Lake Kamo

Four minutes by car from Ryotsu port, or three minute walk from Ryotsuko-Sadokisen bus stop. At 17km in circumference, this is the largest lake in Niigata Prefecture. It was once a freshwater lake, but after an inlet connecting it to the ocean was created to prevent flooding in 1903, it became brackish. There are well-maintained trails and bike paths along the banks to enjoy scenery that has long been the inspiration for waka poetry. It's a popular oyster farming area, and in spring they hold the Lake Kamo Oyster Festival, where you can enjoy all kinds of oyster cuisine.