Katanuma Lake Tour
Adventure in Naruko Onsen
Katanuma Lake Tour
Katanuma Lake is a volcanic crater lake located in the hills behind the Naruko Onsen resort area.
Set within the scenic Kurikoma Quasi-National Park, this is a gentle paddling adventure where you can learn about volcanoes and the natural environment.
Tour Season: from 10 May to mid-November
Time: 9:00–12:00 / 13:00–16:00, Saturdays
Eligibility: Year 1 primary school children and older
* Primary school children must be accompanied by a guardian
* Open to all, including complete beginners
Group size: Max 5 people, minimum 2 to operate
* Solo bookings possible (confirmation made the day before)
Includes: Equipment rental (packraft, paddle, life jacket), insurance, English-speaking guide
Meeting Point: Katanuma Car Park（GoogleMaps）
2 or more people: JPY 9,800 14,800
Solo tour: JPY 14,800 24,800
Special Opening Offer – Limited Time Only (Until End of July 2025!)
What to Wear
■ Quick-drying clothes
You will get wet from splashes or paddle drips. Wear synthetic or wool fabrics that dry quickly. Avoid cotton, as it dries slowly and cools the body.
■ Water-friendly footwear
Water shoes or sports sandals that won’t fall off in the water are ideal. Beach sandals are not recommended for safety reasons.
■ Hat
Important for sun protection.
■ Rainwear
Useful not just for rain, but also for wind and cold. Two-piece rain gear is best.
□ Sunglasses
There’s no shade on the water, so these can be helpful.
What to Bring
■ Drinks
At least 500 mL. On hot days, 1 litre is recommended.
■ Warm clothing
Especially useful in spring or autumn. Bring fleece or synthetic insulation layers.
□ Sunscreen
□ Waterproof bag
□ Lunch
■ Change of clothes
■ Towel (for changing)
■ = Required □ = Optional but recommended
About Katanuma
Katanuma is located about 1.5 km south of central Naruko Onsen and lies within a large, indistinct caldera approximately 7 km in diameter.
It is surrounded by a group of lava domes, including Mount Kurumigatake.
The lake is thought to have formed either as a crater lake of the Naruko volcano group, or as a dammed lake formed by lava flows.
Its surface lies at 306 metres above sea level, with a perimeter of 1,380 metres in an elliptical shape.
Volcanic gas vents can be seen on the lakebed and shores.
About Packrafts
Packrafts are lightweight, inflatable kayaks that can be folded compactly and carried in a backpack.
They’re perfect for combining hiking and paddling, and are becoming increasingly popular for “water hiking” and outdoor experiences.
Ideal for calm lakes or gentle rivers, packrafts are beginner-friendly and easy to handle.
Your Guide
SAITO, Osamu (Awesome)
Founder of AwesomeTours / Outdoor Leader
WEA Certified Outdoor Leader
LNT Level 2 インストラクター
WMTC Wilderness First Responder
Outdoor Skills:
JSPA Certified Basic Instructor
JCTA Certified Cycling Guide
RAC Shower Climbing Guide
NCAJ Certified Camping Instructor
Other Qualifications:
Onsen Sommelier Master
GSTC Professional Certificate in Sustainable Tourism
Born in Fukushima and raised in Miyagi, Osamu has travelled to 14 countries, including study in Finland and Thailand. He moved to Naruko in 2018, drawn by its unique caldera landscape.
Awarded the WEAJ Student Award in 2024.
CEO of SomeSpice LLC / Director at Naruko Town Management Ltd / Board member of Naruko Onsen Moritabi Association / Board member of Japan Ecotourism Centre (NPO) / Advisor to Osaki City’s Biomass Industry Urban Plan Committee
AwesomeTours is an eco-tour service run by SomeSpice LLC., based in the hot spring town of Naruko Onsen in Tohoku. We offer guided tours and activities through the volcanic landscapes of Kurikoma Quasi-National Park (including Naruko, Onikobe, and Mount Kurikoma). Activities include hiking, trail running, shower climbing, packrafting, cycling, backcountry cross-country skiing, and camping.
Our mission is rooted in ecotourism—empowering local residents to become guides, engage with visitors, and preserve nature and culture sustainably for the next generation.
Operator
28-3 Kawatabi, Naruko-onsen, Osaki, MIYAGI
Certified by:
Japan Safety Paddling Association, Class B School