Amazing AOMORI

The Tsugaru Quasi-National Park, Lake Juniko (Twelve Lakes), is a collective name for 33 lakes and ponds that extend over an area of 4 square km (1.5 square miles) on an undulating plateau, with an altitude that ranges from 150 meters (492 feet) to 250 meters (820 feet). Although there are 33 ponds and lakes, the area is called Juniko (Twelve Lakes) because only twelve bodies of water can be seen from Mt. Okuzure’s summit.

Juniko likely formed during the Edo period when a major earthquake blocked a mountain stream, causing it to expand into the present collection of lakes and ponds. Today, the area features walking trails and a campsite, making it a popular place for hiking, camping, nature sightseeing, and mountain climbing.

Aoike –Mystical Natural Beauty

Aoike is a remarkable lake renowned for its seemingly artificial, though completely natural, vibrant blue waters. The clear water, with a visibility of 9 meters (29 feet), offers visitors enchanting views of withered beech trees lying submerged in the cobalt water. The reason for its blue color is still unknown, adding to the lake’s mysterious allure. The best season to view the lake is from spring to summer when the area’s foliage is lush and green. The sight of Aoike glittering in tree-filtered sunlight is a truly breathtaking sight.

Juniko Visitor Center (Juniko Information Site)

The Juniko Visitor Center, located within Juniko Station, has many informational brochures about the area and also includes local produce shops, souvenir shops, coin lockers and temporary baggage storage areas.

Address JR Juniko Station Grounds, 33-1 Shita-Hamamatsu Matsukami, Fukaura Town, Nishitsugaru District, Aomori Prefecture 038-2206

Contact 0173-77-3000

Hours of Operation           9:00-17:00 (Beginning of April – Mid November)

Closed   End of November to end of March

Admission Fee    Free

Kyororo, the forest shop

Kyororo is a helpful facility for Shirakami Sanchi/Juniko sightseeing as it includes local produce sales, a snack shop, and parking (paid). The facility is conveniently located across from the Oku-Juniko Parking Bus Stop and is only a 10-minute walk away from Aoike.

Address Within Matsukamisan-Kokuyurin, Fukaura Town, Nishitsugaru District, Aomori Prefecture  038-2206

Contact 0173-77-2781

Hours of Operation           8:00-18:00(April to November)

Closed   December to March

Admission Fee    Free

URL       (Japanese)http://www.shirakami-jyuniko.jp/kyororo/kyororo.html

Trekking Guide

Fukaura Town’s residents volunteer as trekking guides and happily show visitors the area while providing information about Mt. Shirakami and the wildlife and history of Lake Juniko.

Fees

Lake Juniko Trekking (April–November)

Amount of Time: 1–3 hours 1 Guide ¥10,000

Mt. Okuzure Hiking (May–October)

Amount of Time: 4 hours 1 Guide ¥20,000

*Other options are also available.

*For visitors in wheelchairs, we offer special assistance. 1 Staff ¥5,000~

Contact: Shirakami Juniko Co., Ltd. TEL:0173-77-3311 FAX:0173-77-2681