoy winter scenery while wearing a warm dry suit, and special canoe tours available only during this time of year where you can observe migratory birds, wildlife, and fantastic ice art in national parks. Also, in the tropical island of Okinawa, even in winter, there is relatively little need to worry about air and water temperatures. The water in the seas and rivers becomes clearer in winter, which is another feature that makes tours more satisfying.
*The content of this article is current as of January 2026.
