New Initiative Launched to Connect Shirakawa Lake's Submerged Forest Region with Fans!
A new experiential tourism initiative is launching at Shirakawa Lake's submerged forest, recognized by National Geographic.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: March 31, 2026 at 05:54
- 🔍 Collected: March 30, 2026 at 21:46
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: April 15, 2026 at 10:13 (372h 26m after Collected)
■ World-Recognized Submerged Forest Canoe Tour: New Connections and Discoveries
This spot was featured in "The Best Places to Travel in 2026" announced by the U.S. "National Geographic" in the fall of 2025. The article introduces the guided canoe tour that navigates through willow trees amidst the spring scenery where the lakeside forest is submerged by snowmelt. This year, we aim to convey the charm of the Yamagata region with the hope that this tour will inspire new connections with nature and people.
■ From "Consuming Tourism" to "Co-Creating Tourism"
【2026 New Initiative】"Local Photographer Accompanying Photo Tour" Capturing the Day's Charm
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The submerged forest of Shirakawa Lake, with its ever-changing expressions due to light, fog, and water reflections, is a popular photography spot for enthusiasts.
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For the 2026 season, we will be holding a photo tour led by local photographer Mr. Takumi Abe, who knows the submerged forest inside and out. This special experience will offer opportunities to capture the magical moments of the submerged forest by utilizing the changes in light throughout the day and the unique natural conditions of each day.
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Through interaction with the local photographer who spends their daily life by the shores of Shirakawa Lake, we will co-create new landscapes of the submerged forest.
Launching "Canoeing Holidays": From "Consuming Tourism" to "Co-Creating Tourism"
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Iide Canoe Club is introducing a new concept this year: "Canoeing Holidays." This initiative allows individuals interested in the submerged forest and the operation of the canoe club to become supporters, going beyond just being tourists.
FAQ
What is the "Shirakawa Lake Submerged Forest"?
The Shirakawa Lake Submerged Forest is a natural phenomenon where the lakeside forest is submerged by snowmelt in the spring, creating a unique landscape. It has been recognized internationally, including by National Geographic.
What is the new initiative being launched?
A new initiative is being launched to connect visitors with the Shirakawa Lake Submerged Forest region. This includes a "Local Photographer Accompanying Photo Tour" and the introduction of "Canoeing Holidays," which encourages visitors to become supporters and co-creators of the tourism experience.
What makes the "Local Photographer Accompanying Photo Tour" special?
This tour is led by a local photographer who deeply understands the submerged forest. It offers a unique opportunity to capture the forest's magical moments by leveraging the changing light and daily natural conditions, fostering a connection with the local expert.
What is the concept of "Canoeing Holidays"?
"Canoeing Holidays" is a new concept introduced by Iide Canoe Club that moves beyond traditional tourism. It invites individuals interested in the submerged forest and the club's operations to participate as supporters, fostering a deeper engagement and co-creation of the experience.
Why is the shift from "consuming tourism" to "co-creating tourism" important?
This shift aims to create more meaningful and sustainable tourism experiences. By involving visitors as co-creators and supporters, it fosters a stronger connection with the local environment and community, moving beyond passive observation to active participation.