Shima Lake: A Cobalt Jewel in Gunma
Discover Shima Lake's mesmerizing cobalt blue waters in Gunma, a haven for nature lovers and tranquil escapes amidst stunning scenery.
Nestled in the Agatsuma District of Gunma Prefecture, Shima Lake is an artificial lake renowned for its mesmerizing cobalt blue waters, known locally as 'Shima Blue'. Surrounded by lush forests and mountains, it offers a tranquil escape and stunning natural beauty, especially vivid in spring and autumn.
A brief summary to Shima Lake
- Shima, Nakanojo, Shima, Agatsuma District, Gunma, JP
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning to experience the lake's calmness and stunning reflections.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lakeside, surrounded by nature's beauty.
- Don't forget your camera; the views are especially breathtaking at sunset.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit for the best outdoor experience.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Nakanojo Station, take a bus bound for Shima Onsen. The bus ride takes approximately 15 minutes to Lake Shima. The one-way fare is around ¥450.
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Car
From Shibukawa-Ikaho IC of Kan-Etsu Expressway, it's about 45 minutes to Lake Shima. There is free parking available near the lake. Be aware of the presence of wild animals such as monkeys and bears in the area.
Discover more about Shima Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kashiwaya Ryokan
5.5 km
Discover the tranquility of Kashiwaya Ryokan, where traditional Japanese hospitality meets stunning natural landscapes and rejuvenating hot springs.
Nakanojomachi Sight Seeing Information Center
6.0 km
Explore the charm of Nakanojo at the Sight Seeing Information Center, your gateway to Gunma's rich culture and stunning landscapes.
Shima Yamaguchikan
6.1 km
Experience authentic Japanese hospitality at Shima Yamaguchikan, a traditional inn in the serene Agatsuma District of Gunma, Japan.
Toshimaya
6.2 km
Discover tranquility and traditional Japanese hospitality at Toshimaya, a scenic inn in Nakanojo, Gunma Prefecture, where nature meets culture.
Kashiwaya Café
6.6 km
Experience the best of local flavors at Kashiwaya Café, where exceptional coffee meets delectable cakes in a cozy Nakanojo setting.
Shima Onsen
6.9 km
Discover the tranquility of Shima Onsen, where serene hot springs meet breathtaking natural beauty in Japan's Agatsuma District.
Shima Grand Hotel
6.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Shima Grand Hotel, where traditional Japanese hospitality meets modern comfort amidst the stunning landscapes of Gunma Prefecture.
Sekizenkan Kashoutei
6.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and traditional charm of Sekizenkan Kashoutei, a Japanese inn with exquisite hot springs and an authentic culinary experience.
Shima Tamura
7.0 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Shima Tamura, a traditional Japanese inn offering a unique blend of comfort, culture, and relaxation in the heart of Gunma.
温泉グランピング シマブルー(Shima Blue Cafe)
7.6 km
Discover the serene Shima Blue Cafe, a cozy cottage retreat in Nakanojo, perfect for enjoying local delicacies amidst stunning natural beauty.
Lockheart Castle
17.4 km
Discover the magic of Lockheart Castle, a fairy tale theme park in Japan's Agatsuma District, blending medieval charm with family-friendly attractions.
Kusatsu Hot spring Tourist Association.
17.6 km
Your information center for exploring Kusatsu Onsen, one of Japan's most famous hot spring resorts, offering guidance, maps, and event details.
Naeba Ski Resort
18.4 km
Experience world-class skiing and snowboarding at Naeba Ski Resort, easily accessible from Tokyo and offering fun for all skill levels.
Shibukawa Skyland Park
20.2 km
Discover the thrill of rides and breathtaking views at Shibukawa Skyland Park, an amusement park that promises fun for the whole family.
Yugama
23.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Yugama, a stunning volcanic crater in Kusatsu Onsen, renowned for its mineral-rich waters and serene landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Musical Road – “Always with Me” (Spirited Away OST)
2.8 km
Drive onto a melody! Experience the enchanting "Spirited Away" theme on Gunma's Musical Road near the charming Shima Onsen.
Shima potholes
4.3 km
Discover the mesmerizing turquoise waters and unique rock formations of the Shima Potholes, a natural wonder sculpted over millennia by the Shima River.
Shima Onsen Public Baths
5.4 km
Experience traditional Japanese hot springs at Shima Onsen Public Baths, a serene and therapeutic escape in Gunma's natural beauty.
Shima Hinatami Park
7.8 km
Discover tranquility and history at Shima Hinatami Park, home to the legendary Hinatami Yakushido Temple and serene natural landscapes.
Shimagawa Dam
7.9 km
Discover the mesmerizing 'Shima Blue' at Shimagawa Dam, a stunning blend of engineering and natural beauty in the heart of Gunma's mountains.
Lake Okushima
8.4 km
Discover the mesmerizing 'Shima Blue' at Lake Okushima, a stunning natural escape in Gunma's scenic highlands.
Yubatake
17.6 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Yubatake, Kusatsu’s iconic hot spring, where steaming waters and scenic views promise relaxation and rejuvenation.
Kusatsu Onsen Netsunoyu
17.6 km
Discover the healing powers of Kusatsu Onsen Netsunoyu, a top Japanese hot spring destination surrounded by natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Kokuya Ryokan
18.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and traditional charm of Kokuya Ryokan in Ikaho, Gunma - a perfect blend of relaxation and Japanese culture.
West Riverside open-air bath
18.3 km
Experience the tranquility of Japan's natural hot springs at the West Riverside Open-Air Bath in Kusatsu, a serene escape surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Sainokawara Open-Air Bath
18.3 km
Immerse yourself in nature at Kusatsu Onsen's iconic open-air bath, offering a therapeutic and scenic hot spring experience.
Mount Kusatsu-Shirane
23.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mount Kusatsu-Shirane, a majestic peak in Gunma Prefecture, perfect for hiking and nature exploration.
Okky Museum
24.7 km
Explore the captivating Okky Museum in Yuzawa, where Japanese culture and interactive exhibits come alive for an unforgettable experience.
Kiriake Hot Spring
25.5 km
Discover tranquility at Kiriake Hot Spring, a serene outdoor bathing experience in Nagano, Japan, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Karuizawa Toy Kingdom
28.1 km
Discover the magic of Karuizawa Toy Kingdom, a delightful theme park filled with exciting rides, charming attractions, and breathtaking scenery in Japan.
Essential places to dine
Ichiriki Sushi
6.1 km
Discover authentic sushi at Ichiriki Sushi in Shima Onsen - where fresh ingredients meet traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
Sosuian
6.5 km
Discover the authentic taste of Japan at Sosuian in Shima Onsen—where tradition meets exquisite flavor in a serene setting.
JUPITER’s kitchen
6.6 km
Discover the best hamburgers in Shima Onsen at JUPITER's Kitchen - where quality meets flavor in a stunning natural setting.
Shima Terrace
6.6 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Shima Terrace in Agatsuma District—where local flavors meet serene surroundings.
Kaneichi Hanare
6.9 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Kaneichi Hanare in Nakanojo - where tradition meets taste in a serene setting.
Maya
7.3 km
Discover Maya in Gunma: A culinary haven offering authentic Japanese flavors amidst stunning natural beauty.
Hinatami-Kan Ryokan
8.0 km
Discover tranquility at Hinatami-Kan Ryokan: a fusion of traditional inn, exquisite dining, and rejuvenating onsen experiences in Gunma's stunning landscapes.
Chalet Christiania
29.4 km
Experience the charm of Chalet Christiania: Your cozy retreat with authentic Austrian cuisine nestled in beautiful Nagano.
Oshokujidokoro Nakasato
31.4 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Oshokujidokoro Nakasato in Yuzawa - where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Suju Masayuki Restaurant
33.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine in Karuizawa at Suju Masayuki Restaurant - where tradition meets flavor.
Kawakamian
33.2 km
Experience authentic handmade soba noodles at Kawakamian in Karuizawa, where tradition meets exquisite taste in every bowl.
Restaurant Kitaguni
33.5 km
Discover the essence of Japanese cuisine at Restaurant Kitaguni in Yuzawa, where local ingredients meet traditional flavors for an unforgettable dining experience.
kyu karuizawa HOTEL OTOWA NO MORI
33.6 km
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Sumibi Yakitori Ikeya
34.4 km
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Uonuma Cuisine Murangozzo
34.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine blended with local Uonuma flavors at Murangozzo in Yuzawa.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
BOO SPORTS かぐら・みつまた店
29.8 km
Discover Boo Sports in Mitsumata, your go-to home goods store for outdoor adventure gear in the heart of Yuzawa.
SNOW WOOD Angel
31.3 km
Discover unparalleled winter adventures at SNOW WOOD Angel, your premier ski shop in Yuzawa, Japan - where skiing dreams come true!
Hotel Angel Grandia Echigo Nakazato
31.4 km
Experience the perfect getaway at Hotel Angel Grandia Echigo Nakazato, where luxury meets the natural beauty of Yuzawa, Japan.
Studio Ghibli Gift Shop
32.9 km
Explore the enchanting Studio Ghibli Gift Shop in Karuizawa, where magic and nostalgia meet through unique collectibles and memorabilia.
ヨイト | yoito
32.9 km
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Maraika OUTLET Karuizawaten
32.9 km
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Snow Monkey Resorts Info & Gift Shop
33.2 km
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nMaYa
34.4 km
Discover Yuzawa's nMaYa, where exceptional coffee meets a cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding amidst stunning mountain views.
CoCoLoYuzawa Gangidori
34.5 km
Discover the vibrant CoCoLoYuzawa Gangidori, a shopping mall that combines retail therapy with delicious ramen dining in the heart of Yuzawa, Japan.
Ippon Sugi Ski Resort
34.5 km
Experience the thrill of winter sports at Ippon Sugi Ski Resort, where breathtaking views and adventure await in the heart of Niigata.
SOUQ越後湯沢
34.6 km
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青達雪具 CHENDA RENTAL(チェンダスキーレンタル)
34.6 km
Discover winter adventures with top-notch ski and costume rentals at CHENDA RENTAL in Yuzawa, a gateway to Japan's stunning snow-covered landscapes.
ビアラボ ジョークン Beer Labo Jokun
34.7 km
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Sierra Resort Yuzawa
34.7 km
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Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza
34.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ryokan & Cafe Little Japan Echigo
24.4 km
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Little Japan Echigo
24.5 km
Discover the essence of Japanese culture at Little Japan Echigo, a serene inn with vibrant bars, cozy cafes, and thrilling outdoor activities.
越後湯沢 農家レストラン縁
33.5 km
Experience the essence of Japanese farm-to-table dining at 越後湯沢 農家レストラン縁, where local flavors meet rustic charm in Yuzawa.
Sansan Yuzawa -Backpackers-
34.6 km
Experience authentic Japanese hospitality at Sansan Yuzawa, the perfect backpacker's guest house in the breathtaking Yuzawa region.
Music Bar 1800/ミュージックバー1800 越後湯沢
34.7 km
Dive into the electrifying vibe of Music Bar 1800 in Yuzawa, where live music and sports come together for an unforgettable night out.
地酒bar 山新
34.7 km
Discover the authentic taste of Japan at 地酒bar 山新, where delicious izakaya dishes meet an impressive selection of local sake.
SWINGBAR
34.7 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Yuzawa at SWINGBAR, where unique cocktails and lively music await you.
helmsdale karuizawa
36.0 km
Experience the finest fish and chips in Karuizawa at Helmsdale, a perfect blend of casual dining and gastropub charm.
Bar Zizz
46.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar Zizz, Komoro's premier bar known for its exquisite cocktails and sophisticated atmosphere.
Tap That!
51.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Tap That! in Iiyama, where local brews and a friendly atmosphere await every visitor.
Peppermint Blues
51.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife in Iiyama at Peppermint Blues, a lively bar offering a unique blend of cocktails, local brews, and live music.
End Bar
51.3 km
Experience the warmth of Myoko at End Bar, where delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await every traveler.
Drop Off Bar
51.4 km
Experience the warm ambiance and delightful cuisine at Drop Off Bar, a must-visit bar-restaurant in Myoko, Niigata.
Madarao Jazzy
51.4 km
Discover Madarao Jazzy: A delightful bar and restaurant offering exquisite local cuisine and drinks in the heart of the beautiful Madarao region.
The Sundeck
51.5 km
Discover The Sundeck in Madarao - a charming bar with stunning views and a cozy atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.