Lake Towada (Towadako) is the largest caldera lake on Honshu, Japan's main island. It is characterized by two large peninsulas, which extend nearly a third of the way across the lake. Towadako is a popular autumn colors destination, especially along the Oirase Stream at the lake's eastern shore, one of Japan's most famous spots to see autumn foliage.
Lake Towada is surrounded by a steep, forested caldera rim that rises several hundred meters above the lake's surface. Towadako's shores remain largely undeveloped with the exception of the small town of Yasumiya. Besides serving as a transportation hub, Yasumiya offers a few minor attractions, including the Towada Shrine, a small nature museum, and a statue depicting young Tohoku women, installed to commemorate the area's designation as a national park.
Towada Shrine
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Statue of young women
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The best way to see the lake is by sightseeing boats, which offer close up views of the peninsulas that are otherwise difficult to see. Visitors have the choice between a round course that starts and ends in Yasumiya (operated year round) and a one way boat ride between Yasumiya and Nenokuchi at the mouth of the Oirase Stream (no service in winter). There are 1-2 departures per hour and the rides last about 50 minutes on either route.
Alternatively, a road leads around the lake with several observation decks and panoramic views along the way. A rental car is required to circle the lake entirely, because buses operate only between Yasumiya and Nenokuchi, before running down along the Oirase Stream and then continuing to either Aomori City or Hachinohe.
Ferry cruise
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The lake's northwestern observation deck
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