Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Juniko (Twelve Lakes) is a group of small lakes and marshes in Fukaura Town, Nishitsugaru District, Aomori Prefecture. It is a tourist destination with an attractive natural landscape surrounded by beech forests at the foot of the Shirakami Mountains. The name "Juniko" symbolizes the number, and although there are actually more than 30 ponds, large and small, scattered throughout the area, the name comes from the twelve most representative ponds.
- The "Aoike" pond in particular is known for its deep cobalt blue and emerald green color, and its mysterious beauty as its color changes depending on the light is popular among photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. The surrounding area is a rich ecosystem made up of virgin beech forests, mossy forests, and wetlands, and shows different faces with each season.
– Located close to the Shirakami-Sanchi World Heritage Site, the combination of primeval beech forests and lakes and marshes allows you to enjoy nature walks, forest bathing, and bird watching.
Highlights
– Aoike Pond: The most famous pond among the Juniko Lakes. The clear water and unique blue color are impressive. You can view it up close from the promenade.
- Pond Walking Trail: A leisurely walking route has been established, with boardwalks and promenades that take you around multiple ponds. The charm of this trail is the pleasant feeling of walking through the mossy forest and sunlight filtering through the trees.
– Viewpoints: There are lookouts and vantage points around the area that offer panoramic views of the landscape and forest expanse (steep steps may be required in some places).
- Nature observation and photography: There are many photo and observation spots, such as the changing color of light and water with the seasons, moss, fallen trees, and giant beech trees.
– Juniko Visitor Center (Nearby Facilities): This is a convenient place to gather information on first-time visitors, providing information on the area's natural beauty and sights, walking maps, toilets, parking, and more.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
– Train + Bus/Taxi:
The nearest train station is Fukaura Station on the JR Gono Line. From Fukaura Station, you can take a local bus (seasonal, limited service) or a taxi to get to Lake Juniko. Bus service is limited depending on the season and day of the week, so please check the timetable in advance. By taxi, the journey takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes (depending on road conditions).
– Car:
– Access is convenient by car or rental car. Take National Route 101 or the prefectural road to the local parking lot (near the visitor center). The parking lot may be crowded depending on the season.
- Tour:
– It is sometimes included in sightseeing tours of the Shirakami-Sanchi Mountains and the Gono Line. Joining a tour is an efficient way to get around during times when public transportation is inconvenient.
– Notes:
– Buses operate seasonally and are less frequent, so if you plan to use public transportation, please check the latest timetable in advance. Roads and facilities may be closed or restricted during the winter.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
– Short time (visiting only Aoike Pond): Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour
– Standard (touring the main ponds and using the visitor center): Approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours
– A leisurely stroll, photography, and nature observation: about half a day (3-4 hours)
– If you combine hiking in Shirakami-Sanchi, it will take 1 to several days (varies depending on the itinerary)
Nearby spots
– Shirakami-Sanchi (World Heritage Site): Trekking through the primeval beech forest and observing nature. Many people visit this area together with the Juniko Lakes.
– Views from the Gono Line: A popular local line worldwide. Enjoy the coastline and mountain scenery (the section around Fukaura Town is particularly noteworthy).
- Fukaura Coastline (a scenic spot on the Sea of Japan side): Enjoy a coastal drive with beautiful sunsets and rugged seascapes.
- Nearby hot springs and accommodations: Accommodation is available in Fukaura town and nearby hot spring areas. Please consider staying at these facilities based on your itinerary.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
– Crowding:
– Parking lots and promenades can be crowded during peak seasons (Golden Week, summer vacation, and around October when the autumn leaves change color). Weekends are especially busy, so we recommend arriving early or visiting on a weekday.
- Manners:
- This is a nature conservation area. Please observe basic environmental etiquette, such as staying on the trails, always taking your trash with you, not making loud noises, and not collecting plants or animals.
– Safety:
– Boardwalks and promenades can become slippery when it rains or freezes. Please wear comfortable walking shoes (such as trekking shoes) and do not push yourself too hard in bad weather.
- Insect and cold protection:
- In summer, mosquitoes and black flies appear, so please take insect repellent. It can get cold in the mornings and evenings and at higher altitudes, so please bring something to wear over your clothes.
– Transportation:
– Public transportation is infrequent, so please check bus timetables and taxi service information in advance. In winter, access may be difficult due to icy roads and snow accumulation.
– Conservation considerations:
– The mysterious color of the Blue Pond depends on the water quality and the surrounding environment. Please refrain from entering the water or touching the pond, as this may damage the scenery and natural environment.
(Additional Information) Before visiting: It is a good idea to check the latest information on operation status, facilities, and events at the visitor centers around Juniko Lake, the Fukaura Town Tourist Information Center, and official information for the JR Gono Line and local buses.
