Lake Naguri and Arima Gorge (Saitama Prefecture) Complete Guide｜Autumn Leaves, Fishing, and Hot Springs Access Information
Lake Naguri and Arima Gorge, located in Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture, are natural-rich areas accessible in approximately 2 hours from central Tokyo. Known not only as a scenic spot for autumn foliage, but also as a popular destination offering various activities throughout the year such as fishing, canoe experiences, and hot springs, this article introduces all the charm of Lake Naguri and Arima Gorge.
Basic Information about Lake Naguri (Arima Dam)
Lake Naguri is an artificial lake formed by Arima Dam, which was completed in 1986 as Saitama Prefecture’s first prefectural dam. Created by damming the Arima River, a tributary of the Arakawa River, this multipurpose dam functions for flood control and water use purposes.
Address and Access
Address: Shimoshinaguri, Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture
Access by car:
- Approximately 40 minutes from “Sayama Hidaka IC” on the Kensetsudo Expressway
- Approximately 50 minutes from “Kawagoe IC” on the Kan-etsu Expressway
- Proceed toward Chichibu on National Route 299, then via Prefectural Route 53 (Ome-Chichibu Line)
Access by public transportation:
- Approximately 50 minutes by Kokusai Kogyo bus from “Hanno Station” on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line, heading to “Naguri Bus Station,” “Nago,” or “Yunozawa”
- Get off at “Lake Naguri Entrance” bus stop, approximately 5 minutes on foot
- *Bus frequency is limited, so checking the timetable in advance is recommended
Parking information:
- Free parking available around Lake Naguri
- Parking at Lakeside Terrace Naguri Lake is also available
- Early arrival is recommended as congestion is expected during autumn foliage season and weekends
Characteristics and Charm of Lake Naguri
Lake Naguri is surrounded by mountains, with a well-maintained road circling the lake. The beauty of mountain ranges reflected on the lake surface changes with each season, with particularly large numbers of tourists visiting during autumn foliage season. The spot is also popular with touring motorcyclists and serves as an ideal driving course.
On the lake shore is “Lakeside Terrace Naguri Lake,” a rest facility where you can enjoy light meals and beverages while taking in the lake scenery. Additionally, the Naguri Canoe Workshop offers canoe-making experiences and trial rides, allowing you to enjoy the scenery from the lake.
Charm and Attractions of Arima Gorge
Arima Gorge, located upstream of Lake Naguri, is characterized by beautiful scenery woven together by clear streams and rich nature. A walking trail is maintained along the gorge, allowing you to stroll through pure flowing water and lush forest.
Natural Environment of Arima Gorge
Arima Gorge is located in a corner of the Chichibu Mountains, featuring a rich ecosystem created by terrain with significant elevation differences. The mountain stream is home to Japanese char and iwana, and in early summer you can see the fantastic sight of fireflies dancing. The forest contains many deciduous trees such as Japanese maple, acer, and cherry, vividly coloring the four seasons.
The gorge’s clear stream is highly transparent, and in summer you can see families enjoying river play (however, note that in the Arima Gorge Tourist Fishing Area, river play other than fishing is restricted in some locations).
Arima Gorge Tourist Fishing Area
Arima Gorge Tourist Fishing Area is a managed fishing spot located upstream of Lake Naguri, where you can enjoy stream fishing in a nature-rich environment.
Characteristics of the fishing area:
- Rainbow trout, Japanese char, and iwana fishing available
- Accommodates diverse fishing methods including bait fishing, lures, fly fishing, and tenkara
- Even beginners can easily enjoy rainbow trout fishing
- No limit on number of fish caught
- BBQ facilities also available
- Fish scooping experience (open June-September)
Business information:
- Address: 1811-1 Shimoshinaguri, Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture
- Business hours: Vary by season, check official website for details
- Fees: Refer to official website for details on fishing permits and BBQ charges
Fishing rod rentals are available, so you can enjoy fishing even coming empty-handed, making it popular with families and beginners. You can cook the fish you catch on site and enjoy it at a BBQ, with a meal in nature having unparalleled deliciousness.
Autumn Foliage Information for Lake Naguri and Arima Gorge
Lake Naguri and Arima Gorge are known as one of Saitama Prefecture’s premier autumn foliage spots.
Best Foliage Viewing Season
Color onset: Around early November
Best viewing period: Mid-November to late November
Trees that turn color: Japanese maple, acer, cherry, oak, beech, etc.
Autumn Foliage Viewing Spots
Around Lake Naguri:
- Magnificent views from the road circling the lake
- Beautiful mirror images of autumn foliage reflected on the lake surface
- Spectacular views overlooking Lake Naguri from the summit of Arima Pass
- On clear days you can see distant views of Seibu Dome and high-rise buildings in central Tokyo
Along Arima Gorge:
- Striking contrast between the gorge’s clear stream and autumn foliage
- Enjoy foliage up close while strolling the walking trail
- The path to Arima Gorge Tourist Fishing Area is particularly beautiful
- The combination of gorge rock face and foliage is photogenic
Points for Enjoying Autumn Foliage
As the autumn foliage season brings more tourists, significant congestion is expected especially on weekends. Visiting early in the morning increases the possibility of having the foliage illuminated by morning sunlight and the quiet lake surface to yourself. The time period just before sunset is also popular, with autumn foliage bathed in evening light being fantastically beautiful.
Popular shooting spots include elevated locations overlooking Lake Naguri and views from bridges across Arima Gorge. When using a tripod, care must be taken not to obstruct other tourists’ passage.
Hot Spring Facilities Around Lake Naguri and Arima Gorge
After enjoying nature walks or fishing, it is recommended to relax in a hot spring. The Naguri area has day-use hot spring facilities.
Sawarabi no Yu
Sawarabi no Yu is a natural hot spring facility made of wood, filled with the fragrance of locally produced Nishi-Kawara lumber.
Facility characteristics:
- Large public bath using natural hot spring
- Outdoor bath where you can enjoy seasonal scenery
- Warm atmosphere of wooden architecture
- Rest rooms and dining area also available
Nearby attractions:
- Spring: Cherry tree rows along Lake Naguri shore
- Early summer: Firefly viewing on the Arima River
- Autumn: Autumn foliage in Arima Gorge
- Winter: Serene snowy natural scenery
The spring water is gentle on skin and ideal for soothing bodies tired from climbing or hiking. You can also enjoy meals using local ingredients, making it a perfect way to end your day.
Naguri Hot Spring Daishokan
The Naguri area also has hot spring inns where you can stay, with Naguri Hot Spring Daishokan being a representative facility. Day-use bathing may be available, so checking in advance is recommended. If you stay overnight, you can fully enjoy Naguri’s nature in the fresh morning air.
Tourist Attractions Around Lake Naguri and Arima Gorge
When visiting Lake Naguri and Arima Gorge, it is recommended to also tour nearby tourist attractions. Combining them as a driving course allows for a more fulfilling day.
Torii Kannon
Torii Kannon is a spiritual site approximately 15 minutes by car from Lake Naguri. Throughout its vast grounds are arranged numerous Buddha statues and Kannon statues, with a solemn atmosphere. Particularly during autumn foliage season, the foliage in the grounds is beautiful, and many tourists visit it together with Lake Naguri as a popular spot.
Attractions:
- 33-meter-tall Great Savior Kannon statue
- Five Hundred Arhat statues
- Xuanzang Tripitaka Tower
- Particularly beautiful foliage in the grounds in autumn
Nenokongen (Child’s Guardian Deity)
Nenokongen is an ancient temple said to have blessings for healthy legs and feet. While located on a mountainside requiring climbing the approach path, the views from the grounds are wonderful and provide a sense of accomplishment.
Characteristics:
- Famous as a temple for leg and foot protection
- Giant iron straw sandals are offered
- Located along a hiking course
- Beautiful during autumn foliage season
Takendera (Iou Mountain Medicine Longevity Temple)
As its name suggests, Takendera is a quiet temple surrounded by bamboo groves. Located approximately 20 minutes by car from Lake Naguri, it is a spot where the green of bamboo and autumn foliage create beautiful contrast.
Attractions:
- Beautiful bamboo groves
- Quiet temple grounds
- Harmony of autumn foliage and bamboo groves
- Buddhist vegetarian cuisine (requires reservation)
Togo Park and Chichibu Ontake Shrine’s Autumn Foliage
Togo Park is a park centered on the grounds of Chichibu Ontake Shrine, which enshrines Admiral Togo Heihachiro, and is a famous foliage spot with approximately 1,000 Japanese maples planted. While somewhat distant from Lake Naguri, it is worth visiting during autumn foliage season.
Foliage information:
- Best viewing: Mid-November to early December
- Approximately 1,000 Japanese maples
- Autumn foliage festival also held
Kuroyama Mitaki Waterfall’s Autumn Foliage
Kuroyama Mitaki is a scenic spot in Ogose Town comprising three waterfalls: Male Waterfall, Female Waterfall, and Tengu Waterfall. Located approximately 30 minutes by car from Lake Naguri, it is a spot where the combination of foliage and waterfall is beautiful.
Characteristics:
- Scenery woven by three waterfalls
- Beautiful contrast between foliage and waterfall
- Walking trail is well-maintained
- Healing space full of negative ions
Activities at Lake Naguri and Arima Gorge
Canoe Experience
Naguri Canoe Workshop offers canoe-making experiences and trial rides. The mountain scenery viewed from the lake is exceptional, allowing you to enjoy nature from an angle different than usual.
Experience content:
- Canoe trial ride (with beginner instruction included)
- Canoe-making experience (making authentic wooden canoes)
- Lake tour (with guide)
Advance reservation is recommended, so checking the official website or phone in advance is suggested.
Hiking and Mountaineering
The area around Lake Naguri is also popular as a base for hiking and mountaineering.
Main climbing courses:
- Arima Pass Hiking Course: Charm lies in views overlooking Lake Naguri
- Mount Warabi Climbing: 1,033m elevation, intermediate level
- Mount Bonomine (Bonoorizan) Climbing: 969m elevation, stream climbing also possible
When mountaineering, appropriate equipment and advance information gathering are essential. Particularly during autumn foliage season, sunset comes early, so plan with extra time.
Barbecue
At Arima Gorge Tourist Fishing Area, you can enjoy barbecue along with fishing. The experience of grilling fish you caught on site and eating it is particularly popular with children.
BBQ facilities:
- Roofed BBQ area available (usable even in rain)
- You can bring your own ingredients
- Abundant rental equipment
- Cooked fish available
Precautions When Visiting Lake Naguri and Arima Gorge
Seasonal Clothing and Preparation
Spring (March-May):
- Bring a layer as mornings and evenings can be chilly
- Allergy measures may be needed
Summer (June-August):
- Insect repellent spray essential
- Hat and sunscreen for UV protection
- Bring extra beverages for hydration
Autumn (September-November):
- Arrive early as autumn foliage season is crowded
- Large temperature swings between morning and night make layering recommended
- Don’t forget to charge your camera
Winter (December-February):
- Winter tires recommended due to possible road freezing
- Cold-weather clothing essential
- Early action plan recommended as sunset comes early
Manners and Environmental Protection
To protect the beautiful natural scenery of Lake Naguri and Arima Gorge, follow the following manners.
- Always take garbage with you
- Do not use fire in unauthorized areas
- Do not collect plants
- Do not feed wild animals
- Be mindful of noise
- Follow parking area rules
Fishing-Related Precautions
Fishing outside Arima Gorge Tourist Fishing Area may require a fishing license. Also, rules vary by location, so check in advance.
- Purchase fishing license (if required)
- Check closed seasons
- Observe size and catch limits
- Confirm non-release fish species
Dining Information Around Lake Naguri and Arima Gorge
Local Specialty Dishes
In the Naguri area, you can enjoy dishes made with local ingredients.
Dishes using Nishi-Kawara lumber:
- Smoked dishes made with local wood
- Mountain vegetable dishes
- River fish dishes (Japanese char, iwana, etc.)
Recommended dining:
- Lakeside Terrace Naguri Lake: Light meals, café menu
- Sawarabi no Yu dining hall: Set meals with local ingredients
- Arima Gorge Tourist Fishing Area: Fish cooking, barbecue
Dining in Hanno City Area
On the return to Hanno Station from Lake Naguri, there is Hanno city center with various restaurants.
- Hanno udon: Local specialty
- Cafes in buildings using Nishi-Kawara lumber
- Craft beer available at various establishments
Annual Events at Lake Naguri and Arima Gorge
Spring Events
- Cherry Blossom Festival (Early to mid-April): Cherry blossoms along Lake Naguri shore in full bloom
- Fishing season opening (around March): Beginning of the season
Summer Events
- Firefly viewing (mid-June to early July): Fireflies dance along Arima River
- Fish scooping experience (June-September): Arima Gorge Tourist Fishing Area
- Canoe experience events: Naguri Canoe Workshop
Autumn Events
- Autumn foliage season (mid to late November): Peak tourist season
- Autumn foliage festivals at nearby temples and shrines
Winter Events
- Appreciating serene winter scenery
- Relaxing time at hot springs
Detailed Access to Lake Naguri and Arima Gorge
Detailed Car Access Routes
From Tokyo area:
- Exit at “Kawagoe IC” on Kan-etsu Expressway to general road
- Proceed toward Hanno on National Route 16
- Proceed toward Chichibu on National Route 299
- Head toward Naguri area via Prefectural Route 53 (Ome-Chichibu Line)
- Arrive at Lake Naguri in approximately 50 minutes
From Kanagawa area:
- Exit at “Sayama Hidaka IC” on Kensetsudo Expressway to general road
- Via Prefectural Route 195
- From National Route 299 to Prefectural Route 53
- Arrive at Lake Naguri in approximately 40 minutes
From Yamanashi/Chichibu area:
- Proceed toward Hanno on National Route 299
- Head toward Naguri area via Prefectural Route 53
- Arrive at Lake Naguri in approximately 30-40 minutes
Car Navigation Setting Tips
- Search for “Lake Naguri” or “Arima Dam”
- Phone number search: Use Lakeside Terrace Naguri Lake’s phone number
- Address search: Shimoshinaguri, Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture
Detailed Public Transportation Use
Using Seibu Ikebukuro Line:
- Approximately 40 minutes by limited express from Ikebukuro Station, approximately 60 minutes by local train
- Proceed to bus stop from Hanno Station North Exit
- Board Kokusai Kogyo bus to “Naguri Bus Station,” “Nago,” or “Yunozawa”
- Get off at “Lake Naguri Entrance” after approximately 50 minutes
How to confirm bus timetable:
- Check latest timetable on Kokusai Kogyo Bus official website
- Note that fewer buses run on weekends and holidays
- Confirm return bus time in advance
Taxi use:
- Approximately 30 minutes by taxi from Hanno Station
- Fare approximately 5,000-7,000 yen (estimate)
- Advance reservation recommended for return taxi
Nearby Accommodation Information
For accommodation around Lake Naguri, the following options are available.
Accommodation in Naguri Area
Hot spring inns:
- Naguri Hot Spring Daishokan
- Old farmhouse-style inns
Camping:
- Camping sites around Lake Naguri are also available and recommended for outdoor enthusiasts
- Various options including tent sites and bungalows
Accommodation in Hanno City Center
Business hotels are available around Hanno Station, convenient when using public transportation.
- Various business hotels
- Convenience of station proximity
- Many dining options
Accommodation in Chichibu Area
Heading toward Chichibu from Lake Naguri reaches Chichibu city center with abundant hot spring inns and hotels.
- Chichibu hot spring inns
- Chichibu city center hotels
- Chichibu tourism also possible the next day
History and Culture of Lake Naguri and Arima Gorge
History of Naguri Area
The Naguri area has long been known for its forestry industry. Known as a production area for quality lumber called Nishi-Kawara wood, it has played an important role since the Edo period as a supplier of lumber to Tokyo (Edo).
There is history of lumber being transported to Edo using raft flows utilizing the Arima River, and traces of this remain in the region’s culture today.
Construction of Arima Dam
Arima Dam was completed in 1986 to serve flood control and water use purposes for the Arakawa River system. As Saitama Prefecture’s first prefectural dam, it has greatly contributed to regional development.
With dam construction, Lake Naguri came into being, serving as a new tourism resource bringing vitality to the region. The improvement of roads encircling the lake has enhanced access, bringing many tourists to visit.
Regional Culture and Traditions
Traditional festivals and events continue in the Naguri area. Grand festivals are held in spring and autumn at local shrines, where local people gather. Traditional forestry-related techniques continue to be passed down, and events such as woodworking experiences are also held.
Summary: How to Enjoy Lake Naguri and Arima Gorge
Lake Naguri and Arima Gorge are nature-rich areas located in Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture, offering various ways to enjoy them throughout the four seasons.
Main attractions:
- Premier autumn foliage spot with best viewing mid to late November
- Stream fishing and barbecue at Arima Gorge Tourist Fishing Area
- Canoe experience at Lake Naguri
- Relaxation at nearby hot spring facilities
- Tour attractions such as Torii Kannon and Nenokongen
- Ideal base for hiking and mountaineering
Visit points:
- Car access is convenient (approximately 40 minutes from Sayama Hidaka IC on Kensetsudo Expressway)
- Public transportation has limited frequency, so advance confirmation essential
- Arrive early during autumn foliage season due to crowds
- Appropriate seasonal clothing and preparation essential
- Enjoy while respecting nature protection manners
Lake Naguri and Arima Gorge offer rich natural scenery and quiet environment, yet are conveniently accessible in approximately 2 hours from central Tokyo. Whether for day trips or overnight stays, various ways of enjoying this area are possible. Please visit and experience refreshing time for both body and mind amid nature’s seasonal expressions.
