June 18, 2006 Day 11: Tazawako
Located just south of Towada-Hachimantai National Park, Lake Tazawa, Tawazawako, is a scenic caldera lake that has not been overly developed and retains a natural and rustic atmosphere. The lake is often visited in conjunction with nearby sites like Nyuto Onsen, Mount Akita-Komagatake, or Kakunodate, which also offer rustic scenes that are typical of the Tohoku Region.
Tazawako has much in common with Lake Towada, another popular lake in the area that lends its name to the Towada-Hachimantai National Park. While Lake Towada is the largest caldera lake in the country, Lake Tazawa is Japan’s deepest lake with a depth of 423 meters. Both lakes offer similar scenery and water related activities like pleasure boat rides.
The majority of the lake’s waterside remains undeveloped. At the lake’s eastern end, surrounding the bus stop area, visitors will find a few shops, restaurants, rental bicycles and the sightseeing boat pier. If you have the time, the best way to see the sights is by cycling the 20 kilometers around the lake. Popular spots are spread out along the route, and you will be able to stop and explore at your leisure.