Lake Tazawa, in Akita prefecture, is the deepest lake in Japan. Lake Tazawa has a maximum depth of 423 meters deep – with an average depth of over 200 meters. Lake Tazawa and the surrounding area is popular for sightseeing and the visiting of the local hot springs which dot the surrounding mountain ranges. Lake Tazawa is a peaceful destination seldom visited by tourists.
The nearest city to Lake Tazawa is Semboku, which has easy access routes to the lake front.
There is a local legend about the statue which sits along the shore of the southern end of Lake Tazawa. The statue is of a local girl, named Tatsuko. There was a beautiful girl born in the village of Tazawa, as she grew up, her beauty only increased. She began to become weary that her looks would fade, and prayed for 100 nights that her beauty to last forever. She was told by the gods to drink from the waters, telling her that he beauty will last indefinitely should she drink the water. So, not wanting to loose her looks, she hastily drank from the water. After she took a long drink from the water, she looked at her reflection in the water and noticed that she had become a dragon.
It is unclear how Lake Tazawa for formed, but there are a couple of likely theories. One being, that the lake is a volcanic caldera, which is the most likely answer due to it’s depth, and the geography of the area. The second theory, is that the lake is the impact crater from a meteor.
If you’re looking for something extra fun to do, then go ahead and rent yourself a swan boat and take to the waters like a true sailor. It’s a really calming way to see the sights of the lake. From the shore, you can also buy fish food pellets and attract the local dace fish, which are the only species of fish found in the lake.
Many people visit Lake Tazawa as part of a ski trip to the nearby Tazawako Ski Resort which features stunning views of the lake from the slopes.
Accessing Lake Tazawa
Lake Tazawa is a short bus or car ride from the city of Semboku. Tazawako Station is the main train station in the city. There are bus services that run from JR Tazawako Station, to the lake front that take only 15 minutes to reach. From Tazawako Station, take the Nyuto Line, bound for Nyuto-Kaniba Hot Spring, and ride the bus until you reach the lake front. To get to the lake will only cost 350JPY. However, getting to the Statue of Tatsuko, the journey will take 35 minutes and cost 700JPY one way along the Lake Circular Line.
Discover Japan like never before with the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), your ticket to seamless travel across the Japan. Unlock the full potential of Japan’s extensive rail network, renowned for its punctuality, comfort, and convenience.
Discover Japan like never before with the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), your ticket to seamless travel across the Japan. Unlock the full potential of Japan’s extensive rail network, renowned for its punctuality, comfort, and convenience. Read More…
Forget the hassle of purchasing individual tickets for every journey. The JR Pass offers exceptional value for money, available in flexible durations ranging from 7 to 21 days, allowing you to tailor your travel experience to suit your itinerary. Read More…
Accommodation Near Lake Tazawa
Hotel Radish House
Ideal for travelling in groups and planning on skiing and explore Lake Tazawa.
Book Now (Booking.com)Book Now (Agoda)
Tazawako Lake Resort & Onsen
Onsen resort with stunning indoor and outdoor baths, a short distance from Lake Tazawa.
Book Now (Booking.com)Book Now (Agoda)
English