Lake Towada Travel Guide: Top Things to Do from Cruises to Scenic Trails
Surrounded by forested mountains and fed by crystal-clear springs, Lake Towada is a natural marvel in northern Japan’s Aomori Prefecture. Formed within the caldera of an ancient volcano, this dual-crater lake straddles the border of Aomori and Akita, and is celebrated for its dramatic seasonal beauty—from fiery autumn foliage to snow-blanketed winters. But Lake Towada offers more than just breathtaking scenery—it’s a vibrant hub of hiking, culture, art, and relaxation.
The area has been shaped not only by powerful geological forces but also by a community devoted to preserving nature and fostering creative revitalisation. With highlights like the Towada Art Center, the Oirase Gorge Trail, and tranquil lakeside onsen, visitors can enjoy a journey that’s equal parts serene, stimulating, and unforgettable. Read on to discover all that Lake Towada has to offer!
Take a Scenic Boat Cruise
The best way to take in the grandeur of Lake Towada is from the water itself. Choose from a variety of boating experiences, such as a scenic cruise that showcases the lake’s majestic cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Operating from late April to mid-November, the Lake Towada Pleasure Boat offers routes like the Yasumiya loop, giving passengers panoramic views of lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and the shimmering reflection of Mt. Towada. In autumn, the lakeshore transforms into a vibrant tapestry of gold and crimson—an unforgettable sight best enjoyed from the deck.
Beyond traditional sightseeing cruises, Lake Towada also offers more immersive ways to enjoy its waters. Join a guided canoe tour for a quiet paddle along the shoreline and a chance to explore hidden coves. For a dose of adrenaline, hop on a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) tour and speed past rugged rock formations and secluded inlets. If you prefer flexibility, motorboat rentals are available, complete with set courses for a customizable sightseeing experience.
Whether you’re seeking peaceful reflection or fast-paced adventure, these on-the-water experiences reveal Lake Towada from entirely new perspectives. Note: Boat services are suspended during the winter months.
Walk or Cycle the Oirase Gorge Trail
One of Japan’s most scenic river walks, the Oirase Gorge Trail stretches 14 kilometers from the Nenokuchi area of Lake Towada to Yakeyama. This moss-covered, tree-lined path follows the Oirase Stream, winding through a landscape rich with natural beauty. Along the way, you will pass cascading waterfalls like the iconic Choshi Otaki, cross charming wooden bridges, and find peaceful spots perfect for a picnic. The trail is especially breathtaking in October, when the beech and maple trees burst into brilliant shades of red and gold.
While many visitors enjoy walking the full trail, there are bus stops along the route that allow for shorter, more flexible hikes. For those who prefer to explore on two wheels, bicycle rentals are available at both ends of the trail—an ideal way to cover more ground while still soaking in the sights, sounds, and serenity of the forest.
Explore the Historic Towada Shrine
Tucked away among towering cedar trees, Towada Shrine is a sacred site with over 1,200 years of history. Dedicated to a powerful water deity once both feared and worshipped by ancient mountain ascetics, the shrine exudes a quiet, mystical energy. It was established during a time when Lake Towada was considered a divine body of water, and that sense of reverence still lingers in the air today.
Adding to its spiritual allure is a fascinating fortune-telling ritual once carried out at a hidden spot behind the shrine. In the past, pilgrims would climb down an iron ladder along a cliff to reach a special point on the lake, where they would float a piece of sacred paper known as Oyori-gami. If the paper sank, it was believed that their wish would come true. Although the original site is now closed to the public, the ritual lives on in a symbolic form. Visitors can perform it at Omaega-hama beach, near the Statue of the Maiden, or even recreate it at home—in a bath or sink—using Oyori-gami obtained from the shrine.
Visit Towada Art Center
If you’re looking for a cultural experience that’s refreshingly modern and unexpectedly fun, the Towada Art Center is a must-visit while exploring the Lake Towada region. This one-of-a-kind museum blends bold contemporary art with small-town charm, turning the city into a living gallery where creativity spills out into the streets.
Source: Towada Art Center
Opened in 2008 as part of a city-led revitalization project, the museum has gained international recognition for its forward-thinking design and immersive exhibits. Renowned architect Ryue Nishizawa designed the building to maximize light and space, making the entire structure feel open, inviting, and seamlessly connected to the outdoors.
Inside, you will encounter a range of thought-provoking and often whimsical works—like Erwin Wurm’s “Fat House”, a sculpture that looks like a bloated suburban home, and Yayoi Kusama’s colorful polka-dotted installations, perfect for photo lovers. But what sets this museum apart is how many of its artworks are interactive. You can walk through, under, or even become part of the installations—creating a deeply personal and memorable experience.
Source: Towada Art Center
The art journey doesn’t end at the museum doors. Step outside and you’ll find large-scale sculptures and creative public art scattered across the city center, making every stroll through Towada feel like part of the exhibit.
Relax in a Lakeside Onsen
After a full day of hiking forested trails or cruising across the tranquil waters of Lake Towada, few experiences compare to the deep relaxation of a hot spring bath. In the Yasumiya area near the lake, several traditional inns and guesthouses offer soothing onsen facilities, often just steps from the water’s edge or nestled among peaceful woodland settings.
For those seeking both comfort and authentic Japanese hospitality, Lake Towada Shinzantei is a classic choice. This lakeside inn in Kosaka blends timeless charm with modern amenities, offering natural hot spring baths, seasonal Japanese cuisine, and a small souvenir shop—making it an ideal base for both sightseeing and quiet retreats.
Another excellent option is Hotel Towada-so, located conveniently near the lake. With spacious onsen baths and in-house shops, the hotel provides a comfortable stay with easy access to popular attractions like the Oirase Gorge and the boat cruise pier.
Travellers looking for a simpler, more laid-back stay will appreciate Guest House Shunzanso. This cosy guesthouse offers a warm, home-like atmosphere along with onsen facilities, making it a great choice for those who value quiet comfort and a close connection to nature.
Lake Towada is more than just a pretty postcard—it’s a destination that captures the soul of northern Japan. From its shimmering waters and cascading gorge trails to sacred shrines, bold contemporary art, and soothing hot springs, every element here invites you to slow down, explore deeply, and connect with both nature and creativity. Whether you are seeking adventure, cultural discovery, or quiet reflection, Lake Towada offers a well-rounded experience that feels both grounded in tradition and alive with new energy. Plan your visit, and you’ll soon see why this breathtaking caldera lake remains one of Tohoku’s most captivating treasures.
Don’t forget to check out our other travel guides here for more amazing destinations in Japan!