Easy Japanese news in translation: ‘Submerged forest’ appears in lake in Yamagata Prefecture

(Mainichi/Kan Takeuchi)

A “submerged forest,” which appears only during spring, is now at its best in Lake Shirakawa in the town of Iide, Yamagata Prefecture. When a large amount of melted snow flows into the lake, the willow forests are submerged in water, making it look like the trees are growing out of the water. The site has become popular because of social media. The scenery is otherworldly, and tourists enjoy canoeing and other activities at the lake.

Japanese original

(Mainichi Shogakusei Shimbun)

Easy Japanese news is taken from the Mainichi Shogakusei Shimbun, a newspaper for children. This is perfect material for anyone studying Japanese who has learned hiragana and katakana. We encourage beginners to read the article in English followed by Japanese, or vice versa, to test their comprehension.

A fresh set will be published every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 4 p.m., Japan time. Click/tap here for past installments.

Intermediate learners who do not need English assistance can directly access the Mainichi Shogakusei Shimbun site here. Furigana (hiragana) is added to all kanji in the text.