Experience Smallmouth Bass Fishing at Lake Nojiri. A Highland Escape in Nagano

Lake Nojiri is one of Nagano Prefecture's most beloved highland lakes, nestled in the cool mountains of northern Nagano. Crystal-clear waters, a thriving smallmouth bass fishery, and a refreshing alpine climate make it one of Japan's finest fishing escapes, and a favorite summer retreat for generations.

What makes Lake Nojiri special is where it sits. Perfectly positioned along the route between Tokyo and Kanazawa, it's a natural stop on any Hokuriku Shinkansen journey. Hop off at Iiyama Station, and we'll pick you up. Add a world-class fishing adventure to your travels without adding complexity.

Beyond the fishing, the area offers easy access to Nozawa Onsen (one of Japan's most beloved hot spring villages and a favorite among international visitors), and the wide-open highland scenery that defines the best of rural Nagano.

About Lake Nojiri

Lake Nojiri is a pristine highland lake in northern Nagano Prefecture, covering approximately 4.0 square kilometers at an elevation of about 654 meters (2,146 feet). Known for its exceptional water clarity and cool mountain climate, it has long been treasured as one of Japan's finest summer retreats.

The lake is home to a thriving smallmouth bass population, a species prized by anglers for its explosive fighting spirit and technical challenge. Lake Nojiri's clean, cold, oxygen-rich waters produce strong, hard-fighting fish year-round, making it one of the top smallmouth bass fisheries in Japan.

Ideally located along the Hokuriku Shinkansen corridor, Lake Nojiri is easy to incorporate into a journey between Tokyo and Kanazawa. Complimentary pickup is available from Iiyama Station, Kurohime Station, or hotels near the lake. We'll take care of the rest.

Illustrated map of Lake Nojiri showing the lake shape and surrounding forested hills

Premier Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Japan

Lake Nojiri is widely regarded as one of Japan's finest smallmouth bass fisheries. The lake's cold, clear, oxygen-rich waters, fed by mountain streams and underground springs, produce strong, hard-fighting fish that will test any angler's skill.

Smallmouth bass are prized for their explosive strikes, powerful runs, and relentless aerial acrobatics. Every fish is a fight worth having.

With varied structure including rocky points, submerged timber, weed edges, and deep drop-offs, Lake Nojiri rewards a wide range of techniques. Whether you're a seasoned tournament angler or picking up a rod for the first time, your guide will put you on fish.

Smallmouth bass swimming underwater among rocks and aquatic vegetation at Lake Nojiri

A Highland Escape Unlike Any Other

Lake Nojiri's calm, clear waters are surrounded by lush mountain forests, a landscape of quiet beauty that shifts with every season. In summer, it's one of Nagano's premier highland resorts, offering a cool, refreshing escape from the heat of the city. In autumn, the surrounding hills turn vivid shades of red and gold.

Whether you're here for the fishing or simply to breathe clean mountain air and slow down, Lake Nojiri offers the kind of stillness that's increasingly hard to find.

Lake Nojiri's calm waters reflecting autumn-tinged mountain forests, Nagano

The Perfect Add-On to Your Tokyo–Kanazawa Journey

Lake Nojiri sits directly along the Hokuriku Shinkansen line, making it one of the most convenient fishing destinations to weave into a Japan itinerary. Traveling between Tokyo and Kanazawa? Simply step off at Iiyama Station or Kurohime Station. We offer complimentary pickup from both stations, as well as from hotels near the lake.

Spend a full day on the water, then continue your journey refreshed. It's the kind of stop that turns a transit point into the highlight of the trip.

See access details →

Hokuriku Shinkansen at a station platform with cherry blossoms and mountains in the background

Gateway to Nozawa Onsen

Just a short drive from Lake Nojiri lies Nozawa Onsen, one of Japan's most authentic and internationally celebrated hot spring villages. Famous for its free-flowing public baths (sotoyu), traditional streetscapes, and warm community atmosphere, Nozawa Onsen is a favorite among visitors from around the world.

After a day on the water, soak away the day in centuries-old thermal waters and discover a corner of Japan that rewards those who venture off the beaten path.

Nozawa Onsen traditional hot spring village with wooden buildings and autumn mountains, Nagano

Meet Your Guide

Yuki Kiyohama

MLF Japan Pro · Former JB TOP50 Angler · JB Masters AOY

Your day on Lake Nojiri is guided by Yuki Kiyohama, a professional angler who now competes in MLF Japan. He earned his place on the JB TOP50, Japan's highest-level bass tournament circuit, and as a former JB Masters Angler of the Year (AOY) he brings a championship-level understanding of seasonal patterns, structure, and smallmouth behavior to every trip.

Whether you're chasing your first smallmouth or refining tournament-grade technique, you'll be fishing alongside one of Japan's top professionals, with the knowledge and presentation skills to put you on fish.

From complete beginners to advanced anglers, every trip is tailored to your skill level, so guests of all experience levels can enjoy the day on the water.

Guide Plans & Pricing

Hassle-Free Fishing Plan

The full Lake Nojiri experience, from the shinkansen to the water.

Complimentary pickup from Iiyama Station, Kurohime Station, or hotels near Lake Nojiri included.

The Hassle-Free Fishing Plan is designed for guests who want the complete experience. Comfort, convenience, and top-tier professional guiding, all in one. From pickup at Iiyama Station, Kurohime Station, or your accommodation to drop-off at the end of the day, every detail is handled for you.

What's Included

Complimentary pickup from Iiyama Station, Kurohime Station, or nearby accommodations
Fishing license
Rental tackle (free of charge)
Life jacket provided

Duration	1 Guest	2 Guests	3 Guests
Full day	¥60,000	¥70,000	¥80,000

Important Information

Safety is the top priority, and plans may change depending on weather and lake conditions. The fee covers guide service only. Meals and personal expenses are not included. Meeting location and preparation details will be confirmed after booking.

FAQ

Do you have rental tackle?

Yes, we provide rental tackle free of charge.

What do I need to bring?

We suggest bringing a cap, polarized sunglasses, sunblock, and waterproof clothing if available. Lake Nojiri's highland climate can be surprisingly cool, even in summer, so layering is recommended. Feel free to bring snacks or beverages for the day. You're also welcome to bring your own rods, reels, and any tackle you prefer.

Do I need a fishing license?

Yes, a fishing permit (yugyoken) is required to fish at Lake Nojiri. We handle all arrangements on your behalf. The fee is included in your trip details. No need to worry about it.

Do you have a pickup service?

Yes. Complimentary pickup is available from Iiyama Station or Kurohime Station (both on the Hokuriku Shinkansen line), as well as from hotels near Lake Nojiri. Please let us know your location and arrival details at the time of booking.

How do I make a reservation?

Reservations can be made through the inquiry form below. Please include your preferred date and number of guests. We will respond promptly, exchange a few emails to confirm the details, and send a reservation confirmation. If you do not receive a confirmation, please follow up via WhatsApp.

How many people can board the boat?

The maximum capacity of a bass boat is typically four passengers, including the guide. For larger groups, please contact us to arrange multiple boats.

Can you recommend accommodations?

Yes. Please mention it in your inquiry and we'll be happy to suggest options near the lake or in nearby Nozawa Onsen.

How do I get to Lake Nojiri?

Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Iiyama Station or Kurohime Station. We offer complimentary pickup from both stations. If you're already staying near Lake Nojiri, we can arrange pickup from your hotel as well. Iiyama Station is conveniently located between Tokyo and Kanazawa, making Lake Nojiri an easy and rewarding stop on your journey.

Inquiries & Reservation

Sometimes emails may not be delivered, so if there is no reply, please send a message on WhatsApp.
WhatsApp: +81 90-8336-0238
We often encounter issues sending replies to @icloud.com addresses, so if you have another email address, please use that instead.

The Premier Lake Nojiri Fishing Experience

Bass Fishing in the Cool Highlands of Nagano. A Natural Stop Between Tokyo and Kanazawa