Lake Towada

青森県

4.4

Tourist Information of This Area

general.prefecture.

A lake where the surface is dyed by the mountains of the four seasons.

Lake Towada, which flows into the Oirase River, has a circumference of about 46km and is famous for its fresh greenery and autumn leaves. Despite being located in the northern highlands, it is sometimes referred to as the "mysterious lake" because it does not freeze even in winter. It is also possible to enjoy fishing, as rainbow trout are raised there.

Features & How to Enjoy

Classic Autumn leavesNature

Highlights

Point 1

Enjoy Walking

The area around Lake Towada is mainly divided into five areas, and you can enjoy walking while seeing various scenery. In autumn, the trees around Lake Towada change color, making it a particularly recommended spot for autumn leaves. In addition, you can enjoy a different atmosphere from the lakeside in the Oku-Inawashiro area, which is covered with deep forests. "Ishigahana Rapids," where you can enjoy a cool view of flowing water, is a popular spot that is often used for commercials.

Point 2

Enjoy the View from a Sightseeing Boat

At Lake Towada, sightseeing boats operate, allowing you to enjoy the view from the lake. There are two boarding locations and two courses available. Both courses take about 50 minutes, and you can see places like Goshiki-iwa and Ebisu-Daikokushima up close. The cost is 1,650 yen for adults and 880 yen for children. Discount coupons are also available for 110 yen off if you print them from the internet and present them. Be sure to get them from the official website before boarding.

Point 3

Enjoy Canoeing

One popular way to experience the nature of Lake Towada is through canoeing. Tours are conducted from spring to autumn, where you can explore the lake with a guide. Not only will you learn how to operate a canoe, but there will also be explanations about the nature and history of Lake Towada, allowing you to enjoy it more deeply. Several tour companies operate in the area, offering group tours, private tours, and even tours where you can bring your beloved dog along.

Point 4

Visit a Power Spot

Located on Mt. Nakayama in Lake Towada, Towada Shrine is said to be the largest "power spot" in the Tohoku region. It is said to have been founded in 807, and the shrine is adorned with intricate carvings that create a solemn atmosphere. Towada Shrine is also famous for its fortune-telling using "Oyori paper." It is said that if you throw the paper into the lake with your wishes, they will come true when the paper sinks to the bottom of the lake.

Point 5

Winter Walks around Lake Towada

Lake Towada is not just a summer destination, but also a recommended spot for nature lovers in winter. Tours and events are held where you can walk around the snow-covered Lake Towada area wearing snowshoes, allowing you to enjoy a different view from summer. In the evening, events are held where ice explosions and icicles are illuminated, creating a romantic atmosphere. Since all tours are guided, even beginners can participate with ease.

Access

Accessible by Bus!

If you're heading to Lake Towada using public transportation, it's common to first head to "Yakeyama" and then aim for "Konokuchi" to do some sightseeing. Yakeyama is about a 2-hour bus ride from Aomori Station and about 1 hour and 40 minutes from Hachinohe Station. From Yakeyama to Konokuchi, it's about a 30-minute bus ride. Since bus schedules are limited, it's recommended to use a car or rental car if you want to efficiently visit various tourist spots.

Parking

Kyuuya Parking Lot is Recommended!

Around Lake Towada, there are various sizes of parking lots scattered about. Among them, the most desirable parking lot is Kyuuya Parking Lot, which is close to the hot spring town, souvenir shops, and restaurants. The parking fee is 200 yen for motorcycles and 500 yen for cars. This parking lot is also used as the main parking lot during events such as fireworks displays. Although there is no manager during the closed period from November to April, parking is still possible.