Tatenoumi Lake is a small reservoir in Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture, originally constructed in 1923 to provide irrigation water for rice fields. Located at an elevation of approximately 1,250 meters, the lake is surrounded by rich forest and is now part of Tatenoumi Park, a spacious recreational area where visitors can enjoy the changing scenery of the four seasons.
The quiet surface of the lake, surrounding woodland, and fresh highland air create a peaceful atmosphere. Today, the park is a popular place for local residents and visitors to relax, enjoy nature, and spend time outdoors.
Tatenoumi Lake has an unusual connection with the history of Japanese speed skating. Beginning in 1925, the lake was developed as a natural ice-skating rink during the winter months. Its cold climate and high-quality natural ice made it particularly suitable for skating, and the rink became known throughout Japan.
Because numerous Japanese records were set here, Tatenoumi became known as a “record-making rink.” It hosted the skating competitions of the National Sports Festival of Japan in 1949 and 1955, as well as the All-Japan Intercollegiate Skating Championships.
The lake also served as a training site for Olympic athletes, making it an important part of Japan’s skating history. However, as artificial ice rinks became increasingly common, major competitions gradually moved elsewhere. The natural rink was eventually closed in 1976, bringing an end to an important chapter in the history of Tatenoumi.
The present-day Tatenoumi Park was opened in 1996 with the aim of protecting the area’s natural environment while providing opportunities for recreation and environmental learning.
The park includes open grassy areas, walking paths, a forest nature-learning center, and a field athletics course. Families and groups can enjoy the forest and highland environment at their own pace. Fishing is also possible at the lake, making it an appealing destination for visitors who simply want to slow down and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
One of the best places to visit from Tatenoumi Lake is Omiyama Observatory, reached by following a maintained walking trail for approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
From the observation deck, visitors can enjoy expansive views of Lake Suwa and, on clear days, distant mountain ranges including the Japanese Alps. The walk itself is part of the attraction, with seasonal scenery unfolding through the surrounding forest and highland landscape.
The combination of gentle exercise, fresh mountain air, and wide-open views makes this an excellent place to take a break from sightseeing in the Suwa area.
Tatenoumi Lake is approximately 15 minutes by car from JR Kamisuwa Station on the Chuo Main Line. By car, it takes approximately 50 minutes from the Suwa Interchange on the Chuo Expressway.
Its relatively quiet setting makes Tatenoumi a good destination for travelers looking to combine outdoor activities with the history and culture of the Suwa region.
Another highland lake, Izumiko, lies near Tatenoumi at a similar elevation of approximately 1,250 meters. This artificial reservoir is surrounded by forests of Japanese larch, maple, and other trees, creating attractive scenery throughout the year.
The surrounding area has been developed as Izumiko Park, with grassy areas, a waterside recreation area, and a forest designed for walking and nature experiences.
Izumiko Park offers a variety of facilities, including a 36-hole mallet golf course, eight tennis courts, a multipurpose sports field, a canoeing area, a training lodge, and a campground. The park is generally open from April through November, while the campground can be used particularly from May through October.
During summer, the high elevation provides a refreshing escape from the heat. Visitors can enjoy camping, sports, walking, and other outdoor activities in the cool mountain air.
Tatenoumi is more than a quiet mountain lake. Its story stretches from its original role as an irrigation reservoir to its celebrated history as a natural skating rink where Japanese records and sporting memories were created.
Today, the former skating rink has given way to a peaceful park where visitors can reconnect with nature. Walking beside the lake, exploring the surrounding forest, or climbing to Omiyama Observatory offers a completely different experience from the busy sightseeing areas around Lake Suwa.
By combining Tatenoumi with nearby Izumiko, travelers can enjoy a relaxing highland outing filled with forests, lakes, scenic viewpoints, and outdoor activities. It is an especially appealing destination for those who want to discover the quieter natural side of the Suwa and Tateshina area.