Kuzu Ryu Lake, Fukui Prefecture | Complete Guide to Spectacular Scenery in All Four Seasons and the Dream Bridge
Kuzu Ryu Lake, located in the mountainous area of Ono City, Fukui Prefecture, is a tourist destination boasting beautiful scenery where magnificent nature and artificial engineering technology blend together. Particularly during the autumn foliage season, many tourists visit, and the spectacular views created by colorful mountains reflected in the lake surface and the “Dream Bridge” are known as one of Fukui Prefecture’s representative scenic spots.
In this article, we will convey all the attractions of Kuzu Ryu Lake and provide detailed explanations of information you should know when visiting.
About Kuzu Ryu Lake | An Artificial Lake Born from Kuzu Ryu Dam
The History and Origins of Kuzu Ryu Lake
Kuzu Ryu Lake is an artificial lake formed by Kuzu Ryu Dam, which was constructed on the Kuzu Ryu River in 1968 (Showa 43). The name, which means a dragon with nine heads, originates from the Kuzu Ryu River that flows through Ono City, Fukui Prefecture.
Kuzu Ryu Dam boasts a massive scale with a height of 128 meters and a width of 355 meters, forming a lake comparable in size to Lake Towada in Aomori Prefecture. Through the construction of this dam, it has served important roles in flood control, power generation, and water resource management, while also developing as a major tourist resource representing Fukui Prefecture.
Characteristics of Rockfill Dam
The greatest feature of Kuzu Ryu Dam is that it was constructed using the rockfill method, which involves stacking soil and rock in multiple layers. At the time of construction, this was still a rare method in Japan and drew attention as a technological challenge.
Rockfill dams have the advantage of being more resistant to earthquakes and more adaptable to topography compared to concrete dams. In the mountainous terrain surrounding Kuzu Ryu Lake, this method proved to be the optimal choice. The dam’s embankment emanates an overwhelming presence and captivates visitors as a structure that demonstrates the high level of human technological capability.
Abundant Water Volume and Surrounding Environment
Kuzu Ryu Lake holds abundant water, fed by clear water flowing from the surrounding mountains. The lake surface is positioned at an altitude of approximately 750 meters, surrounded by mountains of 1,000 meters or higher in a basin-like topography.
Due to these geographical conditions, the lake displays different appearances throughout the four seasons, and particularly during the autumn foliage season, the mountainsides are painted in red and yellow, and the scenery reflected in the lake surface is breathtakingly beautiful.
The Dream Bridge | A Famous Bridge That Served as a Test Case for the Seto Bridge
Historical Significance of the Dream Bridge
The symbol of Kuzu Ryu Lake is known as the “Dream Bridge” spanning the lake. The bridge’s official name is “Hakose Bridge,” and it was completed in 1989 (Heisei 1) as an arch bridge with a total length of 266 meters.
The most noteworthy point is that this bridge was constructed as a test case for the Seto Bridge. In advance of the Seto Bridge’s construction, Kuzu Ryu Lake was selected as a location to demonstrate long-span bridge technology, and the techniques and knowledge gained here were applied to the subsequent construction of the Seto Bridge.
Bridge Structure and Beauty
The Dream Bridge is characterized by a design that elegantly blends into bold mountain scenery and an expansive dam lake. Its white-painted arch structure harmonizes with the surrounding nature while maintaining a striking presence, further enhancing the scenery of Kuzu Ryu Lake.
From the bridge, you can enjoy a spectacular view overlooking the lake surface, and particularly during the foliage season, it becomes a photography spot frequented by many photography enthusiasts. The reflection of the bridge on the lake surface is also beautiful, creating a fantastical landscape through the mirror effect of the water.
Access to the Bridge and Ways to Enjoy It
The Dream Bridge is located slightly off National Route 158, with a parking space provided at the base of the bridge. Pedestrians can also use the bridge, allowing you to slowly walk while enjoying the surrounding scenery.
From near the center of the bridge, you can see the vast water surface of Kuzu Ryu Lake and the surrounding mountains at a glance, allowing you to savor the beauty of nature as it changes with the seasons. On calm days without wind, the lake surface mirrors the surrounding scenery like a mirror, creating a scene like a painting.
Kuzu Ryu Lake Through the Four Seasons | The Appeal of Each Season
Spring at Kuzu Ryu Lake | A Performance of Cherry Blossoms and Fresh Greenery
Around Kuzu Ryu Lake in spring, approximately 2,000 cherry blossoms including Somei Yoshino, Yamazakura, and Yaezakura are planted along a 15-kilometer stretch of National Route 158, making it known as a cherry blossom viewing spot.
From late April to early May, cherry blossoms bloom sequentially from higher elevations, allowing you to enjoy cherry blossoms over an extended period. The contrast between cherry blossoms and snow-capped mountains, along with the blue lake surface, creates a beautiful spring landscape.
After cherry blossoms bloom, the season of fresh greenery arrives, and the mountains are dyed a vibrant green. The newly sprouted leaves are full of vitality and convey the powerful force of nature overcoming the harshness of winter.
Summer at Kuzu Ryu Lake | Seeking Coolness
The area around Kuzu Ryu Lake, positioned at an altitude of 750 meters, remains relatively cool even in summer, making it popular as a summer resort. Even when the plains suffer from intense heat, the lakeside is swept by refreshing breezes and provides a comfortable environment.
Summer at Kuzu Ryu Lake is covered in deep green, and the lake surface displays a vibrant blue color. From the surrounding forests, the singing of wild birds can be heard, providing an ideal environment for refreshing yourself in nature.
Many people enjoy camping and hiking, and the area is bustling with families and outdoor enthusiasts. Spending leisurely time at the lakeside becomes a luxurious moment allowing you to forget the bustle of daily life.
Autumn at Kuzu Ryu Lake | Fukui Prefecture’s Premier Foliage Spot
Kuzu Ryu Lake shines most brilliantly during the autumn foliage season. Usually from late October to November, the foliage reaches its peak, and the area becomes crowded with many tourists.
The surrounding mountains are painted in red, orange, and yellow gradations as broadleaf trees such as beech, maple, and oak change color. The view from the area around the Dream Bridge is particularly spectacular, and through the synergistic effect with foliage reflected in the lake surface, it displays breathtakingly beautiful scenery.
While the peak foliage timing varies depending on weather and temperature, generally late October becomes the height of the season. Since many tourists visit on weekends and holidays, selecting a weekday or early morning time slot allows you to enjoy the foliage relatively leisurely.
There are multiple viewing points around Kuzu Ryu Lake, each offering foliage views from different angles. Moving along National Route 158 and searching for your favorite viewpoint is one of the pleasures.
Winter at Kuzu Ryu Lake | A Fantastical World of Snowy Landscapes
Winter at Kuzu Ryu Lake is covered in snow, revealing a fantastical snowy landscape. The surrounding mountains are dressed in white snow, and a world of silver emerges where the boundary between mountains and lake becomes obscured.
Winter brings heavy snowfall, and road access may be restricted depending on conditions, but for those wishing to enjoy snowy scenery, it becomes a particularly special experience. However, when visiting in winter, equipping your vehicle with studless tires and preparing winter gear is essential.
On clear days, the contrast between snow and blue sky is beautiful, and the sight of the Dream Bridge emerging from the snow has an aesthetic quality like a monochrome ink painting.
Access to Kuzu Ryu Lake | Car Access Is Most Convenient
How to Access by Car
Car access is the most convenient way to reach Kuzu Ryu Lake. The main routes are as follows:
Via Chubu Longitudinal Expressway
- Approximately 15 minutes by car from Kuzu Ryu IC on the Chubu Longitudinal Expressway
- After exiting the IC, proceed east on National Route 158
Via Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes by car from Shiratori JCT on the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway (via Chubu Longitudinal Road Yusaka Pass)
- Convenient for access from the Gifu area
From Fukui City
- Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes east on National Route 158
- Proceed toward Kuzu Ryu Lake via Ono City center
Parking Information
Multiple parking spaces are provided around Kuzu Ryu Lake. The main parking areas are as follows:
- Parking space near the Dream Bridge (free)
- Parking areas near Kuzu Ryu Lake Station
- Parking areas at viewpoint spots along National Route 158
On weekends during foliage season, congestion is expected, so arriving early is recommended.
Access by Public Transportation
JR Etsuми-Hokusen Line’s Kuzu Ryu Lake Station is the nearest station, but as there is distance from the station to the lake, using a taxi from the station or renting a car is necessary.
From Fukui Station to Kuzu Ryu Lake Station takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours. Since trains are infrequent, it is important to check the timetable in advance.
During tourist season, sightseeing buses may operate from Ono City toward Kuzu Ryu Lake, so check for the latest information with the Ono City Tourism Association and similar organizations.
Tourist Spots Around Kuzu Ryu Lake | Worthwhile Places to Visit Together
Heisen-ji Hakusan Shrine | An Ancient Shrine with Beautiful Moss
Heisen-ji Hakusan Shrine, located approximately 30 minutes by car from Kuzu Ryu Lake, is an ancient shrine with a beautiful moss-covered grounds. The fantastical landscape woven by towering cedar groves with centuries-old trees and moss covering the entire area invites visitors to another world.
Particularly after rain in early morning, the moss comes alive, and a mysterious atmosphere pervades the space. Unlike the natural beauty of Kuzu Ryu Lake, this is a place where you can feel silence and the weight of history.
Eiheiji Grand Head Temple | A Zen Practice Hall
Eiheiji Grand Head Temple, a representative tourist destination of Fukui Prefecture, is located approximately 50 minutes by car from Kuzu Ryu Lake. As the grand head temple of the Soto Zen sect, many training monks engage in strict practice there today.
Within the expansive grounds, seven halls of the temple complex are arranged, and a serene atmosphere flows. You can also experience zazen meditation and taste vegetarian cuisine, spending time to calm your mind.
Echizen Ono Castle | A Castle in the Sky
Echizen Ono Castle, a symbol of Ono City, has recently become popular as a “castle in the sky” floating in sea clouds. Positioned on the way from Kuzu Ryu Lake toward Ono City, it sits atop Kameyama overlooking the city.
Particularly from autumn to spring, on early mornings when conditions are favorable, you can see the fantastical sight of it floating in sea clouds. You can also enjoy exploring the city of Ono, which retains the atmosphere of a castle town.
Michi-no-Eki Kuzu Ryu | Local Specialty Products and Rest Area
Michi-no-Eki Kuzu Ryu, located along National Route 158 heading toward Kuzu Ryu Lake, is a rest area where you can purchase local specialty products. Fresh vegetables and wild vegetables harvested locally, processed foods, and other items are sold, making it ideal for souvenir shopping.
At the restaurant, you can taste dishes prepared with local ingredients, and dishes using Kuzu Ryu maitake mushrooms are particularly popular. Please stop by before or after Kuzu Ryu Lake sightseeing and discover the charm of the region.
Cuisine Around Kuzu Ryu Lake | Savoring Local Flavors
Kuzu Ryu Maitake | A Regional Specialty
Kuzu Ryu maitake is known as a specialty product of the area around Kuzu Ryu Lake. It is characterized by being thick-fleshed, aromatic, and having a good texture, and can be enjoyed in various ways including rice cooked in a pot, tempura, and hot pot dishes.
The station and local restaurants offer dishes using Kuzu Ryu maitake, so be sure to try them when you visit. Fresh maitake mushrooms are also sold during the peak season.
Echizen Oroshi Soba | A Regional Dish of Fukui Prefecture
Echizen oroshi soba, a regional dish representing Fukui Prefecture, is soba served with generous amounts of grated radish. There are many soba shops in the Ono City area, where you can taste freshly made soba using local soba flour.
Though a simple dish of cold soba with grated radish and broth, the aroma of the soba and the sharpness of the radish match exquisitely, allowing you to enjoy a refreshing taste.
Local Mountain Delicacies | Seasonal Bounty
The mountains around Kuzu Ryu Lake yield various mountain delicacies in each season. Wild vegetables in spring, mushrooms in autumn—dishes utilizing nature’s bounty are provided at local eateries and family-run inns.
Tempura of wild vegetables and mushroom soup in particular have a simple and deeply satisfying flavor that cannot be tasted in cities. You can touch the food culture that local people have cherished.
Suggested Itineraries for Enjoying Kuzu Ryu Lake
One-Day Itinerary | Fully Enjoying Foliage
Morning
- 9:00 Depart from Fukui City
- 10:30 Arrive at Kuzu Ryu Lake, stroll around the Dream Bridge area
- 11:30 Tour foliage spots along National Route 158
Afternoon
- 12:30 Lunch and shopping at Michi-no-Eki Kuzu Ryu
- 14:00 Visit Heisen-ji Hakusan Shrine
- 15:30 Explore Echizen Ono Castle and the castle town
- 17:00 Return journey to Fukui City
This course is ideal during foliage season and allows you to efficiently tour Kuzu Ryu Lake’s natural beauty and nearby historical spots.
Two-Day Itinerary | Savoring the Charm of Echizen
Day 1
- Morning: Depart from Fukui City, visit Eiheiji
- Afternoon: Arrive at Kuzu Ryu Lake, stroll around the Dream Bridge
- Evening: Stay at a hot spring inn in Ono City
Day 2
- Morning: Explore Echizen Ono Castle and the castle town
- Afternoon: Travel to the Echizen Coast, scenic drive
- Evening: Return journey to Fukui City
This itinerary allows you to enjoy both mountain nature and coastal scenery, experiencing the diverse charms of Fukui Prefecture.
Notes and Advice for Kuzu Ryu Lake Sightseeing
Clothing and Items to Bring
Since Kuzu Ryu Lake is at high altitude with lower temperatures than lowland areas, prepare seasonal clothing appropriate for when you visit.
Spring and Autumn
- Bring a jacket as mornings and evenings can be cool
- Comfortable walking shoes (if exploring trails)
Summer
- Hat and sunscreen due to strong sunlight
- Insect repellent spray (due to forested areas)
Winter
- Warm clothing essential
- Non-slip shoes
- Vehicle winter equipment (studless tires, chains, etc.)
Best Timing for Photography
For those wishing to capture beautiful photographs of Kuzu Ryu Lake, the following timings are recommended.
- Early morning: Mist drifts across the lake surface, creating a fantastical atmosphere
- Late afternoon: Evening sun illuminates the mountains, and the lake surface glows golden
- Cloudy days: Soft light highlights foliage colors
On calm days without wind, the lake surface becomes mirror-like, allowing you to capture reflection photographs. Bringing a tripod enables more professional photography.
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
Weekends during foliage season are especially crowded. Here are tips for comfortable sightseeing.
- Consider visiting on a weekday
- Arrive early (before 8:00 AM)
- Choose times slightly outside peak foliage timing
- Tour multiple viewpoints and distribute the crowds
Safety Precautions
In the nature-rich area around Kuzu Ryu Lake, pay attention to the following:
- Be prepared for sudden weather changes (mountain terrain)
- Possibility of encountering wild animals (be particularly cautious of bears)
- Mobile phone coverage may be poor in some areas
- In winter, exercise great caution regarding road surface freezing and snow accumulation
Basic Information About Kuzu Ryu Lake
Location
Hakose, Ono City, Fukui Prefecture (around the Dream Bridge)
Access
- Approximately 15 minutes by car from Kuzu Ryu IC on the Chubu Longitudinal Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes by car from Shiratori JCT on the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway (via Chubu Longitudinal Road Yusaka Pass)
Parking
Free parking space available
Viewing Hours
24 hours (traffic restrictions may apply in winter depending on road conditions)
Admission Fee
Free
Inquiries
Ono City Tourism and Exchange Division
Phone: 0779-66-1111
Best Seasons
- Foliage: Late October to early November
- Cherry blossoms: Late April to early May
- Fresh greenery: Mid-May to June
Conclusion | Experience Fukui’s Natural Beauty at Kuzu Ryu Lake
Kuzu Ryu Lake, despite being an artificial lake created by the construction of a rockfill dam, harmonizes beautifully with the surrounding mountainous nature and is Fukui Prefecture’s representative scenic spot. Particularly during the autumn foliage season, the spectacular scenery woven by colorful mountains, the lake surface, and the Dream Bridge captivates visiting people.
The Dream Bridge, constructed as a test case for the Seto Bridge, is highly evaluated not only for its technical significance but also for the beauty of its scenery, and is cherished as a symbol of Kuzu Ryu Lake.
Kuzu Ryu Lake displays different faces in each season—cherry blossoms in spring, coolness in summer, foliage in autumn, and snowy landscapes in winter. Interesting tourist spots such as Heisen-ji Hakusan Shrine, Eiheiji Grand Head Temple, and Echizen Ono Castle are scattered in the surrounding area, allowing you to enjoy Fukui Prefecture’s nature, history, and culture all at once.
When visiting Fukui Prefecture, be sure to extend your visit to Kuzu Ryu Lake and experience the spectacular scenery created by majestic nature. Away from the bustle of the city, a special time awaits to soothe your heart.
