Lake Towada and Oirase Stream

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Facts & Figures

Lake Towada is the central point of the Towada-Hachimantai National Park within the Aomori Prefecture. The largest crater lake (with two peninsulas) on the main island Honshu is 327m deep, has a circumference of 52km and covers an area of 61.1 square kilometre. Lake Towada is ranked as the 12th largest lake in Japan and is very famous for its deep blue color. The whole area around the lake is a very popular destination for hiking, camping, water sports and a must-see especially during the Indian Summer (autumn season) of Northern Japan. A great way to explore the lake is by the excursion boat from Yasumiya. The only river draining Lake Towada is called Oirase-gawa. Along the river/hiking paradise you will find 30 waterfalls.

• Cruise ship from Yasumiya to Nenokuchi:
• Boarding time - 8:00 am to 4:00 pm / start every hour - April till early November
• Ticket price - one way 1400 yen

• Towada Visitor Center:
• Opening Hours - (April - November) 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
• Opening Hours - (December - March) 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
• Closed - December 29th – January 3rd
• Admission Fee - free

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History

Lake Towada is located within a huge double caldera. The caldera was created by large volcanic eruptions app. 55,000, 25,000 and 13,000 years ago. In 1936 the Towada National Park was founded to protect the lake and the surrounding nature.

Sightseeing spots

Top:

Oirase-gawa - great hiking path along the Oirase Stream

Cruise ship in Yasumiya - go onboard and enjoy the scenery of Lake Towada

Otome-no-Zo - The 2.1 m high - Maidens by the Lake - statue by sculptor and poet Kotaro Takamura was donated in 1953 for the 15th anniversary of the Lake Towada Park’s designation as a National Park.

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

February

Lake Towada Snow Festival (beginning of February)
Great festival with fireworks, exploring Japanese igloos and a snow maze, good food and much more.

July

Lake Towada Summer Festival (13th till 15th)
Celebrating the arrival of the summer is always a good idea. Enjoy the fireworks, sound of drums and great illuminations at night.