Lake Hibara (桧原湖): Ura-Bandai's Largest Lake with Floating Islands and Commanding Views of Bandai Mountain
About this spot
Lake Hibara is the largest of the lakes created by damming from the Bandai Mountain eruption. Its elongated north-south surface is dotted with numerous small and large islands, creating a unique multi-island landscape. Viewed across the lake, Bandai Mountain presents Ura-Bandai's most iconic composition, and the view is majestic from virtually any point along the shore. Sightseeing boats and motorboats allow you to navigate between the islands, offering angles of Bandai Mountain visible only from the lake. The lake reveals a completely different face in each season: fresh spring greens, deep summer verdure, fiery autumn foliage, and a fully frozen surface in winter. As evening approaches, the lake surface gradually transforms from gold to crimson hues, and as island shadows and mountain silhouettes emerge against the darkening sky, the scene offers a dramatic beauty befitting the grand finale to a day of spectacular sightseeing.
Tips
The southern shore of the lake is accessible within about 10 minutes by car from the Goshiki-numa entrance or Moroashi Museum of Modern Art. Parking areas and small shops are scattered along the shoreline; check operating schedules for sightseeing boats on-site. The lakeside becomes windy and cool as the sun sets, so bringing a light layer is comfortable even in summer.
Best time to visit
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes required. The late afternoon, when the sun begins to lower and the lake surface turns crimson, is wonderfully romantic.
Access & map
Fukushima Prefecture, Yama District, Kitashiobara Village, Lake Hibara
Model course featuring this spot
Ura-Bandai: Goshiki-numa Five-Color Lakes and Moroashi Museum of Modern Art Tour
Fukushima
Explore features & model courses
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