Lake Towada (Towada City, Aomori Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Lake Towada is a caldera lake that straddles southern Aomori Prefecture (Towada City) and northeastern Akita Prefecture. Believed to have been formed by volcanic activity approximately 20,000 to 10,000 years ago, it is characterized by its beautiful, nearly circular lake surface and deep blue color. The surrounding area is at a high altitude, has a cool climate, and is surrounded by lush primeval forests of beech trees and other trees. The lakeside and the nearby Oirase Gorge offer beautiful scenery throughout the seasons, and are particularly popular with tourists from both Japan and abroad during the seasons of fresh greenery and autumn foliage.

It is also culturally important, and the lakeside is home to monuments such as the Maiden Statue, a visitor center introducing the lake's nature and history, and sightseeing boats for lake tours. The contrast between the tranquil lake surface and the virgin forest, and the changing scenery caused by the clear waters of Oirase are the great attractions of the Lake Towada area.

Highlights

• Pleasure boat (lake cruise): A sightseeing boat that connects Yasumiya, Konokuchi, and other locations, allows you to view the surrounding mountains and cliffs from the lake. The duration of the trip depends on the course, but it generally takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
• Maiden statue: A symbol of Lake Towada. Located along the lakeside walking path, it is a popular photo spot.
• Kankodai Observatory: One of the most popular observation points overlooking the entire lake. On clear days, you can see the lake's mirror-like surface.
• A stroll around Yasumiya and Nenokuchi: An area with a lakeside promenade and restaurants and souvenir shops. You can take a break and enjoy local cuisine.
• Oirase Gorge(*Outlet from Lake Towada): The scenery, interwoven with clear mountain streams, large and small waterfalls, moss and huge rocks, is perfect for hiking. The walking trails are well maintained, and are suitable for everything from light strolls to full-scale trekking.
• Towada Lake Onsen and surrounding hot spring inns: Relax and unwind after your trip in the hot springs nestled in the mountains (opening times vary depending on the season and facility).
• Natural beauty in every season: Fresh greenery (late May to June), summer escape (July to August), autumn leaves (early to mid-October), winter (beware of icy conditions, snowy scenery, and winter opening hours of facilities).

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Train + bus (common public transportation route)
  There are no direct JR stations to the Lake Towada area, so the most common way to get there is to first go to a major station heading towards Aomori or Hachinohe (JR Aomori Station, JR Hachinohe Station, etc.) and then take a local or express bus from there. Especially during the tourist season, direct buses (local and express buses/seasonal operations available) to Lake Towada run from Aomori Station and Hachinohe Station. The travel time varies depending on the departure point, but you should expect it to take roughly 1.5 to 2 hours from Aomori City.
• Car (personal car/rental car)
  Access is via the Tohoku Expressway and surrounding national and prefectural roads. The estimated travel time from each direction is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from Aomori City and 1.5 to 2 hours from Hachinohe City. There are parking lots scattered around the lakeside, but they may fill up during the autumn foliage season and on consecutive holidays, so we recommend arriving early.
• Air
  The nearest airports are Aomori Airport and Misawa Airport (please note seasonal flights and routes). From the airport, you can access the area by airport limousine bus, rental car, or train.
• *Bus schedules, seasonal operations, winter road restrictions and road closures change every year, so please check the official information from the bus operating company or local government in advance.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Walking around Lake Towada and Yasumiya: 1-2 hours
• Tour including sightseeing boat: 1-2 hours (depending on the boat and course)
• Easy hiking along the Oirase Gorge (main section): 2 to 4 hours
• If you want to enjoy Lake Towada and Oirase thoroughly: Half a day to a full day on a day trip, or at least one night if you want to take your time sightseeing and visiting the hot springs.

Nearby spots

• Oirase Gorge (Oirase Gorge Museum, Choshi Otaki Falls, etc.)
• Towada Art Center (contemporary art and outdoor sculptures)
• Kankodai and Hakko Pass (viewpoints)
• Towadako Onsen (Nearby accommodations and day-trip hot springs)
• Nearby Satoyama and trekking courses, local roadside stations and farm shops (for purchasing local ingredients)

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• congestion: Golden Week, summer vacation, and autumn foliage season (usually from early to mid-October) are particularly busy. Parking lots may fill up quickly, and sightseeing boats and accommodations may be fully booked, so we recommend planning and booking early.
• Weather/Clothing：Because of the high altitude, the temperature is lower than along the coast. Even in summer, it can get chilly in the mornings and evenings, so please bring a jacket. The weather can change suddenly, so please bring rain gear and cold weather gear.
• Winter precautions: In winter, there may be snow, frozen roads, and some facilities may be closed. If you are planning to visit in winter, please check road conditions and facility opening hours in advance. Chains or studless tires may be required.
• Nature Conservation and MannersPlease observe the rules for nature conservation, such as always taking your trash with you, avoiding fires except in designated areas, and not collecting plants or animals. Please be considerate of local residents and other tourists on walking trails, such as giving priority to pedestrians and keeping noise to a minimum.
• safety: Please follow the fences and warning signs at sightseeing boats, observation decks, and walking trails. Swimming near lakes and using boats without permission is dangerous. When hiking along mountain trails, make a hiking plan (required time and items to bring), and be sure to prepare a cell phone, map, emergency food, etc. in case you get lost or get injured.

Lake Towada is a place where you can experience the majesty of nature up close. Each season has a distinct look, so plan your visit according to the season and enjoy the nature and local culture.