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there is a dam lake called Lake Shusenko , where you can see a mysterious sight for a limited time we will introduce the "Submerged Forest of Lake Shusenko."
What is Lake Shusenko?
Akiogi Lake is a dam lake located in the northern part of Lake Tazawa, and its official name is Yoroihata Dam Lake .
Yoroihata Dam was the first multipurpose dam built in the Omono River system for the purposes of flood control of the Tama River that flows into it and hydroelectric power generation with an output of 15,700 kilowatts.The artificial lake created by the dam was later named "Akiogi Lake."
The name comes from the fact that the water supply area downstream of the dam was fan-shapedone of the settlements that was submerged was called "Oginomata Village," so the "fan" in "Akita" was used to give the lake its name, "Aki-Ogi Lake."
From National Route 46, which connects Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture and Akita City, Akita Prefecture, head north on National Route 341 near Lake Tazawa, and you will see it along the road
A submerged forest that can only be seen for a limited period from May to June each year
is famous for being able to see submerged forests for a limited period in spring
The view upstream from Shin-Tamagawa Bridge
The upper reaches of the dam lake are usually wetlands, but the water level rises due to the inflow of spring meltwater. This phenomenon causes the trees growing in the wetlands to become submerged, making them appear as if they are floating on the water
The view downstream from Shin-Tamagawa Bridge
It is famous as a limited-time view that can only be seen until around mid-June when water begins to be supplied to the rice fields
striking cobalt blue color of the lake's surface is due to the dissolution of limestone , which is done artificially to neutralize the acidic water quality of Tamagawa River. Currently, neutralization and mixing work is being carried out at Lake Hosen upstream, so Lake Hosen has the same blue color.
Incidentally, as you can see from the above, the waters of Tamagawa Onsen and Shin-Tamagawa Onsen, located upstream on the shores of Lake Hosen, are highly acidic with a pH of 1.2. They are known as the most acidic springs in Japan
Where can you see submerged forests?
As mentioned above, the submerged forest can be seen upstream of Lake Akiogi
Even after you can see Lake Akiogi, if you continue north on National Route 341 for a little while longer, you will come to a bridge called Shin-Tamagawa Bridge, from which you can get the most beautiful view of the submerged forest
During the submerged forest season, many tourists take photos as they please, as shown in the photo above
Lake Shirakawa in Iide Town, Yamagata Prefecture is famous for its submerged forest canoeing experience, but we also saw people enjoying canoeing at Lake Akiogi. It looks like a great experience
lastly
There are many tourist spots where you can see seasonal scenery, but I think Lake Akiogi is also an interesting spot worth seeing. It is also close to the famous tourist spot Lake Tazawa, about 30 minutes by car, so it might be worth adding to your list of possible spots for spring sightseeing at Lake Tazawa!
Autumn Lake ＜Information＞
Name: Lake Shusenko (Akiogi Lake) Also known as Yoroihata Dam Lake
Address: Tamagawa, Lake Tazawa, Senboku City, Akita Prefecture, 014-1205
Phone number: Yoroihata Dam Management Office: 0187-42-2311
Traveling around the Tohoku region, I enjoy drinking delicious sake and exploring the local history, traditions, and customs. I write articles based on my interests. I'm currently interested in folk performing arts, local toys, and folk beliefs
