Lake Haruna

Located in the caldera of a long-dormant volcano at an elevation of approximately 1,100 meters, Lake Haruna lies at the foot of the 1,449-meter Mt. Haruna. The mountain served as the inspiration for Mt. Akina in the cult-classic Japanese street racing series Initial D, while Lake Haruna appears in the series as Akina Lake, a recurring backdrop for key character moments and dates.

Explore the area by cycling or driving along the lake’s shoreline, or hike to higher vantage points for panoramic views of Lake Haruna and Mt. Haruna. Horseback riding and camping are available in some areas, but one of the most popular ways to experience the lake is from the water. Small rowboats or paddleboats can be rented to go out into the clear waters and take in the surrounding scenery. For a more relaxed way to circle the lake, sightseeing boats operate regularly and offer an easy way to enjoy the views. In autumn, the mountains around the lake are colored by seasonal foliage in shades of red, orange, and yellow.

Lake Haruna is a well-known destination for anglers, with wakasagi (pond smelt) fishing primarily enjoyed from boats in autumn. Wakasagi are a local specialty and feature prominently on menus at nearby restaurants.