Lake Ikeda

(Source : pixta)

Lake Ikeda is the largest caldera lake on the island of Kyushu with a depth of 233 meters and is located within a 15 km area that was made by volcanic activity. Inside of the lake live giant eels which grow up to 1.8 m long, 60 cm thick and can weigh up to 20 kg and are registered as natural monuments. Various flowers of the seasons are planted around the lake and in January, you can see around 940,000 of the earliest blooming rape blossoms in Japan. The lake is also famous for the local legendary sea monster, Isshi, who is yet to be identified. Near the lakeside is the visitor’s center, Ikeda Paradise, where you can see live giant eels and also the large athletic grounds of Ikeda Park.

(Source: pixta)

Isshi

There is a legend that says the illusory beast, Isshi dwells in Lake Ikeda. At some point in time the creature began to be called Isshi after the world famous Loch Ness monster, Nessie. There have been eyewitness reports but of course hard evidence has yet to be found. Why don’t you come find out for yourself in the creature’s home of Lake Ikeda?

(Source: pixta)

Ikeda Paradise

Ikeda Paradise is a lakeside visitor’s center with a restaurant and souvenir shop. Right in front of the center spread giant flower fields before the lake, so we recommend taking a lunch break amid this beautiful view. Also inside the center are large tanks that hold some of the giant eels that measure up to 2 m long.

(Source: 今日も何処かへ)

Vast Flower Fields

Lake Ikeda has the earliest blossoming rape blossoms in Japan. In a roughly 3,000m2 area, around 940,000 rape blossoms can be seen. In addition to these, other various seasonal flowers can be seen throughout the year such as cosmos, marigolds, and poppies.