Guida
Lake Togo is a beautiful brackish lake covering an area of approximately 8 square kilometers, located in the central part of Tottori Prefecture. It is affectionately known as the 'Lake of the Crane' because its shape resembles a crane spreading its wings in flight. As one of the 'San'in Eight Scenic Views,' it offers breathtaking landscapes and forms part of the Misasa Togo Prefectural Natural Park. The most distinctive feature is the hot spring water rising from the lakebed, which has led to the development of two distinct hot spring towns on opposite shores: Hawai Onsen and Togo Onsen. It is a representative tourist spot of Tottori, where natural scenery and hot spring culture coexist seamlessly.
The history of Lake Togo is deeply intertwined with the hot springs emerging from its depths. Since ancient times, the presence of these springs has been known, and the local community's desire to utilize these resources laid the foundation for the development of the current hot spring towns. The lifestyle of people living in harmony with nature is preserved here, and the area is now managed as a natural park to protect the landscape while promoting tourism. The history of the region is one of balancing the preservation of the natural environment with the utilization of the precious hot spring resources.
There are many diverse spots around Lake Togo to enjoy. A particularly popular attraction is the 'Footbath' (Ashiyu) located along the lakeshore, which offers a free and easy way to relax. On the Hawai Onsen side, you can find unique footbaths such as the retro-style 'Fukurokuju-no-yu,' the Mediterranean-inspired 'Ebisu-no-yu,' and the boat-shaped 'Benzaiten-no-yu.' On the Togo Onsen side, the 'Bishamonten-no-yu' features a motif of two koi fish, and the adjacent hot spring egg corner is also a favorite. Additionally, the view of the lake from Mount Hachifuse is a highly photogenic spot, showcasing the beautiful silhouette of a crane spreading its wings.
To fully enjoy Lake Togo, timing is key. If you wish to try dragon canoeing, the best times are early morning (until around 10:00 AM) or late afternoon (after 4:00 PM) when the water is calm. The most vibrant season for canoeing is from May to October. At sunset, you can enjoy a romantic view of the lake from the boat-shaped 'Benzaiten-no-yu,' making it a perfect way to end your day. The scenery changes beautifully with the seasons, offering different expressions throughout the year.
Lake Togo offers active experiences to connect with nature. The 'Lake Togo Dragon Canoe Experience' is a dynamic program where teamwork is essential. Moving to the rhythm of traditional drums, the dragon canoe provides an exhilarating sense of unity and excitement. After a lesson from a professional instructor, you can race with your team to experience a thrill unlike your daily life. Another fun activity is visiting the hot spring egg corner near the footbaths. You can enjoy both the natural scenery and the hot spring culture while strolling through the lakeside parks.
The areas surrounding the lake are perfect for sightseeing. The southern shore features Togo Onsen, lined with charming traditional inns and public baths. The northern shore features Hawai Onsen, which offers a wide variety of unique footbaths and accommodation. The Lake Togo Ugai Seaside Park is also an excellent place for a relaxing stroll or a break while enjoying the view. These two areas offer contrasting atmospheres, making them great destinations for a lakeside drive or walk.
To ensure a comfortable visit, please note that if you use the footbaths, it is convenient to bring a small towel to dry your feet. If participating in activities like dragon canoeing, wear comfortable clothing and prepare for potential water splashes. Regarding payments, while many major facilities accept credit cards or IC cards, some smaller shops and facilities may only accept cash, so please check in advance. While some tourist associations may offer basic English support, we recommend checking-in advance if you require detailed instructions or assistance.