Shirakami-Sanchi Blue Lake and Wakitsubo (Aomori Prefecture)

Japan

A short walk to a stunning lake located in the middle of one of Japan's few surviving primervial forests (is also a World Heritage Site).

Bird Watching
Heritage Sites
Toilets

Getting there:

There is a bus that runs from Hirosaki station to Shirakami-sanchi but it is very infrequent. There is also an infrequently running trainline that goes directly along the coastline (is stunning) but train staiton is a bit out of the way in connection to the site. A car is recommended so that you can drive along the coastline and not have to worry about bus/train connections. Park at the omiyage shop called Kyororo, there is a large paid carpark that will give you access.  

 


Route/Trail notes:

At the back of the carpark, you will see a disused road. This will take you along a big lake, heading towards the blue lake. Flat path with no difficulty.

From blue lake, go up to the stairs and look for signs pointing towards Takitsubo滝壺, I personally think that this is the more beautiful lake despite the blue lake getting all the fame. A walk past this lake will take you on a nice loop back to the car park.


Shirakami-sanchi is massive and there are a lot of options to explore branching paths and heading up mountains. Just be prepared for bears as there is apparently a heck of a lot swarmin' the place.


Permits/Costs:

Carpark fees


GPS Tracks

  • No GPS available for this walk yet.

Comments

Absolutely stunning. Can't wait to come back.

Andy on 28 Aug, 2026

Where

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Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Terrain: © Geoscience Australia.

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