Summary of recommended areas and tours for canoeing and kayaking

Update Date: 2024/09/06

Activity Japan Editorial Department

Pick out canoe and kayak areas all over Japan!

We've compiled all the information you need to know about canoeing and kayaking, including popular canoeing and kayaking spots, recommended canoeing and kayaking tours, and basic information about canoeing and kayaking!

If you're thinking of trying canoeing or kayaking in the future, be sure to use this article as a reference!

table of contents

1 Recommended areas for canoeing and kayaking
2 Recommended spots for canoeing and kayaking
3 Canoe and Kayak Recommendations
- 3.1 Feature articles recommended by the editorial department
4 Recommended canoe and kayak tours
5 Basic knowledge of canoeing and kayaking

Recommended areas for canoeing and kayaking

We've picked out popular canoeing and kayaking areas, from the classics to hidden gems!

Okinawa waterfall power spot ranking!

Updated 2024/06/25

We will introduce the waterfalls and power spots on Okinawa's remote island, Iriomote Island, in a ranking format. We will also introduce activities recommended for group trips with friends, such as canoeing and trekking that can be enjoyed around the waterfalls!

Okinawa Okinawa (remote islands) Iriomote Island, Yubu Island, Barasu Island, Hatoma Island SUP Water sports (river and lake activities)

Ishigaki Island: Recommended for families with children! Tours that children will enjoy

Updated on 2025/07/10

Here are 5 experience tours recommended for families with children visiting Ishigaki Island. There are also activities that families with babies can participate in, so please use this as a reference for your trip.

Okinawa Okinawa (remote islands) Ishigaki Island Ecotours and nature guided tours Marine sports (sea activities)

A thorough introduction to the popular and recommended Iriomote Island canoe and kayak experience tour plans!

Updated 2023/05/31

Special feature on canoe and kayak experience tours on Iriomote Island! We introduce popular experience tours, such as scenic spots such as mangrove forests and waterfalls, and plans to enjoy water buffalo carts on Yubu Island and Taketomi Island!

Okinawa Okinawa (remote islands) Iriomote Island, Yubu Island, Barasu Island, Hatoma Island Canoeing and Kayaking

Hokkaido Tourism: Recommended spots for families

Updated on 2025/08/14

We explain the tourist spots in Hokkaido that you can go to with your children. We introduce activities that parents and children can enjoy together, categorized by the surrounding area of the spots. Please refer to this if you want to enjoy sightseeing in Hokkaido with your family.

Hokkaido Hokkaido (northern Hokkaido) Niseko Rusutsu SUP

Aomori sightseeing recommended model itinerary: 1 night, 2 days

Updated 2024/07/16

A feature on Aomori sightseeing x model itineraries. A two-day, one-night trip using a car, featuring Aomori's most spectacular sights and gourmet spots, is introduced. Activities and experiences that can be enjoyed around each spot are also introduced, so please use it as a reference.

Tohoku Aomori Canoeing and Kayaking

Tour Nagano's popular sightseeing spots by car! A two-day, one-night itinerary

Updated 2024/07/16

We will explain a model itinerary for a two-day, one-night trip by car to popular sightseeing spots, including castles and art museums in the Matsumoto and Azumino areas of Nagano. We will also introduce activities and experiences that allow you to fully enjoy the nature of Nagano, as well as local gourmet food and hot spring spots.

Nagano Azumino and Omachi BBQ

Shima Onsen Tourism | Fun for kids and adults alike! Recommended spots and gourmet food

Updated 2024/01/23

Special feature on Shima Onsen in Gunma. Introducing activities, sightseeing spots, and gourmet spots that you can experience in the Shima Onsen area.

Kanto Gunma Shima, Agatsuma, Kawarayu SUP

Sightseeing in Yamanashi by car! A two-day, one-night model itinerary and recommended spots

Updated 2024/07/16

This is a two-day, one-night model itinerary for touring Yamanashi by car. It picks out tourist spots in the Otsuki area, close to central Tokyo, including Lake Kawaguchi, Kofu, Fuefuki, Katsunuma, Shiozan, and Yamanashi City. It also introduces activities on the lake and in the mountains, as well as cultural experiences.

Yamanashi Music box making experience

What to do when going out with kids in Tokyo? Ranking of popular activities announced!

Updated 2024/07/19

Special feature on activities, leisure, experiences and play recommended for outings with children in Tokyo! Introducing "play and play areas in Tokyo that both adults and children can enjoy" that are perfect for day trips and weekend leisure, focusing on popular rankings!

Kanto Tokyo

Hakone sightseeing spots, hidden gems and recommended experiences

Updated 2023/10/20

This article introduces the standard and little-known tourist spots in Hakone. Hakone has many power spots, scenic spots overlooking Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi, and day-trip hot springs, making it perfect for photography and dates! It also introduces tourist spots recommended for families with children, and activities that allow you to experience the charm of Hakone!

Kanto Kanagawa Hakone Glasswork/Glass Workshop

Saitama Tourism Model Course: Train and Day Trip Tour of Scenic and Gourmet Spots

Updated 2024/07/17

A feature on a model sightseeing course in Saitama. Focusing on Nagatoro, Saitama, we will take you around sightseeing spots, spectacular views, and local gourmet spots by train and on foot. We will also introduce popular experience tours in the area!

Kanto Saitama Chichibu and Nagatoro

Chiba sightseeing model itinerary! Day trips by car to see scenic spots and gourmet spots

Updated 2024/07/17

We will feature a one-day version of a model tour of Chiba. We will tour the tourist spots by car, mainly in the Katsuura area. We will also introduce Chiba's scenic and gourmet spots, as well as popular experience tours in the surrounding area!

Kanto Chiba Katsuura and Kamogawa River SUP

Recommended spots for canoeing and kayaking

We've carefully selected some hidden gems from places known as the meccas of canoeing and kayaking! We'll introduce you to some recommended canoeing and kayaking spots.

Where is the best place to go mangrove canoeing and kayaking in Okinawa? A comprehensive introduction to tour locations and popular rankings!

Updated 2024/05/02

Special feature on mangrove canoeing and kayaking experience tours on Okinawa's main island (Yanbaru, Gesaji River, etc.) and remote islands (Nakama River, etc.)! Thorough information on "Where is the best place to go mangrove canoeing and kayaking in Okinawa?" and "Where can you see mangroves in Okinawa?" Check out the information that will help you book an Okinawa mangrove canoeing and kayaking experience tour, such as appropriate clothing, target age, price, reviews, and word of mouth.

Okinawa Okinawa (main island) Ishigaki Island Canoeing and Kayaking

Hisa River Kayaking Reviews, Word of Mouth, Recommendations, Rankings

Updated 2024/03/11

We will introduce the Okinawa main island Hijagawa Kayak Tours in ranking order (by word of mouth/review, reservation, cheap, recommended order)! There are also tours with free photos and reservations available the day before or on the day!

Okinawa Okinawa (main island) Yomitan Village (Zanpa Cape), Kadena City, Chatan Town Canoeing and Kayaking Water sports (river and lake activities)

Okinawa canoeing and kayaking | Yanbaru, mangroves, sunsets! Main island and remote island experience tour popularity ranking

Updated 2022/04/11

Special feature on Okinawa canoe and kayak (sea kayak) experience tours! We provide information on popular reservations on the main island (Onna Village, Hisagawa River, Yanbaru, etc.) and outlying islands (Ishigaki Island, Miyako Island, Iriomote Island, etc.), tour fees (prices), reviews, and appropriate attire. Enjoy Okinawa's nature to the fullest with "cruising" through mangrove forests, "kayak fishing" where you can fish, and transparent (skeleton) "clear kayaks"!

Okinawa Canoeing and Kayaking

Kerama Islands sightseeing spots, day trip tours, recommended rankings

Updated 2024/07/25

Special feature on tourist spots and day tours in the Kerama Islands, Okinawa! We've picked out and introduced recommended spots where you can enjoy the Kerama Blue to the fullest, as well as activities where you can swim with sea turtles!

Okinawa Okinawa (remote islands) Kerama Islands (Tokashiki Island, Zamami Island, Aka Island) SUP Marine sports (sea activities)

Head to the spectacular beaches of Ikei Island! How to get there by car from the main island, and the tourist attractions and history of the remote island

Updated 2022/05/06

Ikei Island in Okinawa is about an hour and a half drive from Naha Airport. Day trips are popular, but there are also many attractive accommodations, including hotels with a full range of activities such as hot springs and go-karts, and cottages with views of crystal clear beaches. Here are how to get to Ikei Island and recommended tour plans!

Okinawa Okinawa (main island) Okinawa City/Uruma City (Tsuken Island) SUP Marine sports (sea activities)

A thorough introduction to how to get to Pinaisara Falls and recommended one-day and half-day experience tours!

Updated 2024/02/02

Special feature on Pinaisara Falls tours on Iriomote Island! We introduce recommended information such as canoeing, kayaking, trekking, and a set plan for sightseeing on Yubu Island's water buffalo carts! Check out the basic information about Pinaisara Falls, including how to get there, its location, the height of the waterfall, and whether it's closer to Kura Falls or not!

Okinawa Okinawa (remote islands) Iriomote Island, Yubu Island, Barasu Island, Hatoma Island Canoeing and Kayaking

How to get to Kura Falls and reviews and comments on kayaking and trekking tours!

Updated 2024/02/16

Special feature on the power spot of Iriomote Island, Kura Falls! We'll introduce you to how to get there, as well as popular rankings of canoeing, kayaking and trekking tours, reviews and word-of-mouth information!

Okinawa Okinawa (remote islands) Iriomote Island, Yubu Island, Barasu Island, Hatoma Island Canoeing and Kayaking

What are the mangroves on Iriomote Island? A thorough introduction to the recommended canoe, kayak and SUP cruise tours!

Updated 2023/12/27

Special feature on mangrove cruise tours on Okinawa's remote island of Iriomote Island! We'll thoroughly introduce recommended tours and popular rankings that allow you to experience a tour around the mangrove forest in a canoe, kayak, or SUP, along with a water buffalo cart!

Okinawa Okinawa (remote islands) Iriomote Island, Yubu Island, Barasu Island, Hatoma Island Canoeing and Kayaking

How to get to Mariyudu Falls on Iriomote Island and reviews of canoeing, trekking and sightseeing boat tours

Updated 2024/06/24

Special feature on Mariyudu Falls on Iriomote Island! We'll introduce you to some useful information for booking, such as how to get there, popular rankings of tours including canoeing, trekking, and sightseeing boats, reviews, and word of mouth!

Okinawa Okinawa (remote islands) Iriomote Island, Yubu Island, Barasu Island, Hatoma Island Canoeing and Kayaking

A heavenly beach with a spectacular view! A comprehensive guide to the charms of Hate no Hama: Introducing recommended budget tours

Updated on 2025/06/25

Hate no Hama, located on Kumejima, Okinawa, is an uninhabited island that boasts a spectacular view said to be the best in the Orient. This is a comprehensive guide to the attractions of Hate no Hama, including access to Hate no Hama, facility information, activities and tour information that can be experienced at Hate no Hama, such as snorkeling, sea kayaking, and glass bottom boats, and information on activities on Kumejima, Okinawa.

Okinawa Okinawa (remote islands) Kume Island (Hatenohama) SUP Marine sports (sea activities)

Tokashiki Island sightseeing spot recommendation ranking

Updated 2024/05/10

We will explain the popular sightseeing spots on Tokashiki Island. We will also introduce great tour plans for snorkeling, whale watching, and other activities you can enjoy on Tokashiki Island.

Okinawa Okinawa (remote islands) Kerama Islands (Tokashiki Island, Zamami Island, Aka Island) Canoeing and Kayaking Marine sports (sea activities)

A thorough introduction to the recommended Yakushima kayaking experience tours!

Updated 2025/03/28

Special feature on kayaking experience tours on Yakushima, an isolated island in Kagoshima Prefecture! We will thoroughly introduce the popular rankings and recommended plans for half-day and full-day kayaking experience tours on the Anbo River and Miyanoura River.

Kyushu Kagoshima Yakushima Canoeing and Kayaking Water sports (river and lake activities)

A thorough introduction to the reviews and popularity rankings of the recommended Kushiro Wetlands canoe tours!

Updated 2025/04/11

Special feature on Kushiro Marsh (Kushiro River) canoeing experience tours! We introduce useful information for online reservations for Kushiro Marsh canoeing experience tours, such as reviews and popularity rankings of recommended plans and courses, tour dates and best seasons, average prices, and target ages!

Hokkaido Canoeing and Kayaking

[Hokkaido, Lake Shikotsu sightseeing in summer] Outstanding transparency! Activities, leisure experiences, and play to enjoy the blue waters of Lake Shikotsu

Updated 2024/07/17

This is a special feature on the summer outdoor activities and experience leisure activities held at Lake Shikotsu in Hokkaido, which has been ranked number one in the national water quality survey lake category for 11 consecutive years. We will thoroughly introduce useful information for enjoying sightseeing at Lake Shikotsu in the summer season, including recommended activities and experience leisure activities such as clear kayaking, canoeing, and SUP, as well as nearby tourist spots.

Hokkaido Hokkaido (Central Hokkaido) Ishikari, Sorachi, Chitose Ecotours and nature guided tours event

Niseko | Popular Activity Tour Rankings

Updated 2024/03/21

We will focus on activities that can be enjoyed in and around Niseko, Hokkaido, which is popular both in Japan and overseas. We will introduce a variety of experience tours recommended for each season of the year.

Hokkaido Hokkaido (Central Hokkaido) Niseko Rusutsu Cycling, Touring, Pottering Winter sports (snow activities)

[2024] When is the best season to see autumn leaves at Oirase Gorge? 5 great spots and the best viewing times

Updated 2024/09/10

We'll be featuring the autumn foliage at Oirase Gorge in Aomori! We'll also introduce the best viewing times in 2024 (Reiwa 6), the best spots to see the autumn leaves, and activities you can enjoy in the area.

Tohoku Aomori Oirase, Lake Towada, and Hakkoda Canoeing and Kayaking

Enjoy Tokyo Skytree®! Introducing the ranking of popular activities

Updated 2022/04/15

We feature Tokyo's popular tourist spot, Tokyo Skytree®. We introduce the history, height, and reasons for its construction. We also explain the attractions and charms of the observation deck, observation gallery, and elevators where you can enjoy the craftsmanship of the craftsmen. For cheap tickets to Tokyo Skytree®, go to Activity Japan!

Tokyo BBQ

Enjoy the rivers of Okutama! Activities, leisure and experiences for kids and adults alike!

Updated 2024/05/17

Special feature on river activities in Okutama! We introduce mountain stream fishing spots, barbecue facilities, campsite information where you can stay in a cottage, and tours of river activities, leisure activities, and experiences! Check out "What to do in Okutama?" all in one place!

Kanto Tokyo Okutama SUP

Must-see for couples! 11 fun activities and leisure spots in Hakone Onsen

Updated 2021/08/17

Hakone Onsen is a tourist destination that can be visited on a day trip from Tokyo. Hakone is also a popular date spot, so here are 11 recommended leisure activities for couples. Popular experiences include strolling around the hot spring town in a kimono, taking a kayak to view Mt. Fuji from Lake Ashi, and making a keepsake out of glasswork. Have fun to your heart's content and make this a memorable trip! There are also great deals for couples, so be sure to check them out.

Kanto Kanagawa Hakone

If you're planning on sightseeing in Chichibu, check these out! 9 recommended spots and activities

Updated 2022/03/15

Chichibu has many historical tourist attractions and gourmet spots, such as the Nagatoro Gorge and the Wadou Ruins. It is also easily accessible from the city center, and can be reached by train in just 1 hour and 30 minutes. We will introduce you to some must-see spots when you visit Chichibu.

Saitama Chichibu and Nagatoro SUP

Just 2 hours from the Kanto region! Nikko National Park, Lake Chuzenji: Fun, sightseeing and leisure

Updated 2022/10/17

Nikko National Park is a popular tourist spot with good access, located just 2 hours from the Kanto region. We will introduce tourist spots in Nikko National Park such as Lake Chuzenji, Kinugawa River, Kegon Falls, and Senjogahara, as well as fees and access. Nikko National Park is also attractive for its many power spots, such as the World Heritage Site Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Futarasan Shrine. We will also introduce the extent and fees of Nikko National Park!

Kanto Tochigi Sano, Oyama, Ashikaga, Kanuma Ecotours and nature guided tours

Gunma Tourism: Ranking of hidden scenic spots

Updated 2023/05/30

Introducing tourist spots in Gunma. In addition to Kusatsu Onsen, Gunma has many other tourist spots and activities full of nature! This time, we will mainly feature recommended hidden spots and experiences.

Kanto Gunma SUP

Minakami Onsen Tourist Map | Recommended spots and gourmet food

Updated 2024/03/12

Minakami Onsen in Gunma is one of the most well-known hot spring areas in northern Kanto. This time, we will introduce recommended sightseeing spots, gourmet spots, and activities in the area!

Kanto Gunma Minakami SUP

Lake Kawaguchi Canoe Recommended Ranking

Updated 2024/03/11

Special feature on canoeing in Yamanashi and Lake Kawaguchi. We will introduce canoe tours in a ranking format (by word of mouth/review, reservation, cheap, recommended order)! There are also tours where you can join in a Canadian canoe or with your dog!

Koshinetsu Yamanashi Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Saiko, Fujiyoshida, Lake Shoji, Lake Motosu Canoeing and Kayaking

Sightseeing with dogs at Lake Yamanaka! Spots to play with your dog and recommended lunches

Updated 2023/09/06

This article focuses on Lake Yamanaka and the surrounding area in Yamanashi. It introduces carefully selected sightseeing spots and lunch spots that you can visit with your dog. It also picks out experience tours that you can participate in with your dog.

Koshinetsu Yamanashi Lake Yamanaka and Oshino SUP

Updated 2023/11/06

This article focuses on Lake Aoki, a heart-shaped lake in Omachi, Nagano. We will introduce you to the surrounding campsites, hotels, activities and experiences, and other ways to enjoy Lake Aoki!

Koshinetsu Nagano Azumino and Omachi SUP

Updated on 2025/08/08

We feature hidden sightseeing spots in Nagano that are recommended for summer. Nagano is also popular as a summer resort, with Karuizawa and Hakuba as well. We also introduce activities and experiences you can do in the surrounding area!

Koshinetsu Nagano Azumino and Omachi SUP

Try canoeing on the clear waters of the Kozagawa River, the southernmost river in Japan and Wakayama!

Updated 2021/07/18

Kozagawa in Wakayama is one of the most popular tourist spots in the Kansai region, and is popular for its canoeing experiences. Try your hand at canoeing for the first time on the crystal clear Kozagawa River, the southernmost river in Honshu! We'll tell you how to paddle a canoe, what to be careful of, and our impressions. We've also included an interview with Hirohisa Ueda, the representative of Kozagawa Adventure Club, which organizes canoe tours!

Kansai Wakayama Kushimoto and Nachikatsuura Canoeing and Kayaking

The best time to see the Niyodo Blue and recommended activities [Niyodo River, Kochi]

Updated 2024/06/26

We feature the Niyodo River in Kochi and activities in the surrounding area! We will tell you the secret behind the deep blue color known as Niyodo Blue, as well as information on recommended activities such as SUP (stand-up paddle boarding) and kayaking!

Shikoku Kochi Kochi Ino Canoeing and Kayaking Water sports (river and lake activities)

Fukuoka date spots & activities recommended for couples

Updated 2023/04/06

This time, the theme is Fukuoka Dates x Activities. We focus on the best date spots in Fukuoka. We also pick out some recommended activities to go with the tourist spots we introduce. Please use this as a reference for a new Fukuoka trip that only couples can enjoy.

Kyushu Fukuoka SUP

Ranking of Tanegashima's recommended sightseeing and gourmet spots & popular experiences!

Updated 2022/09/16

This time we will feature tourist spots on Tanegashima. Tanegashima, Kagoshima, is famous as the place where firearms were introduced. There are also plenty of other attractive tourist spots such as the JAXA Tanegashima Space Center and Chiza Cave! We will also introduce power spots, local gourmet food, and activities you can enjoy in the mangroves!

Kagoshima Tanegashima SUP

Canoe and Kayak Recommendations

We have carefully selected popular areas and have ranked the best canoe and kayak tours you can experience.

Feature articles recommended by the editorial department

Okinawa canoe recommendation ranking

Updated 2024/04/03

Introducing the canoe tours you can experience in Okinawa in a ranking format! Popular canoeing spots such as mangroves, Yanbaru, Kabira Bay, and Sesoko Island are featured!

Okinawa Okinawa (main island) Yanbaru (Kunigami Village, Ogimi Village, Higashi Village) Canoeing and Kayaking Water sports (river and lake activities)

Okinawa Kayaking Recommended Ranking

Updated 2024/04/05

The editorial team at Activity Japan has independently introduced the recommended Okinawa kayaking tours in a ranking format. Please use the ranking as a reference for enjoying new activities on your next trip to Okinawa!

Okinawa Okinawa (main island) Yanbaru (Kunigami Village, Ogimi Village, Higashi Village) Canoeing and Kayaking

Okinawa Sea Kayaking Recommended Ranking

Updated 2024/04/25

We feature recommended sea kayaking tours that you can experience in Okinawa. The editorial department of Activity Japan will introduce them in a ranking format.

Okinawa Okinawa (main island) Canoeing and Kayaking Marine sports (sea activities)

Ishigaki Island Canoe Recommended Ranking

Updated 2024/04/09

We introduce the canoe tours you can enjoy on Ishigaki Island in a ranking format. We will introduce popular spots where you can enjoy canoeing on Ishigaki Island and tour plans that can be booked on the day.

Okinawa Okinawa (remote islands) Ishigaki Island Canoeing and Kayaking

Iriomote Island Canoe Recommended Ranking

Updated 2024/04/03

Introducing the recommended Iriomote Island canoe tours in a ranking format. We have picked out various types of tours, such as canoeing and trekking and limestone cave caving!

Okinawa Okinawa (remote islands) Iriomote Island, Yubu Island, Barasu Island, Hatoma Island Canoeing and Kayaking Water sports (river and lake activities)

Iriomote Island Night Tour Recommended Ranking

Updated 2025/02/21

Experience a night tour on Iriomote Island, Okinawa! We have a wide variety of tours where you can enjoy the magnificent and beautiful starry sky, jungle, and rare flora and fauna!

Okinawa Okinawa (remote islands) Iriomote Island, Yubu Island, Barasu Island, Hatoma Island SUP

Hokkaido canoe recommendation ranking

Updated 2024/04/09

We will introduce some canoe tours that can be experienced in Hokkaido, recommended by the editorial team of Activity Japan.

Hokkaido Hokkaido (northern Hokkaido) Canoeing and Kayaking

Lake Biwa Kayaking Recommended Ranking

Updated 2024/03/07

Special feature on Shiga and Lake Biwa kayaking. We introduce kayaking tours in ranking order (by word of mouth/review, reservation, cheap, recommended order)! There are also half-day tours and kayaking tours to the power spot, Shirahige Shrine!

Kansai Shiga Canoeing and Kayaking

Shimanto River Canoe Recommended Ranking

Updated 2024/03/06

Special feature on canoe tours on the Shimanto River in Kochi. Canoe tours are ranked (by word of mouth/review, reservation, cheap, recommended)!

Shikoku Kochi Shimanto Canoeing and Kayaking

Recommended canoe and kayak tours

People have different reasons for canoeing and kayaking, such as wanting to enjoy the beautiful ocean, lake, or river scenery, or wanting to see spectacular views. We've picked out some recommended canoe and kayak shops and tours!