Japan’s natural beauty offers a perfect setting for outdoor activities, and Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) is a growing favorite among locals and tourists alike. From serene lakes with stunning mountain views to crystal-clear coastal waters, there are plenty of options near Tokyo to enjoy a day out on a paddleboard. Here are five of the best locations for SUP near Tokyo, each offering unique landscapes and experiences.
1. Lake Kawaguchi (Yamanashi)
Located in Yamanashi Prefecture, Lake Kawaguchi is one of the famous Fuji Five Lakes and offers a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji. Paddling here on a calm morning, with Mount Fuji reflected on the lake’s surface, is an unforgettable experience and perfect for photography. The lake’s serene environment and gentle waters make it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
Numerous rental facilities around Lake Kawaguchi offer stand-up paddleboards and beginner lessons, allowing first-timers to safely enjoy the lake’s tranquil beauty. The area also has a variety of hot springs, cafes, and viewpoints, making it easy to turn a paddleboarding trip into a full day of exploration. Accessibility from Tokyo via train or bus makes Lake Kawaguchi a convenient day-trip or weekend destination for SUP enthusiasts.
2. Miura Peninsula (Kanagawa)
The Miura Peninsula, located just south of Tokyo in Kanagawa Prefecture, is a coastal region known for its scenic beaches and calm bays, making it a great spot for SUP. The peninsula offers a variety of SUP experiences, from the calmer bays ideal for beginners to sections of coastline with small waves, perfect for those seeking a bit more challenge.
Zushi Beach, one of the popular SUP spots in Miura, has rental shops and several companies offering guided tours. Many tours take paddlers through the area’s rocky coves and offer views of Mount Fuji on clear days. After SUP, you can relax at a local seafood restaurant or explore the nearby Misaki Fish Market. The Miura Peninsula is easily accessible by train from Tokyo and is an ideal destination for a short but fulfilling SUP adventure.
3. Hayama (Kanagawa)
Known for its peaceful beaches and scenic views, Hayama is another excellent SUP location in Kanagawa Prefecture, just a short train ride from Tokyo. The calm, clear waters make it a relaxing spot to enjoy SUP without strong waves or currents. Hayama is especially popular for sunset paddling, as the sun sets beautifully over the water, casting warm colors across the horizon.
Stand-up paddleboarding here offers a chance to explore the coastline with views of Mount Fuji in the distance. Hayama is also famous for Morito Shrine, a picturesque Shinto shrine located along the coastline, which you can view from your paddleboard. Hayama offers rentals, lessons, and a range of beachside cafes and restaurants, making it a charming day-trip option.
4. Lake Aoki (Nagano)
Lake Aoki in Nagano Prefecture is a crystal-clear, mountain-surrounded lake popular among nature enthusiasts. Known for its clarity, Lake Aoki offers paddlers the unique experience of looking straight down to see fish and plant life below. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and mountain views, providing a peaceful and remote feeling, perfect for those looking to escape city life.
SUP tours and rentals are available around the lake, with options for guided eco-tours that explain the unique ecology of the area. For those wanting to extend their visit, nearby campsites and cottages make Lake Aoki a fantastic spot for a weekend getaway. The lake’s calm waters are ideal for paddling, and the mountain reflections create a picturesque environment that feels worlds away from Tokyo’s busy streets.
5. Enoshima (Kanagawa)
Located on the coast of Kanagawa Prefecture, Enoshima is a popular beach destination with a relaxed vibe and views of Mount Fuji. Known for its gentle waves and wide beaches, Enoshima is an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced paddlers. SUP rentals and lessons are available at various beachside shops, and it’s a great place to try your hand at SUP surfing when conditions are right.
Enoshima is also famous for its local culture, including Enoshima Shrine and the vibrant shopping street leading up to it, which features local snacks and souvenirs. After paddling, visitors can relax at one of the area’s many cafes, or explore the island’s viewpoints for some incredible coastal scenery. With its proximity to Tokyo and wide range of activities, Enoshima is a must-visit SUP spot for anyone seeking a blend of ocean adventure and local culture.
Each of these locations offers something special for stand-up paddleboarding enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking serene lake views of Mount Fuji, peaceful mountain lakes, or coastal spots with views of Mount Fuji, the variety of SUP locations around Tokyo makes it easy to find the perfect spot for your paddling adventure.
