The lake was created in 1946 by damming the Kurumayama-gawa river to support local agriculture.
Its original name was 'Tateshina Oike' before being renamed after the white birch trees that populate the region.
The lake maintains a depth of approximately 10 to 12 meters in its deepest sections.
It is a popular location for 'resort-style' tourism, integrating hot spring baths with active outdoor sports.
The water temperature in mid-summer is significantly cooler than the surrounding lowlands due to the high altitude.
Lake Shirakaba is a man-made reservoir located at an elevation of 1,416 meters in the Tateshina Highlands. Originally constructed for agricultural irrigation, the lake serves as a central hub for outdoor recreation in the Nagano Prefecture. The perimeter features paved paths designed for cycling and walking, offering views of the surrounding Yatsugatake Mountains. Visitors can access various water-based activities including pedal boats and canoeing during the warmer months. The area surrounding the lake is developed with multiple resort hotels, theme parks, and museums. It is situated on the border of Chino City and Tateshina, functioning as a gateway to the Kirigamine Plateau. The lake surface is known to freeze partially during the peak of the winter season.
The wooden piers near the southern edge provide an unobstructed view of the water with Mount Kuruma in the background.
Bring a windbreaker or light jacket, as the altitude causes rapid temperature drops in the evening.
Rent bicycles from local shops at the lakefront to traverse the entire 3.8-kilometer loop efficiently.
Check local weather forecasts specifically for the Tateshina Highlands, as they often differ from the Chino city center.
Do not attempt to swim in the lake, as it is primarily managed for water sports and irrigation and lacks lifeguard-monitored swimming zones.
Water sports and boat rentals are generally suspended from late autumn through mid-spring due to freezing temperatures.
Maintain noise levels near residential hotel zones; do not leave litter on the lakeside paths.
