Okama Crater Lake (Goshiki Lake) | Review by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人

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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.

27 Sep 2026 See More

Getting the chance to see Zao's iconic Okama Crater in person is definitely a journey that requires a bit of luck. Even when the sky is perfectly clear at the foot of the mountain, the weather on the way up can often change in an instant, with clouds and fog rolling in. I was very lucky to have good weather during my summer visit and immediately saw the dazzling blue-green crater lake, shining like a jewel, with patches of unmelted white snow dotting the slopes. It's hard to imagine the impact of nature's extraordinary power in creating such a unique and magnificent landscape without seeing it for yourself.

After arriving at Okama Crater, you can easily get closer for a view by following the gentle walking path. If you want a full view of the entire crater and the magnificent surrounding mountains, I definitely recommend climbing up to the shrine at the top, where the highest point offers an excellent panoramic view. Standing quietly and gazing at this emerald-green lake, formed by a volcanic eruption tens of millions of years ago, I was filled with emotion and awe. It's definitely a dreamlike spot you must visit when traveling in Tohoku.

Other Reviews by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人

Tanya Zenjiro Sendai Ekimae-Honten

It is about a 2-minute walk from JR Sendai Station. The main restaurant of "Tanya Zenjiro," a long-established restaurant which, after years of trial and error, has come to the conclusion that the most delicious beef tongue is grilled with salt, offers the traditional Sendai beef tongue grilled by hand.
- Sendai
- Japanese Cuisine
27 Sep 2026 See More

When visiting Sendai, you absolutely can’t miss its most iconic classic dish: beef tongue. I did plenty of research before the trip, and my first stop was the conveniently located Tanya Zenjiro Sendai Ekimae-Honten. Since it was very close to where I was staying, after taking a number, I could use the extensive network of elevated walkways to browse the nearby department stores while I waited. It was a very convenient way to combine shopping and dining.

The moment I stepped inside, the aroma of charcoal immediately whetted my appetite. In the semi-open kitchen, the chefs energetically grilled various cuts of meat. I ordered their signature classic thick-cut beef tongue with fragrant, pleasantly chewy Japanese white rice. With just simple salt seasoning, the smoky char and savory sweetness of the meat juices were perfectly sealed in. The springy, juicy texture was unforgettable. To this day, that beef tongue dinner in Sendai still holds the top spot in my heart.
Higashine Tourism Orchard

Higashine City produces abundant fruits such as cherries and apples. Cherries are their top produce at 3,600 tons a year, greater than any other city in Japan. The main cherry species, Sato Nishiki, was created in Higashine. Before JR Sakurambo-Higashine Station, there is a bronze statue of Eisuke Sato in honor of his creation of Sato Nishiki.
- Yamagata
- Experiences Facilities
27 Sep 2026 See More

When I visited Yamagata in the summer, I saw Sato Nishiki, a premium variety known as the “king of cherries,” in person for the first time. I was very lucky to be able to buy some fresh ones to try. These delicate cherries have plump flesh, with a sweet and slightly tart flavor. Their rich, fruity aroma unfolds in your mouth, creating a wonderfully complex taste.

I heard that Higashine City in Yamagata is the birthplace of Sato Nishiki, which makes me want to find an opportunity to experience fruit picking there myself. If you happen to be traveling in Tohoku during the summer like I was, don’t miss the chance to try this luxurious seasonal treat.
Zao Fox Village

A fox paradise in the mountains of Shiroishi City. More than 100 foxes of seven species, including north foxes , cross foxes , and arctic foxe s, are kept here. Visitors can feed and photograph the free-range foxes outdoors, and even hold a fox cub in their arms.
- Miyagi
- Zoos & Aquariums
27 Sep 2026 See More

While visiting Yamagata, I made a special point of adding Zao Fox Village, deep in the mountains, to my itinerary. Since I wasn't driving, joining a one-day bus tour was the easiest and most convenient option. When I visited the fox village hidden in the mountains in summer, the foxes were in the middle of shedding, so they looked a bit fluffy and unkempt, and the smell was also somewhat noticeable. However, this is also the season when adorable baby foxes are born. I was very lucky to have the chance to interact up close with the unbelievably cute fox cubs. They felt soft and fluffy when held, and were as warm as puppies. It was a rare experience.

Also, visitors need to be especially careful because foxes are easily startled. Be sure to move gently, don't run, and don't touch the adult foxes without permission, so you can safely enjoy this soothing wildlife experience!