What to know
Lake Towada (十和田湖, Towadako) is the largest caldera lake on Honshu, Japan's main island. It features two large peninsulas that extend nearly a third of the way across the lake. Towadako is a popular autumn colors destination, along with the Oirase Stream that flows out of the lake on its eastern shore.
The lake is surrounded by a steep, forested caldera rim rising several hundred meters above the water. The shores remain largely undeveloped except for the small town of Yasumiya. Besides being a transportation hub, Yasumiya offers a few minor attractions: Towada Shrine, a small nature museum, and a statue of young Tohoku women commemorating the area's designation as a national park.
The best way to see the lake is by sightseeing boat, which provides close-up views of the peninsulas that are otherwise hard to reach. Boats operate on two routes: a circular course starting and ending at Yasumiya, and a route between Yasumiya and Nenokuchi. Both cruises take about 50 minutes and do not run in winter.
Alternatively, a road circles the lake with several observation decks and panoramic views. A rental car is needed to complete the full loop, as buses only run between Yasumiya and Nenokuchi, then continue down along the Oirase Stream to either Aomori or Hachinohe.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- Circular route:
- Closed
- Mid November to late April
- Admission
- 1760 yen (~$11.26) per ride (additional 550 yen (~$3.52) for first class seats)
- English name
- Original name
- Lake Towada (Towadako)
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.