Lake Towada — Caldera Lake & Maiden Statues

Lake Towada (十和田湖) is a double-caldera lake straddling the Aomori-Akita border, formed by volcanic eruptions 200,000 years ago. The lake's maximum depth reaches 327 meters, making it Japan's third-deepest lake. Its water is extraordinarily clear (transparency up to 10 meters) and a vivid blue-green color due to minimal sediment inflow and the volcanic basin's mineral composition. The lake is surrounded by primeval beech forest and volcanic peaks, creating a dramatic natural amphitheater.

The lake's most iconic landmark is the Maiden Statue (乙女の像, Otome no Zo) — two bronze female figures standing back-to-back on a peninsula, sculpted by renowned artist Kotaro Takamura in 1953. The statues symbolize the meeting of sky and water, and have become a symbol of Lake Towada. Autumn (late October) is the most popular season, when the surrounding forest erupts in red, orange, and yellow foliage reflected in the lake's still surface.

Lake cruises depart from Yasumiya pier, offering 50-minute circuits past volcanic cliffs, hidden coves, and viewpoints inaccessible by land. The lake straddles Aomori and Akita prefectures, with the northern shore (Aomori side) more developed with hotels and restaurants.