Fukushima Prefecture has introduced that Lake Inawashiro is within the peak season for its naturally occurring ‘spray ice,’ a uncommon phenomenon in Japan. This comes as a particular time for the area, carefully following the lake’s designation as a Ramsar Convention website in July 2025.
The phenomenon, identified regionally as ‘shibuki-gori,’ happens when sturdy winter winds trigger the lake’s waters to freeze on bushes lining its shore. This gorgeous pure incidence isn’t solely a exceptional sight but additionally highlights Lake Inawashiro’s ongoing environmental significance and conservation standing.
Lake Inawashiro spans 10,960 hectares and is Japan’s fourth-largest lake, serving as a necessary habitat for a variety of wildlife. It helps 197 animal species, together with 111 chook varieties, and hosts greater than 100 species of aquatic crops. The shoreline is residence to 705 species of terrestrial crops, underscoring its important position in preserving biodiversity.
The Ramsar Convention registration acknowledges Lake Inawashiro’s essential ecological worth and goals to bolster conservation efforts whereas selling sustainable utilization of the lake’s sources. The lake’s ecosystem helps native livelihoods, offering water for agriculture, energy technology, and driving tourism to the world.
To witness the ‘spray ice’ phenomenon, optimum viewing seasons are January and February, although visibility depends on climate situations. Strategic viewing areas embrace areas round Tenjinhama in Inawashiro Town and Hamajihama in Konanmachi, Koriyama City. Roughly a 15-20 minute bus or automobile journey from JR Inawashiro Station will take guests to those spots. The area affords many lodging and different vacationer sights, offering a full day’s value of nature-based actions.
Visitors planning to see the ‘spray ice’ are suggested to decorate warmly for the tour and guarantee automobiles are geared up with snow tires and chains for security. The announcement underscores each the attract and environmental import of Lake Inawashiro, highlighting efforts to protect this distinctive pure venue underneath worldwide conservation frameworks.