Lake Towada is a popular tourist destination in Aomori Prefecture that at less than a two-hour-drive from Misawa Air Base, is a great spot for some outdoor family fun.

In the winter, the lake and its surrounding attractions like Oirase Gorge, Statue of Maiden and Towada Shrine are snow dusted and the scenery is transformed into a chillingly beautiful sight.

Through Feb. 24, visitors can enjoy Lake Towada’s “Winter Story 2025,” a seasonal festival featuring sleigh and banana boat rides in the snow field, traditional performances, and six food booths serving local delicacies.

Yoshihito Morita, an employee at the Misawa Air Base Commissary, said the event draws a crowd despite the frigid temperatures. “Many families enjoyed the various snow activities during my visit,” Morita said.

The event also has a Kamakura snow hut with a bar serving up icy drinks starting at 5 p.m. during the festival. Visitors will also want to catch the nightly fireworks display set to music every night starting at 8 p.m. For an extra fee of 8,800 yen (about $60), visitors can send a custom fireworks message in the sky for that special someone.

The lake symbol “Statue of Maiden” is also illuminated from 5 to 8:30 p.m. every evening throughout the event period.

Let’s make plans to attend this wonderful winter festival to enjoy the beautiful winter of Towada at most!

Lake Towada Winter Story 2025

• Location: Towadako Yasumiya Multipurpose Park, Okuse, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture

• Period: Till Feb. 24

• Hours: Mon – Fri: 4 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., Sat, Sun and holidays: 11 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.

• Admission: Free

• URL: https://towadako-winter.com/

• Tel: 0176-75-1531 (Lake Towada Tourism Community Center)

Misawa Air Base

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