Reader’s Question: Is the name of the dam lake upstream of the Kuriyama Head Dam Kuriyama Head Lake?
Exploring the Hidden Gem: Kuriyama Head Lake
Okay, let’s talk about one of Japan’s best-kept secrets—the stunning Kuriyama Head Lake. I mean,
I stumbled upon it quite serendipitously during a trip to Hokkaido, and wow, was I blown away! So, is the name of the dam lake upstream of Kuriyama Head Dam actually Kuriyama Head Lake? Spoiler alert: it is! But let me take you through this delightful little adventure of mine.
First off, let’s set the stage. Imagine lush green mountains, crystal-clear waters, and that soothing sound of nature all around. I was in the mood for some serious outdoor exploration, and when I heard about Kuriyama Head Lake, I couldn’t resist. I mean, who wouldn’t want to walk through such picturesque scenery?
The Journey Begins
So, there I was, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, ready to experience the great outdoors. I hopped on a train from Sapporo to the nearby town of Kuriyama. The train ride itself was like a mini-adventure, with charming views of rice fields and snow-capped mountains—an absolute feast for the eyes! Plus, I had some delicious bento box goodies with me, which only added to the experience.
Upon arriving in Kuriyama, I was greeted by a friendly local who was more than happy to point me in the direction of the dam. It was about a 20-minute walk from the station—perfect for stretching those legs! As I strolled through the town, I couldn’t help but notice the quaint architecture and friendly smiles of the residents. It felt like stepping into a postcard.
Meeting the Dam
Now, let’s talk about the Kuriyama Head Dam itself. When I finally laid eyes on it, I was amazed at how impressive it looked, standing tall and proud. This concrete marvel is not just functional; it’s also an integral part of the region’s water management. But let’s be real, what I was really there for was the view! And boy, did it deliver.
Once you step behind the dam, you’re greeted by the breathtaking Kuriyama Head Lake. The water sparkled like diamonds under the sun, and I could feel the fresh mountain air filling my lungs. I almost felt like I was in a movie scene, surrounded by nature’s grandeur. I remember thinking, “How did I not know about this place before?”
Chasing the Perfect View
After a few minutes of just soaking it all in, I decided to explore a bit more. I noticed a hiking trail that wound its way around the lake. Naturally, I had to check it out. The trail wasn’t too difficult, which was perfect for someone like me who had skipped leg day at the gym a few too many times. But hey, no judgment! The journey was more about enjoying the scenery and the little surprises along the way.
As I walked, I encountered several unique spots perfect for taking photos. I mean, can we just take a moment to appreciate how Instagram-ready this place was? I snapped a few selfies, channeling my inner travel influencer. The colors of the lake against the background of the mountains were simply mesmerizing. Even my camera seemed to be in awe!
Unexpected Encounters
And let me tell you about something that surprised me. As I was hiking, I stumbled upon this small family of deer grazing peacefully by the water’s edge. I felt like I was in a nature documentary! Being this close to wildlife was such an unexpected thrill. I quietly watched them for a few moments, grateful for the chance to witness this scene in the wild. It made me realize that moments like these are what travel is truly about.
As I continued my hike, I met several other travelers, each with their own stories and reasons for visiting Kuriyama Head Lake. Some were avid hikers, while others were just there to enjoy a peaceful day in nature. It felt like I had found a little community, all gathered at this magical lake. We exchanged tips about other hidden gems throughout Hokkaido, and, I don’t know, but it felt like we were all in on a little secret that the world hadn’t discovered yet.
A Picnic by the Lake
After all that hiking, I’d worked up quite the appetite. So, I decided to have a little picnic by the lake. I plopped down on the grassy bank, unpacked my bento, and savored every bite. Seriously, if you ever get a chance, try the local salmon! It’s fresh and delicious—just makes you appreciate the region’s natural bounty even more. I also brought along some mochi for dessert, because, let’s face it, you can never have too much food when you’re out in the wild!
As I munched away, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experience. The vibrant colors of the landscape, the sound of the water lapping at the shore, and the gentle rustling of the leaves—it was like nature’s playlist. I closed my eyes for a moment, just absorbing it all. I mean, can you get any better than this? I had definitely fallen in love with Kuriyama Head Lake.
The Journey Home
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, I knew it was time to head back. The way the light danced on the lake was simply magical. I couldn’t resist snapping a few more pictures—okay, maybe a lot! My camera roll was bursting at the seams, but who cares? Each photo was a memory, and I wanted to capture every bit of this enchanting day.
On my way back to the train station, I took a moment to reflect. I realized that it was the little moments—the unexpected deer, the friendly travelers, and the peaceful picnic—that made this day truly special. Sure, the beauty of Kuriyama Head Lake was astonishing, but it was the connections and experiences that brought it all to life.
Final Thoughts
So, to wrap things up, if you ever find yourself in Hokkaido, do not miss out on Kuriyama Head Lake! Yes, it’s truly called Kuriyama Head Lake, and it deserves a spot on your travel itinerary. Whether you’re after adventure, tranquility, or just a place to enjoy some great food with stunning views, this place has it all. I left feeling rejuvenated, inspired, and extremely grateful for the beauty of Japan’s nature.
And honestly, if you find yourself pondering, “Where to next?” just remember that sometimes the best experiences come from the places you least expect. Happy travels, my friends! May your journeys be filled with wonder and discovery, just like mine was at Kuriyama Head Lake.
