Highly recommend taking the trail from Kumano Peak to get a distant view of Okama Crater Lake. It takes about an hour, so make sure to wear proper clothes and shoes.
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Okama Crater Lake (Goshiki Lake)
Surrounded by mountains, this mystical lake's waters shift in shades from deep green to blue and emerald green.
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Lake Gokako, situated at the highest elevation within the Zao mountain range, is a volcanic crater lake. Enclosed by three peaks – Kattadake, Kumano Peak, and Goshikidake – this lake spans a diameter of 325 meters and has a circumference of about 1 km. Due to varying factors such as season, time of day, weather, and temperature, the lake's water changes in colors, ranging from deep green, blue, to emerald green. This has earned it the moniker " Goshiki Lake (Five-Colored Lake)." The serene shimmer of the lake's surface contrasts sharply with the rugged volcanic walls, creating a profound sense of natural beauty.
Due to its location amid the 1,600-meter-tall mountains of the Zao Range, the area experiences abrupt temperature and weather changes. Even in summer, visitors are advised to bring warm clothing and rain gear, as weather can be unpredictable. The "Zao Mountain Summit Rest House" overlooks the lake, providing visitors with a panoramic view, dining options, and a souvenir shop.
A short 10-minute walk from Okama Crater Lake will lead you to the summit of Kattadake, where you can pay a visit to the sacred 'Kattarei Shrine Okumiya,' where the deity Zao Gongen is enshrined. Recognized as a power spot, many are drawn here to experience the energy emanating from the earth. Additionally, Zao is famous for its hot springs, making it a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate after a trek.
Highlights
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Surrounded by three peaks: Kattadake, Kumano-dake, and Goshikidake.
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Known as the "Five-Colored Lake" due to its ever-changing hues.
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The serene reflections of the lake contrast sharply with the rugged crater walls, highlighting nature's beauty.
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The "Zao Mountain Summit Rest House" offers views, food, and souvenirs.
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Kattadake's summit and the sacred 'Kattamine Shrine Okumiya' are just a short walk away.
Photos
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Summer at Okama Crater Lake
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Okama Crater Lake in spring with remnants of snow
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Zao Rest House
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Are there coin lockers available?
A
Yes, they are located at the Zao Summit Rest House.
Q
Is there a restroom nearby?
A
Yes, at the Zao Summit Rest House.
Reviews
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The view here changes so much depending on where you look! It really draws in travelers who visit.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 御釜（五色湖）
- Address
- Inside Zao Quasi-National Park, Miyagi
- Telephone
- 0224-34-2725（Zao Town Tourist Information Center）
- Open period
- Late April to Early November（Closed for winter）
- Business Hours
- 8:00am - 4:00pm
- Access
- About 1 hour by car from the Tohoku Expressway Murata IC or Shiroishi IC.
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)