Shinseiко Lake (Kanagawa Prefecture) Complete Guide｜The Charm and How to Enjoy the Miracle Dammed Lake Born from the Great Kanto Earthquake
Shinseiко Lake (しんせいこ), located on the border between Hadano City and Nakagai Town in Ashigarakami District, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a dammed lake that was born on September 1, 1923 (Taisho 12) from the Great Kanto Earthquake. Named after this place created by a natural disaster called an earthquake, after more than 100 years of history, it is now loved by many people as a natural spot representing Hadano City.
The Birth of Shinseiко Lake｜The Natural Record Carved by the Great Kanto Earthquake
The Mechanism of Lake Formation by Earthquake
Shinseiко Lake was formed by the Great Kanto Earthquake of magnitude 7.9 that occurred on September 1, 1923 at 11:58 a.m. Due to this earthquake, a part of the Shibusawa Hills experienced a massive landslide spanning approximately 200-250 meters in width, and the lake was born when the Ichigisawa at the uppermost reach of the Fujisawa River was blocked.
At the time of the earthquake, a geological layer called the Tokyo Pumice Layer collapsed, and an estimated approximately 100,000 cubic meters of earth and sand flowed into the valley. This sediment became a natural dam, blocking the water in the stream to form the lake. Named “Shinseiко Lake” because it was born from an earthquake, it is now preserved as a living witness to earthquake disaster.
Value as a Nationally Registered Monument
On March 26, 2021 (Reiwa 3), Shinseiко Lake was officially registered as a nationally registered monument. This was because it was highly evaluated for its academic and historical value as a dammed lake formed by ground shaking from the Great Kanto Earthquake.
The registered area spans 21,034.71 square meters in Hadano City and 11,504.00 square meters in Nakagai Town, totaling approximately 32,500 square meters. As a precious natural heritage transmitting the memory of the disaster to future generations, preservation and utilization efforts are underway.
Basic Information and Characteristics of Shinseiко Lake
The Scale and Shape of the Lake
Shinseiко Lake is a small dammed lake with a gourd shape. The main characteristics are as follows:
- Lake Area: Approximately 13,000 square meters
- Circumference: Approximately 1,000 meters (can be walked around in about 20-30 minutes)
- Water Depth: Average approximately 4 meters, deepest point approximately 10 meters
- Elevation: Approximately 200 meters
- Shape: Gourd-shaped dammed lake
A walking path is maintained around the lake, allowing you to enjoy nature while walking along the shore. Though small, the serene atmosphere and historical background make a deep impression on visitors.
Development as Shinseiко Lake Park
Currently, Shinseiко Lake is developed as Shinseiко Lake Park under the management of Hadano City. The park includes the following facilities and highlights:
- Walking Path: A walking trail around the lake
- Hadano Fukuju Benzaiten: A Benzaiten shrine enshrined on the lakeshore
- Poetry Stones: Multiple stone monuments with haiku and tanka poems
- Rest Areas: Benches and gazebos
- Parking Lot: Small parking space near the south entrance
As a developed park, you can visit for various purposes such as hiking, nature observation, and photography.
How to Access Shinseiко Lake
Access by Public Transportation
Access to Shinseiко Lake is typically via the Odakyu Odawara Line.
Access from Shibusawa Station
- Get off at Odakyu Odawara Line “Shibusawa Station”
- Approximately 40-50 minutes walk from the station (approximately 3.5 km)
- Take Kanagawa Chuo Bus “bound for Hadano Station” and get off at “Shinseiко Lake Entrance” bus stop, approximately 15 minutes walk
Access from Hadano Station
- Get off at Odakyu Odawara Line “Hadano Station”
- Approximately 60 minutes walk from the station (approximately 4.5 km)
- Take Kanagawa Chuo Bus “bound for Shibusawa Station” and get off at “Shinseiко Lake Entrance” bus stop, approximately 15 minutes walk
Access from Shibusawa Station is most convenient, but since the number of buses is limited, it is recommended to check the schedule in advance. If accessing on foot, you can also enjoy the hiking course of Shibusawa Hills on the way.
Access by Car and Parking Information
Access by Car
- Approximately 15 minutes from “Hadano Nakai IC” on the Tomei Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes from “Ninomiya IC” on the Odawara-厚木 Expressway
Parking Lot
There is no large dedicated parking lot at Shinseiко Lake, but there are parking spaces for a few cars near the south entrance. It may get crowded on weekends and during fall foliage season, so consider using public transportation. Street parking is a nuisance to local residents and must be avoided.
The Charm of Shinseiко Lake Through the Four Seasons
Spring｜Spectacular Scenery of the Lakeshore Colored by Cherry Blossoms
In spring, Shinseiко Lake is beautifully colored by cherry blossoms, including Somei Yoshino, along the shore. The best time to see them is from late March to early April, and the reflection of cherry blossoms on the lake surface is popular as a photography spot.
During cherry blossom season, the walking path is busy with people enjoying flower viewing. Because it’s a small lake, it doesn’t get too crowded, allowing for a leisurely time.
Summer｜Fresh Green and Cool Lake Surface
In summer, Shinseiко Lake is covered with deep green vegetation around it, creating a cool atmosphere. Located on a hill about 200 meters in elevation, it is slightly cooler than the plains and functions as a summer retreat.
The walking path along the shore has much shade and is relatively comfortable to walk even in summer. Early morning and evening may see mist on the lake surface, offering a magical landscape.
Autumn｜Spectacular View of Fall Foliage Reflected on the Water Surface
Autumn at Shinseiко Lake is said to be the most beautiful season of the year. From mid-November to early December, maple and Japanese maple trees turn vibrant colors, and the sight of autumn foliage reflected in the lake water is spectacular.
It is well-known as a fall foliage spot, featured on Hadano City and Kanagawa Prefecture websites, and many photography enthusiasts and tourists visit. You can enjoy the fall foliage from various angles as you walk around the shore.
Winter｜The Expression of the Lake Enveloped in Silence
Winter at Shinseiко Lake is less crowded and has an atmosphere enveloped in silence, which is its charm. With fallen leaves, the lake surface is clearly visible, and the shape of the lake and surrounding terrain can be observed clearly.
On cold days, a thin layer of ice may form on the lake surface, offering winter-specific scenery. With clear air, if the weather is fine, it is possible to view the Tanzawa Mountains in the distance.
Hiking Courses Around Shinseiко Lake
Shibusawa Hills Hiking Course
Shinseiко Lake is positioned as part of the Shibusawa Hills hiking course. A popular route runs from Shibusawa Station via Shinseiко Lake to Zukkoyama and Kobo Mountain.
Recommended Course Example
- Shibusawa Station → Shinseiко Lake (approximately 40 minutes)
- Shinseiко Lake → Zukkoyama (approximately 30 minutes)
- Zukkoyama → Kobo Mountain (approximately 40 minutes)
- Kobo Mountain → Hadano Station (approximately 60 minutes)
A 3-4 hour course with quite a bit of elevation change, but enjoyable for beginners. You can rest at Shinseiко Lake and fully experience the nature of Shibusawa Hills.
Shinseiко Lake Round-Trip Walking Course
A walking course that goes around the lake’s approximately 1 km perimeter takes about 20-30 minutes and is an easy course. The walking path is maintained, though some sections have stairs and slopes, providing moderate exercise.
Multiple poetry stones are installed along the shore, and it can also be enjoyed as a literary walk. The scenery differs between the south and north sides of the lake, allowing you to view the lake from various angles.
Spots and Dining Information Around Shinseiко Lake
Hadano Fukuju Benzaiten
Hadano Fukuju Benzaiten is enshrined on the shore of Shinseiко Lake. Benzaiten is known as a water deity and is revered by local people as the guardian deity of Shinseiко Lake. Though a small shrine, it is a place where you can feel the history and culture of the lake.
Nearby Tourist Spots
Kobo Mountain Park
A prefectural natural park located about 1 hour walk from Shinseiко Lake. About 2,000 cherry blossoms bloom in spring, and it is also selected in “50 Scenic Spots of Kanagawa.”
Hadano Togawa Park
A representative park in Hadano City with a natural setting overlooking the Tanzawa Mountains. It has a barbecue area and athletic facilities, popular with families.
Tsurumaki Hot Spring
A hot spring area in Hadano City. There are day-use hot spring facilities nearby where you can stop by after hiking at Shinseiко Lake.
Dining Information
There are few restaurants around Shinseiко Lake, so it is recommended to enjoy food around Hadano or Shibusawa stations.
Hadano Specialties
- Hadano Soba: Hadano City is known as one of the finest buckwheat noodle places in Kanagawa Prefecture
- Peanuts: Hadano City is a peanut producing area, and products using locally grown peanuts are popular
- Tanzawa Ham: A processed meat product known as a local specialty
Around Shibusawa and Hadano stations, there are restaurants and cafes using local ingredients, ideal for meals before and after hiking.
Precautions and Etiquette When Visiting Shinseiко Lake
Clothing and Belongings
Clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes (sneakers or trekking shoes)
- Easy-to-move clothing
- Warm clothes or hat depending on the season
- Rain gear (weather can change suddenly)
Belongings
- Drinking water (few vending machines in the area)
- Light snacks or treats
- Towel
- Camera (many photography spots)
- Garbage bag (always take trash with you)
Etiquette When Visiting
- Always take your trash with you: There are no trash bins around the lake
- Do not collect plants or organisms: Collecting fauna and flora is prohibited for nature conservation
- Swimming and fishing in the lake are prohibited: For safety management and environmental protection
- Avoid noise: Keep the environment quiet
- Do not park on the street: It is a nuisance to local residents
- No fires: Barbecues and bonfires are prohibited
Safety Precautions
- The walking path is maintained, but it becomes slippery after rain
- Some sections have steep stairs and slopes, so watch your footing
- Insect repellent spray is recommended in summer
- Avoid visiting alone; try to travel in a group
- Check mobile phone signal availability in advance
Photography Spots at Shinseiко Lake and Recommended Photography Times
Best Photography Spots
Near South Entrance
A viewpoint where you can overlook the entire lake. The gourd shape of the lake is clearly visible.
Walking Path Along the Shore
You can photograph the lake’s reflected scenery from positions close to the water. Especially recommended during fall foliage and cherry blossom seasons.
Around Benzaiten
A spot where you can photograph the shrine and lake together. You can feel the historical atmosphere.
North Side Viewing Area
You can photograph the entire view from the opposite side of the lake. The afternoon light is beautiful in this location.
Recommended Photography Times
Early Morning (6:00-8:00)
- Morning mist creates a mystical atmosphere
- Few people, allowing for quiet photography
- Beautiful light of sunrise illuminating the lake surface
Morning (9:00-11:00)
- Soft light, vibrant colors
- Easy to avoid backlighting
Evening (15:00-17:00)
- Beautiful view of sunset reflecting on the lake surface
- Note that sunset is earlier in autumn and winter
History and Cultural Value of Shinseiко Lake
Significance as an Earthquake Disaster Heritage Site
Shinseiко Lake is a precious earthquake disaster heritage site that conveys the scars of the Great Kanto Earthquake to the present day. As a dammed lake formed by earthquake-induced landslides, it speaks to the magnitude of earthquake energy and the power of nature.
More than 100 years after the disaster, the shape of the lake and surrounding terrain still preserve the conditions of that time well, making it an important place for disaster prevention education and geological research.
A Stage for Literature and Art
Shinseiко Lake has been loved by many writers and artists for its beautiful scenery. Multiple poetry stones are installed along the shore, bearing witness to visits by haiku poets and poets to this place.
For local photographers and painters, Shinseiко Lake is also an important place for artistic creation, with its seasonal landscapes depicted in their works.
Connection with the Local Community
Shinseiко Lake is appreciated by residents of Hadano City and Nakagai Town as a nearby natural spot. Local elementary schools sometimes conduct field trips to Shinseiко Lake to learn about the earthquake.
Regular cleanup activities and environmental conservation efforts by local volunteer groups are also implemented, with the lake being carefully protected by community members.
Model Courses to Enjoy Shinseiко Lake
Half-Day Course (approximately 3 hours)
9:00 Depart from Shibusawa Station
↓ Approximately 40 minutes walk
9:40 Arrive at Shinseiко Lake, walk around the shore (approximately 40 minutes)
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10:20 Leisurely rest and take photos near the lake (approximately 30 minutes)
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10:50 Depart from Shinseiко Lake
↓ Approximately 40 minutes walk
11:30 Arrive at Shibusawa Station
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12:00 Have lunch around the station
Full-Day Course (approximately 6 hours)
9:00 Depart from Shibusawa Station
↓ Approximately 40 minutes walk
9:40 Arrive at Shinseiко Lake, walk around the shore (approximately 60 minutes)
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10:40 Depart toward Zukkoyama
↓ Approximately 30 minutes walk
11:10 Arrive at Zukkoyama, rest (approximately 20 minutes)
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11:30 Depart toward Kobo Mountain
↓ Approximately 40 minutes walk
12:10 Arrive at Kobo Mountain, lunch (approximately 50 minutes)
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13:00 Begin descent toward Hadano Station
↓ Approximately 60 minutes walk
14:00 Arrive at Hadano Station
↓
14:30 Bathe at Tsurumaki Hot Spring and rest (approximately 90 minutes)
↓
16:00 Depart for home
Photography-Focused Course (approximately 2 hours)
Early Morning 6:00 Arrive at Shinseiко Lake (car travel recommended)
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6:00-7:00 Photography of morning mist
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7:00-8:00 Photography of sunrise and lake surface, take photos at various spots while walking around the lake
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8:00 End photography, go to breakfast
Ecosystem and Natural Environment of Shinseiко Lake
Water Quality and Ecosystem of the Lake
Shinseiко Lake, as a naturally formed dammed lake, has its water quality maintained by water flowing from the surrounding forest. The lake is inhabited by various aquatic plants, insects, and fish, forming a rich ecosystem despite its small size.
Vegetation Around the Lake
In the area surrounding the lake, deciduous broadleaf trees such as Japanese oak, Japanese chestnut, and hornbeam are commonly seen. In spring, wild cherry blossoms, Somei Yoshino, and azaleas bloom; in autumn, maple and Japanese maple trees display beautiful fall colors.
On the forest floor, ferns and wild plants grow, allowing you to observe different plants each season.
As a Birdwatching Spot
Shinseiко Lake is also known as a birdwatching spot. Along the shore and surrounding forests, in addition to water birds such as kingfishers, mallards, and herons, small birds such as Japanese white-eye, great tit, and varied tit can be observed.
Early morning and evening are times when bird activity is particularly active, making them ideal for birdwatching. Bringing binoculars will enhance the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shinseiко Lake
Can You Swim in Shinseiко Lake?
Swimming in Shinseiко Lake is prohibited. For safety management and environmental protection, you cannot enter the lake.
Can You Fish?
Fishing in Shinseiко Lake is also prohibited. For lake ecosystem protection, fishing and catching fish are not allowed.
Can You Bring Pets?
Pets are allowed, but they must always be kept on a leash, and you should be considerate of other visitors. Always take your pet’s waste with you.
Can You Walk With a Wheelchair?
The walking path around the lake has stairs and steep slopes in some sections, making a full circuit in a wheelchair difficult. Short walks on the flat section near the south entrance are possible.
What is the Best Time to Visit?
Spring cherry blossoms (late March to early April) and autumn fall foliage (mid-November to early December) are especially recommended. However, fresh green summer and quiet winter each have their own charm.
Are There Restrooms?
There are no public restrooms around Shinseiко Lake. It is recommended to use the restroom at Shibusawa or Hadano stations before visiting.
Can You Enjoy It on Rainy Days?
On rainy days, the walking path becomes slippery and dangerous. Also, the scenery becomes difficult to see due to fog, so visiting on sunny days is recommended.
How Long Does a Visit Take?
Walking around the lake alone takes about 20-30 minutes. Including photography and rest, allow 1-2 hours; if combining with hiking courses, plan for 3-6 hours.
Conclusion｜Shinseiко Lake is a Precious Natural Heritage Conveying the Memory of the Great Kanto Earthquake
Shinseiко Lake is a dammed lake spanning Hadano City and Nakagai Town in Kanagawa Prefecture, born from the Great Kanto Earthquake, a historic event. The natural formation created by the immense energy of the earthquake continues to tell us about the memory of the disaster and the power of nature, even more than 100 years later.
Protected as a nationally registered monument, this lake possesses multifaceted charm beyond historical value, including beautiful scenery through the four seasons, a rich ecosystem, and a gathering place for citizens. Shinseiко Lake, showing a different expression each season—spring cherry blossoms, summer fresh greenery, autumn fall foliage, and winter silence—is a spot with new discoveries no matter how many times you visit.
With relatively good access from Shibusawa and Hadano stations, it can be enjoyed either as part of a hiking course or simply as a lakeshore walk, offering flexibility that is also appealing. Combined with nearby Kobo Mountain Park and Hadano Togawa Park, you can fully enjoy Hadano’s nature throughout a full day.
As an earthquake disaster heritage site, natural spot, and cultural heritage of the region, Shinseiко Lake speaks volumes to all who visit it. When visiting Kanagawa Prefecture, be sure to make your way to this small lake and experience its history and natural beauty firsthand. The landscape reflected on its quiet surface will surely be deeply engraved in your heart.
