Lake Towada (十和田湖) is a large caldera lake located on the border of Aomori and Akita Prefectures in Japan. It is considered one of the most beautiful and scenic lakes in Japan, attracting visitors who want to experience the region’s natural beauty. It is also the third deepest lake in Japan, with a maximum depth of 327 meters.
The lake is situated in the heart of Towada-Hachimantai National Park, surrounded by lush forests and mountainous terrain. Lake Towada is known for its crystal-clear waters, which reflect the surrounding scenery, creating a stunning visual effect. The lake is characterized by two large peninsulas, Ogura Peninsula and Nakayama Peninsula, and a smaller lake called Naka-no-umi in the center.
Visitors can enjoy various activities at Lake Towada, including hiking, cycling, fishing, and boating. There are several hiking trails around the lake, offering breathtaking views of the water and the surrounding landscape. The lake is also a popular destination for fishing, with several species of fish, including trout and salmon, available for anglers. Pleasure boats also provide a unique perspective of the lake’s beauty from the water.
In addition to its natural beauty, Lake Towada is also known for its unique ecosystem. The lake is home to several endemic species of plants and animals, including marimo, a type of algae that grows in spherical shapes, and the kunimasu, a landlocked subspecies of sockeye salmon found only in the lake. Visitors can also visit Towada Shrine, a spiritual site located by the lake and revered as the shrine of the lake deity.
It’s important to note that during winter, some tourist facilities and activities may be limited due to snow and ice. Boat tours may not operate, and some roads might be closed. Please check the latest information before visiting.
Getting there
By Bus
From Aomori Station or Shin-Aomori Station:
- JR Tohoku Bus “Mizumi-go” to Yasumiya (Towadako bus stop)
- Journey time: About 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes
- Cost: 3,480 yen one-way
- 2-3 departures daily from mid-April to early November
- Service suspended in winter
From Hachinohe Station:
- JR Tohoku Bus “Oirase-go” to Yasumiya (Towadako bus stop)
- Journey time: About 2 hours 15 minutes
- Cost: 3,050 yen one-way
- 2 departures daily
- Operates year-round
- Seat reservations required when departing from Hachinohe
By Train and Bus
From Tokyo:
- Take Hayabusa shinkansen to Hachinohe Station (3 hours)
- Transfer to JR bus to Towadako
By Air
- Fly to Aomori Airport
- Take bus to Aomori Station (35 minutes)
- Transfer to JR bus to Towadako
Towada Visitor Center
| Hours | 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Closed every Wednesday, December 29-January 3 (open every day from late April to late May and from late July to late October). |
| Admission | Free |
| Phone | +81 176-75-1015 |
| Address | 486 Towada, Kohan Kyuya, Okuse, Towada, Aomori 018-5501, Japan |
| Official Website | https://www.env.go.jp/park/towada/guide/towadavc/index.html |
