Kuzu Ryū Lake (Fukui Prefecture) Complete Guide | Stunning Four Seasons Scenery, Access, and Thorough Explanation of Surrounding Tourist Spots
Located in Ōno City, Fukui Prefecture, Kuzu Ryū Lake has become one of the prefecture’s top tourist attractions as an artificial lake surrounded by majestic nature. The emerald green shimmering lake surface and the ever-changing mountains with the seasons continue to captivate visitors. This article provides a comprehensive introduction to the charms of Kuzu Ryū Lake.
What is Kuzu Ryū Lake | One of Japan’s Largest Rockfill Dam Lakes
Kuzu Ryū Lake was formed by the Kuzu Ryū Dam, constructed in 1968 (Showa 43) by damming the Kuzu Ryū River. The massive dam, with a height of 128 meters and a width of 355 meters, was built using the rockfill method, which was rare in Japan at the time.
A rockfill dam is constructed by stacking layers of earth and rock, and has a unique landscape distinct from concrete dams. When the Kuzu Ryū Dam was built, it drew attention as one of Japan’s largest rockfill dams, and its scale is said to be comparable to Lake Towada in Aomori Prefecture even today.
History and Background of Kuzu Ryū Lake’s Construction
The Kuzu Ryū Dam project, planned for flood control and power generation of the Kuzu Ryū River, a symbol of Fukui Prefecture, was part of large-scale infrastructure development during Japan’s high economic growth period in the 1960s. The dam construction realized flood damage reduction in downstream areas and stable power supply, contributing greatly to Fukui Prefecture’s development.
The lake’s total water storage capacity reaches approximately 353 million cubic meters, holding abundant water. This rich water resource is utilized not only for power generation but also for agricultural water and domestic water supply, supporting the region’s livelihood.
Four Seasons of Stunning Scenery | Highlights of Kuzu Ryū Lake
The greatest charm of Kuzu Ryū Lake is the ability to enjoy beautiful natural scenery that differs with each season. The vast lake surrounded by mountains shows dramatic landscape changes as the seasons progress.
Spring Kuzu Ryū Lake | Lake Shore Adorned with Approximately 2,000 Cherry Blossoms
Spring Kuzu Ryū Lake attracts many tourists as a cherry blossom viewing spot. Along National Route 158, approximately 2,000 cherry trees including Somei Yoshino, Yamato Cherry, and Double Blossom Cherry are planted over approximately 15 kilometers, reaching their peak bloom from mid-April to early May.
The fully bloomed cherry blossoms reflected in the emerald green lake surface are truly spectacular. Particularly around Hako Kazeseibashi (the bridge called “Bridge of Dreams”), you can enjoy beautiful scenery woven together by the bridge, cherry blossoms, and lake. In the mountainous areas of Fukui Prefecture where spring arrives late, cherry blossom viewing can be enjoyed through the Golden Week period, which is one of the attractions.
Summer Kuzu Ryū Lake | Fresh Greenery and Cool Lake Shore Breeze
Summer Kuzu Ryū Lake becomes a refreshing space enveloped in deep green. Due to its high altitude, it remains relatively cool even in mid-summer, making it popular as a summer resort destination. Along the lake shore, you can see families and groups enjoying camping and barbecues, with lakeside campgrounds such as Kuzu Ryū Lakeside Mobile Village bustling with outdoor enthusiasts.
The refreshing breeze crossing the lake surface, mountains covered in deep green, and time spent in clear air help you forget the hustle and bustle of daily life. Additionally, around the lake you can also enjoy active outdoor experiences such as trekking and nature observation.
Autumn Kuzu Ryū Lake | Fukui Prefecture’s Premier Autumn Foliage Spot
Kuzu Ryū Lake reveals its most beautiful appearance during autumn’s fall foliage season. From mid-October through early November, the mountains surrounding the lake turn brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red, and the calm lake surface reflects their beautiful colors.
The “Kuzu Ryū Autumn Foliage Festival” is held during peak foliage season, where you can enjoy autumn delicacies and local confectioneries. The 2024 foliage is expected to peak around November 11-14, and the Kuzu Ryū Autumn Foliage Festival is scheduled to be held on October 25-26 in 2025.
Known as Fukui Prefecture’s most famous autumn foliage spot, Kuzu Ryū Lake attracts many tourists including photography enthusiasts, couples, and families. In particular, the autumn foliage viewed from the “Bridge of Dreams” is spectacular, and the contrast with the foliage reflected on the lake surface creates an excellent photo spot.
Winter Kuzu Ryū Lake | Snowy Landscape Wrapped in Silence
Winter Kuzu Ryū Lake becomes a silent world covered in deep snow. The monochromatic scenery created by snow-covered mountains and a frozen lake surface possesses a mystical beauty entirely different from the other seasons.
During winter, snowfall is heavy, and access may become difficult depending on road conditions, but photography enthusiasts often visit to see Kuzu Ryū Lake in its snowy state. When enjoying winter driving, installation of studless tires and thorough cold-weather precautions are essential.
Bridge of Dreams (Hako Kazeseibashi) | Symbol of Kuzu Ryū Lake
The 266-meter-long Hako Kazeseibashi, spanning Kuzu Ryū Lake and commonly called the “Bridge of Dreams,” is an iconic symbol of Kuzu Ryū Lake. This bridge has an interesting history as it was constructed as a test case for the Seto Bridge.
The graceful white arch bridge blends beautifully into the grand mountain scenery and vast dam lake, creating a beautiful landscape that harmonizes with nature through the four seasons. Especially during the autumn foliage season, the “Bridge of Dreams” arching over the lake against a backdrop of colored mountains presents a beauty reminiscent of a painting.
From the bridge, you can view the majestic scenery of Kuzu Ryū Lake, and it’s also a popular photography spot. While 24 bridges span the lake, the “Bridge of Dreams” is the most famous, and it’s a must-see point when visiting Kuzu Ryū Lake.
Access to Kuzu Ryū Lake | How to Get There by Car and Public Transportation
Here’s detailed information on access methods to Kuzu Ryū Lake. Since it’s located in a nature-rich mountainous area, access by car is convenient, though public transportation is also available.
Access by Car
Via Chūbu Longitudinal Expressway
- Approximately 15-20 minutes from “Kuzu Ryū IC” on the Chūbu Longitudinal Expressway via National Route 158
- After exiting Kuzu Ryū IC, proceed toward Kuzu Ryū Lake on National Route 158
Via Tōkai-Hokuriku Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes from “Shiratori JCT” on the Tōkai-Hokuriku Expressway via Chūbu Longitudinal Aburasakatouge Road
- This is a convenient route for access from Gifu Prefecture
From Fukui City
- Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes east on National Route 158
- This route passes through Ōno City center
Parking Information
Multiple parking lots are equipped around Kuzu Ryū Lake. There is particularly tourist parking space around the “Bridge of Dreams” and in areas that serve as autumn foliage festival venues. During peak tourist seasons such as fall foliage season, congestion is expected, so visiting during earlier times of day is recommended.
Access by Public Transportation
By Train
- Get off at “Kuzu Ryū Lake Station” on the JR Etsumikami Line, then taxi for approximately 20 minutes
- Kuzu Ryū Lake Station is the terminal station, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from Fukui Station
By Bus
- Transfer required: Kyofuku Bus from Fukui Station to Ōno City, then additional connections
- As the number of buses is limited, it’s necessary to check the schedule in advance
When using public transportation, since services are infrequent, consider renting a car. Especially when visiting multiple tourist spots, car travel is more efficient.
Recommended Tourist Spots Around Kuzu Ryū Lake
When visiting Kuzu Ryū Lake, be sure to explore the surrounding tourist attractions. In the Ōno City area of Fukui Prefecture, there are numerous fascinating spots where history and nature converge.
Echizen Ōno Castle | Castle in the Sky
Echizen Ōno Castle, a symbol of Ōno City, stands on the summit of Kameyama Mountain at an elevation of 249 meters. Under favorable weather conditions from autumn through spring in early morning, it reveals itself as a fantastical “castle in the sky” floating in sea clouds.
The Ōno City downtown area, which retains the atmosphere of a castle town, is also excellent for strolling. It’s located approximately 30 minutes by car from Kuzu Ryū Lake and is recommended to visit together.
Heisenji Hakusan Shrine | Shrine of Moss
Heisenji Hakusan Shrine is known as the “Shrine of Moss” for its interior covered with beautiful moss. The approach lined with Japanese cedar trees centuries old and the landscape of green moss spreading across the entire ground create a sensation as if you’ve wandered into another world.
Located approximately 40 minutes by car from Kuzu Ryū Lake, it’s a healing spot where you can feel nature and history.
Eiheiji Great Temple | Head Temple of the Sōtō School
Eiheiji Great Temple, a representative tourist attraction in Fukui Prefecture, is a Zen temple serving as the head temple of the Sōtō School with over 700 years of history. In addition to experiencing Zen meditation in a solemn atmosphere, you can view beautiful architecture and gardens.
Located approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour by car from Kuzu Ryū Lake, it’s popular as a standard course for Fukui tourism.
Kuzu Ryū Lakeside Mobile Village | Campground on Lake Shore
An auto campground located on the Kuzu Ryū Lake shore where you can enjoy camping and barbecue while overlooking the lake. With well-equipped facilities, even beginners can safely experience outdoor activities.
During the spring through autumn season, the campground is bustling with many campers and provides time to relax peacefully in nature.
Model Courses for Kuzu Ryū Lake Tourism
Here are model courses to maximize enjoyment of tourism centered around Kuzu Ryū Lake.
Day Trip Course | Kuzu Ryū Lake and Ōno City Tour
Morning
- 9:00 Depart from Fukui City or Ōno City
- 10:00 Arrive at Kuzu Ryū Lake, stroll and photograph around the “Bridge of Dreams”
- 11:30 Lunch on the lake shore (enjoy local cuisine)
Afternoon
- 13:00 Move to Ōno City downtown
- 13:30 Visit Echizen Ōno Castle, stroll through the castle town
- 15:00 Visit famous water spots (Goshimizu, etc.)
- 16:30 Return journey
1 Night 2 Days Course | Full Enjoyment of Kuzu Ryū Lake and the Echizen Coast
Day 1
- Morning: Kuzu Ryū Lake tourism, fall foliage viewing (autumn)
- Afternoon: Stroll through Ōno City downtown, visit Heisenji Hakusan Shrine
- Evening: Move toward the Echizen Coast
- Night: Stay on the Echizen Coast, enjoy Echizen crab and other seafood delicacies
Day 2
- Morning: Tour scenic spots on the Echizen Coast (Tōjinbō, Ooshima, etc.)
- Afternoon: Visit Eiheiji Great Temple
- Evening: Return to Fukui City or head home
With this course, you can fully experience both mountain and ocean charms of Fukui Prefecture.
Activities and Experiences Available at Kuzu Ryū Lake
Various activities leveraging nature can be enjoyed around Kuzu Ryū Lake.
Camping and Barbecue
Lakeside campgrounds including Kuzu Ryū Lakeside Mobile Village allow you to enjoy camping and barbecue surrounded by beautiful nature. With well-equipped facilities, beginners and families can use them with confidence.
Trekking and Hiking
Multiple trekking courses around Kuzu Ryū Lake allow you to enjoy nature observation while walking. Especially during spring’s fresh greenery and autumn’s fall foliage seasons, hiking with beautiful scenery is superb.
Photography
Kuzu Ryū Lake, offering stunning scenery in all four seasons, is an excellent photography spot for photography enthusiasts. Particularly beautiful light appears at dawn and dusk, and the landscape woven by the “Bridge of Dreams,” lake, and mountains never becomes boring no matter how many times you visit.
Fishing
Stream fishing can also be enjoyed at Kuzu Ryū Lake. With iwana (char) and yamame (land-locked salmon) inhabiting the lake, it’s popular among fishing enthusiasts. However, it’s important to follow rules such as purchasing fishing licenses.
Basic Information for Kuzu Ryū Lake Tourism
Location
Hako Kazeseibashi, Ōno City, Fukui Prefecture (around the Bridge of Dreams)
Business Hours and Admission
- Free viewing (24 hours)
- Admission: Free
Best Seasons
- Spring (Mid-April to Early May): Cherry blossom blooming period
- Autumn (Mid-October to Early November): Peak fall foliage season
Notes
- Winter experiences heavy snowfall; road conditions may deteriorate
- Installation of studless tires and cold-weather precautions are necessary
- Heavy congestion is expected during fall foliage season; visiting during earlier hours is recommended
- Shops and restaurants on the lake shore are limited; advance preparation is important
Inquiries
Ōno City Tourism Promotion Division
- Address: Tennin-cho 1-1, Ōno City, Fukui Prefecture 912-8666
- Phone: 0779-66-1111
- Reception Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:15 PM
Gourmet Information Around Kuzu Ryū Lake
Around Kuzu Ryū Lake and in Ōno City, you can enjoy cuisine unique to Fukui Prefecture.
Ōno’s Famous Water Cuisine
Ōno City is known as the “Town of Famous Waters” and takes pride in cuisine that utilizes abundant spring water. Tofu and buckwheat noodles made with famous water are exquisite and can be sampled at many restaurants.
Local Dishes Using Taro Root
Taro root, a specialty product of Ōno City, is used in local dishes such as “taro croquettes” and “taro buns” beloved by locals. These can be purchased at roadside stations and souvenir shops.
Soy Sauce Cutlet Rice Bowl
Famous as Fukui Prefecture’s B-class gourmet, soy sauce cutlet rice bowls are served at restaurants throughout Ōno City. The cutlet is topped with soy sauce-based sauce rather than Worcestershire sauce, creating a distinctly Fukui flavor.
Autumn Gourmet at the Kuzu Ryū Autumn Foliage Festival
During the “Kuzu Ryū Autumn Foliage Festival” held in fall foliage season, you can enjoy local autumn delicacies and confectioneries. Dishes using chestnuts and mushrooms, locally-produced new rice, and other limited-season gourmet offerings are available.
Lodging Information for Kuzu Ryū Lake Tourism
Since lodging facilities are limited around Kuzu Ryū Lake, staying in Ōno City center or Fukui City is recommended.
Lodging Facilities in Ōno City
Business hotels and inns dot Ōno City center. You can stay while feeling the castle town atmosphere, and access to Kuzu Ryū Lake is approximately 30 minutes by car.
Lodging Facilities in Fukui City
Fukui City offers diverse lodging facilities with abundant choices. While Kuzu Ryū Lake is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes away by car, it’s convenient when combining it with other tourist attractions such as Eiheiji Great Temple.
Hot Spring Inns on the Echizen Coast
When visiting both Kuzu Ryū Lake and the Echizen Coast in a 1-night 2-day course, staying at a hot spring inn on the Echizen Coast is recommended. You can savor Japan Sea seafood delicacies while relaxing in hot springs and relieving fatigue.
Lodging at Campgrounds
Staying at lakeside campgrounds such as Kuzu Ryū Lakeside Mobile Village is also popular. A night spent in nature becomes a special experience unavailable in the city.
Photography Spots and Instagrammable Locations at Kuzu Ryū Lake
Kuzu Ryū Lake has numerous photography spots suitable for social media.
Bridge of Dreams (Hako Kazeseibashi)
The most popular photography spot is undoubtedly the “Bridge of Dreams.” Various photography compositions are possible, including shots capturing the entire bridge and angles looking down at the lake from the bridge. Especially during fall foliage season, the contrast between the white bridge and colored mountains creates beautiful photographs.
Lake Shore Morning and Evening Views
The sight of mountains reflected on the quiet early morning lake surface and the fantastical atmosphere of twilight are popular subjects for photography enthusiasts. Particularly in early autumn mornings, morning mist may cover the lake surface, creating a mystical atmosphere.
Cherry Blossom Lined National Route 158
During spring’s cherry blossom season, the approximately 15-kilometer cherry blossom-lined road becomes an excellent photography spot. The spring landscape unified by the lake, cherry blossoms, and mountains is truly painting-like in its beauty.
Souvenirs and Specialty Products at Kuzu Ryū Lake Tourism
Here are souvenirs available around Kuzu Ryū Lake and in Ōno City.
Ōno Specialty Confectioneries
Ōno City has many long-established Japanese confectionery shops where you can purchase traditional specialty confectioneries. Castella cakes and mochi made with famous water, and red bean pancakes are popular.
Products Using Taro Root
Processed products made from Ōno’s specialty taro root are appreciated as souvenirs. Taro chips and Japanese confectioneries made with taro offer unique products.
Local Sake
Fukui Prefecture is famous as a sake production region, and there are breweries around Ōno City. Japanese sake produced with local famous water is ideal as a souvenir for sake lovers.
Kuzu Ryū Lake Original Merchandise
Original merchandise featuring Kuzu Ryū Lake and the “Bridge of Dreams” is available at roadside stations and souvenir shops. Postcards and keychains are popular as souvenirs.
Conclusion | Fully Enjoy Fukui’s Natural Beauty at Kuzu Ryū Lake
Kuzu Ryū Lake in Ōno City, Fukui Prefecture, is a tourist attraction created as an artificial lake by a magnificent rockfill dam, offering beautiful natural scenery throughout the four seasons. Depending on the season of your visit, you can enjoy spring cherry blossoms, summer fresh greenery, autumn fall foliage, and winter snow scenery, each presenting a completely different appearance.
Especially during the autumn foliage season, it’s Fukui Prefecture’s premier scenic spot attracting many tourists, and the scenery woven by the “Bridge of Dreams” and fall foliage is well worth seeing. Combining Kuzu Ryū Lake as a starting point with nearby tourist spots such as Echizen Ōno Castle, Heisenji Hakusan Shrine, and Eiheiji Great Temple is also recommended.
Kuzu Ryū Lake offers various enjoyable experiences including camping and trekking in nature and photography. When visiting Fukui Prefecture, why not visit this beautiful lake and find healing in abundant nature? Car access is convenient, but when using public transportation, check schedules in advance and plan your visit accordingly.
Kuzu Ryū Lake, which changes expression with the passage of seasons, is a natural treasure that Fukui Prefecture takes pride in, offering new discoveries and emotions each time you visit.
