Lake Jūniko: A Mystical Lakeside Escape

4.3 (517)

Discover the serene beauty of Lake Jūniko: Hike through pristine forests and witness the enchanting blue waters of Aoike Pond.

Home
Japan
Tohoku
Lake Jūniko

Lake Jūniko, or the Twelve Lakes, is a collection of 33 lakes and ponds nestled in the Shirakami Mountains of Aomori Prefecture, Japan. Formed in 1704 by an earthquake-induced landslide, the area offers stunning natural beauty, hiking trails, and the mystifyingly blue Aoike Pond.

A brief summary to Lake Jūniko

Matsugami, Fukaura, Matsugami, Nishitsugaru District, Aomori, 038-2206, JP
Click to display
Click to display

Local tips

Visit Aoike Pond in the afternoon when the sun is directly overhead for the most vibrant blue color.
Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the trails around the lakes, as some paths can be uneven.
Stop by the Juniko Visitor Center at Juniko Station for maps, brochures, and information about the area.
Consider visiting during the spring or summer for the best weather and lush green scenery.
Pack snacks and water, especially if you plan on hiking for several hours.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Shirakami Sanchi Visitor Center

Discovering the Wonders of Shirakami Sanchi Visitor Center

Tsuru no Maihashi Bridge

Tsuru no Maihashi Bridge: A Scenic Marvel in Aomori

Hirosaki Castle

Hirosaki Castle: A Symbol of Aomori's History and Beauty

Getting There

Public Transport

From JR Juniko Station, take the Konan Bus bound for Oku-Juniko. Get off at the Oku-Juniko-Chushajo (奥十二湖駐車場) bus stop, which is about a 15-minute bus ride. From there, it's a short walk to the lakes. Konan Bus operates a limited number of buses per day, so check the schedule in advance. A one-way bus fare is approximately ¥380.
Walking

From Juniko Station, it is possible to walk to the Juniko Lakes area. Head out of the station and turn right, walking along the road. After about 150 meters, take the road that leads up and away from the train line. The walk to the first lake takes approximately 30 minutes. Be aware that it is uphill, but the road is generally quiet. There are also coin lockers available at Juniko Station to store luggage.
Driving

If driving, follow Route 101 along the Akita and Aomori coastline. From Juniko Station, it's about a 10-minute drive to the Juniko Lakes area. Paid parking is available at Mori-no-Bussankan Kyororo, a souvenir store and rest area. The parking fee is ¥500. From the parking area, Aoike Pond and Wakitsubo Pond are easily accessible on foot.

Discover more about Lake Jūniko

Lake Jūniko, part of the Tsugaru Quasi-National Park and bordering the Shirakami-Sanchi UNESCO World Heritage site, is a captivating destination for nature lovers. Despite its name, meaning 'Twelve Lakes,' Jūniko actually comprises 33 lakes and ponds scattered across a 4 square kilometer plateau. The name originates from the fact that only twelve lakes are visible from the summit of Mount Okuzure. The lakes were formed in 1704 when a major earthquake caused a landslide that blocked mountain streams. Today, the area is known for its pristine waters, ancient beech forests, and diverse wildlife. Hiking trails wind around the lakes, offering breathtaking views and a chance to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the forest. Aoike Pond, or Blue Pond, is the most famous of the lakes, renowned for its mesmerizing cobalt blue color. The water is so clear that you can see fallen beech trees submerged at the bottom, even at a depth of 9 meters. The reason for its unique color remains a mystery, adding to its allure. Other notable lakes include Wakitsubo Pond, known for its clear blue water, and Ketoba Pond. Visitors can explore the area year-round, with each season offering a unique perspective. Spring and summer bring lush greenery, while autumn transforms the forests into vibrant hues of red and gold. In winter, the area is covered in snow, offering opportunities for snowshoeing. The Juniko Visitor Center, located at Juniko Station, provides information about the area's geography, flora, and fauna.