Complete Guide to Canoeing at Lake Shima | Prices, Same-day Reservations, Dress Codes, and Differences from Lake Okushima

In this article, Gunma ・ Enjoy canoeing at Lake Shima Featured!
Enjoy at Lake Shima Canoeing experience prices and duration , Seasonal clothing and belongings We will also explain the following: Beginners, children, and pets welcome We will be introducing a variety of tours, so be sure to check them out.

What is Lake Shima? A popular canoeing spot for beginners and families with children

Gunma Prefecture in the northwest of Lake Shima is an artificial lake created by the construction of Nakanojo Dam. Lake Shima is located near the entrance to Shima Onsenkyo, a popular hot spring resort with a retro atmosphere. It is also one of the best canoeing spots in the Kanto region.

The color changes every moment The impressive "Shima Blue" lake water One of the reasons why canoeing on Lake Shima is so popular is that the natural scenery of each season, such as the green forest, autumn leaves, and snowy winter scenery, is reflected on the lake's surface, giving it a different look every time you visit.
The lake is calm with few waves or currents, so beginners and families with small children can enjoy canoeing safely.

Activity Japan offers a wide range of canoeing experiences that can be enjoyed on Lake Shima, which has exceptionally clear waters. It's suitable for beginners, and you can even bring your children and pets along. There is a wide range of tours available, including:
Some tours can be booked on the day, making them easy to use. Choose a tour that suits your schedule and purpose.

Which would you choose: Lake Shima or Lake Okushima?

Lake Shima is located along the national highway, making it easily accessible. There are also many canoe and SUP (stand-up paddleboard) tours available. The lake is compact, measuring just 3km in circumference, and relatively unaffected by wind, making it a good choice for first-time canoeists and families with children.
Located further inland than Lake Shima Lake Okushima This is also an artificial lake created by the construction of the Shimagawa Dam. Like Lake Shima, you can enjoy canoeing and SUP (stand-up paddleboarding). The lake is also compact, with a circumference of about 4km. There are observation decks and circular courses around Lake Okushima, so Water Sports Not only that, hiking is also popular.

Both Lake Shima and Lake Okushima are dam lakes, and they have in common the beautiful Shima blue waters and the opportunity to enjoy nature throughout the seasons.
If you value ease of experience, choose Lake Shima. If you want to enjoy tranquility, choose Lake Okushima. So, why not try changing your destination depending on your purpose?

Basic information about canoeing on Lake Shima (price, duration, season, reservations, age, etc.)

When planning a canoeing experience at Lake Shima, it's a good idea to know the price, duration, and when it will be held in advance. Below, we've compiled information on tours listed on Activity Japan, including approximate prices, experience times, and the best seasons, so please use it as a reference.

Price range

The fee for participating in a canoeing experience at Lake Shima is
Adults: Approximately 5,000 to 7,000 yen, Children: Approximately 5,000 to 6,000 yen
is a guideline.
Some tours even allow pets! For around 3,000 yen per pet, you can join the canoeing experience with your pet.
The price usually includes rental of canoes, paddles, life jackets, tour guide fees, etc. Some tours also offer rental shoes and rainwear, so make use of these if necessary.

Prices vary depending on the tour content, Be sure to check the details when booking Please make sure to do so.

Duration of the experience

A canoeing experience typically takes 2 to 3 hours. However, it takes time to check in, change clothes, and take safety instructions beforehand, so The experience time on the lake is about 1.5 to 2 hours. Many of these tours are divided into morning and afternoon sessions, making them easy to incorporate into your travel plans.
Why not choose a tour time that suits your schedule, such as canoeing in the morning and then spending the afternoon visiting hot springs and sightseeing, or enjoying a meal and a stroll before canoeing in the afternoon?

Best season/recommended time

Canoeing on Lake Shima is usually available from around April to November. Through canoeing, you can enjoy the different scenery of Lake Shima each season from the lake, from the fresh greenery of spring, the dazzling sunlight of summer, to the colorful foliage of autumn.
It is especially popular from July to September, including summer vacation and Silver Week. The clear lake and refreshing blue sky create a beautiful scenery, making this the perfect season for those who want to enjoy the outdoors! Enjoy the scenery of Lake Shima by canoe!

Advance reservation/same-day reservation

Canoeing at Lake Shima generally requires advance reservations.
This tour is especially popular during summer vacation and long weekends, and may reach capacity several months in advance. Even if you can make a reservation on the day, you will not be able to participate if the capacity is reached. Once you have decided on your travel schedule, apply early. We recommend that you do so.

Eligible ages and accompanying conditions (children and pets)

The appeal of the Lake Shima canoeing experience is that it is easy for even small children to participate. Activity Japan also offers canoeing experience tours on Lake Shima that are open to children from the age of three. Even if you are a beginner canoeer or have children with you, you can rest assured that the guides will provide solid support! It is a fun experience for the whole family.

There are even canoe tours where you can bring your pets! Enjoy a stroll on the lake with your children or pet dog and create special memories. hey.

What to wear and bring for a canoeing experience on Lake Shima (by season)

To enjoy a comfortable canoeing experience at Lake Shima, you will need to prepare for each season, such as taking measures against the sun and UV rays in summer, regulating your body temperature in spring and autumn, and taking measures to protect yourself from the cold in winter.

Below we will introduce some clothing and items to bring, so please use this as a reference.

Summer clothing and belongings

If you're planning a canoeing experience at Lake Shima in the summer, it's essential to protect yourself from the sun and UV rays! To ensure a comfortable experience, be sure to bring clothes that are easy to move in and dry quickly, as well as items that will protect you from direct sunlight.

Spring and Autumn Clothes and Items to Bring

Spring and autumn are seasons when the weather can change suddenly. It's a good idea to prepare items that are prepared for cold winds and rain, with a focus on thin, quick-drying materials. Temperature differences can also be noticeable, so it's a good idea to wear clothes that are easy to put on and take off to help regulate your body temperature.

Winter clothing and belongings

When enjoying canoeing in winter, the first priority is to protect yourself from the cold. Wear layers to keep your body heat in, and make sure you have the right gear to protect you from the wind and spray.

Top 5 Popular Canoeing Spots on Lake Shima

Enjoy canoeing at Lake Shima

Gunma ・ Lake Shima The canoeing experience at You can feel the changing seasons from the calm lake surface , an outdoor activity.

At Activity Japan, Beginners, families with small children, and pets However, you can book a tour that you can enjoy with peace of mind! Beautiful Shima Blue Come experience it for yourself!

*The content of this article is current as of November 2025.
Featured image provided by: photoAC