The combination of RVs and SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) is the ultimate pairing for outdoor enthusiasts. The high degree of freedom to relax in your RV immediately after enjoying SUP on beautiful lakes and seas offers irreplaceable charm. This time, we introduce 5 recommended spots for SUP enjoyment in the Kinki and Chugoku regions, centered around Lake Biwa and the Seto Inland Sea, along with explanations of parking locations, nearby attractions, essential equipment, etiquette, and precautions. Please use this information for planning your RV travels from April onwards when it gets warmer!
The Charm of SUP and RV: Special Experience Enjoying Freedom and Nature
The greatest appeal of enjoying SUP with an RV is the possibility of free movement and accommodation. Since you can change clothes and store equipment inside the vehicle, troublesome preparations are reduced. Additionally, the sensation of becoming one with nature on lakes and seas through SUP is stress-free time itself. SUP in the quietness of early morning or twilight provides special moments of healing.
Furthermore, RVs allow cooking and napping on-site, making it easier to heal fatigue after activities, which is a major advantage. This combination is especially recommended for a wide range of people, including families with pets and retired couples’ travels.
5 Recommended Spots for Enjoying SUP in Kinki and Chugoku Regions
1. Lake Biwa (Shiga Prefecture)
Lake Biwa is Japan’s largest lake with abundant spots enjoyable from SUP beginners to advanced practitioners. Particularly recommended is the “Shirahige Beach” area. With calm waves and high transparency, it’s ideal for SUP debuts.
- Parking Location: Parking lots near Shirahige Beach (free and paid options available)
- Nearby Attractions: Shirahige Shrine (spectacular views of the torii gate from the lake are magnificent)
2. Wakasa Bay (Fukui Prefecture)
Wakasa Bay with its beautiful ria coastline offers the appeal of exploring intricate coastlines by SUP. In highly transparent seas, combination with kayak fishing is also recommended.
- Parking Location: Free parking lots around Takahama Town
- Nearby Attractions: Mount Aoba (enjoyable combined with trekking)
3. Seto Inland Sea (Hyogo Prefecture, Awaji Island)
The Seto Inland Sea with calm waves optimal for SUP is popular in Awaji Island’s west coast area. Along beautiful sunset coastlines, SUP yoga is also enjoyable.
- Parking Location: Sunset Park parking lot in Awaji City (paid)
- Nearby Attractions: Awaji Highway Oasis (where you can enjoy local ingredients)
4. Tomonoura (Hiroshima Prefecture)
In Tomonoura with its charming old townscape and highly transparent seas, you can enjoy SUP while viewing atmospheric scenery. This spot is also recommended for history enthusiasts.
- Parking Location: Paid parking lots around Tomo Port
- Nearby Attractions: “Sensui Island” from Urashima Taro legend
5. Lake Shinji (Shimane Prefecture)
At Lake Shinji, selected as one of Japan’s 100 best sunsets, you can enjoy beautiful sunsets reflected on the lake surface by SUP. With few waves, it provides a beginner-friendly environment.
- Parking Location: Free parking lots around Matsue City
- Nearby Attractions: Matsue Castle (enjoyable combined with historical exploration)
Equipment and Etiquette Needed for SUP: Safe Preparation for First-timers
Equipment to Prepare
- SUP board (inflatable type is convenient for transport)
- Paddle
- Life jacket (essential)
- Wetsuit or rash guard
- Leash cord (connects board and body)
- Waterproof bag (for smartphones and valuables)
With RVs, equipment can be stored directly, making preparation and cleanup smooth. Additionally, preparing portable showers eliminates concerns about dirt on the return journey.
Etiquette and Precautions
- Maintain distance from other water users (consideration for fishing boats and canoes)
- Protect natural environments of lakes and seas (always take trash home)
- Check weather conditions and don’t push on windy days
- Beginners should use rental shops or tours
Recommended Seasons for Enjoying RV and SUP
For SUP enjoyment in Kinki and Chugoku regions, mild climate periods like spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November) are optimal. Summer offers comfortable water temperatures but don’t forget UV protection. Early morning and twilight times are especially recommended as they tend to have fewer people and calmer winds.
Winter SUP is possible with dry suits, but utilize RV heating systems for comfortable stays.
Conclusion: Special Journeys with SUP and RV
The combination of RVs and SUP provides luxurious outdoor experiences that maximize enjoyment of freedom and nature. The Kinki and Chugoku regions have abundant spots enjoyable from beginners to advanced practitioners, guaranteed to create the best memories with family, friends, and pets.
Please use this article as reference and head out on an RV SUP journey next weekend. New adventures and discoveries are surely waiting for you!
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