
Lake Jusan Aomori
A serene brackish lake in Aomori, famed for its delicious shijimi clams and picturesque wind turbine landscape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak clam season for freshest taste

Lake Jusan Aomori
Best Time
Peak clam season for freshest taste

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene brackish lake in Aomori, famed for its delicious shijimi clams and picturesque wind turbine landscape.
"Savor the famous shijimi clams and admire the striking wind turbines at this unique Aomori estuary."

🚗 Drive to Explore
The lake is large; a car is essential for reaching different viewpoints and restaurants. :car:
🌬️ Windproof Your Visit
It's often windy here, so bring layers and a windbreaker. :cloudwithwind_face:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shijimi Clam Delicacies
Restaurants around the lake
Savor the famous freshwater clams, a regional specialty. Try clam ramen or other local dishes for an authentic taste.

Wind Turbine Landscape
Visible from most points around the lake
Admire the striking visual of numerous wind turbines harnessing natural energy against the serene lake backdrop.

Cycling and Birdwatching
Cycling trails along the lake
Enjoy scenic cycling routes and tranquil birdwatching opportunities in this natural estuary setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wind and Clams
Getting Around Lake Jusan
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive to Explore
The lake is large; a car is essential for reaching different viewpoints and restaurants. :car:
🌬️ Windproof Your Visit
It's often windy here, so bring layers and a windbreaker. :cloudwithwind_face:
🎣 Clam Season is Key
For the best clam dishes, plan your visit between July and August. :shell:
📍 Roadside Station Finds
Check out the roadside station for local clam products and shipping options. :shopping_cart:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive to Explore
The lake is large; a car is essential for reaching different viewpoints and restaurants. :car:
🌬️ Windproof Your Visit
It's often windy here, so bring layers and a windbreaker. :cloudwithwind_face:
🎣 Clam Season is Key
For the best clam dishes, plan your visit between July and August. :shell:
📍 Roadside Station Finds
Check out the roadside station for local clam products and shipping options. :shopping_cart:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Lake Jusan for its unique brackish ecosystem, famous shijimi clams, and the striking landscape dotted with wind turbines. The opportunity to enjoy fresh clam dishes, particularly clam ramen, is a major highlight. While the natural beauty and renewable energy aspect are appreciated, some note the strong winds and limited public transport.
"Shijimi clams are very famous here, and at the roadside station along the lakeside, you can purchase clams harvested here and have them shipped all over the country.
There is also plenty of wind power generation, making use of natural energy."
akabito
"A brackish lake located in the northwest of the Tsugaru Peninsula in Aomori Prefecture. You can see wind turbines for wind power generation in the distance. This is a parking lot at the eastern end of Lake Jusan. According to the information board inside the facility, there seems to be quite a lot of sights to see, centered around this area. As expected, it is not close enough to leave your car here, so you are expected to drive around by car. Lake Jusan is also one of Japan's leading producers of clams. There are apparently about nine restaurants where you can eat clam dishes. The season is said to be from July to August, so if the time is right, it would be nice to try them. There are also toilets next to the parking lot."
TTT III
"[Lake Jusan]
A brackish lake, also known as Jusangata in the Tsugaru region
Tsugaru Quasi-National Park
With a circumference of approximately 30 kilometers and a maximum depth of only 3.0 meters, the Iwaki River flows into the lake from the south.
This river was blocked by a sandbar on its way to the Sea of Japan, creating a brackish lake.
Its specialty is clams, making it one of Japan's leading clam-producing areas, along with Lake Shinji and Lake Ogawara.
To protect the resource, efforts are being made to maintain the Yamato clam population by setting daily fishing limits and closed fishing zones and periods.
Clams are harvested by towing a yew trawl with a boat.
The names Lake Jusan and Tosaminato are said to have originated from the 13 settlements that once existed on the sandbar between the lake and the Sea of Japan, the 13 rivers that flow into the lake, and the Ainu word "to-sam," meaning "by the lake," but the details are unknown.
Please note that this lake is unrelated to Lake Juniko to the south.
It's quite windy.
You can eat clams at a nearby restaurant.
Recommendation: ★★☆☆☆
May 29, 2019"
Hiroyuki
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Jusan is located on the Tsugaru Peninsula in Aomori Prefecture. The most convenient way to reach it is by car, as public transportation options are limited. If driving from Aomori City, head northwest towards the Tsugaru region. Parking is available at various points around the lake, including the eastern end.
Public transport to Lake Jusan is very limited. It's highly recommended to have a car for exploring the area effectively. If relying on public transport, you would likely need to take a bus to a nearby town and then arrange local transport or a taxi.
Given its circumference of approximately 30 kilometers, traveling around Lake Jusan is best done by car. This allows you to easily access different viewpoints, cycling trails, and restaurants. Cycling is also a popular option for exploring specific sections of the lake.
There isn't a single 'entry point' as it's a natural lake. However, the eastern end of the lake has a notable parking area that serves as a good starting point for exploring the cycling trails and birdwatching areas. Roadside stations also offer access points.
Driving conditions are generally good on the roads surrounding Lake Jusan. However, it can be quite windy, especially along the exposed lakefront. Be mindful of potential crosswinds and ensure your vehicle is secure if you stop for extended periods.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to access Lake Jusan itself. It is a natural area within Tsugaru Quasi-National Park. You can enjoy the scenery, cycling trails, and birdwatching areas freely.
Lake Jusan is an open natural area and does not have specific operating hours. You can visit at any time. However, for dining at local restaurants or visiting roadside stations, it's best to check their individual operating hours.
No advance booking is required for visiting Lake Jusan. However, if you plan to dine at a popular clam restaurant during peak season, making a reservation might be advisable to avoid disappointment.
Generally, no special permits are needed for casual activities like cycling, birdwatching, or enjoying the scenery. If you plan on any form of fishing or commercial activity, you would need to inquire about relevant local regulations and permits.
Facilities vary around the lake. You can find parking areas, restrooms, and information boards. Roadside stations often offer amenities like shops, restaurants, and local produce. Some areas are equipped with cycling trails and birdwatching spots.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attractions include enjoying the scenic views of the lake and wind turbines, cycling along the dedicated trails, and birdwatching. The area is also famous for its freshwater clams, so trying local clam dishes is a must.
The wind turbines are a permanent feature and can be seen at any time of day. However, they are particularly striking during sunrise or sunset, when the light casts dramatic shadows and highlights the landscape.
Yes, Lake Jusan is a noted birdwatching area. The estuary environment attracts various bird species. Look for designated birdwatching spots or simply find a quiet area along the lake's edge to observe.
Besides a variety of bird species, the lake is known for its abundant freshwater clams (shijimi). You might also see other aquatic life and potentially small mammals in the surrounding natural areas.
Lake Jusan is a brackish lake with a shallow depth, and it's primarily known for its ecological and culinary significance rather than swimming. It's generally not recommended for swimming due to its brackish nature and potential for boat traffic.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Lake Jusan is most famous for its 'shijimi' freshwater clams. These are a regional specialty, and you can find them prepared in various delicious ways, including clam ramen, miso soup, and steamed dishes.
There are several restaurants around Lake Jusan that specialize in clam dishes. Roadside stations often have eateries, and local establishments near the lake offer fresh catches. Ask locals for their favorite spots for the best clam ramen.
Absolutely! Clam ramen is a highly recommended dish at Lake Jusan. The rich, savory broth made from the local shijimi clams is a unique and delicious experience that many visitors rave about.
Yes, you can purchase fresh clams harvested from Lake Jusan. The roadside station along the lakeside is a popular place to buy them, and they often offer shipping services nationwide, allowing you to enjoy them even after your trip.
The peak season for harvesting and enjoying clams at Lake Jusan is generally from July to August. During these months, the clams are at their freshest and most flavorful.
📸 📸 Photography
Great photo opportunities include the expansive lake views with the wind turbines in the background, the serene waters, and the cycling paths. The roadside stations also offer picturesque scenes with local produce and facilities.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, casting a warm glow on the lake and turbines. Midday can be bright, but the vastness of the landscape still provides good opportunities.
Capture the scale by including the wind turbines in your shots. Experiment with different angles to show the vastness of the lake. The reflections on the water can also create beautiful compositions, especially on calm days.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the expansive landscapes and the rows of wind turbines. A telephoto lens can be useful for birdwatching. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local aviation rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance and avoid any potential restrictions, especially near national park areas or private property.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a culinary adventure, introduce your children to the famous shijimi clams, perhaps in a mild clam soup or a less intense clam dish. The roadside station is also a good spot for a family break, offering snacks and local products. Remember to bring windbreakers, as it can get breezy.
🚴♀️ Active Travelers & Cyclists
Beyond cycling, the area is ideal for birdwatching enthusiasts. The estuary environment attracts a diverse range of avian species. Pack binoculars and a field guide to make the most of your observations. The open, natural setting also lends itself to enjoyable walks and photography.
🍜 Foodies & Clam Enthusiasts
Your culinary journey should definitely include clam ramen, a local specialty that showcases the rich, umami-packed broth derived from these clams. Explore the various restaurants around the lake, and don't forget to visit the roadside station to purchase fresh clams for shipping – a perfect way to extend the culinary experience beyond your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ecology and Significance of Lake Jusan
This lake is renowned as one of Japan's leading producers of 'shijimi' freshwater clams, alongside other famous clam-producing lakes like Lake Shinji and Lake Ogawara. To ensure the sustainability of this valuable resource, strict measures are in place, including daily fishing limits and designated closed fishing zones and periods. The clams are typically harvested using a yew trawl towed by boats, a traditional method that has been passed down through generations.
The name 'Lake Jusan' itself is steeped in local lore, with theories suggesting it originates from the 13 settlements that once existed on the sandbar, the 13 rivers flowing into the lake, or an Ainu word meaning 'by the lake.' While the exact etymology remains somewhat mysterious, it adds to the mystique of this important natural and culinary landmark.
Experiencing Lake Jusan's Culinary Delights
One of the most popular ways to enjoy the local clams is in a hearty bowl of clam ramen. The rich, savory broth, infused with the essence of the shijimi, is a unique and satisfying dish that many visitors seek out. Beyond ramen, you can also find clams prepared in miso soup, steamed dishes, and other regional specialties at restaurants around the lake. Don't miss the opportunity to try these local favorites.
For those who wish to take a taste of Lake Jusan home, the roadside station along the lakeside is an excellent place to purchase fresh clams. They often provide nationwide shipping services, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of Lake Jusan even after your trip. This makes it a perfect souvenir for food lovers.
The Majestic Wind Turbines of Lake Jusan
Visible from most vantage points around the lake, the wind turbines add a modern, dynamic element to the otherwise serene natural environment. They are particularly captivating during sunrise and sunset, when the golden light illuminates their blades and creates dramatic shadows across the water. This unique juxtaposition of nature and renewable energy technology offers excellent photographic opportunities.
While primarily functional, the wind turbines have become an iconic part of the Lake Jusan scenery. They symbolize a forward-thinking approach to energy while coexisting harmoniously with the natural beauty of the estuary and its wildlife. Visitors often find the sight both awe-inspiring and thought-provoking.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit