A Mysterious Lake Said to Resemble a Coiled Dragon
The name Bannryuko is associated with the lake’s intricate shoreline. From certain viewpoints, the winding shape of the shoreline resembles a dragon coiled around itself.
The name is said to have been given by the Chinese-style poet Yamaji Chukyo, inspired by the Japanese expression “wadakamaru,” meaning to coil, twist, or remain curled up.
Lake Bannryuko consists of two connected bodies of water: Upper Lake on the western side and Lower Lake on the eastern side. Together, the lakes have a circumference of approximately 4 km and cover around 13 hectares. The maximum depth is approximately 10 meters.
Forests of Japanese black pine surround the lake. The trees reflected on the calm water create beautiful scenery that changes with the seasons.
In spring, fresh green foliage brightens the landscape. Summer brings deep green forests and refreshing lakeside air. Autumn transforms the surroundings with colorful foliage, while winter creates a quiet and atmospheric landscape.
A Lake Created by Natural Forces
Lake Bannryuko is a type of lagoon-like lake formed when windblown sand from the coast accumulated over a long period and blocked the outlet of a valley.
This unusual geological formation makes the lake valuable not only as a scenic attraction but also as a place where visitors can learn about the natural history of the Masuda area.
The lake provides habitat for various freshwater species, including carp, crucian carp, eels, and catfish. Aquatic plants such as water shield and bladderwort can also be found around the water’s edge.
This diverse environment supports a rich ecosystem and makes the lake an interesting destination for nature observation.
Local folklore also includes stories of wealthy landowners and mysterious events associated with the lake, adding an element of legend to its natural beauty.
Enjoy a Lakeside Walk or Boat Ride
One of the best ways to experience Bannryuko is to simply slow down and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Walking paths run around the lake, allowing visitors to stroll along the shoreline while enjoying views of the water, forests, and seasonal scenery.
Rental boats are another popular way to experience the lake. From the water, the surrounding landscape takes on a different character. Moving quietly across the surface while listening to birdsong and the sound of the breeze can be a particularly peaceful experience.
Fishing is also enjoyed by visitors and local residents. The relaxed atmosphere makes Bannryuko suitable for anyone looking to spend time outdoors without a demanding activity.
Rest areas and facilities around the park also provide convenient places to take a break during a walk.
Walking Trails and Seasonal Scenery
Well-maintained walking routes allow visitors to explore the area around both Upper Lake and Lower Lake. The scenery changes not only with the seasons but also with the time of day and weather.
Spring brings fresh greenery and seasonal flowers, while summer offers deep green forests and the refreshing atmosphere of the lakeside.
In autumn, colorful leaves are reflected on the surface of the lake, creating particularly beautiful views. In winter, the surrounding landscape becomes quiet and serene, giving the lake an almost mystical atmosphere.
A leisurely walk through the changing landscape is an easy way to reconnect with nature and enjoy a peaceful break during a trip through Shimane.
A Landscape Shaped by People as Well as Nature
The area around Bannryuko also tells the story of how local communities have worked with the natural environment.
During the Hōei era, from 1704 to 1711, Nagamine Kazauemon of Takatsu Village is said to have completed an underground waterway approximately 200 meters long after many years of effort.
This irrigation project helped supply water to surrounding farmland and contributed to the development of a productive agricultural landscape.
The story illustrates how people in the region adapted to and made use of the natural environment. The present landscape is therefore the result of both natural processes and generations of human activity.
Explore Bannryuko Together with Manyo Park
Near Lake Bannryuko lies Shimane Prefectural Manyo Park, another attractive place to explore the relationship between nature and Japanese culture.
The park includes a Manyo Botanical Garden featuring plants mentioned in the Manyoshu, Japan’s oldest major collection of poetry, as well as open lawns and an outdoor music stage.
Walking among plants associated with ancient poems offers visitors an introduction to the connection between Japanese literature and the natural world.
Masuda is also closely associated with Kakinomoto no Hitomaro, one of Japan’s most celebrated poets of the Manyo period. The park provides a fitting setting for discovering this literary heritage.
From elevated viewpoints in the park, visitors can also observe the area’s sand dune landscape. These views can help explain the natural processes that contributed to the formation of Lake Bannryuko.
Nearby Historic and Scenic Attractions
Several other attractions can be combined with a visit to Bannryuko.
To the east of the park stands Kakinomoto Shrine, dedicated to the famous Manyo-period poet Kakinomoto no Hitomaro. The shrine is traditionally believed to have been founded in 724 and has a long history of worship.
Every year on September 1, the shrine holds its annual Hassaku Festival, which includes traditional rituals such as horseback archery.
Another nearby attraction is Sanrigahama Beach, known for its beautiful white sand. Visiting both Bannryuko and the coast allows travelers to experience two contrasting landscapes: a peaceful inland lake and the open waters of the Sea of Japan.
The viewpoints around Manyo Park also provide opportunities to see the sand dunes that played an important role in the formation of the lake.
A Peaceful Destination Where History and Nature Meet
Bannryuko Prefectural Natural Park is a tranquil destination where a unique lake, lush forests, seasonal scenery, and local history come together.
The lake itself is a fascinating example of how natural forces can shape a landscape. At the same time, the surrounding area preserves stories of irrigation, agriculture, ancient poetry, and local traditions.
Visitors can enjoy the park in many different ways, including lakeside walks, boating, fishing, photography, birdwatching, and nature observation.
For travelers exploring Masuda City, Bannryuko offers a quieter side of Shimane, where the beauty of the landscape can be appreciated at a relaxed pace.
How to Get There
By car: Approximately 12 minutes by car from JR Masuda Station.
By public transportation: From JR Masuda Station, take a bus for approximately 20 minutes. Get off at Bannryuko Iriguchi or at the final stop, Bannryuko. The park is located immediately nearby.